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Little Switzerland: The Dramatic Highs and Lows of Lynton and Lynmouth
For pure landscape drama, few locations in England can match the vertiginous cliffs and romantic history of Lynton and Lynmouth. Discover the deep river gorges, the legendary Valley of Rocks, and a beautifully restored historic inn right in the heart of Exmoor's "Little Switzerland."
Martin Hesp
1 day ago8 min read


5 Best Pub Walks on Exmoor: Historic Trails & Classic Inns
From the high crest of Dunkery Beacon to the deep ravine of the River Exe, explore five classic circular walks capturing the haunting history, wild landscapes, and best traditional pubs of Exmoor National Park.
Martin Hesp
Jun 3012 min read


The Best West Country Walks for a Heatwave: 10 Coastal, Moorland and Woodland Escapes
**Excerpt**
When temperatures soar, there are better places to walk than crowded beaches and sun-baked lanes. Join Martin Hesp on ten of his favourite West Country walks, where cooling sea breezes, shady woodland, open moorland and peaceful islands make perfect escapes during a summer heatwave.
Martin Hesp
Jun 2511 min read


The Most Varied Coast in Britain: From Mudflats to Ancient Pavements
It is arguably the most varied stretch of coast anywhere in Britain. From the mud-horse fishermen of Bridgwater Bay to the vertiginous wonders of Lynton and Lynmouth, join us on a journey along the mighty littoral that caps this peninsula to the north.
Martin Hesp
Apr 35 min read


Best Exmoor Walks: Favourite Routes Across the Moor, Valleys and Coast
An overview of the walks which can be enjoyed in and around Exmoor National Park - the article introduces you to various walks and areas within the national park
Martin Hesp
Mar 107 min read


The Ancient Art of Netting Wild Salmon
Join the last of the River Exe salmon netters as a thousand-year-old West Country tradition comes to an end. A fascinating story of heritage, conservation, exceptional seafood and the people determined to preserve one of Britain's oldest fishing customs.
Martin Hesp
Feb 248 min read


Where to Stay in Dartmouth: Inside the Newly Refurbished Royal Castle Hotel
Discover why Dartmouth remains one of Devon's most beautiful harbour towns as Martin Hesp stays at the newly refurbished Royal Castle Hotel and explores its history, restaurants and spectacular River Dart setting.
Martin Hesp
Dec 7, 20258 min read


Tuckenhay Circular Walk: A Beautiful 3.5-Mile Devon Walk Around Bow Creek
One of South Devon's finest short walks, this circular route from Tuckenhay combines peaceful estuary scenery, ancient lanes, wildlife, panoramic views and an excellent riverside pub.
Martin Hesp
Oct 19, 20253 min read


Cycling the Exe Estuary Trail: Devon's Best Traffic-Free Cycle Ride
Looking for one of Devon's best cycling routes? The Exe Estuary Trail offers a largely traffic-free ride between Exeter and Exmouth, passing estuary wildlife, picturesque villages, cafés and spectacular riverside scenery.
Martin Hesp
Sep 2, 20259 min read


Speke's Mill Mouth: Discover One of North Devon's Best Hidden Beaches
Hidden beneath the towering cliffs near Hartland Quay, Speke's Mill Mouth is one of Devon's most spectacular secret beaches. Follow the South West Coast Path to discover a waterfall plunging onto a wild Atlantic shore.
Martin Hesp
Aug 11, 20256 min read


Crow Point, North Devon: Discover One of Devon's Best Secret Beaches
Crow Point is one of North Devon's least-known beaches, where huge skies, golden sand and sweeping views across the Taw Estuary create one of Devon's finest hidden coastal escapes.
Martin Hesp
Aug 5, 20257 min read


Vintage Cider Tasting with the West Country's Leading Cider Experts
What happens when artificial intelligence tries to describe a vintage cider? We put AI to the test alongside some of the West Country's finest cider makers and discovered the difference experience makes.
Martin Hesp
Aug 3, 20258 min read


Discovering the Best English Tea-Gardens: A Unique British Tradition
There is nothing quite like the unique British tradition of the English tea garden. From hidden coastal gems to quiet sanctuaries tucked behind historic ruins, we explore the very best spots to enjoy an authentic cream tea in the fresh air.
Martin Hesp
May 10, 20256 min read


The Classic English Cream Tea: Discover the Best Somerset Tea Gardens and a Timeless West Country Tradition
Nothing captures the flavour of the English countryside quite like a traditional cream tea. Discover the history of this much-loved West Country tradition, the secrets of the perfect scone, and some of the finest tea gardens in Somerset where you can enjoy this timeless British treat.
Martin Hesp
May 2, 20255 min read


Exmoor Walks: Lynton & Lynmouth Circular Walk via Valley of Rocks and Cliff Railway
Looking for one of the very best Exmoor walks? This spectacular circular route explores the twin villages of Lynton and Lynmouth before climbing through the Valley of Rocks to some of England's most dramatic coastal scenery, with breathtaking sea views, literary history and the famous water-powered Cliff Railway.
Martin Hesp
Jun 27, 20225 min read


The 10 Best Beaches in Devon and Cornwall for the 2026 Heatwave (and Beyond)
Looking for the best beaches in Devon and Cornwall? From golden surfing beaches and secluded coves to family favourites and hidden gems, discover ten spectacular stretches of coast chosen by award-winning travel writer Martin Hesp. Whether you're planning a summer holiday, a day trip or a coastal walk, these are beaches you'll want to visit.
Martin Hesp
Jun 14, 20214 min read


Forest Walks: Discover the Magic of Britain's Ancient Woodlands
Step beneath the woodland canopy and discover why forest walks are among Britain's most rewarding outdoor experiences. From ancient trees and wildlife to peaceful trails and hidden history, this journey celebrates the timeless magic of walking in the woods
Martin Hesp
May 11, 20205 min read


Artisan Cheese and Climate Change: An Interview with Mary Quicke of Quicke’s Cheddar
How does climate change threaten traditional cheese? In this exclusive interview, Mary Quicke of Quicke's Cheddar discusses sustainable dairy farming, pasture health, and the future of Devon food.
Martin Hesp
Apr 13, 20207 min read


Foraging Wild Food in Estuaries: The Salt-Marsh Larder
From Michelin-starred kitchens to the mudflats of the River Teign, join Martin Hesp and expert chef David Beazley as they brave the winter elements to uncover the rich culinary bounty of estuary foraging.
Martin Hesp
Mar 31, 20206 min read


Wild Food Foraging: Field to Plate Secrets from the Experts
A journey into the hedgerows and salt marshes with professional foragers and executive chefs to uncover the flavours, safety rules, and culinary magic of Britain's wild food larder.
Martin Hesp
Mar 26, 20209 min read
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