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Porlock Vale - An Exmoor Hike Through Ancient Forests and Micro-Climates
A journey to one of the most sheltered spots in the West Country. Tucked away in the lee of Exmoor's highest hills, Porlock Vale and the village of Horner offer a haven of tranquility, a micro-climate, and a soporific atmosphere that's hard to resist.
Martin Hesp
Apr 6, 20232 min read


Secret Exmoor: The Hidden Ring of Trees & Lost Places | Martin Hesp
In an era dominated by GPS and instant lookup, can true countryside mystery still exist? Martin Hesp revisits his father Peter’s legendary Secret Exmoor walks, uncovering a secluded ring of sunken trees deep in the high moors and reflecting on why some wild, beautiful places deserve to stay hidden.
Martin Hesp
Jan 31, 20236 min read


Exmoor Walks: Countisbury
Where Exmoor’s soaring high plateau meets the Bristol Channel, the dramatic cliffs of Countisbury offer some of the most breathtaking coastal views in Britain. Travel writer Martin Hesp leads a sweeping walk around Foreland Point, taking in panoramic vistas of Lynmouth Bay, rich Saxon heritage, and a well-earned stop at the historic Blue Ball Inn.
Martin Hesp
Aug 22, 20222 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


Grabbist Hill Walk From Dunster: An Exmoor Classic
Rising steeply above the beautiful medieval village of Dunster, Grabbist Hill offers some of the most dramatic panoramic views on Exmoor. Here is a complete guide to tackling this historic ridge walk.
Martin Hesp
May 23, 20215 min read


Wild Pear Beach, North Devon: Walking to Great Hangman and Little Hangman
Wild Pear Beach lies beneath the towering cliffs of Great Hangman and Little Hangman on one of North Devon's most dramatic stretches of coast. Discover hidden coves, spectacular walks and remarkable wartime history.
Martin Hesp
Feb 19, 20217 min read


Helicopter Flight Over Exmoor
Quick taster of a helicopter ride across just about all of Exmoor National Park
Martin Hesp
Jun 21, 20201 min read


An Exmoor Ghost Story: The Haunting of Bampfylde Clump & Poltimore Arms
High on the wind-swept southern ridge of Exmoor stands Bampfylde Clump—a mysterious ring of trees with a dark, chilling reputation. Martin Hesp investigates an unnerving tale of supernatural dread, a lonely moorland pub, and a 19th-century Exmoor mystery.
Martin Hesp
May 23, 20207 min read


Exmoor Walks: a Place Called Beckham
West of Dunkery Beacon lies a vast, primeval expanse that feels closer to the Russian steppes than southern England. Travel writer Martin Hesp leads a five-mile loop through this untouched wilderness—tracing John Knight's unfinished industrial canal, dropping into the remote moorland zone known as Beckham, and visiting the shell-blasted ruins of WWII-era Larkbarrow Farm.
Martin Hesp
May 19, 20205 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


Porlock Coast Walk: The Mysterious Afghan and the Graves of the Doones
A coastal trek filled with maritime history and deep local intrigue. This Porlock coast walk blends dramatic Bristol Channel views with a fascinating local mystery involving a mysterious man called 'Afghan' and the legend of the Forty Grave of the Doones 40.
Martin Hesp
May 10, 20206 min read


The Roadwater and Felon’s Oak Circular
Martin Hesp takes a walk around his own parish of Old Cleeve
Martin Hesp
May 7, 20207 min read


Roadwater Station & The West Somerset Mineral Railway Guide
Discover the fascinating industrial heritage of Roadwater Station and the West Somerset Mineral Railway. Follow the route where Brendon Hills iron ore was once transported down to Watchet harbour.
Martin Hesp
Apr 29, 20203 min read


Hoar Oak Walk, Exmoor
Martin Hesp recalls a memorable Exmoor walk he did with the then CEO of Exmoor National Park, Dr Nigel Stone
Martin Hesp
Apr 20, 20205 min read


Grass-Fed Exmoor Lamb: Traditional Farming & Local Meat
Few ingredients capture the wild spirit of the West Country quite like grass-fed Exmoor lamb. Journalist and food writer Martin Hesp delves into the traditional farming practices behind this exceptional meat, looking at how heather-rich pastures, slow natural growth, and high welfare shape an unbeatable local flavour.
Martin Hesp
Dec 11, 20196 min read