Exmoor was designated a National Park in 1954, under the 1949 National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act. The Exmoor National Park is primarily an upland area with a dispersed population living mainly in small villages and hamlets. The largest settlements are Porlock, Dulverton, Lynton, and Lynmouth, which together contain almost 40 per cent of the park's population. Lynton and Lynmouth are combined into one parish and are connected by the Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway.
Exmoor was once a Royal forest and hunting ground, covering 18,810 acres (7,610 ha), which was sold off in 1818. Several areas within the Exmoor National Park have been declared Sites of Special Scientific Interest due to their flora and fauna. This title earns the site some legal protection from development, damage and neglect. In 1993 an environmentally sensitive area was established within Exmoor.
Getting there
The closest major city with international flights is London. The drive to Exmoor is about 3 - 4 hours in a car. Using public transport will take you longer.
When to visit
The most popular months are during summer. The weather in the UK is generally better for most outdoor activities during summer. You will find a lot less visitors during spring and fall.
Map of Exmoor National Park
Image gallery of Exmoor National Park
Visitor/Information centres in Exmoor National Park
Most national parks have an associated visitor centre to help visitors. They are usually open most of the year but some close in the off-season. You will often be able to find information on all the activities in the national park. A visit to the visitor centre is often recommended before venturing into the park.
Wildlife in Exmoor National Park
These sections shows you some of the characteristic wildlife to the national park.
Bears in Exmoor National Park
No bears in the park
This national park has no bears and you do not need to take precautions.
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