Photos by Rob Davey
Spot at Watersmeet
Photos by Rob Davey
Category: Activities
Bogtastic 2016
Following on from last year’s successful event which was attended by more than 400 people, Bogtastic 2016 takes place on Tuesday 26th July from 10am to 4pm in and around Simonsbath.
This free family event is a fun adventure day celebrating Exmoor’s wildlife, moorland and heritage with many activities and displays. In Simonsbath, the River Barle flows past the historic water-powered sawmill, under the old stone bridge and by a meadow, along a beautiful moorland valley. Here you can play games and go stream dipping to find out about the river’s wildlife – fish, otters, birds, bats and creatures you’ve never seen – it’s a great place for a picnic too. Take a minibus up the hill to where the sky larks sing at Blackpitts and explore the bogs full of multi-coloured mosses.
Held during UK National Park’s Week, Bogtastic is the South West’s biggest and best bog festival. This ‘drop in’ event will feature the Bogstacle course, live bats, the opportunity to visit one of the South West’s last remaining operational water powered sawmills, and lots more all-weather and undercover activities. There is something for everyone! It is free entry, with toilets and food on site and locally. Bring your wellington boots and dress for any weather – there is shelter in case it tries to rain.
See you at the welcome tent!
Entrance is free, although some activities may request a small charge. For further information on Bogtastic please contact: Lynmouth National Park Centre on 01598 752509 or visit www.exmoor-nationalpark.gov.uk or the facebook page.
Dates for the diary: Guided walks with the Exmoor Society
EXMOOR SOCIETY GUIDED WALKS 2016
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Friday 6th May 2016 10:30am-3:30pm |
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South Common, we reach Oare Church before returning via Oare Water. Boggy in places. Please bring a picnic. Dogs under control welcome. |
Meet: Malmsmead car park GR 792478 (Ref. JR)
Wednesday 11th May 2016 11:00am-1:00pm
Mining and Mystery at Wheal Eliza
On this short walk along the River Barle, hear the history of the Knights, mining in this part of Exmoor and the tragic mystery of Wheal Eliza. One or two short climbs but overall an easy walk along the valley. Return to Simonsbath for optional pub lunch or bring a picnic.
Meet: Ashcombe car park, Simonsbath. Grid Ref. 775394 (Ref. RT)
Saturday 28th May 2016 2:00pm-4:30pm
Coast and Common from Barna Barrow – A Walk with Glorious Views
Enjoy glorious views of Devon’s most northerly point, remote coastal scenery and haunts of bygone smugglers on this 2.5 hr / 3.5 mile walk. 100 m ascent on lighthouse road to finish. Please wear suitable weatherproof clothing and footwear. Meet Barna Barrow car park. Grid Ref. 7528 4962 (Ref. TP)
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Friday 10th June 2016 10:30am-4:30pm |
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Longstone and mysterious Moles Chamber, as well as seeing many other historic landmarks. Spectacular views. Hilly, rough and possibly boggy underfoot. Please bring a picnic and wear weatherproof everything. Dogs on leads welcome.
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Friday 17th June 2016 10:30am-2:30pm |
Saturday 25th June 2016 10:30am-2:30pm
Avill Valley Vistas
A steady climb from the Avill Valley to the Grabbist Hill ridgetop is rewarded with stunning views of Dunkery and North Hill and across the Bristol Channel to South Wales. Following the ancient track, the views continue before making our way down to Wootton Courtney and following level tracks back to
Timberscombe. 4 hrs/8 mls.
Meet: Outside The Lion Inn, Timberscombe GR 962422 TA24 7TP (Ref. AM)
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Friday 1st July 2016 2:00pm-4:15pm |
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Optional cream tea to conclude the afternoon. Meet: Car park, Kilve Beach Grid Ref. SS 155442 TA5 1EG (Ref. RC) |
Tuesday 5th July 2016 10:00am-12:30pm
Lynton and Valley of Rocks – An historic tour
This is a fascinating 2.5-hour walk to see a different view of Lynton, to learn how it has been shaped over the years and how the Victorians were drawn to the splendour of the Valley of Rocks. 2.5 mls/2.5 hours.
Meet: Valley of Rocks ENPA car park & picnic area (car park near public toilets). Grid Ref. 7113 4968 (Ref. TP)
9th July 2016 10:30am-3:00pm
Withypool and Tarr Steps
We start this walk by following a lovely stretch of the River Barle along the waymarked path from Withypool to Tarr Steps. We will then cross the ancient monument of Tarr Steps clapper bridge and climb slowly above the valley to the open moorland of Withypool Hill, passing two prehistoric sites before descending back to Withypool. Refreshments and toilets at Withypool and Tarr Steps. 9.5 miles. Meet: Withypool car park. Grid Ref 842353 TA24 7QP (Ref. AM)
Friday 15th July 2016 10:00am-12:30pm
Dunster Walkabout
An easy 2.5 hour / 2.5 mile walkabout to see and hear about some of the fascinating things in Dunster that the normal tourist misses. Please wear suitable outdoor clothing and footwear.
Meet: Visitor Information Centre, Dunster Steep, Dunster TA24 6SE (Ref. RC)
Friday 22nd July 2016 10:30am-3:30pm
Selworthy and North Hill
Enjoy stunning views on this circular walk of appx. 7 miles from Selworthy up to North Hill, Selworthy Beacon, Hurlstone Point and Bossington Hill. Some steep climbs and descents. An alternative route may be taken in inclement weather. Please bring a picnic. Dogs under control welcome. Meet: Selworthy Church overflow car park, Selworthy, Nr Minehead
(Ref. JR)
Thursday 18th August 2016 10:30am-3:00pm
The Woods of Simonsbath and the Historic Sawmill
A mile walk taking in Ashcombe Wood, Birchcleave Wood and Simonsbath Sawmill. Hear about the history and management of these plantations created by the Knights around Simonsbath in the 19th century. Slightly uneven ground with some short steep sections. Please bring a picnic and if the weather is bad we can lunch in the sawmill. Never more than appx half a mile from the car park, which has toilet facilities. Families welcome and dogs under close control.
Meet: Ashcombe car park, Simonsbath. Grid ref. SS 773 394 Postcode TA24 7SH (Ref. GMcV)
Friday 26th August 2016 10:30am-4.00pm
Far West Exmoor
A 9.5 ml challenging circular walk along the South-West Coast Path (narrow and sheer drop in places) from Hunter’s Inn to Holdstone Down returning via Trentishoe Down and Ladies Mile. Fairly rough walking with some steep climbs and descents. Please bring a picnic. Dogs under control welcome.
Meet: NT car park, Hunter’s Inn, Heddon’s Mouth GR 655 482. (Ref. JR)
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Thursday 8th September 2016 10:30am-4:30pm |
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A 6-mile circular walk along the most recent section of the Coleridge Way to Culbone Hill and down to England’s smallest church at Culbone. Steep hills and probably muddy underfoot, you will be rewarded with spectacular views. Please bring a picnic and wear weatherproof clothing. Dogs on leads welcome. |
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(Ref. JG) |
Tuesday 13th September 2016 10:30am-2:00pm
Lady Harriet Acland’s Drive, Haddon Hill
A walk from Haddon Hill, down to Bury, back along Lady Harriet’s Drive beside the River Haddeo to Wimbleball Dam. Then along near the lake and back to the car park. Appx 6 miles. One steep climb. Please bring a picnic.
Meet: Haddon Hill car park, off B3190 GR SS970288
(Re. P & J M)
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Hope Bourne and her Beloved Exmoor |
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some parts rough underfoot and steep in places. Please wear suitable outdoor clothing and footwear. Followed by optional lunch in Withypool or bring a picnic. |
Tuesday 27th September 2016 10:00am-12:30pm
Lynton and Valley of Rocks – An historic tour
This is a fascinating 2.5-hour walk to see a different view of Lynton, to learn how it has been shaped over the years and how the Victorians were drawn to the splendour of the Valley of Rocks. 2.5 mls/2.5 hours.
Meet: Valley of Rocks ENPA car park & picnic area (car park near public toilets). Grid Ref. 7113 4968 (Ref. TP)
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Tuesday 4th October 2016 2:00pm-4:30pm |
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looking at its historic buildings and secret places. About 1.5 miles. Followed by optional tea in the village. |
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Wednesday 19th October 2016 10:30am-4:00pm |
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corner of the National Park. The walk includes three commons, Dane’s Brook, small sections of the Exe Valley and the two Moors Way, and visits Hawkridge. Appx 9 miles, including steep descents and wet underfoot, you will be rewarded with good views of both Exmoor and Dartmoor! Please bring a picnic and wear waterproof clothing and stout footwear. Well behaved dogs welcome. Meet: Anstey Gate, SW of Hawkridge Grid Ref. 835299 (Ref. MC) |
Saturday 22nd October 2016 10:00am-1.00pm
Autumnal Woodland Walk around Dulverton
A guided walk of appx 5 miles around Dulverton to see the splendour of the local woods in autumn. Aim to be back in Dulverton for lunch time. May be muddy under foot and there will be some climbs. Route can be shortened if weather inclement. Well behaved dogs welcome.
Meet: Exmoor Society, 34 High Street, Dulverton TA22 9DJ (Ref. HB)
Friday 28th October 2016 10:30am-4:30pm
Deer on Dunkery
Join this 6ml circular walk on Dunkery’s slopes, in the hope of seeing and hearing Red Deer during the rut. Hilly and rough underfoot. Please bring binoculars and a picnic. Wear weatherproof everything. Dogs on leads welcome.
Meet: Webbers Post. (Ref. JG)
The Society advises that participants take part in activities at their own risk. For all outdoor activities please wear weatherproof clothing and walking boots. Members and non-members are most welcome.
There is no charge for the guided walks.
A small donation is appreciated from non-members.
For any enquiries, please contact The Exmoor Society
info@exmoorsociety.com
01398 323335 www.exmoorsociety.com
Eat Dirt on Exmoor
Exciting Bank Holiday Thrills
3rd May 2016
A group of Mountain Bike enthusiasts from across the South West and beyond took to the Exmoor hills yesterday for a new May Day bank holiday ride, “Eat Dirt on Exmoor”, organised by Calvert Trust Exmoor.
195 cyclists took part in the ride, raising over £3,000 between them, with more sponsorship still coming in. Much of the 25 mile main route took riders through areas of Exmoor not normally open to the general public, thanks to the Hollam, New Invention and Broford Estates allowing special access for this event.
The circular route started in Dulverton following the route of the River Barle up to Tarr Steps, then up onto the moor, south east to the river Exe and then back into Dulverton for the finish line.
Despite mixed weather the riders enjoyed the event, with many already asking when it will be repeated, like Julian from Tiverton; “I had a great time today, it was a well organised fun event. The course was really enjoyable. I’m looking forward to the next one already!”
Rob Lott, head of Communications at Calvert Trust Exmoor said “What an amazing day we’ve had! We were absolutely delighted that so many riders came out to support us and enjoy some beautiful Exmoor countryside. Thanks to these riders, the support team, volunteers and marshals we will be able to support more people with disabilities to access cycling and other adventurous activities.”
As well as the fabulous volunteer marshals and helpers, Calvert Trust Exmoor would also like to thank and the brilliant local businesses whose support enabled the event to happen; Mason Kings, Mole Valley Farmers, The Bike Shop (Taunton), Ivan’s Coffee, GT Bicycles, AMASS medical, and Altitude 58 Film Company. A film of the event produced by Altitude 58 will be available in the next few days.
Tarr Steps from Above (image © Altitude 58 Film Company)
Calvert Trust Exmoor hopes to announce the date for the next “Eat Dirt on Exmoor” in the next few weeks. In the meantime the Trust is running another cycling event on the 25th of June, the Calvert Coastal 100. This is a cycling sportive event, following the coastal roads of North Devon from Lynmouth round to Barnstaple with stunning views and 3 different routes for people with a wide variety of experience and fitness levels. You can find out more about the Coastal 100 from www.calvert-trust.org.uk/100
Web: www.calvert-trust.org.uk/exmoor
Facebook: www.facebook.com/CTExmoor
Twitter: www.twitter.com/calvertexmoor
YouTube: www.youtube.com/CalvertTrustExmoorUK
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/calvert-trust-exmoor
Calling all runners: Westcountry Ultra Hilly 50 miler – Saturday 21st May 2016
Ok, so you like hills? Well here’s a race that will take you to the top of some of the highest ones Somerset has to offer. On a clear day the views from the tops will draw an audible gasp from any of you who are known to gasp audibly at incredible views. There are very runnable sections too, but you’re never too far from the next climb/descent. What’s more, this route will take you through a multitude of breathtaking scenes; some of Britain’s highest coastal cliffs, lush ancient woodland, sweeping moorland, paths alongside fast flowing rocky rivers – Exmoor has all of this, plus villages and small towns that redefine quaintness.
Starting off at West Somerset Community College in Minehead, where a glorious banquet hall (or as close as you get to one in an ultra race) awaits you upon your return you will head to the beginning of the South West Coast Path, which is symbolised with a large metal hand holding a map. From here (unless it is an extremely foggy day) you will see the enigmatic North Hill towering above the town. You’ll be heading straight to the top, where you’ll traverse along to Bossington Hill, from which the views alone will be enough to take your mind off the steepness of the descent. Then you’ll head down an enchanting woodland path to Bossington car park; if you’re lucky there may be some wild garlic still to snack on along the way.
You will make your way gradually along the coast all the way to Lynmouth, historic scene of a disastrous flood in 1952 (don’t worry, it hasn’t repeated itself since, even during the ferocious storms of 2014), which is a kind of half way point, although it’s actually a little before half way. On the way here your eyes will get a four course meal of wonderful natural surroundings – occasionally you will run through coastal forest, but will often be able to see the sea off to your right. Along this stretch are some of the most runnable sections of the route, but there is plenty of up and down. You may find yourself wanting to stop often to take photographs, as the views along here you may see on a number of postcards in local shops.
After leaving Lynmouth you will head alongside the river Lyn for a while (keep your eyes peeled for Dippers and other wildlife) before heading up into the moors, following the Coleridge Way – this is a route devised to follow in the footsteps of famous poet Samuel Taylor Coleridge, who is said to have composed his best known works during walks at different places along the route. There have been no ‘beast’ sightings in recent years, but the wild atmosphere of this place will make you realise how it captured the imagination back in the 80s. Heading across vast hills to County Gate and onwards, where you will be surrounded on all sides by Exmoor at its most captivating, you will be preparing to drop down to almost sea level before a massive climb back up through ancient woodland. Depending on when in the day you arrive here you can keep your eyes and ears open for an array of wildlife – the woods at Webber’s Post and Horner, due to the age of the trees, attract Redstarts, Wood Warblers, Pied Flycatchers and a host of the usual woodland birds.
At the top of the climb is Dunkery Beacon, which rises to 519 metres above sea level; hardly a mountain, but it still offers incredible panoramic views on a clear day. The cairn at the top may be a good place to pause, take in your surroundings and gear yourself up to make the most of some downhill miles. The descent back into Minehead is long, but at this point you will know you are on the home stretch and that there is a feast awaiting you at the finish. You can sit and eat, and share anecdotes with your fellow finishers as they arrive.
ROUTE MAPS AND ROUTE NOTES WILL BE SENT OUT TO EACH PARTICIPANT UPON ENTRY, BUT THESE CAN BE REQUESTED BY ANYONE WISHING TO ENTER – PLEASE E-MAIL albionrunning@hotmail.com TO ASK FOR THESE
For further information and to sign up for the run, please go to http://www.albionrunning.org/#!hilly50/c8ht
A letter from the Lynton & Lynmouth Cricket Club – Can you help?
The Lynton & Lynmouth Cricket Club is world famous for its spectacular location in the Valley of Rocks and every year many visitors to Lynton & Lynmouth enjoy a lazy summer afternoon watching a game being played in this beautiful setting. However maintaining the ground to a high standard and complying with the ever increasing health and safety and legal requirements requires substantial funding. As a small club we rely solely on volunteers and fundraising to keep operating.
I’m writing to ask if you might be able to support the Lynton & Lynmouth Cricket Club. All money raised will go towards essential equipment which this year is a replacement roller and safety helmets for the batsmen, wicket keepers and junior club members any additional funds will help cover ground maintenance / insurance costs.
We have various ways for you to support the Club:
By making a small donation – £5.00
Ball sponsorship for a league game – £10.00
Sponsor a team shirt – £15.00
A web entry on the Club’s website – £18.00
Sponsor a cricket helmet – £20.00
A quarter page display advert in the Cricket Club Fixture Card and a web entry, The entry will be displayed on all pages of the Club’s website – £25.00
Match Tea – either supply the tea or sponsor the cost to supply – £50.00
Payments can be made via the web site www.lyntonandlynmouthcricketclub.org.uk or by cheque made payable to L&LCC and sent c/o Lynton Tourist Information Centre Town Hall Lynton EX35 6BT
The club issues the fixture card to all members and supporters and they refer to it regularly throughout the season (April to September) to check on forthcoming games as well as the web site for up to date information about games, results and contact details for the club.
This year’s programme will see more than 20 teams visiting the Valley of Rocks ground for league and friendly fixtures. Supporters of these visiting teams travel to watch the games and often come into Lynton & Lynmouth to have a look around while they are here or stay for the weekend.
I do hope you will consider supporting the club either through advertising your business or by making a personal donation. We are a registered charity focused on our community role and our aim is to encourage people of all ages and abilities to take up the sport.
I look forward to hearing from you.
Yours sincerely,
Susan Bingham
Secretary, L&LCC
Lynton & Lynmouth Cricket Club ● The Valley Of Rocks Ground ● Lynton ● North Devon ● EX35 6JH
Registered Charity No. 1111630
NEWS FROM EXMOOR NATIONAL PARK
Big Adventures off to a flying start
This year’s Exmoor National Park Big Adventures got off to a flying start with more than 300 people enjoying the Big Moorland Adventure at Haddon Hill recently. With family friendly games, bush-craft skills, orienteering and scavenger hunts, there was plenty to keep everyone entertained.
National Park ranger Adam Vasey said: “It was fantastic to see so many people enjoying being outdoors and although the weather wasn’t perfect it didn’t seem to dampen anyone’s fun.
“We’d like to thank the volunteers that helped us set up and run the event, we couldn’t do it without them and if anyone would like to help us with the upcoming Big Adventures please get in touch.”
More Big Adventures
The next event in this series is the Big Woodland Adventure at Nutcombe Bottom just outside Dunster (TA24 6TA) on Wednesday 1 June from 10am-4pm. With family games and activities lasting all day, there will be plenty to enjoy for all ages. Car parking and toilet facilities are available on site – there’s no need to book and no charge, but donations to CareMoor for Exmoor will be welcome.
Camp out in one of the most amazing locations on Exmoor at The Big Adventure Family Camp Out @ Horner from Saturday 18 June to Sunday 19 June. Booking is essential – the site opens from 4pm and there will be a chance to set camp and cook your dinner with activities starting from 6pm including story-telling, bat walks and astronomy with the Dulverton Stargazers. Tents should be taken down by 11am the next day.
Space is limited for this special event which is ideal for first time campers with support on hand for help with tasks like putting up tents, so early booking is recommended via the National Park Centre at Dulverton on 01398 323841.
Discover Porlock Marsh
On Friday 3 June there’s a Discover Porlock Marsh Walk – join a Heritage Walk Leader to learn about the history and formation of the Porlock bay landscape. The walk leaves the Porlock Visitor Centre at 10.30am (ends approx.1pm) and booking is essential, call the Porlock Visitor Centre on 01643 863150. Dogs are welcome and there is no charge – donations requested.
There are hundreds more events on the Exmoor National Park website – for more information visit: www.exmoor-nationalpark.gov.uk or call in at one of the National Park Centres at Dunster, Dulverton and in the Lynmouth Pavilion.
Haddon Hill Big Adventure: photo by Dan James/ENPA
Date for the Diary: Eat Dirt on Exmoor
Calvert Trust Exmoor is running a Mountain Bike Event on Exmoor on 2 May. There are two routes on offer: 25 miles and 15 miles. The Start and finish is at Dulverton. The main route runs up the Barle Valley, crosses over Tarr Steps and climbs up to Winsford Hill, and then down the Exe Valley to Dulverton. This is wonderful country and promises to be a great ride. For more information come to: http://www.calvert-trust.org.uk/EatDirt
There’s lots to do at the Exmoor Owl and Hawk Centre
Fly with us, Ride with us, Stay with us …. or visit for the day
Exmoor Owl & Hawk Centre is a unique farmstead within Exmoor National Park, in a small 15th century historic farmyard setting, housing a really special collection of free-flown owls and other birds of prey, animals free roaming together, and some beautiful horses for all to enjoy.
We can fly our birds and owls to your gloved hand when you book into a variety of different activity sessions and experiences in the mornings to suit any budget; you come face to face with these amazingly graceful creatures who have learnt to fly to anyone using behavioural and trust-based training techniques. You can experience many different birds and their various methods of flying and catching prey just by watching them and taking photos of them during your activity experience.
During the main season, the Centre opens to the public at 12 noon, and many of our visitors enjoy a wander around the gardens and fields, followed by a delicious light lunch of sandwiches or baguettes with quality produce from our local suppliers before relaxing into the Afternoon with the Birds Display at 2pm when you will enjoy our special birds as they are flown around your tables and across the open field. Many visitors have described this close hand experience as “a privilege, really awesome and totally unique” – a must-do visit during your stay in North Devon and Exmoor.
To make your holiday really amazing you can ride one of our six horses over the hills, moors and through the woods of Exmoor, exploring places you may otherwise never visit. All our horses can be ridden with bitless bridles, treeless saddles, and all are barefoot with rock-crunching hooves across this challenging terrain. We believe that we can offer some of the best riding countryside in the world on some really special horses for individual riders, or a small group of up to five experienced adult and teenage riders. Our ride and stay short break holidays are now becoming increasingly popular and we have riders coming from all over the world to enjoy both our horses and our birds!
Young children can enjoy led pony rides on our smaller horses and on our Falabellas or miniature Shetland ponies, along the lane and through the delightful village of Bossington. Gaby our Falabella, loves the little ones, age 3-5yrs, and Rosie or Juta enjoy the challenge of teaching older children the basics of riding. Maya, our other Falabella is still a youngster, but will be taking a few rides during the coming season.
And if you wish to make our farmhouse your holiday base, then we offer bed and breakfast in our historic home, providing accommodation for one up to a family of six. Our rooms are comfortably furnished, with goose down duvets and super soft pillows, with tea and coffee making facilities in the room, ensuite or private bathroom and are spacious rooms offering spectacular views across the garden to the hills beyond. The farmhouse is surrounded by three ancient courtyards, dating back to the 15th Century, when the house was probably the Manor of Bossington, with its own Chapel of Ease in the yards for private worship in those times. You can wander around the Chapel today during your visit or stay here with us.
Please visit our website for full details of everything that we have to offer – www.exmoorfalconry.co.uk and www.exmoor-riding.co.uk
Date for the Diary: This year’s final BIG Adventure
NEWS FROM EXMOOR NATIONAL PARK
Free event, amazing location, great games and activities – it must be this year’s Big Autumn Adventure on Wednesday 28 October from 10am-4pm at Webbers Post, near Wheddon Cross in Exmoor National Park.
National Park Ranger Adam Vasey says: ““It’s the last Big Adventure of the year and, with the help of The National Trust, it’s going to be a good one. Get your wellies on, have a go at orienteering, help us make a giant den or keep warm by the campfire and toast some marshmallows.
“There will be lots to do with the usual range of fun family-friendly games and activities, so come and join us – we look forward to seeing you there!”
This is the sixth Big Adventure event this year and hundreds of people have enjoyed the free family days out courtesy of Exmoor National Park Authority, The National Trust, Heart of Exmoor and a variety of other organisations and volunteers.
There is car parking and toilet facilities on site – for more information please contact the National Park Centre at Dulverton, phone 01398 323841.
Exmoor 4 all 