The best walks and hikes around Brendon And Countisbury

Yes, the region is excellent for circular hikes. Many trails combine coastal scenery with inland valleys. For a route that explores the area's history, the Oare and Old Burrow Ruins loop is a great moderate option that takes you past ancient Roman ruins while offering expansive views.

Parking is available at several popular trailheads. For walks exploring the Doone Valley, there is a car park at Malmsmead. The National Trust also operates a car park at Watersmeet, which is a convenient starting point for riverside and woodland walks. For coastal hikes starting near Countisbury, you can often find parking near the village church or local pubs, but be sure to check for any restrictions.

Most trails in Exmoor National Park are dog-friendly, but it's important to keep your dog under control, especially near livestock and on coastal cliffs. During bird nesting season (typically March to July), you may be required to keep your dog on a lead in certain areas. Many local pubs, like the Blue Ball Inn in Countisbury, welcome dogs, making them a great stop after a walk.

For a gentle and scenic walk suitable for families, the paths along the East Lyn River from Malmsmead are a great choice. The trail is relatively flat and follows the water through beautiful woodland. Another popular and accessible option is the walk from the National Trust car park at Heddon's Mouth down to the sea; it's a straightforward path through a stunning valley.

Yes, the area around Watersmeet is famous for its river gorge where the Hoar Oak Water and the East Lyn River converge. The trails here follow the water through ancient woodland, offering views of several cascades and rapids. The Lynmouth – Watersmeet Valley loop is a fantastic hike for experiencing this dramatic waterscape.

Absolutely. The National Trust operates a historic tea-garden at Watersmeet House, perfectly positioned for a break during a riverside walk. For a traditional pub experience, the Rockford Inn is situated right by the East Lyn River in the hamlet of Rockford, and the Blue Ball Inn in Countisbury is a popular starting or ending point for many coastal and moorland hikes.

Exmoor is rich in wildlife. Keep an eye out for the iconic Exmoor ponies grazing on the moorland, particularly around Brendon Common. Red deer can also be spotted in the wooded valleys. Along the coast, you might see feral goats navigating the cliffs of the Valley of Rocks, and the rivers are home to dippers and kingfishers.

There are over 80 designated hiking routes around Brendon and Countisbury. These range from easy riverside strolls to challenging multi-day treks, covering the diverse landscapes of coastal cliffs, wooded valleys, and open moorland that define Exmoor National Park.

The trails around Brendon and Countisbury are very highly regarded by the komoot community. Hikers frequently praise the stunning variety of scenery, from the dramatic coastal views of the Bristol Channel to the tranquil, moss-covered woodlands along the East Lyn River. The well-maintained paths and the mix of challenging climbs and gentle walks are also common highlights.

Yes, two major long-distance paths cross through this region. The famous South West Coast Path runs along the entire coastline, offering some of its most rugged and spectacular sections here. Additionally, the Coleridge Way follows the East Lyn River valley, providing a beautiful inland route through the heart of Exmoor.

Hiking is possible year-round, but late spring and summer offer the best weather and long daylight hours. In May and June, the moorland is covered in gorse and the woodlands are full of bluebells. Autumn is also a beautiful season, with rich colours in the valleys and fewer crowds on the trails.

Public transport options are limited in this rural part of Exmoor National Park. Some bus services connect nearby towns like Lynton and Lynmouth, from which you can access trailheads for the South West Coast Path and walks to Watersmeet. However, for reaching more remote starting points like Malmsmead or Brendon Common, traveling by car is generally more practical.