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.

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

From the iconic thatched cottages of Selworthy Green to the sweeping canopy of its ancient woodlands, this circular walk showcases the very best of Exmoor's managed estate and hillside vistas.

Deep in the heart of the former Royal Forest, this Simonsbath walk takes you on a journey through rugged moorland scenery and the fascinating 19th-century history of the Knight family's desert reclamation.

From the red-deer-haunted hills surrounding Dulverton to the medieval splendour of Dunster and the sheer maritime drama of Lynton and Lynmouth, Exmoor’s towns tell extraordinary stories. Journalist Martin Hesp takes a closer look at three famous West Country settlements, uncovering historical poachers, royal sieges, and heroic sea rescues along the way.

Porlock Bay is one of the most exquisite jewels on the West Country coast. Join travel writer Martin Hesp as he visits the historic harbour at Porlock Weir, samples fine Portuguese-inspired dining at the Porlock Weir Hotel, shares chef Miguel Tenreiro’s signature prawn rissole recipe, and tackles the dramatic 7-mile circular coastal hike to Culbone—home to England’s smallest parish church.

Rising high above the surrounding moorland, The Chains forms the vast, windswept roof of Exmoor National Park. Join veteran journalist Martin Hesp as he traverses this remote upland bog, tracing the secret source of the River Barle and uncovering the story behind John Knight’s man-made expanse at Pinkery Pond.

Tucked away beneath a canopy of oak woodland, the West Lyn River carves one of the most dramatic ravines in North Devon. Join veteran journalist Martin Hesp on a trek along this churning watercourse, following its swift journey from the high moors down through secret glens to meet the sea at Lynmouth.