Why build grand castles on the low-tide sand only for the sea to wash them away? Martin Hesp explores the philosophy, competition secrets, and wild seashore feasts of the Westcountry coast.

Discover 12 of the best walks across Devon. From the towering maritime cliffs of Exmoor and the wild granite tors of Dartmoor to tranquil estuarine paths and ancient heathlands, this curated guide offers detailed routes, distances, and difficulty ratings for every type of walker.

August is in full swing, and the West Country peninsula is busier than ever. If you're looking for green leafy voids, oceanic vastness, or moorland emptiness away from the crowded hotspots, here is a guide to the most lonesome, wild, and quiet corners across Somerset, Devon, and Cornwall.

Reach the roof of the world with these 4 classic circular Exmoor walks. From the wide, open wilderness of Larkbarrow and Brendon Common to the coastal oak woods of Selworthy and the clear waters of the River Barle, discover wild moorland hikes complete with route maps, local pub stops, and places to stay.

When summer heatwaves strike, the South West offers a hidden refuge. From ancient, damp sunken lanes and breezy upland ridges to shady coastal paths, deep forests, and steep river gorges, discover four classic West Country landscapes where you can find cool relief from the blazing sun.

From the coastal slopes of Exmoor to the high ridge paths of the Quantock Hills, explore 6 of the best circular pub walks in Somerset - featuring historic inns, ancient hill forts, and cozy fireside stops.

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."

Discover one of Exmoor's wildest circular walks as Martin Hesp explores windswept Hawkridge, ancient woodland and the legendary Tarr Steps, weaving history, colourful characters and breathtaking scenery into an unforgettable four-mile adventure.

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.

**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.

This delightful Exmoor walk combines ancient woodland, sweeping moorland views, a lost medieval settlement, red deer country and the enchanting East Water Valley beneath Dunkery Beacon. A perfect introduction to one of the most beautiful corners of Exmoor.

A BBC Radio 4 play about Exmoor writer Hope Bourne sparked memories of a remarkable encounter on the moors. This personal story reveals her fiercely independent life in a remote caravan, her outspoken views, and the extraordinary resilience that made her one of Britain’s most fascinating countryside voices.

The silence of the mountain was deceptive. Somewhere in the shifting shadows of the valley, the pursuit was closing in. Sebastian felt the cold air bite at his lungs—a sharp reminder that they were no longer in the gentle, familiar hills of Exmoor. "We can't stop," Sasha whispered. Her eyes were fixed on the jagged peaks ahead. Sebastian looked back. Far below, a single pinprick of light flickered. They were being hunted by a family that viewed loyalty as a commodity to be

Exmoor is shaped by its rivers. From the wild, boggy heights of the Chains to wooded valleys and hidden coastal combes, these waterways define the landscape — and some of the finest walks on the moor.

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

A guide to the Dunkery Beacon walk on Exmoor, including where to park at Webber’s Post, the best views over Porlock Vale and the legends surrounding Exmoor’s highest hill.

Exmoor’s ancient builders had a problem: no big rocks. While Stonehenge got the glory, our local ancestors had to make do with "micro-monoliths." From the "napping floors" of Hawkcombe Head to the mysterious stone circles near Porlock, I explore why these tiny stones still hold a 7,000-year-old secret about who we really are.

A crisp winter day transformed Dunkery Beacon into one of Exmoor's most magical landscapes. This walk climbs Somerset's highest point through frost-covered moorland, offering far-reaching views, dramatic scenery and the quiet beauty that only winter can bring. A rewarding adventure for anyone who enjoys walking Exmoor in its wildest season.

A wonderful afternoon's hike frolm Minehead the the ancient village of Dunster

A quick overview all about the ancient village of Dunster in West Somerset