Exmoor Events Calendar

September 2024

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Childrens Crafting

Children's crafting table

Bookmarks, greeting card making, and colouring activities with lots of pencils, crayons, felt tips and stickers to keep your little ones amused during the summer holidays. (Donations requested)

Contact phone 01598 752509 Contact email NPCLynmouth@exmoor-nationalpark.gov.uk

Moorland Mousie Exmoor Pony Exhibition

Exhibition

The Moorland Mousie Trust exists to promote and protect all aspects of registered Exmoor ponies, on Exmoor, throughout the UK and abroad. We want to ensure the continued survival of free-living Exmoor pony herds on Exmoor, nationally and internationally.

Contact phone 01598 752509 Contact email NPCLynmouth@exmoor-nationalpark.gov.uk

Pop-up Lynmouth Flood talks

Pop-up Lynmouth Flood talks

A 10-minute illustrated talk on the Lynmouth Flood Disaster followed by 10 minutes of historical film from the time.
A chance to learn what happened and how it changed the village. No need to book. (Donations requested). Not Mondays

Contact phone 01598 752509 Contact email NPCLynmouth@exmoor-nationalpark.gov.uk

Rockpooling with a Ranger

Photo of a family Rockpooling
Join Exmoor National Park Rangers to explore the rockpools of Lynmouth.

We will hunt for anemones, crabs, sea sponges and all sorts of other marine critters. With our knowledgeable rangers as your guide, you will learn more about the diversity of life on our shores and gain the skills to carry on rockpooling in your own time. All equipment provided including identification guides, nets and buckets. The site is exposed so please remember sun cream and water (filling station in Lynmouth near the toilets). Sandals or waterproof shoes are useful but not essential. Everyone welcome!

Contact phone 07970099116 Contact email cwray@exmoor-nationalpark.gov.uk

A Roadmap back to Red Squirrels? – Porlock

Red Squirrel

Come along to Porlock Village Hall to hear Jackie Foott of British Red Squirrel (a working project of Red Squirrel South-West) give a talk on whether Red Squirrels may one day be able to return to the South-West.

Red Squirrels still existed in Exmoor within living memory, but are now sadly under threat in the UK – largely due to the introduction of the invasive Grey Squirrel from North America. Following many years of experience in Red Squirrel conservation and Grey Squirrel management, Jackie will discuss the ecology of Reds and Greys, as well as the impact the presence of Grey Squirrels has on our native Reds. Can Red Squirrels still be saved, and could they be returned to favourable conservation status within the UK? Come along to learn more, and see what you think!

Also find out how you could get involved with the work of the Exmoor Squirrel Project in the local area.

Doors open at 6:30pm for a 7pm start. The talk is expected to take around one hour, but leave time to ask questions and join in with the friendly discussion afterwards.

Tea/coffee and biscuits will be provided!

Dunster Outback Walk

A landscape photo
Join a guided walk leader and explore the picturesque landscape around Dunster.

A 2-2.5hr/4 mile guided walk, taking in the historical sites of Dunster village and the breathtaking views above the village from the ancient hillforts of Grabbist Hill and Bat’s Castle.

Accessibility: The walk route includes some steep inclines, over uneven ground. A moderate level of fitness is required.

Please ensure you bring suitable outdoor clothing and walking boots.

Dogs on short leads allowed.

Booking recommended.

Free event - donations welcome (for the CareMoor for Exmoor scheme supporting heritage, nature and access projects on Exmoor).

Contact phone 01643 821835 Contact email NPCDunster@exmoor-nationalpark.gov.uk

A Roadmap back to Red Squirrels? – Dunster

Red Squirrel

Come along to the National Park Centre in Dunster to hear Jackie Foott of British Red Squirrel (a working project of Red Squirrel South-West) give a talk on whether Red Squirrels may one day be able to return to the South-West.

Red Squirrels still existed in Exmoor within living memory, but are now sadly under threat in the UK – largely due to the introduction of the invasive Grey Squirrel from North America. Following many years of experience in Red Squirrel conservation and Grey Squirrel management, Jackie will discuss the ecology of Reds and Greys, as well as the impact the presence of Grey Squirrels has on our native Reds. Can Red Squirrels still be saved, and could they be returned to favourable conservation status within the UK? Come along to learn more, and see what you think!

Also find out how you could get involved with the work of the Exmoor Squirrel Project in the local area.

Doors open at 6:30pm for a 7pm start. The talk is expected to take around one hour, but leave time to ask questions and join in with the friendly discussion afterwards.

Tea/coffee and biscuits will be provided!

Contact email NPCDunster@exmoor-nationalpark.gov.uk

A Roadmap back to Red Squirrels? – Lynmouth

Come along to the National Park Centre in Lynmouth to hear Jackie Foott of British Red Squirrel (a working project of Red Squirrel South-West) give a talk on whether Red Squirrels may one day be able to return to the South-West.

Red Squirrels still existed in Exmoor within living memory, but are now sadly under threat in the UK – largely due to the introduction of the invasive Grey Squirrel from North America. Following many years of experience in Red Squirrel conservation and Grey Squirrel management, Jackie will discuss the ecology of Reds and Greys, as well as the impact the presence of Grey Squirrels has on our native Reds. Can Red Squirrels still be saved, and could they be returned to favourable conservation status within the UK? Come along to learn more, and see what you think!

Also find out how you could get involved with the work of the Exmoor Squirrel Project in the local area.

Doors open at 6:30pm for a 7pm start. The talk is expected to take around one hour, but leave time to ask questions and join in with the friendly discussion afterwards.

Tea/coffee and biscuits will be provided!

Contact email NPCLynmouth@exmoor-nationalpark.gov.uk

Challacombe Sheepdog Trials

Photo of a man and his sheepdog and some sheep
Guilty or Not Guilty? - You decide.

Sheepdog Trials, starts 10.30 am, and Family Dog Show  starts 1pm.  Also stalls, refreshments, sideshows and skittles competition. Adults £3, children u16 free.

Contact phone 01598 751310 Contact email bartontownfarm3217@hotmail.co.uk

Porlock Carnival

Porlock carnival
An evening of colour, fun and music not to be missed. A presentation of the Cups and Rosettes follows at the Village Hall, where there is a Licensed Bar, Food and Disco.

Come and join in with the fun as the colourful Floats, walking entries, Fire Brigade, Bands, Majorettes, and many more proceed through the village and back again led by the Town Crier.

Contact phone 07917796175 Contact email porlockcarnival@outlook.com

Great Exmoor Ride

A spectacular route suitable for a wide range of riders.

The Great Exmoor Ride starts in Taunton and follows a spectacular, challenging course that takes riders through quiet Somerset lanes and up onto and across the eastern part of Exmoor, before finally finishing by the sea at the very peaceful and unspoilt Blue Anchor near Minehead. It’s a spectacular route and the Ride is suitable for a wide range of riders, particularly anyone with a bit of determination who's looking for an event that's both challenging AND relaxed – it includes over 1600m of climbing in total so it will test most people but, as with its sister-event the GWR, the GER is all about having fun while rising to your own personal challenge and doing it at your own pace. And, as the riders in our 2023 event demonstrated, you're likely to feel a HUGE sense of achievement at the finish!

£37.50 (adults) £16 (U16s)

Contact phone 07956858851 Contact email mail@greatexmoorride.com

Ruins in the Woods

An old sepia photo of the mineral line
Walk from Chargot Woods exploring the mineral railway.

The 19th century mineral line was built to carry iron from the Brendons to Watchet for shipment to South Wales. Spectacular remains are hidden in the hills.  This is a one hour stroll to look at Langham Engine House, then a two hour walk down the steep miners' track to see Bearland Flue and other features connected with iron mining. We may visit Burrow Farm Engine House or Kennisham Hill. Free. Booking essential.

Contact phone 01984 634177 Contact email drwthw@gmail.com

Wild Swimming Walk with Sophie Pierce

Photo of someone swimming in a lake
If you love reading and enjoy walking, then this could be just the book club you have been seeking...

Join writer Sophie Pierce and Seven Fables for a walk, talk and optional wild swim! Sophie Pierce is a writer with a passionate interest in our emotional connection to natural landscapes. We are gathering to celebrate the Exmoor landscape with her most recent publication, Wild Swimming Walks - Exmoor and North Devon, the fifth title in this popular series co-written with fellow swimmer Matt Newbury.

You are invited to bring a picnic to enjoy by the river. A level of walking fitness is required, please dress appropriately, and do bring a blanket or cushion to sit on - we walk in all weathers. Swimming optional at own risk.

Walk & Talk + Book £22 (RRP £14.99) Walk & Talk £12

SORRY NO DOGS ON THIS SPECIAL EVENT

Contact phone 01398 324457 Contact email info@sevenfables.co.uk

Lynmouth Flood Talk and Walk

Black and White aerial photo showing damage caused by flood in Lynmouth
Guided walk

Join one of our knowledgeable volunteer walk leaders for a fascinating look at the Lynmouth Flood Disaster of 1952. A gentle stroll around the village of Lynmouth to discover the impact the Flood had on the people who lived and worked here.

Contact phone 01598752509 Contact email NPCLynmouth@exmoor-nationalpark.gov.uk

A Walk through Dunster's History

Dunster Tithe Barn
Join a guided walk leader and explore the picturesque landscape village Dunster.

A 2hr guided walk around a village steeped in history.

Accessibility: The walk route includes some gentle inclines around the village lanes and passes over some uneven ground towards the end of the route. The route can be adapted - if you have a particular mobility requirement please contact Dunster National Park Centre prior to booking for further information.

Please ensure you bring suitable outdoor clothing and stout footwear.

Dogs on short leads allowed.

Booking recommended.

Free event - donations welcome for the CareMoor for Exmoor scheme supporting heritage, nature and access projects on Exmoor.

Contact phone 01643 821835 Contact email NPCDunster@exmoor-nationalpark.gov.uk

Lyn Nature Watch - Bat Walk, Lynmouth

Bat Walk
Manor Green, Lynmouth EX35 6EN

Join us for a Bat Walk along the River Lyn. Discover fascinating facts about bats and see and hear them in their natural setting. Free event.

Contact phone 01598 752509 Contact email NPCLynmouth@exmoor-nationalpark.gov.uk

Simonsbath Walking Holiday

Photo of group of people walking
3 day walking holiday.

Explore the stunning Exmoor National Park with our guided Simonsbath Walking Holidays. Come and stay in comfort and share 3 days of spectacular walks with our knowledgeable guides. Check Website for price options

Contact phone 01643831259 Contact email enquiries@simonsbathhousehotel.co.uk

Dulverton Trail Fun Run & Canicross

Photo of runners starting a race
5km or 10km routes through beautiful Exmoor countryside

Now in its fourth year, join us for popular the Dulverton Fun Run & Canicross – cross country running along 5km or 10km routes through the beautiful countryside around Dulverton, Exmoor – with or without your dog of course!  The start and finish are located at the Exmoor Lawns, Dulverton beside the River Barle – with refreshments available.  Are you brave enough to tackle the Dulverton Demon – a steep, wooded hill leading from Marsh Bridge up towards Court Down?! Beautiful but challenging!
Go to the Visit Dulverton website to sign up for your tickets.  Online entries will close at lunchtime Saturday 14 September. Entries on the day will be permitted.

Contact phone 07785 901017 Contact email hello@visitdulverton.com

Exhibition by the Lynton & Barnstaple Railway

Exhibition

Steam trains through rolling countryside, with views out to wild moorland and the rugged coastline. Originally opened in 1898, and closed in 1935; Now a short section of the line has been restored, and what you can see today at Woody Bay is just the beginning of ambitions to rebuild the line further. Discover more of the history and story of the Lynton & Barnstaple Railway in this exhibition.

Contact phone 01598 752509 Contact email NPCLynmouth@exmoor-nationalpark.gov.uk

Meadow Making and Wildlife Spotting at Tarr Steps

scything

Part of the National Parks UK's Big Volunteering Weekend 2024.

Take part in traditional meadow management activities to help improve the biodiversity of a meadow, near Tarr Steps on Exmoor. Discover how to spot local wildlife species living around the meadow and look for signs of dormice activity in the near-by woods.

Activities include traditional scything and raking cut grass, plus an introduction to wildlife ID.
Dates available: Wed 18th Sept (Scything) & Fri 20th Sept. (scything, raking and wildlife ID)

No experience necessary - training given on the day.
A resonable level of fitness is required.

What do I need to bring?
Bring a packed lunch and drink.
Wear stout footwear and appropriate outdoor clothing.
All other equipment needed will be provided.

Where do we meet on the day?
Meet at Tarr Steps car park (meet here).
You will be provided with a parking permit on arrival.
From the car park it is a 30 minute stroll to site.

Contact email pwatts-mabbott@exmoor-nationalpark.gov.uk

Natural History Walk

Meet at our centre at Porlock Weir for a two hour stroll

An easy paced stroll to explore and discover the wildlife of the wonderful habitats and landscape around Porlock Weir.

Contact phone 01643 863124 Contact email ruthehyett@gmail.com

Meadow Making and Wildlife Spotting at Tarr Steps

scything

Part of the National Parks UK's Big Volunteering Weekend 2024.

Take part in traditional meadow management activities to help improve the biodiversity of a meadow, near Tarr Steps on Exmoor. Discover how to spot local wildlife species living around the meadow and look for signs of dormice activity in the near-by woods.

Activities include traditional scything and raking cut grass, plus an introduction to wildlife ID.
Dates available: Wed 18th Sept (Scything) & Fri 20th Sept. (scything, raking and wildlife ID)

No experience necessary - training given on the day.
A resonable level of fitness is required.

What do I need to bring?
Bring a packed lunch and drink.
Wear stout footwear and appropriate outdoor clothing.
All other equipment needed will be provided.

Where do we meet on the day?
Meet at Tarr Steps car park (meet here).
You will be provided with a parking permit on arrival.
From the car park it is a 30 minute stroll to site.

Contact email pwatts-mabbott@exmoor-nationalpark.gov.uk

Family Meadow Making Day at Tarr Steps

scything

Part of the National Parks UK's Big Volunteering Weekend 2024.

Take part in traditional meadow management activities to help improve the variety of animal and plantlife of a meadow, near Tarr Steps on Exmoor. Help rake and gather the hay and spread wildflower flower seeds to improve the meadow's habitats. Discover how to spot local wildlife species that call the meadow home and look for signs of dormice activity in the near-by woods.
Ideal for families and friends.
No experience necessary - training given on the day.

What do I need to bring?
Bring a packed lunch and drink.
Wear stout footwear and suitable outdoor clothing.
All other equipment needed will be provided.

Where do we meet on the day?
Meet at Tarr Steps car park (meet here).
You will be provided with a parking permit on arrival.
From the car park it is a 30 minute stroll to site.

Contact email pwatts-mabbott@exmoor-nationalpark.gov.uk

Plastic Free Exmoor - Dunster Beach Clean

Dunster Beach Clean
Dunster Beach Car Park

Join Plastic Free Exmoor for the Marine Conservation Society's Great British Beach Clean at Dunster Beach on Saturday September 21st. Meet in the Dunster Beach Car Park at 11am. Car parking permits will be provided for volunteers. Litter pickers and collection sacks will also be provided. We recommend that volunteers bring a rucksack with a few essentials like sunscreen, waterproofs and perhaps some snacks and a drink. We also advise volunteers to bring a strong pair of gloves for protection when they are picking up litter.

This event is being run in conjunction with Dunster Beach Holidays, Severn Estuary Partnership and Litter Free Coast and Sea Somerset

Meet at Dunster Beach Car Park by the entrance to Dunster Beach Holidays. Dunster Beach Holidays have kindly agreed to provide free parking for volunteers. Please ask for a permit when you arrive.

Contact email plasticfreeexmoor@gmail.com

Quiz Night at the Kildare Lodge Minehead

Kildare

in aid of CareMoor for Exmoor and RNLI MInehead. Teams of 6 (£18 per team to enter). 10 rounds including a picture round. Prizes for the winning team. Hamper Raffle. Call 07927 921975 to book a place.

Contact phone 07927 921975

Parent and child walks

Little Exmoorers
National Trust Bossington Car Park

Boots on for everyone! Come and explore the outdoors with Izzy who will lead you along buggy and child friendly routes to the great outdoors!

  • BUGGY FRIENDLY ROUTES
  • Wear comfortable clothes you can move around in and bring a drink. - You will need waterproofs or clothes you don't mind getting wet.
  • For women ages 16+, for kids from 0-12
  • Routes are led by Izzy
  • Free

Please email Charlotte Norman at cnorman@sasp.co.uk with which session you will be attending. (or if you plan on attending both)

Contact email cnorman@sasp.co.uk

Hidden Porlock

A photo of Porlock
An opportunity to explore the hidden treasures and history of Porlock Village.

Meet at Porlock Visitor Centre TA24 8QD.

Advisable to book. Donations appreciated.  Proceeds to CareMoor Exmoor and Porlock Visitor Centre. For more info and to book Tel: 01643 863150 or email: visit@porlock.co.uk

Contact phone 01643 863150 Contact email visit@porlock.co.uk

Dulverton Farmers Market

Showcasing the best produce and crafts from Exmoor, Devon and Somerset.

Visit Dulverton’s Farmers Market on the last Saturday of the month – April to September – from 10am to 2.30pm in the Lion Stables Car Park in the heart of the town.

Showcasing the best produce and crafts from Exmoor, Devon and Somerset – including home-reared meat, local cheese, Exmoor-brewed ales, delicious jams and chutneys, and even Dulverton-distilled spirits!  You’ll find local craftspeople here too, selling belts, bags, baskets, books, photographs and more. Refreshments and live entertainment too. Treat yourself to a great day out and discover Dulverton Farmers Market!

For more information visit the Farmers Market page of the Visit Dulverton website.

Contact phone 07785 901017 Contact email hello@visitdulverton.com

Watchet Beach Clean

Watchet Beach Clean
Meet on the slipway to West Street Beach

Join Plastic Free Watchet for the Marine Conservation Society's Great British Beach Clean at Watchet. Meet on the slipway to West Street Beach. Litter pickers and collecting sacks will be provided. We recommend that volunteers bring a rucksack with a few essentials like sunscreen, waterproofs and perhaps some snacks and a drink. We also advise volunteers to bring a strong pair of gloves for protection when they are picking up litter.

For further information and to book a place click on the following link: Great British Beach Clean in Watchet | Marine Conservation Society (mcsuk.org)

Contact email plasticfreeexmoor@gmail.com

Fall in to Art at Lynmouth National Park Centre

Fall in to Art

‘Spring into Art’ and ‘Fall into Art’ at the National Park Centre Lynmouth is a fresh idea bringing together several local artists to paint for the day under one roof. Talking to visitors about what inspires them and how they represent that inspiration in their art. Original works, as well as prints and cards, will be on sale so a great opportunity to get something absolutely unique.

Contact phone 01598 752509 Contact email NPCLynmouth@exmoor-nationalpark.gov.uk

Barnacle Buoys Shanty evening

Porlock Information Centre is celebrating the end of the Somerset and Exmoor Coast festival with an open-air shanty concert from the popular and talented Barnacle Buoys.
Sparkhayes campsite, with views over the sea will be the venue for this evening of great entertainment.
The Top Ship will be providing a licensed bar and Exmoor Wood Fired Pizza’s will be providing pizzas. Caribbean Cottage will deliver takeaways ordered in advance.

Cost: £10.00 adult
£3.00 Children under 18.
Tickets available from Porlock information Centre

Contact phone 01643 863150 Contact email enquiries@porlock.co.uk

Parent and child walks

Little Exmoorers
North Hill (exact locations will be sent closer to the time).

Boots on for everyone! Come and explore the outdoors with Izzy who will lead you along buggy and child friendly routes to the great outdoors!

  • BUGGY FRIENDLY ROUTES
  • Wear comfortable clothes you can move around in and bring a drink. - You will need waterproofs or clothes you don't mind getting wet.
  • For women ages 16+, for kids from 0-12
  • Routes are led by Izzy
  • Free

Please email Charlotte Norman at cnorman@sasp.co.uk with which session you will be attending. (or if you plan on attending both)

Contact email cnorman@sasp.co.uk