Historic Signposts Appeal

Looking after Exmoor's iconic historic signposts

Many visitors admire Exmoor’s iconic cast-iron signposts, and they are now a source of local pride, but a few years ago many were dilapidated and broken until a project led by the National Park Authority and Somerset County Council with an army of volunteers from local parishes enabled the restoration of 140 signposts.

While the project achieved a huge amount the work is ongoing with an army of volunteers rolling up their sleeves to keep the restored signs in top condition and carrying out essential repairs.

Shirley Blaylock, Historic Environment Officer for the National Park Authority, said “The cost of replacing the finger on one these historic signposts is around £1,000 as each one is unique and needs to be specially cast in a foundry. Donors to the appeal can have the satisfaction of contributing to an important part of Exmoor's heritage, as well as a vital part of our rural road network and local community pride. Funds are needed not only to pay local contractors to repair occasional damage and vandalism but also to get the specialist paint and safety training for volunteers to work on the highway. The volunteer team are key to the repainting and keeping Exmoor’s unique and historical signposts looking their best.”

You can also donate or find out more about Exmoor's traditional roadside fingerposts in our Field Guide produced as part of the project and available at our National Park Centres in Dulverton, Dunster and Lynmouth.