Top 20 Natural Monuments around Exford

Among the most popular natural monuments, Dunkery Beacon Summit stands out as the highest point in Somerset, offering panoramic views. Another must-see is Tarr Steps clapper bridge, an ancient, Grade I-listed bridge set within a beautiful wooded valley, perfect for walks along the River Barle.

Yes, several natural monuments around Exford are great for families. Tarr Steps clapper bridge offers gentle circular walks in its wooded valley. The unique Coin Tree in Exmoor National Park is also a curious spot that children might enjoy discovering. The River Exe Valley provides peaceful strolls suitable for all ages.

For breathtaking panoramic views, head to Dunkery Beacon Summit, the highest point on Exmoor. On a clear day, you can see across the Bristol Channel to Wales, and even Dartmoor. Another excellent viewpoint is Selworthy Beacon, which offers magnificent views over the rolling countryside and out to sea.

Exmoor National Park, where Exford is centrally located, is rich in wildlife. You might spot red deer, Exmoor ponies, buzzards, kestrels, and herons. The River Barle valley near Tarr Steps is a great place to observe river wildlife, and the East Lyn River is known for salmon heading upstream to spawn in summer. The heathland around Winsford Hill is also known for its wild ponies.

Absolutely. Tarr Steps clapper bridge is a Grade I-listed, 17-span bridge believed to be medieval in origin and is a Scheduled Ancient Monument. Dunkery Beacon Summit also has historical significance, being part of the Royal Forest of Exmoor and featuring ancient burial mounds.

Exford offers numerous walking opportunities. You can find easy hikes around the area, such as the circular route near Tarr Steps. For more options, explore the easy hikes around Exford guide, which includes trails like the Withypool Stone Bridge loop from Withypool.

Yes, Exmoor National Park provides excellent terrain for cycling. You can find various routes for both mountain biking and gravel biking. Check out the MTB Trails around Exford guide or the Gravel biking around Exford guide for routes that pass by or near many natural features.

Exmoor National Park and its natural monuments are beautiful year-round. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, while summer offers warmer weather for longer walks. Autumn showcases stunning foliage, and even winter provides dramatic, clear views, though some paths might be muddy. The tips for Tarr Steps mention it's great all year round, even in autumnal rain or summer sun.

Beyond the well-known landmarks, you can discover unique features like the Coin Tree in Exmoor National Park, a fascinating and somewhat mysterious sight where coins are pressed into a dead tree. The East Lyn River Rapids also offer an impressive natural spectacle, particularly after heavy rains or in winter, and are popular with white-water rafters.

Many areas within Exmoor National Park and around its natural monuments are dog-friendly, especially for walks on leads. For example, the circular walk around Tarr Steps clapper bridge is noted as being particularly enjoyable for dogs. Always check local signage for specific restrictions, especially in areas with livestock or sensitive wildlife.

The terrain around Exford is diverse, ranging from rolling hills and wooded valleys to dramatic coastlines. You can expect varied elevations, from gentle riverside strolls along the River Exe to more challenging climbs like those leading to Dunkery Beacon Summit or Selworthy Beacon. Trails can be easy, intermediate, or challenging, so it's advisable to check route details before heading out.

Yes, you'll find amenities near some of the natural monuments. For instance, there's a pub conveniently located at the start/finish of the circular walk around Tarr Steps clapper bridge. Exford itself, being a central village, also offers various amenities including pubs and cafes.