Exmoor Walking Festival brochure 2015

North Devon and Exmoor

Walking Festival The UK’s most scenic walking festival

www.exmoorwalkingfestival.co.uk 2nd - 9th May 2015

O EXM OR

Sponsored and Supported by:

ST

TI

U

ON

TO

RI

ASSOC

IA

Wimbleball Lake near Dulverton Fun for all the family

Escape to the country for a variety of great activities... walking • cycling • sailing windsurfing • canoeing • rowing • fishing archery • climbing • camping • bushcraft ...or just relax in our café Calling the centre in advance to check weather conditions and availability is advised

01398 371460 • TA22 9NU www.swlakestrust.org.uk 2

Book online at www.exmoorwalkingfestival.co.uk or phone 01271 863001

Welcome to the North Devon and Exmoor Walking Festival Now in its 15th year, the festival has a good choice of guided walks for you to choose from.

In this years festival we have kept the visit to Lundy Island, starting bright and early from Ilfracombe harbour on the first day of the festival. Lundy Island have offered the festivalgoers a discounted ticket which you can get by quoting code “DAYADTWF” when booking with Ilfracombe TIC. The Exmoor Society have offered us one of their free short walks on birdsong. This is likely to book up quickly, so book early. There is a chance to find red deer with one of the National Park Rangers. Another Ranger walk shows part of Exmoor that was influenced by the Knight family whose legacy gives the moor its character we see today.

We have kept in some of our popular walks and brought back some walks we did some years back with guides who are sadly no longer with us.

If you are into old railways, then we have a linear walk using the West Somerset Railway to take us out to the start. And we have the interesting walk discovering the West Somerset Mineral Line and its unique way of getting ore down to the harbour.

As usual now, we are starting the festival in North Devon and moving eastwards across Exmoor to West Somerset. This year, for the first time, we are taking a day off on Thursday, so you have the chance to discover Exmoor’s other attractions or do your own self-guided walk.

I would like to thank all our guides, wardens and rangers for their continued support.

Our advertisers and walk sponsors also help towards the festival costs and keeping it running. Please try and support those who have advertised in this brochure and on the website.

Without their support, and of course your support, we would not have our walking festival.

Walking on Lucott Moor

Content Page 2

Local supporting adverts

Page 3

Festival Welcome

Page 4 - 5

Information

Page 6 - 9

North Devon area walks

Page 10 - 13

West Exmoor area walks

Page 14 - 17

Mid Exmoor area walks

Page 18 - 21

East Exmoor area walks

Page 22 - 23

Local supporting adverts

Back Cover

Walking Festival map

I hope you find some good walks and have an enjoyable experience on your festival walks.

Bryan Cath, Walking Festival Coordinator bryan@combewalks.com 01271 883131

Front cover image: Walkers on the South West Coast Path by the Valley of Rocks near Lynton.

Book online at www.exmoorwalkingfestival.co.uk or phone 01271 863001

3

Information

How to Book This year’s festival is based on the larger towns in North Devon and Exmoor. Starting on Saturday 2nd May with the Ilfracombe based walks, for two days. It then moves along to Lynton and Lynmouth for the next two days. The following day is based around Porlock with Thursday off, and the last two days are based around Dunster.

This should make it easier for participants to choose their base and cause much less travelling to walks.

To help you choose your walks, please consider the following: 1, The walk number is the date and a reference.

2, Choose the area and time you want to come.

3, Choose your walks, noting the distance, the degree of difficulty and the pace at which the walk is likely to proceed. Please do not over-stretch yourself and consider your fellow walkers.

4, If you need accommodation, locate somewhere fairly central to your chosen walks.

You may need to change accommodation if you are following the festival across the area.

5, To find accommodation please support the adverts in this brochure or call the local tourist office. Without support from our advertisers and sponsors, our festival could not take place.

6, To book your walks either: Go to the festival website www. exmoorwalkingfestival.co.uk and book online.

Payment is through Paypal but you do not need to have a Paypal account as you can use your credit card through their website.

Or: Phone our Booking Line on 01271 863001, Ilfracombe Tourist Information Centre, between 9.30am and 4.30pm, Monday to Friday, 10.00am to 4.00pm Saturday and closed Sunday, to Easter. They will be able to make the walk bookings for you online. Please have the walk number(s) ready to give the operator.

If you have not been able to look at the website and check availability of the walk tickets, please be ready with an alternative.

The walks can book quickly. Once a walk is full, unless there is a cancellation, you will not be able to get on that walk. Confirmation of your booking will be provided from the website or posted to you if you phone your booking through.

4

Walk Ticket Discounts This year we are offering a discount on walk tickets that are purchased in multiples. If you book 5 walks or more in one transaction we will give you a 10% discount on the ticket price. If a group of 10 people wish to book on one walk in one transaction we will offer a 15% discount.

To get these discounts these bookings must be made through our telephone booking line 01271 863001. They cannot be made on the website.

Additional Walks Depending on demand we may find it necessary to put on extra walks. These will be put on to the festival website as necessary. Please keep an eye on the festival website should you find walks on certain days are becoming full.

Cancellation of Walks We reserve the right to cancel any walk that is undersubscribed or for reasons and circumstances beyond our control. This will normally happen between 10 to 7 days prior to the walk commencing. The few participants that are affected will be contacted and offered another walk or their money back for that walk.

Please give a contact telephone number when booking that we can contact you on in the 10 day run-up to the festival walks.

Data Protection Act 1998 Your details will be held on a database on making a booking. These will be used to contact you should there be a problem with the walk(s) you have chosen and to tell you about future North Devon and Exmoor Walking Festivals.

If you would like information on the festival by email at any time then please supply your email address when booking. This helps save paper and money.

Your information will not be passed on to any third party. You can opt-out of this database after the festival has taken place and unsubscribe from any email newsletters at any time.

Please support our Advertisers whose support of this festival helps keep it going

Book online at www.exmoorwalkingfestival.co.uk or phone 01271 863001

Please read the walks details carefully and use this information to help you choose walks suitable for your ability.

Please bring suitable outdoor clothing and footwear. The guides, at their own discretion, have the right to refuse to take participants who are not suitably attired for the conditions.

Some walks require packed lunches and others have food included during the walk. The cost of the food is not always included in the walk ticket price. The price indicates if it is included. If it is not included then please pay the provider before leaving. Please show courtesy and do not eat your own sandwiches at a food provider that is included as part of the walk.

Dogs are welcome on walks which state this.

Because of the time of year, we request that dogs are kept under close control because of ground nesting birds and young stock in fields.

If a walk does not accept dogs it is because we know the walk passes through sensitive areas.

Symbols in Walk Details Exmoor National Park Ranger walks North Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty

Information

Preparing for the Walks

North Devon Biosphere Reserve South West Coast Path included Dogs Welcome walks No Dogs on these walks Family Friendly walks Food during the walk Bring a packed lunch

Grades of Walks Easy: Height gained and lost: 5m to 20m per mile.

East Lyn near Watersmeet

Follows easily defined paths and are sometimes of shorter duration.

Easy to Moderate: Height gained and lost: 20m to 45m per mile. A walk with some ascents and descents on paths and tracks with varying surfaces.

Moderate: Height gained and lost: 45m to 75m per mile. A walk with some notable ascents and descents. Suitable for the averagely fit walker.

Moderate to strenuous: Height gained and lost: 75m to 120m per mile. A walk taking in one or more steep, physically testing ascents and descents. Not recommended for inexperienced or unfit walkers.

Disclaimer The organisers do not accept any liability whatsoever for injury or damage to (or by) walkers, third parties or their property while engaged on walks during the festival.

While the contents of this brochure are believed to be correct, no responsibility is accepted for any errors, omission or mis-statements.

Walkers must rely on their own judgement and it is recommended that you carry your own insurance.

Book online at www.exmoorwalkingfestival.co.uk or phone 01271 863001

5

Saturday 2nd & Sunday 3rd May

Ilfracombe, Combe Martin, Woolacombe and Braunton Ilfracombe nestles snugly amongst the rugged cliffs of the majestic Atlantic Coast and lies right on the route of the South West Coast Path. It is a ‘Walkers are Welcome’ town and many of the accommodation providers are set up to specifically cater for the needs of walkers (single night stays, early breakfasts on request, packed lunches etc). There is a wide range of accommodation here to suit all tastes and if you were to base yourself in Ilfracombe, you would be close to a wide range of different walks, including some of the easier ones.

Lundy Island Discovery Saturday 2nd May, 9.15am

2A

3.5 mile, circular, 8 hrs, 180/SS 525 478 Cost: £39.00 adults £22.00 children, includes boat ticket and guides. Quote DAYADTWF to get your discounted boat tickets.

PLEASE NOTE: This walk MUST be booked by telephone as it has to include the boat ticket.

Guide: Simon Dell and colleagues Pace: Moderate Difficulty: Moderate

With its shops, cafes and historic maritime pubs, the bustling harbour has a continental atmosphere and fishing vessels jostle for space alongside the bobbing yachts. New at the end of 2012 is the now world famous statue, ‘Verity’ by Damien Hirst, a must see for visitors to the town. Along the seafront you will find the Landmark Theatre, North Devon’s finest arts and entertainment centre. The award winning building also houses the Tourist Information Centre where you can book walks, buy maps/walking books and obtain information on the area. Further inland, Ilfracombe High Street has a range of mainly independent shops, cafes, restaurants and pubs.

Route: South End - Castle - Old Light - Marisco and Lower East Side Path - Terraces - Tibbets - Marisco

Ilfracombe has something for everyone. There are plenty of places to eat and drink, things to see and do, history, wildlife and the natural world, watersports and more.

Directions to start: Go to Ilfracombe sea front and pass the Landmark Theatre continuing towards the harbour and park on the harbour car park. Go to the shore office to collect your boarding pass and then to the Oldenburg moored at the jetty.

Combe Martin is five miles along the coast on the edge of the Exmoor National Park with an attractive cove. It is a quiet village with a selection of small accommodation providers.

Woolacombe is seven miles along the coast in the opposite direction and has the gorgeous Blue Flag sandy beach and a wide range of good accommodation.

Braunton is a beautiful village lying six miles north in a relatively flat area of North Devon, close to the Braunton Burrows World Biosphere Reserve and Saunton Sands.

Ilfracombe harbour

Start: Ilfracombe harbour Car parking: Ilfracombe car parks, pay and display Description: Enjoy a unique Island experience on a marvellous boat trip across to Lundy Island. There you will be taken on a fascinating walk around the island with a chance to go to the top of the Old Light where there are amazing views around the whole island and beyond. The walk continues with the opportunity for refreshments at the Marisco Tavern before returning to Ilfracombe.

Rocky Valley Panorama Saturday 2nd May, 10.30am

2B

5.6 mile, circular, 4.5 hrs, 180/SS 675 486 Cost: £6.00 Guide: John Breeds Pace: Moderate Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous Route: Lee Bay - Valley of Rocks - Lynton Hollerday Hill - Southcliffe - Lee Bay Start: Lee Bay near Lynton car park Car parking: Lee Bay car park, pay box Description: A walk with some amazing scenery.

Glimpses of rocky bays and cliffs and the unique Valley of Rocks which is circumnavigated before passing through some delightful woods and dropping back to Lee Bay. Directions to start: Go to Lynton, off the A39 at Barbrook on to the B3234. Soon bear left to Lynton, over the hill and dropping down to swing round by the bowls club, then following the road round to the left to the T junction. Turn left here to the Valley of Rocks, continuing all the way through to pass Lee Abbey. On reaching the toll house after Lee Abbey, turn right and right again into the car park. The walk starts here.

6

Book online at www.exmoorwalkingfestival.co.uk or phone 01271 863001

2C

Saturday 2nd May, 10.30am 6.1 mile, circular, 4.5 hrs, 180/SS 739 477 Cost: ÂŁ6.00 Guide: Mary Breeds Pace: Moderate Difficulty: Moderate Route: Hillsford Bridge - Hoar Oak valley - Lyn Down - Cheriton Ridge - Farley Water - Hillsford Bridge Start: Combe Park car park, Hillsford Bridge Car parking: honesty box Description: This walk takes in two valley of rivers which feed into the East Lyn River that flows to Lynmouth. The walk follows the Hoar Oak Water upstream climbing out of the valley to benefit from glorious moorland views recrossing the stream higher up the valley to cross the ridge to the Farley Water.

This river is then followed downstream through a brilliant little hidden gorge before returning to the start.

Lee Bay near Ilfracombe

Directions to start: Go to the A39 between Lynmouth and Blackmoor Gate. From the Blackmoor Gate direction (A399/A39) follow the A39 towards Lynmouth.

Pass through Barbrook and now go through four hairpin bends. At the fifth hairpin continue ahead on to the B3223 towards Simonsbath. Do not cross the river bridge immediately at the start of this road, but immediately turn right and immediately right again into the Combe Park car park. Coming from Lynmouth, follow the A39 up towards Watersmeet to pass its car park and on reaching the first hairpin bend turn left, immediately right and immediately right again into Combe Park car park. The walk starts here.

Old Tracks for Coach and Train

Saturday 2nd & Sunday 3rd May

Heathland Waters

2D

Saturday 2nd May, 10.30am 8.6 mile, circular, 6.5 hrs, 180/SS 518 478 Cost: ÂŁ8.00 Guide: Dave Edgcombe, ND AONB Pace: Moderate Difficulty: Moderate, one reasonable ascent Route: Ilfracombe - old railway line to Mortehoe - Lee - Torrs Walk - Ilfracombe Start: Landmark Theatre, Ilfracombe Car parking: Landmark Theatre car park, pay and display Description: This walk takes you up the old railway from Ilfracombe to Mortehoe, passing the Slade Reservoirs. It then goes to the coast at Lee village to follow the old coaching road across the Torrs back to Ilfracombe. Our guide is most knowledgeable on the history of the railway in particular.

Directions to start: Go to Ilfracombe sea front and park in the Landmark Theatre car park. The walk starts from the front of the theatre.

Book online at www.exmoorwalkingfestival.co.uk or phone 01271 863001

7

Saturday 2nd & Sunday 3rd May

The East Lyn High Points Sunday 3rd May, 10.30am

3A

Stones, Castles and Hawks Sunday 3rd May, 10.30am

5.5 miles, circular, 4 hrs, 180/SS 752 496

7.2 miles, circular, 6 hrs, 181/SS 856 462

Cost: £6.00

Cost: £8.00

Guide: John Breeds

Guide: Tony Piper

Pace: Moderate Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous

Pace: Moderate Difficulty: Moderate

Route: Countisbury - Watersmeet - Myrtleberry Cleave - Lynmouth - Sparrow walk - Lynmouth Start: Countisbury car park, opposite Blue Ball Inn Car parking: free Description: This delightful walk heads inland from the coast to drop into a beautiful river valley at Watersmeet before climbing up the other side to the Cleaves overlooking the wooded valley. The walk then visits Lynmouth before returning high on the other side of the river valley with more marvellous views.

Directions to start: Go to the A39 between Lynmouth and Porlock. From Lynmouth go up Countisbury Hill towards Porlock. At the top of Countisbury Hill at the Blue Ball Inn turn left into the car park opposite the Inn. The walk starts here.

Please support our Advertisers whose support of this festival helps keep it going The Special Heritage Coast Sunday 3rd May, 10.30am

3C

Route: Porlock Hill - Lucott Farm - Hawkcombe - Porlock Hill Start: Whitstone car park, Porlock Hill Car parking: free Description: This walk starts high on Porlock Hill with wonderful coastal views, crossing open moorland with a good chance of seeing red deer or Exmoor ponies.

The walk then slowly loses height into the wooded Hawk Combe, following the river upstream, gradually regaining height back to the start.

Directions to start: Go to the A39 between Lynmouth and Porlock. At the top of Porlock Hill go into the rough car park opposite the turning to Exford at Whitstone Post. The walk starts here.

Book walks online at www.exmoorwalkingfestival.co.uk

3B

7.2 miles, circular, 6 hrs, 180/SS 471 449 Cost: £8.00 Guide: Dave Edgcombe, ND AONB Pace: Moderate Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous Route: Damage Barton - Mortehoe - Morte Point - Rockham Bay - Bull Point - Lee - Damage Barton Start: Damage Barton caravan and campsite Car parking: Damage Barton caravan and campsite - free with a charity donation Description: This superb walk will take you to the rugged, beautiful and treacherous coastline around Rockham Bay and Bull Point lighthouse. The walk continues along this outstanding section of the South West Coast Path to Lee before returning inland to the 15th Century Damage Barton.

Directions to start: Follow the A361 to the roundabout above Ilfracombe, called Mullacott Cross. Turn towards Woolacombe on the B3343 until reaching the turning to the right on a sweeping bend to Mortehoe. Follow this road to pass Warcombe Farm campsite until reaching Damage Barton campsite on the right. Turn in here and follow directions given for the walk participants by the site owners for parking. The walk starts here.

8

Book online at www.exmoorwalkingfestival.co.uk or phone 01271 863001

3D

7.8 miles, circular, 6.5 hrs, 181/SS 872 323 Cost: £8.00, pub food extra Guide: Jennifer Rowlandson Pace: Moderate Difficulty: Moderate becoming easy Route: Tarr Steps - Parsonage Down - Withypool River Barle - Tarr Steps Start: Tarr Steps car park Car parking: pay & display Description: This walk crosses the famous clapper bridge of Tarr Steps, then climbs over Parsonage Down, eventually following a small lane to Withypool for a pub lunch (not included). The walk then continues following the meandering River Barle downstream back to Tarr Steps car park.

Directions to start: Go to the B3223 between the B3224 (Exford to Simonsbath road) and Dulverton.

From the B3224 junction follow the B3223 for 4.8 miles towards Dulverton. At a cross roads, left to Winsford, right to Liscombe and Tarr Steps, turn right here.

Follow this road for 1.4 miles and turn left into Tarr Steps car park. The walk starts here. From Dulverton follow the B3223 up on to the moor to cross two cattle grids. After the second one take the next left to Liscombe and left again to reach the car park.

01271 863743

11 comfortable cottages sleeping 2 to 8 people.

On SW Coast Path. Dogs Welcome. holiday@widmouthfarmcottages.co.uk

Saturday 2nd & Sunday 3rd May

Steps over Down and beside River Sunday 3rd May, 10.30am

www.widmouthfarmcottages.co.uk Top quality youth hostel accommodation

Ilfracombe

Information Centre

(situated in the Landmark, on the seafront) Call in for information on local attractions, events, bookings for accommodation, boat trips, walking festival tickets, coach tours ....and much much more!

OCEAN BACKPACKERS

Ideal for student groups, schools, activity clubs and individual travellers/surfers/walkers

01271 867 835

FROM

£13 PER NIGHT

www.oceanbackpackers.co.uk 29, St James Place, Ilfracombe Devon EX34 9BJ Friendly guided walks

Ilfracombe Events Scan the QR code to go to our Events page for a full season of exciting events.

01271 863001

Open 7 Days a week We’re here to help!

www.visitilfracombe.co.uk Book online at www.exmoorwalkingfestival.co.uk or phone 01271 863001

9

Monday 4th to Tuesday 5th May

Lynton and Lynmouth

Search for Red Deer Monday 4th May, 2.00pm

Set in some of the UK’s most spectacular countryside, the twin villages of Lynton and Lynmouth are a walker’s paradise. Walks in this area offer coastal trails, ancient woodlands, hidden valleys, open moorlands, and sparkling rivers. No wonder then, that the area is known as ‘the walking capital of Exmoor’!

3 miles, circular, 2.5 hrs, 181/SS 835 297

As well as great walking, you’ll also find that Lynton & Lynmouth offers a wide range of quality accommodation with prices to suit every pocket.

Pace: Gentle Difficulty: Moderate to easy

Eating out is easy too with a selection of excellent restaurants, cafés and pubs. The villages’ location offers easy access to walks in other sections of the festival, making Lynton & Lynmouth an ideal place to base yourself throughout the festival.

So, whether you’re an experienced walker looking for a challenge, or simply looking for a more relaxing experience, centre yourself in Lynton & Lynmouth for a lovely location that has it all!

Picturesque Lynmouth and its Rhenish Tower

Cost: £6.00

4A Ne w!

Guide: Richard Eales, ENPA Ranger Route: Anstey Gate - Molland Moor Start: Anstey Gate Car parking: free Description: Join an Exmoor National Park Ranger to have a leisurely walk over Molland Moor searching for our native red deer and exmoor ponies. Typical moorland terrain but because of the slow pace it is relatively accessible. Binoculars are an essential and no dogs allowed.

Directions to start: Go to the B3223 between the B3224 (Exford to Simonsbath road) and Dulverton.

From the B3224 junction follow the B3223 for 8.3 miles towards Dulverton. Drop down into the woods and near the bottom turn right at a small triangle towards Hawkridge by Marsh Bridge. Then bear left and follow this road for about 4.8 miles to a cattle grid at Anstey Gate. The walk starts here. From Dulverton follow the B3223 beside the river to where the road climbs away from the river and turn left here by Marsh Bridge. Then as above.

Book walks online at www.exmoorwalkingfestival.co.uk The Knights of Exmoor Monday 4th May, 11.00am

4B

4.7 miles, circular, 4 hrs, 180/SS 773 394

Ne w!

Cost: £6.00 Guide: Tim Parish, ENPA Ranger Pace: Moderate Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous Route: Simonsbath - Cornham - Blue Gate Halscombe - Simonsbath Start: Ashcombe Car Park, Simonsbath Car parking: donation box

Description: Join a National Park Ranger for a walk through history. In the 19th Century, the Knight family tried to turn a large piece of barren moor into a farming estate. From Simonsbath the walk will go to some remote and hard to reach places to show how they tried, and ultimately failed, through farming and mining to make their investment pay off. While some sections are on paths/tracks, a great deal of the walk will be on open moorland with very uneven ground.

Some steep slopes are to be expected.

Directions to start: Simonsbath is in the middle of Exmoor on the B3223. The B3223 goes from above Lynmouth to Exford. Ashcombe car park is signed off this road close to the church. The walk starts here.

10

Book online at www.exmoorwalkingfestival.co.uk or phone 01271 863001

Monday 4th to Tuesday 5th May

Highwayman’s Haunt Monday 4th May, 10.30am

4C

5.8 miles, circular, 4.5 hrs, 181/SS 821 464 Cost: £6.00 Guide: Mary Breeds Pace: Moderate Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous Route: Robbers Bridge - Culbone Hill - South West Coast Path - Broomstreet - Oareford Robbers Bridge Start: Robbers Bridge, near Oareford Car parking: free Description: This walk starts at the delightful spot called Robbers Bridge in Doone Country. It then gains height to pass the old Culbone Inn before heading towards the South West Coast Path. This section of the coast path is high giving good open views and passing old farmsteads on the way. The walk then heads back inland to pass around the head of Deddy Combe before dropping down into the Oare Water valley and the start.

Directions to start: Go to the A39 between Porlock and Lynmouth. From the Lynmouth direction follow the A39 towards Minehead and pass County Gate on the county boundary on Devon and Somerset. Shortly after there, turn right towards Oare. At Oare church turn left and follow this road until reaching a narrow old bridge over a small river. Carefully cross this bridge and park in the car park on the left. Coming from Porlock follow the A39 up Porlock Hill and over the top of Porlock Hill to pass the old AA box by a cattle grid. Take the next road that bears off to the left and follow it down into the valley through hairpin bends. When the road straightens, before crossing the narrow bridge turn right into the car park. The walk starts here.

Please support our Advertisers whose support of this festival helps keep it going Malmsmead

Robbers Bridge

Heather-clad Moor Monday 4th May, 10.30am

4D

8.4 miles, circular, 6.5 hrs, 180/SS 753 462 Cost: £8.00 Guide: Tony Piper Pace: Moderate Difficulty: Easy to moderate Route: Scobhill Gate - Malmsmead Badgeworthy Water - Lankcombe - Scobhill Gate Start: Scobhill Gate car park, Farley Hill Car parking: free Description: This walk starts high on open moorland, keeping its height for much of the way before dropping down into the Badgeworthy Water valley, known for its connections to Lorna Doone. The walk then regains height gently upstream beside the river before leaving it behind to cross the ford over the Lank Combe, crossing open moor back to the start.

Directions to start: Scobhill Gate is on the B3223 between Lynmouth and Simonsbath. From the A39 above Lynmouth, turn on to the B3223 crossing Hillsford Bridge. Follow it up hill to go through the two hairpin bends. Soon cross the cattle grid and the road bears round to the right. There on the right is a car park. The walk starts here.

Book online at www.exmoorwalkingfestival.co.uk or phone 01271 863001

11

Monday 4th to Tuesday 5th May

Old Ways to Old Steps and Stones Tuesday 5th May, 10.30am 5.5 miles, circular, 4 hrs, 181/SS 892 319 Cost: £6.00

5A

A Taste of Two Hills Tuesday 5th May, 10.30am

5C

Ne w!

6.5 miles, circular, 5 hrs, 180/SS 655 480

Ne w!

Cost: £6.00

Guide: Jennifer Rowlandson

Guide: Ione Willcock, ENPA Ranger

Pace: Moderate Difficulty: Moderate to easy

Pace: Moderate Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous

Route: Mounsey Hill Gate - Tarr Steps - Knaplock - Caractacus Stone - Mounsey Hill Gate

Route: Hunter’s Inn - Heale - Ladies Mile - SW Coast Path - Heddon’s Cleave - Hunter’s Inn

Start: Mounsey Hill Gate, above Dulverton

Start: Hunter’s Inn NT car park

Car parking: free Description: This walk starts on the edge of Winsford Hill, soon dropping down into the River Barle valley at Tarr Steps. It then regains height to Knaplock and over to the Caractacus Stone, before an easy walk back to the car park.

Directions to start: Go to the B3223 between Exford and Dulverton. Coming from the Exford end, the road crosses a cattle grid and climbs over Winsford Hill. On reaching the second cattle grid, this is Mounsey Hill Gate. Park on the left just the other side of the grid.

Coming from Dulverton, climb up through the woods, and as the road levels out, cross a cattle grid. Soon you come to a second cattle grid, Do not cross but park on the right of it. The walks starts here.

Book walks online at www.exmoorwalkingfestival.co.uk

Car parking: donation box Description: Join a National Park Ranger for a taste of Exmoor’s varied landscapes as we walk beside a river, through ancient oak woods and fields, up combes with differing views from each hillside inland and from the Coast Path out to sea. The walk includes one steep ascent and descent.

Directions to start: Go to the A399 between Combe Martin and South Molton. From the Combe Martin direction follow the road through all the bends and when the road finally straightens look for the first turning on the left to Hunter’s Inn. Follow this road all the way to Hunter’s Inn and park in the car park opposite the toilets. The walk starts here.

Rushing Waters and Rugged Coast Tuesday 5th May, 10.30am 8.3 miles, circular, 6 hrs, 180/SS 752 496

High Beacons and Cairns Tuesday 5th May, 10.30am

5B

6 miles, circular, 5 hrs, 181/SS 902 438 Cost: £6.00 Guide: Richard Medland Pace: Moderate Difficulty: Moderate Route: Webbers Post - Dicky’s Path - Dunkery Beacon - Dunster Path - Webbers Post Start: Webbers Post car park Car parking: free Description: Climb to the highest point on Exmoor, on the way passing through beautiful scenery with wide views across the Vale of Porlock, across to Wales and the rest of Exmoor. This walk also gives a good chance of seeing red deer, if not close, then through binoculars.

Directions to start: Go to the A39 between Porlock and Minehead. From Porlock towards Minehead, having left the village take the first turning on the right at Red Post towards Horner. Pass through Horner and continue until reaching a small cross-roads. Turn right and up the steep hill until the road forks. Take the right fork and then turn right into the large car park. The walk starts here.

12

Cost: £8.00

5D Ne w!

Guide: Tony Piper Pace: Moderate Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous Route: Barna Barrow - Rockford - Brendon County Gate - South West Coast Path - Barna Barrow Start: Barna Barrow car park, Countisbury Car parking: free Description: This varied walk heads inland to follow the beautiful wooded valley of the East Lyn before gently gaining height to County Gate where one returns to the coast to follow the impressive South West Coast Path through many combes with strange names before returning over Countisbury Common to the start.

Directions to start: Go to the A39 between Lynmouth and Porlock. From Lynmouth go up Countisbury Hill towards Porlock, pass the Blue Ball Inn and over the cattle grid. Immediately after the cattle grid, turn left into the car park. From Porlock direction follow the A39 towards Lynmouth. You will cross a cattle grid by the turning to Brendon. Continue ahead around the sweeping bends and as the road starts to descend, just before the next cattle grid, turn right into the car park.

The walk starts here.

Book online at www.exmoorwalkingfestival.co.uk or phone 01271 863001

STEAM TRAINS at WOODY BAY STATION

OR’S EXMO N E HIDD E SUR TREA

Two-mile Round Trip

PAY ONCE Ride All Day

Under 5s TRAVEL FREE

On the A39 between Blackmoor Gate & Lynton/Lynmouth EX31 4RA

LYNTON & BARNSTAPLE RAILWAY TRUST Reviving North Devon’s Lost Railway Heritage Reg. Charity No. 1082564

ENQUIRIES: 01598 763487

WWW.LYNTON-RAIL.CO.UK

01643 862259

The Culbone, Porlock, Minehead TA24 8JW

www.theculbone.com Walkers and Dogs welcome

Monday 4th to Tuesday 5th May

NEW FOR 2014 - RIDE IN OUR RESTORED HERITAGE CARRIAGES

Lunch 12 – 2.30 Dinner 6 – 9 Dunkery Beacon

7-8 March 2015 STARTREK is a sponsored night orienteering 8 or 16 mile walk in and around Exmoor in teams of 4 to 6 people. It takes place the first full weekend in March each year.

Go to our web site for more information booking forms can be downloaded from July onwards each year for the next event.

Bookings taken for the 2016 event on the website from July 2015.

www.rotary-startrek.org.uk Book online at www.exmoorwalkingfestival.co.uk or phone 01271 863001

13

Wednesday 6th to Thursday 7th May 14

Porlock Vale and its villages Porlock Vale is a wide and long fertile valley sweeping to the shore through the wide Porlock Marsh to its long shingle ridge before meeting the sea. The Horner Water is the main river running through the valley, passing through pretty Horner, on to Bossington before passing through the shingle ridge. The Vale is flanked to the north-east by Selworthy Beacon and to the south-west by Porlock Hill and Dunkery Beacon, the highest point in Exmoor. Beautiful ancient oak woodland clothe the deep valleys and the coastal hills making for perfect walking.

Porlock village sits just inland of Porlock Marsh, sheltered by it from the sea. It is a delightful village with a range of quality shops and places to eat. Porlock Weir is 2 miles to the west with a quaint harbour at one end of the shingle ridge. There is a wide choice of walks and accommodation in this unspoilt area.

Book walks online at www.exmoorwalkingfestival.co.uk Porlock High Street

Talking Trees Wednesday 6th May, 10.30am

6A

4 miles, circular, 4 hrs, 181/SS 897 455 Cost: £6.00 Guide: Adam Vasey, ENPA Ranger Pace: Gentle Difficulty: Moderate Route: Horner village – Horner Wood - Old Bridge – Cloutsham Ball – Horner Hill – Horner village Start: Horner National Trust car park Car parking: pay and display, free NT members Description: Join a National Park Ranger for a walk through Horner Woods - said to contain Britain’s largest area of ancient oak woodland. The woods are a National Nature Reserve as a well as a SSSI and contain a wealth of wildlife ranging from rare lichens, ancient trees, beetles, bats, otters and red deer. We’ll talk about the myths and legends relating to our native trees, medieval woodland management and anything else we see whilst strolling round!

Directions to start: From Porlock follow the A39 towards Minehead. Shortly after leaving the 30 limit, take the second turning right (the first is a Private Road) at “Red Post” onto an unclassified road signed to West Luccombe and Horner. Keep straight ahead in West Luccombe to cross a narrow humpbacked bridge to reach Horner village. The car park is on the left at the beginning of the village.

Book online at www.exmoorwalkingfestival.co.uk or phone 01271 863001

5.8 miles, circular, 4 hrs, 181/SS 878 341 Cost: £6.00

Ne w!

Barles Meanders and Mounds Wednesday 6th May, 10.30am

6D

10.2 miles, circular, 6.5 hrs, 181/SS 907 289 Cost: £8.00

Guide: Barbara Wigley

Guide: Richard Medland

Pace: Moderate Difficulty: Moderate

Pace: Moderate Difficulty: Moderate

Route: Punchbowl - Winsford - Yellowcombe Caractacus Stone

Route: Marsh Bridge - Mounsey Hill Gate - Tarr steps Hawkridge - Barle Valley - Marsh Bridge

Start: Roadside car park at the brow of Winsford Hill, by Wambarrows

Start: Marsh Bridge, north of Dulverton

Car parking: free

Description: This varied walk takes in open moorland near Winsford Hill, the ancient clapper bridge of Tarr Steps, passing through Hawkridge before returning through the wooded combe of the River Barle downstream towards Dulverton.

Car parking: free

Description: This walk starts at the top of Winsford Hill with a good chance of seeing Exmoor ponies close by. It then goes around the impressive Punchbowl, a deep rounded combe before losing height to picturesque Winsford village. From here the walk regains height up Yellowcombe to Winsford Hill and the unique Caractacus Stone.

Directions to start: Go to the B3223 between Exford and Dulverton. This road climbs on to Winsford Hill. Go to the highest point on this road, just to the north-west of Spire Cross junction, and park in a layby beside the road. The walks starts here.

Please support our Advertisers whose support of this festival helps keep it going

Lapping Wimbleball Lake Wednesday 6th May, 10.30am

Directions to start: Get on to the B3223 which runs between Dulverton to the south and above Exford to the north. From the Dulverton end, follow this road out of Dulverton alongside the river and take the first turning to the left signed to Hawkridge. The road almost immediately forks and there is parking on the side of the road there. From the Exford direction cross over Winsford Hill, over Mounsey Hill Gate cattle grid, over the next cattle grid and down into the wooded valley. As you approach the river turn right towards Hawkridge and park at the next fork of the road. The walk starts here.

Wednesday 6th to Thursday 7th May

Punchbowl, Combe and Stone 6B Wednesday 6th May, 10.30am

Tarr Steps

6C

8.5 miles, circular, 6 hrs, 181/SS 965 308 Cost: £8.00 Guide: Alex Forster, SW Lakes Area Manager Pace: Moderate Difficulty: Moderate Route: Around the perimeter of the lake Start: Wimbleball Lake main car park Car parking: main car park - tea shop, 2nd entrance on left - pay and display Description: A delightful walk around the perimeter of this man-made lake with the local ranger. A chance to watch the wildlife and sailing boats as one passes through open country and woodland.

Directions to start: Follow the A396 or B3224 to Wheddon Cross. At Wheddon Cross follow the B3224 towards Raleghs Cross and Taunton. After 7.5 miles turn right on to B3190 for 1.2 miles. Just after radio masts turn right (Robbery Gate) and follow this road for 2.7 miles to Bessom Cross just by the lake. Cross the bridge over the lake and then take the next left.

Follow this small road and take the second left to the tea-rooms car park. The walk starts here.

Book online at www.exmoorwalkingfestival.co.uk or phone 01271 863001

15

Wednesday 6th to Thursday 7th May

Thursday 7th May - A Free Day Today gives you the chance to discover more about Exmoor by doing your own thing. But if you would rather do a walk, why not try one of Bryan’s selfguided walks, taken from his Half Day Walks in Exmoor booklet.

County Gate via Oare church Fact File: Highlights: Lorna Doone Country, Malmsmead, Oare church, Glenthorne Pinetum, buzzards Start Grid ref: SS 793 486 Distance: 5.5 miles, circular Height gained/lost: 479 metres. Starts easy becoming moderate to strenuous.

High Point: 384 metres Low Point: 139 metres Toilets: County Gate car park, Malmsmead (off route), Cloud Farm.

Eating places: Malmsmead (off route), Cloud Farm Time required: 3 hours plus stops Public transport: 300. For more information go to www.traveline.org.uk.

Mileages shown are cumulative. The OS grid references are there for those who like to follow the route on an OS map, but the descriptive text will take you around without using the grid references.

Route description: This walk gives you a taster of Lorna Doone Country as it passes along the Badgeworthy Water, visits Cloud Farm and Oare church where Carver shot Lorna at her wedding to Jan Ridd in the novel by RD Blackmore.

The walk then regains height to then drop down to the South West Coast Path. It soon passes through the Glenthorne Pinetum with some splendid specimen trees before gathering height again back to County Gate.

Directions to the start: County Gate is on the boundary between Somerset and Devon. It is between Lynmouth and Porlock on the A39, high on the cliffs overlooking the Bristol Channel to the north and Lorna Doone Country to the south. There is an Exmoor National Park Visitor Centre and toilets in the car park there.

View from County Gate

Route directions: 1, SS793 486: Go to the entrance to the car park and go through the gate on your right signposted to Malmsmead and Doone Valley. Follow the wire fence on your left ahead to soon drop down into the valley.

2, SS795 479, 0.5 miles: At the bottom ignore the gate on the left and continue ahead to the river, bearing right to cross the bridge signed to Malmsmead. Pass through the gate and by the farmhouse to reach the road.

3, SS794 477, 0.6 miles: Turn right on to the road and shortly turn left along road to Doone Valley and Cloud Farm, passing through the kissing gate or gate beside the cattle grid. Continue along the fairly level farm track and as you near the farm pass through the first gate (possibly open) and then through the gate by the cattle grid to reach Cloud Farm ahead. An ideal chance for a refreshment stop here before continuing.

4, SS794 467, 1.4 miles: With the farm buildings ahead of you, go up left through the barn to a gate, signposted to Oare church. Pass through the gate and follow the track ahead up the side of the hill. Pass through the next gate on the way up.

5, SS797 470, 1.7 miles: At the top pass through the remains of a sheep penning area and the gate ahead.

Continue along by the fenced hedge on your left. Go to the far end of this field and ignore the gate in the left hand corner, bearing right to the next gate on the left.

Follow the track down by the wire fence soon bearing left signed to Oare along the track. When the track bears right, go straight ahead down to the gate.

6, SS800 469, 1.9 miles: Now follow this field straight down by its left hand boundary. At the bottom of this field bear right over to the gate and continue ahead down this field to the far left hand corner. Pass through the gate and turn left on to the road.

7, SS802 473, 2.2 miles: Visit the lovely Oare church and then turn right at the junction down the road to cross the bridge.

8, SS801 474, 2.3 miles: Just the other side of the bridge turn right through the gate signposted Public Footpath, to go along beside the river. Cross the little stream and now take the path off left signposted to North Common and Yenworthy Common and then immediately‌ 9, SS803 474, 2.4 miles: take the footpath up to the right signed to North Common. Follow this ridge path as it climbs above the valleys, taking it in stages.

Near the top the path divides, one going off and up to the right, the other narrower path going ahead. The official right of way goes up to the right to then follow a fenced and hedged Devon bank. The unofficial route goes ahead and climbs more progressively overlooking the valley on your left. Whichever way you choose, they both meet up further ahead. Once the paths have rejoined, continue ahead now climbing gently towards the head of this valley.

10, SS810 474, 2.9 miles: On reaching the fence across the valley, cross the stile by the gate, then bearing back to the fenced wall on the right. Shortly the path

16

Book online at www.exmoorwalkingfestival.co.uk or phone 01271 863001

15, SS810 486, 4.0 miles: The path now levels and passes through a bridle gate. Continue ahead to pass through the next bridle gate and on through the edge of woodland to come out on to the coast.

11, SS813 474, 3.1 miles: On reaching that corner, ignore the stile in the fence and turn left signed to Yenworthy Common. At this corner you will find the most perfectly positioned seat provided by the Exmoor Society with a stunning view over the countryside in which you have just been walking. Having turned left follow the track around the head of the valley to reach a gate and on to the road.

16, SS807 491, 4.4 miles: At the next signpost at Guildhall Corner, ignore the path off to the left to Sugarloaf, instead bearing down to the right on the coast path to pass through lovely mixed woodland.

17, SS806 492, 4.5 miles: At the bottom of the steps turn left to stay on the coast path towards County Gate and Lynmouth. At the next bridle gate ignore the path back to Sugarloaf, instead bearing right on the coast path to Glenthorne, going down into the next combe to cross the stream and go through the bridle gate.

12, SS811 477, 3.4 miles: At the road go ahead for a few yards to a small layby. Be very careful here as there is no verge to walk on, so listen and watch for vehicles.

From the small layby, cross straight over the road to the bridle gate by a gate and now go straight ahead away from the road and gate signed to Broomstreet Farm, initially keeping parallel to the fence on your right and then slowly getting closer to it to drop down to a bridle gate in the right hand corner.

18, SS802 492, 4.9 miles: You are now in Glenthorne Pinetum. (The path on the right drops down to the sea and you would need to return to this point). Continue ahead signposted coast path and County Gate.

19, SS799 491, 5.1 miles: At the next brow of the hill leave the coast path behind, turning left towards County Gate. Regain height through the woods, passing through the gate as you come into the open. Continue up beside the combe…

13, SS810 482, 3.7 miles: Go through it towards Broomstreet Farm going straight ahead down this field.

Soon you meet the coast path at a gate on your right.

14, SS810 483, 3.8 miles: Continue ahead down this field signposted Coast Path and Lynmouth. At the bottom go through the gap by the signpost for the coast path and continue down into a small valley to cross a stream.

20, SS795 485, 5.6 miles: and at the top bear right to County Gate, carefully crossing the road to the car park.

18

19

17

16 15

er

T 1

County Gate

20

Yenworthy Farm

Ly n

Riv

Wednesday 6th to Thursday 7th May

divides, take the one ahead left, slightly away from the wall towards the right hand corner of the fir trees ahead.

Broomstreet Farm

14

Ea

st

13 2

T

12

3

Malmsmead

Oa

re

W at

8

Badg

er

worth ter

y Wa



Cloud Farm

4 T

5

7  6

mbe

Deddy Co

9

Oare

10 

11 Roads

 Viewpoint

Rivers

 Church

Route

Food

Track

T

Toilets

Woodland



Telephone

Book online at www.exmoorwalkingfestival.co.uk or phone 01271 863001

17

Friday 8th to Saturday 9th May

Dunster and its surrounds Dunster is a wonderfully preserved medieval village.

Overlooked by its fairy-tale castle perched on a prominent hill and on an opposite hill, the Conygar Tower is a folly offering great views across the village to the castle. In the centre of the village is the unique Yarn Market (1590) where most of our walks for this area start. The impressive priory church of St George plays its carillon of eight bells every four hours during the day. Next to the church is a well-preserved dove cot and the restored tithe barn.

In the main street you will find the old nunnery which never actually inhabited nuns. On the edge of the village is the Gallox Bridge, a beautiful pack-horse bridge over the River Avill. Also on the river is the 18th century watermill which is still working and can be visited. The village walks will bring all this alive for you.

On the outskirts of the village is Dunster railway station, on the preserved steam railway of West Somerset Railway. One walk includes this. This area offers a good range of walks and scenery. There is a good choice of hotels and B&B’s to stay in here.

All walks can be booked online at www.exmoorwalkingfestival.co.uk or phone 01271 863001

West Somerset Mineral Line Explore 8B Friday 8th May, 10.30am 6.7 miles, circular, 6 hrs, 181/ST 039 344 Cost: Free, offered by the West Somerset Mineral Line Assocoiation Guide: Phil Gannon Pace: Moderate Difficulty: Moderate, one steep descent Route: Raleghs Cross Inn - The Incline - Comberow Leighland Chapel - Western Cliff Wood - Raleghs Cross Inn Start: Raleghs Cross Inn Car parking: Raleghs Cross Inn - free Description: The Old Mineral Line is an amazing legacy of Victorian engineering which carried iron ore via a 1:4 incline down to Watchet harbour. This project is enhancing people’s understanding of this fascinating industrial heritage.

Directions to start: Go to the A39 between Minehead and Williton. Go to Washford Cross by Tropiquaria and the tall masts and turn up the B3190 to Ralegh’s Cross and Bampton. Keep on this road for 4.4 miles to reach Ralegh’s Cross Inn. The walk starts here. From Wheddon Cross follow the B3224 towards Taunton for 7.5 miles and then bear left onto the B3190 for 0.7 miles to Ralegh’s Cross.

Dunster, West Street

All Things Bright and Beautiful 8A Friday 8th May, 10.30am 4.1 miles, circular, 3.5 hrs, 181/SS 992 438 Cost: £6.00 Guide: Adam Vasey, ENPA Ranger Pace: Moderate Difficulty: Moderate Route: Dunster - Gallax Hill - Bats Castle Dunster Park - Dunster Start: Exmoor Visitor Centre Car parking: Dunster Steep car park - pay and display Description: This walk reveals much of this hymn which was written in Dunster in 1848 by Cecil F Alexander, possibly inspired by a verse in Coleridge’s ‘The Rime of the Ancient Mariner’. The walk passes the Castle and gains height to oversee Dunster village, the rolling hills of Exmoor and the sea across to Wales.

Directions to start: Go to Dunster which is off the A39, Minehead to Bridgwater road, on the A396 to Wheddon Cross. Park in the main car park. The Exmoor Visitor Centre is above the car park where the walk starts.

18

Steam to Washford and walk back 8C Friday 8th May, 10.00am 7.4 miles, linear, 6.5 hrs, 181/SS 995 447 Cost: 8.00 plus train ticket fare Guide: Cliff Nicholson Pace: Moderate Difficulty: Moderate Route: Dunster station - Washford station Withycombe - Dunster - Dunster station Start: Dunster station Car parking: Dunster station - free Description: Catch the 10.22 steam train from Dunster to Washford with the guide to then have a linear country walk including a climb over Withycombe Hill and Dunster deer park.

Directions to start: From Dunster go to the A39 lights and turn left towards Minehead. In 0.4 miles turn right to Marsh Street and follow the road to the station. Park in the car park or road. The walk starts here.

Book online at www.exmoorwalkingfestival.co.uk or phone 01271 863001

Friday 8th to Saturday 9th May

Old railway, Castle and Farm Friday 8th May, 10.30am

8D

8 mile, circular, 6 hr, 181/ST 023 434 Cost: £8.00 Guide: Jo Halliday Pace: Moderate Difficulty: Moderate to easy Route: Blue Anchor - Coast path to Dunster - Dunster village - Dunster Park - Withycombe Blue Anchor Start: opposite the Driftwood Cafe on the seafront Car parking: Blue Anchor - free roadside Description: This walk starts by following alongside the West Somerset Steam Railway on the coast path. It then goes inland to pass the Dunster railway station to reach Dunster. The walk passes through this beautiful medieval village, past the castle and over an ancient bridge to continue through Dunster deer park. The walk returns through farmsteads to Withycombe village and another old farmstead to the start.

Directions to start: Go to the A39 between Minehead and Bridgwater. At Carhampton take the B3191 to Blue Anchor. At Blue Anchor cross the level crossing and park on the seafront. The walk starts by the Driftwood Cafe.

Book walks online at www.exmoorwalkingfestival.co.uk

View from Withycombe Hill

20 Miles of Steam train travel between Bishops Lydeard (4 miles from Taunton - Home of Somerset County Museum) and Minehead Along the way trains serve the ancient harbour town of Watchet ( 2 small museums), Washford (alight for Cleeve Abbey - English Heritage) and medieval Dunster with its 1000 year old castle (National Trust) Special Tickets ‘Dunster Castle Express’ and ‘Abbey and Apple Explorer’ available. www.west-somerset-railway.co.uk or 01643 704996

Download our Heritage Hunter App before you visit!

West Somerset Railway Book online at www.exmoorwalkingfestival.co.uk or phone 01271 863001

19

Friday 8th to Saturday 9th May

The Walking Book Club Saturday 9th May, 2.00pm

9A

Birdsong around Selworthy & Bossington 9B Saturday 9th May, 10.00am

2 mile, circular, 2.5 hr, 181/SS 913 279

2.5 miles, circular, 3 hrs, 181/SS 920 467

Cost: £3.00

Cost: free, donations welcome

Guide: Davina Jelley

Guide: Saffron Summerfield, Exmoor Society

Pace: Gentle Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous

Pace: Gentle Difficulty: Moderate

Route: Dulverton - Burridge Woods – Court Down - Dulverton

Route: around Selworthy and Bossington Hills

Ne w!

Start: Number Seven, Dulverton High Street

Start: Selworthy National Trust “overflow” car park

Car parking: Dulverton car parks - pay and display

Car parking: free

Description: Number Seven invites festival goers to join their Walking Book Club - walkers are to read The Old Ways: A Journey on Foot by Robert Macfarlane.

The aim of the walk is to obviously enjoy the scenery and of course to discuss our chosen title along the way.

Copies may be purchased from Number Seven at the special price of £7.00 Call 01398 324457

Description: Join the Exmoor Society on their bird song walk. You should hear Dartford Warbler, Skylark, Whitethroat, Stonechat, along with more common birds such as Wren, Robin and gulls. Bring binoculars but not essential.

Directions to start: Go to Dulverton and park in any of the towns car parks. The walk leaves from outside Number Seven in the High Street.

Directions to start: From Porlock take the A39 towards Minehead. On the level straight section of road take the turning to Selworthy and follow this up hill and round to the right to park in the overflow car park past the white church.

View from Selworthy Beacon

Dartford Warbler on Exmoor gorse

Farm, Beacon and Coastal Views Saturday 9th May, 2.00pm

9C

3.8 mile, circular, 3.5 hr, 181/SS 920 467 Cost: 6.00, any teas are extra Guide: Penny Webber Pace: Moderate Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous Route: Selworthy – Hindon Organic Farm – Selworthy Beacon – Hurlstone - Selworthy Start: Selworthy National Trust “overflow” car park Car parking: free Description: From Selworthy we visit Hindon Organic Farm and then a beautiful walk which goes over Selworthy Beacon with wonderful views. The walk follows the coast around Hurlstone Point before returning to Selworthy with an optional visit to a picture-postcard thatched village for tea.

Directions to start: From Porlock take the A39 towards Minehead. On the level straight section of road take the turning to Selworthy and follow this up hill and round to the right to park in the overflow car park past the white church.

20

Book online at www.exmoorwalkingfestival.co.uk or phone 01271 863001

6 miles, circular, 5 hrs, 181/SS 902 438 Cost: ÂŁ6.00, any teas are extra

9D Ne w!

Yarn Market Hotel, Dunster 01643 821 425

a warm welcome awaits you

Extensive knowledge of Exmoor for walking

Guide: John Paterson

Up to date route information

Pace: Gentle Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous

Comprehensive route directions provided free for all our holidays

Route: Webbers Post - Horner area - Webbers Post Start: Webbers Post car park Car parking: free Description: Do you want some help with map-reading?

This fun walk helps you keep track of where you are on the map, with lots of friendly assistance along the way.

There is even a stop for tea or lunch half way. Map provided or bring your own, OS OL9.

Directions to start: Go to the A39 between Porlock and Minehead. From Porlock towards Minehead, having left the village take the first turning on the right at Red Post towards Horner. Pass through Horner and continue until reaching a small cross-roads. Turn right and up the steep hill until the road forks. Take the right fork and then turn right into the large car park. The walk starts here.

Book walks online at www.exmoorwalkingfestival.co.uk

Good choice of walks Variety of packages to choose from Car-free walking holidays The opportunity to use public transport Minibus transport for groups enabling linear walks Suitable for 1 person or a group of 30 or more Tailor-made holidays for your group

Friday 8th to Saturday 9th May

Orienteering for fun Saturday 9th May, 10.30am

Worry-free, relaxing walking holidays Organised walking holidays along the South West Coast Path and Coleridge Way

hotel@yarnmarkethotel.co.uk Exmoor bluebell woods

Book online at www.exmoorwalkingfestival.co.uk or phone 01271 863001

21

Local supporting adverts Festival walkers in Exmoor

22

Book online at www.exmoorwalkingfestival.co.uk or phone 01271 863001

Moors

Explore Paths and Bridleway Find Top Experiences Natural Attractions Lots of Activities Things to do Places to Stay All at

Local supporting adverts

Dream of Peace and Tranquillity Discover Unspoilt Combes &

www.visit-exmoor.co.uk

Self Guided Walks, Cycle Rides and Picnic Booklets

Written and devised by Bryan Cath, Walking Festival Coordinator Walks include some from previous walking festivals.

If you cannot get to this festival - pick up a booklet

5 Half Day and 5 Full Day Circular Walks in North Devon 5 Half Day and 5 Full Day Circular Walks in Exmoor 16 Best Picnic Spots in North Devon 16 Best Picnic Spots in Exmoor 7 Cycle Rides in North Devon & Exmoor 7 Cycle Rides in North & Mid Devon Buy online at:

www.combewalks.com 01271 883131, or find in local TIC’s Book online at www.exmoorwalkingfestival.co.uk or phone 01271 863001

23

Book online at www.exmoorwalkingfestival.co.uk or phone 01271 863001

2A

3B

2D

5C 2B 2C 4D 4B

3A 5D 4C

4A

3D

6B

9D 5B

3C

Longer Guided Walks, 7 miles and over

3C

Walk numbers: The number indicates the date and the letter is a reference

Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty

Smaller Towns for Accommodation

Main Towns for Accommodation

Shorter Guided Walks, up to 7 miles

4B

8B

8C 8D

Half Day Guided Walks, up to 4.5 miles

6C

8A

2B

9A

6D

5A

6A

9B 9C

Walking Festival Map