Whilst staying at Kentisbury Grange, a luxury hotel on Exmoor National Park, take a stroll through oak woodlands and across the heather-covered moorland that is iconic in this area of North Devon.

Exmoor was designated as a National Park because of its beautiful countryside, wildlife and history back in 1954. Breathe in the fresh air on a heather topped moorland, see the iconic Exmoor ponies, discover village pubs, and explore mysterious woodlands.

The Exmoor Explorer walks are a series of 10 shorter walks that showcase the very best of the National Park. Each route is easy to follow and has relatively gentle terrain. The walks take less than an hour, to the longest being two and a half hours. Tough, water-resistant guides can be purchased online . Highlights of these walks include:

• Doone Valley – follow the valley of a small river through fields and moorland to the deserted medieval village of Badgeworthy.

• Dunster Village – Explore the medieval village of Dunster including the castle and Gallox bridge.

• Heddon’s Mouth – journey along the River Heddon, through the deep wooded valley to the wild smuggler’s cove.

• Tarr Steps – Walk beside the River Barle as it flows through rich oak woodlands and under Exmoor’s famous clapper bridge.

‍Other short walks in the area include Lynton and the Valley of the Rocks. This is a classic, easy walk along a relatively level section of high cliffs between Lynton and the stunning Valley of the Rocks. Using the South West Coast Path, the views are incredible as you get to walk towards this infamous sight.

The Tall Trees Trail at Nutcombe Bottom is a short trail with winding footpaths in and out of trees and over a stream.  This pleasant grove was planted in the 1870’s, and is home to the tallest tree in England, a 60.05m (197ft) douglas fir.

Wistlandpound Reservoir offers an accessible walking trail around the stunning reservoir, spot unique wildlife and end the day with a picnic whilst enjoying stunning views across the water.

As one of the leading luxury hotels on the edge of the Exmoor National Park, we can’t wait for you to join us here at Kentisbury Grange and enjoy your stay in the North Devon countryside.