Discover West Somerset & Exmoor: The Ultimate Visitor Guide
Welcome to the gateway of adventure. Whether you are staying at Vikings Annexe or simply exploring the region, West Somerset and Exmoor National Park offer a tapestry of medieval history, rugged coastlines, and ancient moorlands.
This guide covers the must-see destinations, activities, and local flavours that make this corner of England truly unique.
A traditional seaside resort with a modern twist.
Top Attractions:
– The West Somerset Railway: Board a vintage steam train for a nostalgic journey through the countryside.
– Blenheim Gardens: Six acres of beautifully manicured flowerbeds and gravel paths, perfect for a peaceful stroll.
– Minehead Harbour: A historic stone quay where you can watch the boats or book a deep-sea fishing trip.
The Walk: North Hill Circular
Starting from the harbour, climb the “zig-zags” for panoramic views of the Bristol Channel.
Local Flavours:
Visit The Old Ship Aground for harbour-side pub classics or The Wheelhouse for fresh seafood.
One of the most intact medieval villages in England.
Top Attractions:
– Dunster Castle (National Trust): A dramatic fortress with subtropical gardens and a working watermill.
– The Yarn Market: An iconic octagonal structure in the centre of the High Street dating back to 1609.
The Walk: Bat’s Castle.
A steady climb to an Iron Age hillfort with views stretching across the channel to Wales.
Local Flavors:
Reeves Restaurant offers award-winning fine dining, while The Luttrell Arms is perfect for a historic pint by the fire.
2.5 miles from Minehead (approx. 5-8 mins drive)
A charming vale village leading down to a picturesque, shingled harbour.
Top Attractions:
– Porlock Weir: A tiny, atmospheric harbour with independent galleries and “Top Ship” and “Bottom Ship” pubs.
– Greencombe Gardens: An organic woodland garden overlooking the sea.
The Walk: Porlock Weir to Culbone Church.
Follow the South West Coast Path to find the smallest parish church in England, hidden in the woods.
Local Flavors:
Don’t miss Porlock Bay Oysters (harvested locally) or a relaxed Italian meal at Locanda on the Weir.
6 miles from Minehead (approx. 15 mins drive)
An ancient harbour town with a vibrant arts scene.
Top Attractions:
– East Quay: A contemporary arts centre featuring studios, a gallery, and a quirky restaurant.
– Fossil Hunting: The shoreline between Watchet and Blue Anchor is famous for its Jurassic fossils.
The Walk: The Mineral Line.
Follow the path of the old railway that once transported iron ore from the Brendon Hills.
Local Flavors:
The Star Inn for a traditional Somerset welcome or East Quay Kitchen for Mediterranean-inspired small plates.
9 miles from Minehead (approx. 20 mins drive)
Twin towns linked by a world-famous water-powered cliff railway.
Top Attractions:
– Lynton & Lynmouth Cliff Railway: Ride the steepest water-powered funicular in the world.
– The Valley of Rocks: A dry valley with dramatic rock formations and a resident herd of wild goats.
The Walk: Watersmeet.
A stunning riverside walk through deep-wooded valleys to a National Trust tea room where two rivers converge.
Local Flavors:
Enjoy a pint at The Ancient Mariner or fresh fish and chips on the harbour wall at Lynmouth.
18 miles from Minehead (approx. 35 mins drive)
A landscape of towering cliffs, deep "combes," and open moorland.
Top Attractions:
– Dunkery Beacon: The highest point on Exmoor. On a clear day, you can see across seven counties.
– Exmoor Safaris: Book a 4×4 tour to see the famous Exmoor Ponies and Red Deer in their natural habitat.
– Wimbleball Lake: Ideal for kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, or a 9-mile circular lakeside walk.
The Walk: Tarr Steps.
Cross the ancient clapper bridge and walk the loop through the wooded valley of the River Barle.
Local Flavors:
The Tarr Farm Inn offers exceptional food right next to the historic bridge.
A traditional village situated in the heart of the moors, popular with riders and hikers.
Top Attractions:
– Horse Riding: Exford is a hub for equestrian activities; several stables offer moorland treks.
The Walk: Exford to Winsford Hill.
A rugged moorland stretch with a chance to spot wild ponies and Bronze Age burial mounds.
Local Flavors:
The Exmoor White Horse Inn is an iconic riverside pub known for its extensive whiskey collection and hearty meals.
12 miles from Minehead (approx. 25 mins drive)
A sophisticated market town on the southern edge of the park.
Top Attractions:
– Independent Shopping: Dulverton is packed with antiques, boutiques, and bookshops.
– Exmoor National Park Centre: Located in the Guildhall, this is the best place to get expert advice on local trails.
The Walk: River Barle Walk.
A gentle, shaded stroll along the riverbanks heading north from the town centre.
Local Flavors:
Woods Pub & Restaurant is a legendary “foodie” destination with a world-class wine list.
15 miles from Minehead (approx. 35 mins drive)
Things to Do & Activities in West Somerset
Adventure and Exploration on the Doorstep
Minehead and the surrounding Exmoor National Park are a playground for those who love the great outdoors. Whether you are looking for high-octane thrills or a gentle stroll through history, there is an activity to suit every pace.
Hiking & Walking
As the starting point of the South West Coast Path, Minehead is a hiker’s paradise.
- The South West Coast Path National Trail: Start your journey at the iconic “hands” sculpture on Minehead seafront. The first stretch to Porlock offers dramatic cliff-top views.
- The Coleridge Way: Walk in the footsteps of the Romantic poets. This 51-mile trail starts in Nether Stowey and ends in Lynmouth, passing through the heart of Exmoor.
- Valley of Rocks (Lynton): A relatively level walk with some of the most dramatic geology in the UK. Keep an eye out for the wild goats!
Heritage & History
Step back in time with some of the UK’s best-preserved historical sites.
- West Somerset Railway: Enjoy 20 miles of heritage steam travel. It’s the perfect way to see the countryside without the car. – Pro Tip: Book the “Cream Tea” service for an extra special afternoon.
- Dunster Castle & Watermill: A National Trust treasure. Explore the terraced gardens and the crypt, then walk down to the working 18th-century watermill.
- Cleeve Abbey: Located in Washford (15 mins from Minehead), these Cistercian ruins are remarkably intact, featuring stunning 13th-century heraldic tiles.
Family Fun & Wildlife
- Exmoor Pony Centre (Ashwick): Meet the endangered Exmoor Ponies. It’s a fantastic educational day out where you can get up close to these hardy moorland residents.
- Exmoor Safari: For a unique experience, book a 4×4 safari with Exmoor Wildlife Safaris. They take you off-road to spot Red Deer, buzzards, and rare flora.
- Tropiquaria Wildlife Park: Housed in a 1930s BBC transmitter station near Watchet, this is a great rainy-day option for families.
Water Sports & Coastal Action
- Wimbleball Lake: A hub for paddleboarding, kayaking, and sailing. There are also excellent cycling trails around the perimeter.
- Minehead Beach: Perfect for traditional sandcastle building, paddle-boarding, or a brisk winter walk.
Food & Drink Directory
A Taste of the West Country
From farm-to-table dining in rural pubs to fresh seafood on the harbour, the culinary scene around Vikings Annexe is defined by local Somerset produce.
Top Rated Restaurants
- Reeves Restaurant (Dunster): Famous for high-end, locally sourced dishes. Ideal for a celebratory dinner. Booking essential.
- The Wheelhouse (Minehead): A local favourite for seafood and classic British fare. Known for its generous portions and friendly atmosphere.
- Locanda on the Weir (Porlock Weir): An intimate Italian-inspired restaurant overlooking the ancient harbour. Perfect for sunset dinners.
Best Pubs for a Local Pint & Sunday Roast
- The Old Ship Aground (Minehead Harbour): An iconic pub with harbour views. They serve fantastic local ales and a legendary Sunday roast.
- The Luttrell Arms (Dunster): Sit by the roaring fire in the “Checkers” bar. The medieval architecture provides an unmatched atmosphere.
- The Exmoor White Horse Inn (Exford): Situated by the River Barle, this is the quintessential country pub. Great for hikers and dog-owners (though please note the Annexe is pet-free!).
- Woods (Dulverton): Nationally acclaimed for its wine list and farm-fresh meat (much of it from the owner’s own farm).
Afternoon Tea & Casual Bites
- The Big Cheese (Minehead): A must-visit for deli lovers. Pick up some local Montgomery’s Cheddar or a fresh baguette for your hike.
- Watersmeet Tea Rooms (Lynmouth): Managed by the National Trust, this is perhaps the most beautiful location for a cream tea in England, situated where two rivers meet.
- Kitnors Tea Room (Bossington): A thatched cottage garden serving traditional scones and homemade cakes.
Local Delicacies to Try
- Exmoor Blue Cheese: A creamy, spicy blue cheese made locally.
- Somerset Cider: Visit Sheppy’s Cider or try any local draught at the pubs mentioned above.
- Porlock Bay Oysters: Sustainable and world-class oysters harvested right from the channel.