Key Features
- Property code: RLODGE
- Preferred changeover day: Friday
- Check in: 4pm
- Check out: 10am
- 2 or more bathrooms
- Access statement available
- Central heating
- Parking (see description for details)
- Dishwasher
- Electric vehicle charging (see description)
- Ground floor accommodation
- Livery/paddocks available
- Garden or outside space
- Nearby pub or restaurant
- Real fire
- Nearby shop
- Short breaks available
- Tumble dryer
- Village
- Washing machine
- WiFi
Description
Raleigh Lodge is a gorgeously unique ‘cottage in the woods’, tucked away in a very scenic corner of Exmoor. Off the beaten track, the views from the house and garden roll on for miles across river valleys, fields and woodlands, and finally, to the sea. From the doorstep footpaths take you through beautiful countryside to Dunkery Beacon, Porlock Weir, or down to Avil Valley, carpeted with snowdrops in late winter.
You could walk all day here without seeing a soul; stroll through woodlands ankle deep in fallen leaves, across open fields and meadows, and over heather-clad moorland where wild ponies feed. Soak up the peace and quiet, the big skies and birdsong; it’s another world.
Return to Raleigh Lodge for a soak in the bath, to curl up on the sofas and spend unruffled evenings by the fireside. Once the stables to the Victorian Manor, the Lodge has been sympathetically restored to retain much of the original character and offers very comfortable accommodation all on one level. This very charming holiday house sleeps 6 in 3 restful bedrooms; The Stable Bedroom will fascinate horse lovers, with its period features, the cosy and quirky interiors will delight and make you feel at home throughout your stay.
For those wanting to experience true peace and tranquillity, there is the option to book a Shepherds Hut (pictured) alongside the Lodge for an additional fee (details in 'Additional'), making it possible to sleep 8 guests in total.
Raleigh Lodge stands at the end of a long driveway through a 35 acre estate where the land is farmed organically; rare breed sheep and cattle are raised in the fields, seasonal produce is grown. Raleigh’s own seasonal produce can be enjoyed courtesy of a local chef who can be hired to cook during your stay. Details provided on request or upon booking.
The village of Wheddon Cross is less than a mile away, with a shop, a garage-cum-Post Office and a pub – The Rest & Be Thankful Inn, family and dog friendly, serving traditional home cooked pub food. Dulverton is just a short drive away, a friendly market town on the River Barle; the narrow streets are lined with independent shops, tea rooms and award-winning pubs and restaurants. A similar distance is Minehead for days by the sea, and Dunster with its quaint market house and medieval castle (NT).
Special times await you at Raleigh Lodge; time to unwind, time to make everlasting memories.
Key Features
- Property code: RLODGE
- Preferred changeover day: Friday
- Check in: 4pm
- Check out: 10am
- 2 or more bathrooms
- Access statement available
- Central heating
- Parking (see description for details)
- Dishwasher
- Electric vehicle charging (see description)
- Ground floor accommodation
- Livery/paddocks available
- Garden or outside space
- Nearby pub or restaurant
- Real fire
- Nearby shop
- Short breaks available
- Tumble dryer
- Village
- Washing machine
- WiFi
Description
Raleigh Lodge is a gorgeously unique ‘cottage in the woods’, tucked away in a very scenic corner of Exmoor. Off the beaten track, the views from the house and garden roll on for miles across river valleys, fields and woodlands, and finally, to the sea. From the doorstep footpaths take you through beautiful countryside to Dunkery Beacon, Porlock Weir, or down to Avil Valley, carpeted with snowdrops in late winter.
You could walk all day here without seeing a soul; stroll through woodlands ankle deep in fallen leaves, across open fields and meadows, and over heather-clad moorland where wild ponies feed. Soak up the peace and quiet, the big skies and birdsong; it’s another world.
Return to Raleigh Lodge for a soak in the bath, to curl up on the sofas and spend unruffled evenings by the fireside. Once the stables to the Victorian Manor, the Lodge has been sympathetically restored to retain much of the original character and offers very comfortable accommodation all on one level. This very charming holiday house sleeps 6 in 3 restful bedrooms; The Stable Bedroom will fascinate horse lovers, with its period features, the cosy and quirky interiors will delight and make you feel at home throughout your stay.
For those wanting to experience true peace and tranquillity, there is the option to book a Shepherds Hut (pictured) alongside the Lodge for an additional fee (details in 'Additional'), making it possible to sleep 8 guests in total.
Raleigh Lodge stands at the end of a long driveway through a 35 acre estate where the land is farmed organically; rare breed sheep and cattle are raised in the fields, seasonal produce is grown. Raleigh’s own seasonal produce can be enjoyed courtesy of a local chef who can be hired to cook during your stay. Details provided on request or upon booking.
The village of Wheddon Cross is less than a mile away, with a shop, a garage-cum-Post Office and a pub – The Rest & Be Thankful Inn, family and dog friendly, serving traditional home cooked pub food. Dulverton is just a short drive away, a friendly market town on the River Barle; the narrow streets are lined with independent shops, tea rooms and award-winning pubs and restaurants. A similar distance is Minehead for days by the sea, and Dunster with its quaint market house and medieval castle (NT).
Special times await you at Raleigh Lodge; time to unwind, time to make everlasting memories.
Entrance door: Leads into a hallway.
Living Room: A spacious room with 2 sofas and a wood burner. Full height doors open onto the terrace and give breathtaking views across the valley to the sea.
TV Room/Snug: This room has country themed wallpaper, 2 sofas, and a desk in front of the window with an outlook over the garden. There’s a Smart TV and board games.
Kitchen/dining room: Farmhouse kitchen style with a pine table and chairs, a dresser and exposed beams. an Aga. There’s an electric Aga with two ovens and hot plates, a standard electric cooker with an oven, grill and hob, a US style fridge-freezer, dishwasher, microwave, toaster, kettle and cafetiere. Full height doors open onto the paved and cobbled courtyard.
Utility/Boot Room: Off the kitchen, this room opens onto the parking area. There’s a drinks fridge, a washing machine, tumble dryer, drying racks, and an iron and ironing board.
Bedroom 1 - Stable: A characterful room with a king size bed and a free standing roll top bath. Other features include rustic wooden panelling, part of the original stable floor and renovated hayloft.
En-suite: Shower room, with basin and WC.
Bedroom 2 - Fern: This room has a choice of a zip-link super king bed or 3ft twins (twin beds can be made up on request when booking).
En-suite: Wet room, with basin and WC.
Bedroom 3 - Squirrel: This room has a king size bed 5ft. The adjacent shower room accessed from the inner hall has a walk-in shower, basin and WC.
Shepherds Hut: Shepherds Hut (pictured) available to be booked alongside the main Lodge for an additional £200 fee per stay. Please contact the office for full details and to add this onto a booking. Please note that due to steep steps up into the Hut, it is only suitable for up to two adults or teenagers.
A long private driveway leads to Raleigh Lodge and is shared with the Manor next door.
The garden at the side of the house is accessed from the terrace or the parking area, and is an outstanding feature of the property with spectacular far reaching views. There are shrubs and flower beds, birds sing from the treetops; it’s a lovely spot to sit with a drink on a warm evening, gazing out over miles and miles of endless countryside. Although the garden is suitable for well behaved dogs, the terrace has an unfenced drop onto the lawn so children must be supervised at all times.
At the back of the house there’s a paved and cobbled courtyard, enclosed and dog friendly, with outdoor seating and a gas barbecue (gas provided). Soak up the sunshine and enjoy morning coffee or a leisurely alfresco lunch.
Next to Raleigh Lodge there’s a paddock with a field shelter – with prior arrangement this can be available for guest’s horses.
In the heart of the National Park, the tiny village of Wheddon Cross & Cutcombe is the highest on Exmoor, surrounded by glorious countryside and dramatic, wild moorland. This is where the pace of life slows down and you can enjoy the tranquility and beautiful surroundings; spend the hours walking or cycling, tuck into excellent local food in the pubs, tea rooms and restaurants or take days out to visit attractions nearby.
Wheddon Cross is a thriving rural community with a village shop, garage/post office, children’s play park, historic church and a welcoming pub - The Rest & Be Thankful, which serves local ales and hearty home cooked food. Undoubtedly, the best feature of this area is the beautiful countryside, with the village surrounded by some of Exmoor’s most stunning scenery easily accessed by a network of footpaths, bridleways and cycle routes.
The Coleridge Way passes through Wheddon Cross and the village is a starting point for walks across wild moorland or through scenic wooded valleys. Climb to the top of nearby Dunkery Beacon for panoramic views across the moors to the Bristol Channel whilst looking out for wildlife including Exmoor ponies and red deer.
Not far from the village is Snowdrop Valley, remote and hidden and carpeted with snowdrops in February. Enjoy family days out to the Exmoor Pony Centre and Dunster Castle, or on the sandy beach at Minehead; all within 30 minutes’ drive of your holiday cottage.
The driveway opens onto the parking area at the front of the Lodge where there is parking for several vehicles.
Electric vehicle charging is available using the mains socket in the Utility/Boot Room (3 pin plug).
- Included: Bed linen and towels, (please bring your own beach towels), utilities and Wi-Fi.
- Logs: Basket provided, more are available to purchase from the owner.
- Telephone: Landline - mobile reception is good depending on the network.
- Pets: 2 well behaved medium sized dogs welcome (£30.00 charge per dog per week).
- Horse/Pony: Paddock and Field Shelter available by arrangement with the owners.
- Shepherds Hut: Shepherds Hut (pictured) available to be booked alongside a booking for the Lodge for an additional £200 fee per stay. Please contact the office for full details and to add this onto a booking. Please note that due to steep steps up into the Hut, it is only suitable for up to two adults or teenagers. There is no WiFi in the Shepherds Hut.
- Electric Vehicles: On site Electric vehicle charging - see Parking section for details) (£30.00 charge per vehicle per week).
- Arrival time - 4pm Departure time - 10am.
- Local Facilities: Small children's play park, village shop, pub and garage/post office.
- Extras: Raleigh’s own seasonal produce can be enjoyed courtesy of a local chef who can be hired to cook during your stay at Raleigh Lodge. Details provided on request or upon booking.
The Rest & Be Thankful
(Less than a mile)
The Rest & Be Thankful was originally a staging post for travellers on their way from Dunster to Dulverton and almost 200 years later you will still find a warm welcome, good food and a choice of local ales and spirits. In a great spot for a home cooked meal after working up an appetite on one of the many fabulous walks in the area, or simply a drink in the cosy bar with log fires in winter.
The Rest & Be Thankful Wheddon Cross, Minehead TA24 7DR (T: 01643841222)
The Exmoor White Horse
(5 miles)
(1)
In the heart of Exmoor National Park on the banks of the River Exe you’ll find this beautiful 16th century inn. The chefs work closely with local suppliers to deliver the highest quality menus both in the bar and restaurant which are open for lunch and dinner 7 nights a week. Cosy and welcoming throughout and the outdoor tables overlooking the river are just the place for a Devon cream tea with lashings of jam and clotted cream.
Exmoor White Horse Chapel St, Exford, Minehead TA24 7PY (T: 01643 831229)
Nice pint Thatchers Gold & Sandwich for Lunch
September 2023
The Ship Inn - Porlock
(6 miles)
(1)
A pretty thatched 13th century coaching inn with roaring log fires in winter and a large outdoor seating area and children’s play area for the summer months. Homemade, unpretentious food making use of the excellent local Exmoor produce is served daily in the restaurant and bar. Dog friendly with plenty of parking.
The Ship Inn Porlock, Minehead TA24 8QD (T: 01643 862507)
We had a lovely lunch sitting outside this inn. Service was excellent, as was the food!
June 2021
Reeves
(6 miles)
Whether you choose to dine in the beamed restaurant or outside in the pretty walled garden, you’re in for a treat at this fine dining restaurant in the heart of the medieval village of Dunster. From the warm welcome you receive front of house, to the fine ingredients used and attention to detail in the kitchen, Reeves is worthy of its glowing newspaper reviews.
Reeves 20-22 High St, Dunster, Minehead TA24 6SG (T: 01643 821414)
Cobblestones
(6 miles)
A friendly family run café serving well-presented light lunches, Sunday Roasts, indulgent cream teas and an array of delicious home-made cakes. Eat in the immaculate restaurant or outside in the quirky garden. Vegetarian and gluten free diets catered for.
Cobblestones 24 High St, Dunster, Minehead TA24 6SG (T: 01643 821595)
Red Stag Safaris
(Less than a mile)
Enjoy the sights of Exmoor from the comfort of a Land Rover Discovery and learn about this fascinating landscape and it’s wildlife from local guides who have lived and worked on the moor for generations.
Click here for further details
Holnicote Estate
(5 miles)
A 12,000-acre National Trust property, Holnicote Estate is part of Exmoor National Park, made up of rugged moorland, shingle beaches, ancient woodland and charming thatched villages. Walk, cycle and horse ride as far as the eye can see, see red deer, Exmoor ponies, bats and rare butterflies as you go. There are picnic tables, footpaths and toilets as well as pay and display parking.
Click Here for further information
Exmoor Owl & Hawk Centre
(5 miles)
A great all weather attraction in beautiful Exmoor countryside where you can learn to fly owls and hawks yourself on a Birds of Prey Flying Experience, ride horses, watch the public flying displays and enjoy some delicious food in the tea room. For damper days there is an indoor flying barn and picnic area.
Click here for further details
Allerford Museum
(5 miles)
Housed in Allerford’s old schoolhouse this museum of rural life contains several thousand artefacts charting rural life in the area from the early 1800s to the late 1950’s. Be transported back in time as you browse the fascinating displays and photographs.
Click here for further details
Dunster Castle
(5 miles)
(3)
On a wooded hill with an impressive medieval gatehouse, the National Trust’s Dunster Castle is on a site that predates the Norman era. It has spectacular views towards the Bristol channel, the Quantock hills and the moors of Exmoor. Tours are available, there’s a shop, paid parking and Dunster village is filled with lovely places to eat.
Click Here for further information
A delight to visit. The standard of the exhibits is extremely high and the docents knowledgeable and helpful. Adequate and shady car parking and there is a courtesy van that will take you up the hill to the castle - an advantage if the knees are no longer what they were. Dunster village is also well worth the visit - used in the Poirot TV series in the episode "The Cornish Mystery" you'll recognise the market immediately. Recommended!
May 2023
Lovely place to visit. The walk up is worth it to see the views.
June 2021
Well worth a visit. The views from the castle and the gardens are particularly lovely.
October 2020
Minehead Beach
(6 miles)
(1)
Perpetually featured amongst the best beaches in the area, Minehead Beach is in one of Somerset’s busiest holiday areas. Divided into two sections, The Strand is a wide sand and shingle beach that faces North-to-North West, it looks out across the Bristol Channel towards Wales. Terminus meanwhile is the north-facing part that was almost completely washed away in the early ‘90s. After a multimillion pound project, a sea wall was completed. Today it’s an excellent spot for swimming, kite-surfing and windsurfing. Dog restrictions apply in the summer and there are cafes, restaurants, toilets and shops all close by.
Great beach with plenty of space for the dogs to run. Very clean.
March 2022
Porlock Beach
(7 miles)
After 30 miles of Exmoor coastline that’s predominantly cliffs, at Porlock the land flattens out and a unique mile long shingle ridge and an inland salt marsh have formed. It’s a short walk from there to the centre of Porlock, where there are lots of marked footpaths to explore. Porlock Weir Beach itself is a pebble beach that welcomes dogs all year round. It’s a prime spot for swimming, fishing, surfing and sailing, and there are cafes, restaurants, toilets, pubs and shops close by to explore. There is pay and display parking close to the beach, so don’t forget your change when you visit, and you will be pleased to know that the water quality is reputedly excellent.
Blue Anchor Bay & Dunster
(7 miles)
(2)
Long sand and shingle beaches peppered with alabaster rocks that are perfect for finding fossils, Blue Anchor Bay and Dunster Beach in Somerset are adjacent to one another, and are beautiful places to while away the afternoon, whatever time of the year. Dogs are allowed on the beaches all year round, which is a novelty, there are toilets close by, and a pub as well for those lazy lunches after a morning’s stroll. The West Somerset Railway comes close to the beach, adding an extra layer of interest, and there’s plenty of parking close to both of them as well, which is always a blessing. The beaches are tidal and can get a little muddy at low tide, so careful not to slip and don’t get caught out when the water comes in!
Nice flat promenade with easy parking.
November 2023
Both well-worth a visit.
April 2019
Lynmouth Beach
(14 miles)
A shingle beach that arcs out into the sea from Lynton, Lynmouth Beach is a popular spot for surfing, but there’s no lifeguard cover so be careful when you go! The area is known for its excellent scenery and pleasant walking along the sea front and along the banks of the Lyn River which flows between the two towns of Lynton and Lynmouth. There is also a cliff railway from Lynton down to the sea front. At Lynton there is a smaller beach with rocks at low tide, while Lynmouth Beach is longer and sandier. Lynmouth has level access all the way along, and there are several car parks in the town as well as road parking by the river and beach. Toilets, cafes and shops are close by, but there aren’t any activities available, it’s all about enjoying the scenery!
Wringcliff Beach
(16 miles)
On the South West Coast Path, Wringcliff Beach is within walking distance of the little town of Lynton and a number of secluded bays along the coastline. The beach itself is a secluded bay surrounded by high cliffs with a steep access path, making it a tricky one to visit if you have small children with you. Of course, because it’s a little difficult to get to, it’s also wonderfully peaceful with incredible views to enjoy. Dogs are allowed on the beach all year around and it’s perfect for adventurous walkers. There’s parking is in the valley of the rocks which is accessed and signposted through Lynton, but once you’re there it’s not that easy to reach toilets and restaurants, to if the weather permits, take a picnic and enjoy the day!
April 2024
Absolutely loved it.
March 2024
Couldn't have booked a better property if I tried. Loved the layout, the view and the lemon drizzle cake (my favourite!) and the free range eggs. Thanks a millon.
March 2024
Perfect rural retreat. Very relaxing. Everything about this property is of the highest standard.
March 2024
What a wonderful property in a truly stunning location. We had a very relaxing stay! Super friendly owners, a good time had by all. We will be back! Many thanks
December 2023
What a fabulous few days in this perfect location. Stunning accommodation, we had an amazing stay. Our dog loved the aga! We will be back! Thank you very much.
December 2023
Thank you for the cake (best ever!) and the eggs and milk on arrival. I knew it looked lovely, but we were overwhelmed by the stunning view and the house, the little touches, just stunning. We'll definitely be back. Our dog loved it here, lots of walks and paddles at Tarr steps. Thanks, and see you again very soon!
December 2023
An amazing home from home, we all had a really great time exploring the local area. It will be nice to return when the weather is much warmer.
October 2023
Like so many people before us have said, what a wonderful place. This was a special holiday to us and the family. The memories will live on. Thank you for the welcome pack - the cake was delicious.
September 2023
Raleigh Lodge is a very comfortable property. Thank you for the cake, milk and eggs. We only saw the splendid view a few times because of the rain but even watching the mist in the valley slowly disappear made it interesting.
September 2023
We had a fantastic time. The lodge is wonderful, best house we have ever stayed in. Many thanks.
September 2023
Everything we required and more
August 2023
Many thanks for the cake, eggs and milk on arrival. We had a wonderful stay and enjoyed having such lovely woods on our doorstep. Despite mixed weather we were kept busy with many days trips - what a beautiful part of the country. A very comfortable property.
July 2023
Raleigh Lodge was lovely. Very comfortable, quiet with pretty garden and walks from the gate, fab views, comfy beds. We had a great stay! Thank you.
June 2023
Wonderful location, so very peaceful and quiet. Property was very comfortable, all be it some outdoor furnishings in need of refurbishment or replacement.
Thank you for your feedback. We are so pleased to hear that you had a comfortable stay in peaceful surroundings. We appreciate your comments regarding the outdoor furniture, which has since been changed by the owner. We look forward to welcoming you back to one of our properties soon.
- The Toad Hall Team
June 2023
I stayed here when it was a holiday let called Worzels back in the 90's so lovely to go back and remember great memories - the way the property has been maintained and improved is lovely - an amazing week - thank you.
May 2023
Fabulous house, glorious views and beautifully furnished. Large areas for eating and socialising and enormous utility for boots and dogs. Comfy beds too. Wonderful to be able to walk up Dunkery beacon from the house.
February 2023
Raleigh Lodge is absolutely stunning and finished to a very high standard and located in such a beautiful and peaceful setting – an excellent location for exploring the moors and the coast. The style of Raleigh Lodge is traditional, really well equipped, spotless clean and decorated very nicely. The beds are extremely comfy, the showers great and another bonus is the amazing view from the lounge. The owners made us feel very welcome and are great hosts. This was our fourth stay - we would happily return in the future. Best regards, Gunter
February 2023
This property is new for 2023 and will shortly feature reviews. Its history as an exceptional holiday home has never disappointed guests and was regularly described as an excellent experience and fabulous location beyond expectations. The property and Exmoor are the perfect getaway from hectic city life. A must visit and short stay retreat to recharge yourself. Wonderful views, great accommodation and really spacious, the ideal base from which to explore one of the most beautiful parts of the country.
April 2024
Absolutely loved it.
March 2024
Couldn't have booked a better property if I tried. Loved the layout, the view and the lemon drizzle cake (my favourite!) and the free range eggs. Thanks a millon.
March 2024
Perfect rural retreat. Very relaxing. Everything about this property is of the highest standard.
March 2024
What a wonderful property in a truly stunning location. We had a very relaxing stay! Super friendly owners, a good time had by all. We will be back! Many thanks
December 2023
What a fabulous few days in this perfect location. Stunning accommodation, we had an amazing stay. Our dog loved the aga! We will be back! Thank you very much.
December 2023
Thank you for the cake (best ever!) and the eggs and milk on arrival. I knew it looked lovely, but we were overwhelmed by the stunning view and the house, the little touches, just stunning. We'll definitely be back. Our dog loved it here, lots of walks and paddles at Tarr steps. Thanks, and see you again very soon!
December 2023
An amazing home from home, we all had a really great time exploring the local area. It will be nice to return when the weather is much warmer.
October 2023
Like so many people before us have said, what a wonderful place. This was a special holiday to us and the family. The memories will live on. Thank you for the welcome pack - the cake was delicious.
September 2023
Raleigh Lodge is a very comfortable property. Thank you for the cake, milk and eggs. We only saw the splendid view a few times because of the rain but even watching the mist in the valley slowly disappear made it interesting.
September 2023
We had a fantastic time. The lodge is wonderful, best house we have ever stayed in. Many thanks.
September 2023
Everything we required and more
August 2023
Many thanks for the cake, eggs and milk on arrival. We had a wonderful stay and enjoyed having such lovely woods on our doorstep. Despite mixed weather we were kept busy with many days trips - what a beautiful part of the country. A very comfortable property.
July 2023
Raleigh Lodge was lovely. Very comfortable, quiet with pretty garden and walks from the gate, fab views, comfy beds. We had a great stay! Thank you.
June 2023
Wonderful location, so very peaceful and quiet. Property was very comfortable, all be it some outdoor furnishings in need of refurbishment or replacement.
Thank you for your feedback. We are so pleased to hear that you had a comfortable stay in peaceful surroundings. We appreciate your comments regarding the outdoor furniture, which has since been changed by the owner. We look forward to welcoming you back to one of our properties soon.
- The Toad Hall Team
June 2023
I stayed here when it was a holiday let called Worzels back in the 90's so lovely to go back and remember great memories - the way the property has been maintained and improved is lovely - an amazing week - thank you.
May 2023
Fabulous house, glorious views and beautifully furnished. Large areas for eating and socialising and enormous utility for boots and dogs. Comfy beds too. Wonderful to be able to walk up Dunkery beacon from the house.
February 2023
Raleigh Lodge is absolutely stunning and finished to a very high standard and located in such a beautiful and peaceful setting – an excellent location for exploring the moors and the coast. The style of Raleigh Lodge is traditional, really well equipped, spotless clean and decorated very nicely. The beds are extremely comfy, the showers great and another bonus is the amazing view from the lounge. The owners made us feel very welcome and are great hosts. This was our fourth stay - we would happily return in the future. Best regards, Gunter
February 2023
This property is new for 2023 and will shortly feature reviews. Its history as an exceptional holiday home has never disappointed guests and was regularly described as an excellent experience and fabulous location beyond expectations. The property and Exmoor are the perfect getaway from hectic city life. A must visit and short stay retreat to recharge yourself. Wonderful views, great accommodation and really spacious, the ideal base from which to explore one of the most beautiful parts of the country.
The Rest & Be Thankful
(Less than a mile)
The Rest & Be Thankful was originally a staging post for travellers on their way from Dunster to Dulverton and almost 200 years later you will still find a warm welcome, good food and a choice of local ales and spirits. In a great spot for a home cooked meal after working up an appetite on one of the many fabulous walks in the area, or simply a drink in the cosy bar with log fires in winter.
The Rest & Be Thankful Wheddon Cross, Minehead TA24 7DR (T: 01643841222)
The Exmoor White Horse
(5 miles)
(1)
In the heart of Exmoor National Park on the banks of the River Exe you’ll find this beautiful 16th century inn. The chefs work closely with local suppliers to deliver the highest quality menus both in the bar and restaurant which are open for lunch and dinner 7 nights a week. Cosy and welcoming throughout and the outdoor tables overlooking the river are just the place for a Devon cream tea with lashings of jam and clotted cream.
Exmoor White Horse Chapel St, Exford, Minehead TA24 7PY (T: 01643 831229)
Nice pint Thatchers Gold & Sandwich for Lunch
September 2023
The Ship Inn - Porlock
(6 miles)
(1)
A pretty thatched 13th century coaching inn with roaring log fires in winter and a large outdoor seating area and children’s play area for the summer months. Homemade, unpretentious food making use of the excellent local Exmoor produce is served daily in the restaurant and bar. Dog friendly with plenty of parking.
The Ship Inn Porlock, Minehead TA24 8QD (T: 01643 862507)
We had a lovely lunch sitting outside this inn. Service was excellent, as was the food!
June 2021
Reeves
(6 miles)
Whether you choose to dine in the beamed restaurant or outside in the pretty walled garden, you’re in for a treat at this fine dining restaurant in the heart of the medieval village of Dunster. From the warm welcome you receive front of house, to the fine ingredients used and attention to detail in the kitchen, Reeves is worthy of its glowing newspaper reviews.
Reeves 20-22 High St, Dunster, Minehead TA24 6SG (T: 01643 821414)
Cobblestones
(6 miles)
A friendly family run café serving well-presented light lunches, Sunday Roasts, indulgent cream teas and an array of delicious home-made cakes. Eat in the immaculate restaurant or outside in the quirky garden. Vegetarian and gluten free diets catered for.
Cobblestones 24 High St, Dunster, Minehead TA24 6SG (T: 01643 821595)
Red Stag Safaris
(Less than a mile)
Enjoy the sights of Exmoor from the comfort of a Land Rover Discovery and learn about this fascinating landscape and it’s wildlife from local guides who have lived and worked on the moor for generations.
Click here for further details
Holnicote Estate
(5 miles)
A 12,000-acre National Trust property, Holnicote Estate is part of Exmoor National Park, made up of rugged moorland, shingle beaches, ancient woodland and charming thatched villages. Walk, cycle and horse ride as far as the eye can see, see red deer, Exmoor ponies, bats and rare butterflies as you go. There are picnic tables, footpaths and toilets as well as pay and display parking.
Click Here for further information
Exmoor Owl & Hawk Centre
(5 miles)
A great all weather attraction in beautiful Exmoor countryside where you can learn to fly owls and hawks yourself on a Birds of Prey Flying Experience, ride horses, watch the public flying displays and enjoy some delicious food in the tea room. For damper days there is an indoor flying barn and picnic area.
Click here for further details
Allerford Museum
(5 miles)
Housed in Allerford’s old schoolhouse this museum of rural life contains several thousand artefacts charting rural life in the area from the early 1800s to the late 1950’s. Be transported back in time as you browse the fascinating displays and photographs.
Click here for further details
Dunster Castle
(5 miles)
(3)
On a wooded hill with an impressive medieval gatehouse, the National Trust’s Dunster Castle is on a site that predates the Norman era. It has spectacular views towards the Bristol channel, the Quantock hills and the moors of Exmoor. Tours are available, there’s a shop, paid parking and Dunster village is filled with lovely places to eat.
Click Here for further information
A delight to visit. The standard of the exhibits is extremely high and the docents knowledgeable and helpful. Adequate and shady car parking and there is a courtesy van that will take you up the hill to the castle - an advantage if the knees are no longer what they were. Dunster village is also well worth the visit - used in the Poirot TV series in the episode "The Cornish Mystery" you'll recognise the market immediately. Recommended!
May 2023
Lovely place to visit. The walk up is worth it to see the views.
June 2021
Well worth a visit. The views from the castle and the gardens are particularly lovely.
October 2020
Minehead Beach
(6 miles)
(1)
Perpetually featured amongst the best beaches in the area, Minehead Beach is in one of Somerset’s busiest holiday areas. Divided into two sections, The Strand is a wide sand and shingle beach that faces North-to-North West, it looks out across the Bristol Channel towards Wales. Terminus meanwhile is the north-facing part that was almost completely washed away in the early ‘90s. After a multimillion pound project, a sea wall was completed. Today it’s an excellent spot for swimming, kite-surfing and windsurfing. Dog restrictions apply in the summer and there are cafes, restaurants, toilets and shops all close by.
Great beach with plenty of space for the dogs to run. Very clean.
March 2022
Porlock Beach
(7 miles)
After 30 miles of Exmoor coastline that’s predominantly cliffs, at Porlock the land flattens out and a unique mile long shingle ridge and an inland salt marsh have formed. It’s a short walk from there to the centre of Porlock, where there are lots of marked footpaths to explore. Porlock Weir Beach itself is a pebble beach that welcomes dogs all year round. It’s a prime spot for swimming, fishing, surfing and sailing, and there are cafes, restaurants, toilets, pubs and shops close by to explore. There is pay and display parking close to the beach, so don’t forget your change when you visit, and you will be pleased to know that the water quality is reputedly excellent.
Blue Anchor Bay & Dunster
(7 miles)
(2)
Long sand and shingle beaches peppered with alabaster rocks that are perfect for finding fossils, Blue Anchor Bay and Dunster Beach in Somerset are adjacent to one another, and are beautiful places to while away the afternoon, whatever time of the year. Dogs are allowed on the beaches all year round, which is a novelty, there are toilets close by, and a pub as well for those lazy lunches after a morning’s stroll. The West Somerset Railway comes close to the beach, adding an extra layer of interest, and there’s plenty of parking close to both of them as well, which is always a blessing. The beaches are tidal and can get a little muddy at low tide, so careful not to slip and don’t get caught out when the water comes in!
Nice flat promenade with easy parking.
November 2023
Both well-worth a visit.
April 2019
Lynmouth Beach
(14 miles)
A shingle beach that arcs out into the sea from Lynton, Lynmouth Beach is a popular spot for surfing, but there’s no lifeguard cover so be careful when you go! The area is known for its excellent scenery and pleasant walking along the sea front and along the banks of the Lyn River which flows between the two towns of Lynton and Lynmouth. There is also a cliff railway from Lynton down to the sea front. At Lynton there is a smaller beach with rocks at low tide, while Lynmouth Beach is longer and sandier. Lynmouth has level access all the way along, and there are several car parks in the town as well as road parking by the river and beach. Toilets, cafes and shops are close by, but there aren’t any activities available, it’s all about enjoying the scenery!
Wringcliff Beach
(16 miles)
On the South West Coast Path, Wringcliff Beach is within walking distance of the little town of Lynton and a number of secluded bays along the coastline. The beach itself is a secluded bay surrounded by high cliffs with a steep access path, making it a tricky one to visit if you have small children with you. Of course, because it’s a little difficult to get to, it’s also wonderfully peaceful with incredible views to enjoy. Dogs are allowed on the beach all year around and it’s perfect for adventurous walkers. There’s parking is in the valley of the rocks which is accessed and signposted through Lynton, but once you’re there it’s not that easy to reach toilets and restaurants, to if the weather permits, take a picnic and enjoy the day!