Exmoor Events Calendar

October 2024

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Doone Valley Free Constellation Trail

stars over wimbleball

Complete a free star-based themed trail around the Lorna Doone site with a number of activities and games to enjoy. Collect your trail sheet from the Buttery Tea Rooms and complete the activities. Tea Rooms will be open for refreshments. No need to book.

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

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

Two Moors Festival

Photo of musicians playing in a cathedral
Various locations across Exmoor and Dartmoor
Chamber Music Festival held over 10 days in October on Exmoor and Dartmoor.

Highlights include appearances from artists including harpsichordist Mahan Esfahani, violinist Henning Kraggerud, pianists Clare Hammond and George Fu, Stile Antico, violinist and The Festival’s Artistic Director Tamsin Waley-Cohen, recorder quartet Palisander and brass quintet Connaught Brass. The Festival has also commissioned a new song cycle by Freya Waley-Cohen which will explore Exmoor folklore through the poetry of Samuel Taylor Coleridge for baritone, Roderick Williams.

Exploring the theme from different perspectives, from the 24 hours of the day and the 24 keys of western music, to magic and dreamscapes, the bright sunlight of the baroque to the reflected moonlight of romanticism, and our connection to the Earth’s daily turn on its axis, this promises to be a Festival full of evocative experiences and storytelling from both internationally established and exciting up and coming artists.

Ralegh's Cross Long Walk

An old sepia photo of the mineral line
Walk from Ralegh's Cross Inn, exploring the mineral railway.

The 19th century mineral line was built to carry iron ore from the Brendons to Watchet for shipment to South Wales. This is a walk/talk of about 7 miles, steep, but with stops along the way. We visit  Beulah Chapel, the old Brendon village and the Winding House. Then we go down the  steep Incline to Comberow, through the woods to Leighland Chapel and circle back via a picturesque waterfall. Boots, a packed lunch and waterproofs needed.

Contact phone 01984 634177 Contact email drwthw@gmail.com

Cream Tea with Inspirational Women

Natalie-dyson
Five diverse women speakers

Porlock celebrates International Ada Lovelace Day by inviting five diverse women speakers to tea on 5th October.  This year Natalie Dyson BEM, the CEO of Diversity Voice and Diane Turner, MATS clinical lead and bereavement councillor have agreed to speak, and hopefully Somerset Chief Constable will attend. £8. Booking essential. Tickets will be available from wegottickets.com (booking fee applies) or with cash from Porlock Visitor, or by BACS direct with PVH.

Contact phone 01643863117 Contact email graham.haw@btinternet.com

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

Wild about Exmoor @ Triscombe Farm

Informative star gazing sessions guided by experienced astronomers, Jo and Pete Richardson who together run Space Detectives and Wild About Exmoor Light refreshments will be provided for your enjoyment. We are delighted to offer guests who book directly to stay with us, complimentary places  for these events, as a token of our appreciation for choosing Triscombe Farm for your getaway. £40 adults £20 children.

Wild about Exmoor Landscape Astrophotography Course

Come and explore the means and ways of Landscape Astrophotography with Exmoor’s very own Landscape Photographer Shaun Davey. This is a two session course with the second session being run on Saturday 25th January 2025. Designed to challenge the already competent photographer, take your skills to a new level. £65pp - Over 16s only please.

Dark Skies Yoga with Mooryoga and The Root Project

Photo of people looking up at a starry sky

Sorry this event is now fully booked.

Rewild and reconnect under the dark skies of Exmoor National Park. Join us for three intimate evenings of Yoga under the stars. A chance to connect with nature, rewild yourself and embark upon a 'Dark Skies Yoga' adventure in the heart of Exmoor. On arrival we will enjoy kombucha and a light snack before we take a short walk through the meadow where we will gather together for some yoga under the stars. We will then connect together around a fire to enjoy some heart-warming chai tea, spicy pumpkin soup and homemade sourdough. All food and drink made from ingredients that have been locally sourced or foraged from the land around us. These evenings promise to be a truly magical experience, we can't wait to share them with you! £30pp per session.

Wild about Exmoor Dark Sky Celebratory Meal, Stargaze and Walk

A photo of people looking at a starry sky

We have teamed together with the Exford Bridge Tea Rooms, which is one of Exmoor National Park’s Dark Sky Reserve Hubs to deliver a Dark Sky Celebratory Event which everyone is welcome to book onto. The event comprises a delicious home cooked meal, followed by an informative presentation all about Exmoor Dark Skies. If the weather is clear, we will head out for a short walk into the Dark Sky Reserve to stargaze, using the latest laser and computer guided telescopes and equipment.  If the weather is inclement, we will stay in the warmth and cosiness of the tea rooms and go “star hopping” using the indoor virtual planetarium projector instead. £43 adult, £23 child.

The Exmoor Feast

Photo of stag

Spend a day in the heart of Exmoor learning to forage, butcher, and cook game and a variety of wild foods culminating in a wild food feast around the campfire. It’s very much a hands-on sort of day, where you’ll learn a combination of open fire cooking principles with hot and cold smoking techniques. The Game School Team are passionate about locally sourced and sustainable game, so the majority of what we eat will have been sourced within a few hundred metres of where it is being eaten. During the day you’ll learn about venison and deer management, hot and cold smoking methods, butchery and game meat preparation, wild plant identification and open fire cooking. £95pp or £170 for two people.

Talks at the Pavilion: Dark Skies with Seb Jay

Photo of people at a lecture

Always a very enjoyable talk. Seb Jay explores the wonders of this night-time world above our heads with help from some clever software he uses his robust knowledge of astronomy to take us on a journey out across the cosmos with our eyes, revealing what we can see by just looking up. Booking essential. £5 per person

Contact phone 01598752509

Talks at the Pavilion: Dark Skies with Seb Jay

Photo of people at a lecture

Always a very enjoyable talk. Seb Jay explores the wonders of this night-time world above our heads with help from some clever software he uses his robust knowledge of astronomy to take us on a journey out across the cosmos with our eyes, revealing what we can see by just looking up. Booking essential. £6 per person

Contact phone 01598752509

E-bike Night Rides with Exmoor Adventures

Milky way over Dunkery

Experience the thrill of E-Mountain Biking at night! We provide everything you need, including Specialized Tero e-bikes and powerful 1,200 lumen lights!  Meeting at our base at Porlock Weir, we will set you up with your e-bike and lights and explain how to use. We will then guide you on a selection of easy going off-road trails, and quiet roads, climbing up onto the moors. We will enjoy a few stops on the way, taking in the night sky, and enjoying being out at night! This trip is perfect for beginner/ intermediate riders who have done some mountain biking before. The route is likely to be roughly 20km. Exmoor is an International Dark Sky Reserve; what better way to see the spectacular stars than by exploring Exmoor by e-bike? Once you have had a chance to appreciate the incredible night sky you will experience the thrill of descending the trails by bike lights. £49 pp.

Contact email exmooradventures@gmail.com

Space Detectives @ The Poltimore Inn Observatory

This is an exciting evening all about stargazing under an Exmoor Dark Sky. Learn about stars, how they are formed, the sizes and distances between them, as well as the myths and legends associated with the constellations. Add all of that to our wonderful Virtual Reality journey through the stars as well! Remember to dress up warm. If you have booked a meal please turn up at 5.15pm to eat for 5.30pm. Adult £36.75 Children £26.25.

Exploring the Moon – Supper and talk with Simon Holbeche

Milky way over Dunkery

It’s been there in the skies since the earliest history of the Earth. It has forged our landscape through tides and guided fauna from the seas to the shores and on to the land. It has provided light at night peaking every 4 weeks to synchronise nature’s clock. So as humans developed it is no surprise the Moon was engrained in culture and mysticism. The scientific study of the Moon commenced long before the telescope was invented but this is when our understanding of the Moon began to change. Following a hot 2 course dinner, join Simon Holbeche from Bath Astronomers for a talk that will whisk you all the way to the modern day and challenge the next generations to resolve many remaining lunar conundrums.

Exploring the Moon Family Fun Day with Simon Holbeche

Milky way over Dunkery

Join Simon from Bath Astronomers and the Torre Cider Farm team for a moon themed family fun day. An introduction to meteorites, paper rocket launching, making craters, dressing up as astronauts, build your own rover, exploring the Moon with rovers, and mobile planetarium show of the Moon. Potential for solar observing if the Sun is out. Refreshments available throughout the day. Price £6.50 per child

Wild about Exmoor @ Triscombe Farm

Informative star gazing sessions guided by experienced astronomers, Jo and Pete Richardson who together run Space Detectives and Wild About Exmoor Light refreshments will be provided for your enjoyment. We are delighted to offer guests who book directly to stay with us, complimentary places  for these events, as a token of our appreciation for choosing Triscombe Farm for your getaway. £40 adults £20 children.

Dark Sky Discovery Trail Semi-Guided Walk with Astronomy Support

Photo of people looking up at a starry sky
Larkbarrow, near Exford

Semi-guided walk with Astronomy Support. Explore and enjoy this amazing dark skies walk. National Park staff will be on hand as you negotiate the flat two-mile walk with 360° views of the night sky. Whatever the weather, you'll feel the excitement of being surrounded by darkness and the sounds of nature. If skies are clear, our astronomers will help you identify planets, constellations and give an overview of our place in the universe. £5 per adult, children free. Flexible arrival between 5.45pm and 6.30pm

Planetarium Session South Molton

stars over wimbleball
The Town Hall, 5 Broad St, South Molton, England EX36 3AB

Book a 45 minute after school session in one of the Country's largest mobile planetariums where you will be immersed under spectacular night skies with experienced science teacher and present Simon Ould from Space Odyssey . A memorable experience for all ages (45 minute session suitable for younger children). Please arrive 15 minutes before you session begins.

Astronomy Lecture with Professor Roger Davies

Milky way over Dunkery

The search for distant worlds: the incredible story of the discovery of planets beyond the Solar System

We are delighted to welcome back Professor Roger Davies from Oxford University to our Dark Skies Festival this year to lead an informative talk at South Molton. Join him as he delves beyond the Solar System and explains how Voyager’s famous picture of the `pale blue dot’ showed just how small and isolated planet Earth is. How could astronomers possibly find planets orbiting around other stars? We’ll trace the story of this discovery, one of the most important of the twentieth century, and the follow-up work which has resulted in the detection of over 5000 `exo-planets’.

Roger Davies is an astronomer and emeritus Professor at the University of Oxford. He has observed at many of the world’s leading observatories including those in the United States, the Canary Islands, Hawaii, Chile, and Australia. He has a passion for communicating astronomy to the public speaking regularly at schools, clubs and events. He has led tours to observe both the Northern Lights and Solar eclipses, most recently to Mexico in April 2024.

Q&A following the talk. Arrive 7pm for 7.30pm start. Tea/Coffee/Biscuits £8 per person.

Planetarium Session in South Molton

FULLY BOOKED! Book an evening session in one of the Country's largest mobile planetariums where you will be immersed under spectacular night skies with experienced science teacher and present Simon Ould from Space Odyssey . A memorable experience for all ages and a must for anyone who's never had a go. Please arrive 15 minutes before you session begins. Adult £7, Under 16s £5

Planetarium Session in South Molton

Book an evening session in one of the Country's largest mobile planetariums where you will be immersed under spectacular night skies with experienced science teacher and present Simon Ould from Space Odyssey . A memorable experience for all ages and a must for anyone who's never had a go. Please arrive 15 minutes before you session begins. Adult £7, Under 16s £5

Viking Invaders Bird Walk

Ring ouzel
Mounsey Gate Grid ref: SS 892 319

As Autumn arrives on Exmoor so do a variety of migrating birds from colder climes, seeking to enjoy our relatively milder UK winter.

Join local bird enthusiasts for a 3-mile circular walk on Varle Hill, near Dulverton. Learn how to identify some of these 'Viking Invaders'. Species you might see include Redwing, Fieldfare and Ring Ouzel. Suitable for beginners and those with some knowledge of birds.

Tickets £5. Booking essential

E-bike Night Rides with Exmoor Adventures

Milky way over Dunkery

Experience the thrill of E-Mountain Biking at night! We provide everything you need, including Specialized Tero e-bikes and powerful 1,200 lumen lights!  Meeting at our base at Porlock Weir, we will set you up with your e-bike and lights and explain how to use. We will then guide you on a selection of easy going off-road trails, and quiet roads, climbing up onto the moors. We will enjoy a few stops on the way, taking in the night sky, and enjoying being out at night! This trip is perfect for beginner/ intermediate riders who have done some mountain biking before. The route is likely to be roughly 20km. Exmoor is an International Dark Sky Reserve; what better way to see the spectacular stars than by exploring Exmoor by e-bike? Once you have had a chance to appreciate the incredible night sky you will experience the thrill of descending the trails by bike lights. £49 pp.

Contact email exmooradventures@gmail.com

Dark Skies Dinner and a chat with Professor Roger Davies

The ultimate dark skies experience with a talk on black holes and galaxies. Book to stay with us for two nights and discover the magic of the night skies and all that twinkles!  We are proud to be a part of the Dark Skies association and once you experience the night skies, in our garden, wrapped up with a hot chocolate in hand, you will see why.  Included in your stay is a star gazing hamper with comfy blankets, a thermos with your drink of choice, night vision binoculars, and a stargazing map. We even have our very own telescope! Join us for a 2-course dinner on Wednesday 23 October and discover the magic of the night skies and all that twinkles with a talk about the stars with Professor Roger Davies speaking about galaxies and black holes! Please call 01643 800400 to book.

Contact phone 01643 800400

Dark Skies dinner with Professor Davies

followed by stargazing in the garden at The Luttrell Arms Hotel, Dunster.

Celebrating the Exmoor Dark Skies Festival, join us for a 2-course dinner and discover the magic of the night skies as we search for 'exo planets' and blow your mind as you discover just how small planet Earth is!

After dinner (served in the restaurant) join Professor Roger Davies for hot chocolates in the garden, as he takes you on a guided tour of our galaxy!

Exmoor National Park is a world famous dark skies reserve, and as part of this festival we invite you for this special and educational experience.

Dinner, bed and breakfast from just £175 in a standard room (based on 2 adults sharing)

Call to book! 01643 821555

Contact email becca@luttrellarms.co.uk

"In The Night Sky" - Supper, Evening Talk and VR Experience with Space Detectives

Join us for an evening that will take you on an experience like no other where you will not only “see” space but “feel” it too! Starting with a hearty supper, you will then be taken on a journey into the stars by Jo and Pete from ‘Space Detectives’, a team of astronomers who have been running Space and Stargazing events for many years. Learn about the origins of stars and how planets form, explore how our ancestors would have seen the night sky centuries ago, and uncover the myths and legends of constellation patterns. Some stargazing is up next, if the weather is favourable, using high end “Go To” telescopes and laser guided star hopping. The evening will end on a Virtual journey into space, with a Virtual Reality Showtime headset experience! Ticket price includes supper, talk, star gazing and VR headset experience. Suitable for age 12+. Ticket price is £25 pp.

Exmoor Dark Skies Stargazing break

Milky way over Dunkery
Early Spring Stargazing weekend

The Yarn Market Hotel in Dunster, based within Exmoor National Park, Europe’s first designated Dark Skies Reserve, is hosting an early Spring Stargazing weekend. The break is on a full board basis and includes Sunday lunch. A programme of activities takes place over the weekend, led by expert Terry Evans, who will provide fascinating talks and attend the evening stargazing sessions. If the weather should not be perfect to offer clear skies on any evening an alternative programme will be in place. The break is suitable for anyone with an interest in astronomy, at any level of experience. Young enthusiasts are also encouraged and there is a discount of 50% for under 20’s sharing a room with adults.

Dark Skies Yoga with Mooryoga and The Root Project

Photo of people looking up at a starry sky

Sorry this event is now fully booked.

Rewild and reconnect under the dark skies of Exmoor National Park. Join us for three intimate evenings of Yoga under the stars. A chance to connect with nature, rewild yourself and embark upon a 'Dark Skies Yoga' adventure in the heart of Exmoor. On arrival we will enjoy kombucha and a light snack before we take a short walk through the meadow where we will gather together for some yoga under the stars. We will then connect together around a fire to enjoy some heart-warming chai tea, spicy pumpkin soup and homemade sourdough. All food and drink made from ingredients that have been locally sourced or foraged from the land around us. These evenings promise to be a truly magical experience, we can't wait to share them with you! £30pp per session.

Planetarium Sessions at Minehead Eye

Milky way over Dunkery

Book an immersive 45/60 minute session in the Space Odyssey Planetarium and learn about space and the universe from Simon Ould - an experienced science teacher and Fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society. The shorter sessions are slightly more suited for families with younger children. All those attending will have access to Minehead Eye Boulder Wall, fun children’s activities and the onsite cafe will be open providing  refreshments so why not make a day of it? Sessions all day from 9.30am
Adults £7, Under 16s £5

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 half-term. (Donations requested)

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

Planetarium Sessions at Minehead Eye

Milky way over Dunkery

Book an immersive 45/60 minute session in the Space Odyssey Planetarium and learn about space and the universe from Simon Ould - an experienced science teacher and Fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society. The shorter sessions are slightly more suited for families with younger children. All those attending will have access to Minehead Eye Boulder Wall, fun children’s activities and the onsite cafe will be open providing  refreshments so why not make a day of it? Sessions all day from 9.30am
Adults £7, Under 16s £5

Planetarium Sessions at Minehead Eye

Milky way over Dunkery

Book an immersive 45/60 minute session in the Space Odyssey Planetarium and learn about space and the universe from Simon Ould - an experienced science teacher and Fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society. The shorter sessions are slightly more suited for families with younger children. All those attending will have access to Minehead Eye Boulder Wall, fun children’s activities and the onsite cafe will be open providing  refreshments so why not make a day of it? Sessions all day from 9.30am
Adults £7, Under 16s £5

Planetarium Sessions at Minehead Eye

Milky way over Dunkery

Book an immersive 45/60 minute session in the Space Odyssey Planetarium and learn about space and the universe from Simon Ould - an experienced science teacher and Fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society. The shorter sessions are slightly more suited for families with younger children. All those attending will have access to Minehead Eye Boulder Wall, fun children’s activities and the onsite cafe will be open providing  refreshments so why not make a day of it? Sessions all day from 9.30am
Adults £7, Under 16s £5

All Through the Night: Why Our Lives Depend on Dark Skies

Walk and talk with Dani Robertson, a Dark Sky Officer for Snowdonia National Park and author of All Through the Night: Why Our Lives Depend on Dark Skies.

As a society we have closed our curtains to the darkness, now Dani urges you to cast those curtains wide, step out of your front door and let the darkness pull you in.

99% of Western Europeans live under light polluted skies, but what is this doing to our health? Our wellbeing? Our connection to the cycles of nature? Our wildlife, too, has been cast into the harsh glare of our light addiction, with devastating impacts. Discover Why darkness is so important - to plants, to animals, and to ourselves – and why we must protect it all costs.

This book is a celebration of all things that go bump in the night and the joy that can be found when the sun goes down.

'Woven through All Through the Night is a wonderful story of what natural darkness means to Dani. Her story is more than an anecdote, it's a powerful recounting of what is lost when the night burns like day, and the simple steps we can all take to reclaim natural darkness to benefit us all.’ Ruskin Hartley, Executive Director at International Dark-Sky Association

ALL AGES WELCOME - 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. SORRY NO DOGS on this special event.

Booking essential. Walk & Talk + Book £17 (rrp £9.99PB) Walk & Talk £12 Children Under 16 FREE

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

Planetarium Sessions at Minehead Eye

Milky way over Dunkery

Book an immersive 45/60 minute session in the Space Odyssey Planetarium and learn about space and the universe from Simon Ould - an experienced science teacher and Fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society. The shorter sessions are slightly more suited for families with younger children. All those attending will have access to Minehead Eye Boulder Wall, fun children’s activities and the onsite cafe will be open providing  refreshments so why not make a day of it? Sessions all day from 9.30am
Adults £7, Under 16s £5

Fireside Storytelling in The Doone Valley

Led by a National Trust Ranger, sit around the campfire in the newly built Lorna Doone forest school and listen to children’s stories told under the stars. With a hot drink and marshmallows. £5 pp

Dark Sky Event with Space Detectives

Photo of people looking up at a starry sky

Super stargazing event run by our resident astronomy team Jo and Pete Richardson from Space Detectives. They will treat you to an informative stargazing introduction in our fully equipped studio overlooking Wimbleball Lake. Afterwards, we will enjoy a home cooked farmhouse meal by the fire! Following supper, we will head up the lane for laser guided and high end telescopic observations if the skies are clear. If not, we will return to the studio for stories of the stars using the indoor planetarium projector. Cost £30 adults. Book via Gillian Payne 01398 371244 or holworthyfarm@aol.com

Contact phone 01398 371244 Contact email holworthyfarm@aol.com

E-bike Night Rides with Exmoor Adventures

Milky way over Dunkery

Experience the thrill of E-Mountain Biking at night! We provide everything you need, including Specialized Tero e-bikes and powerful 1,200 lumen lights!  Meeting at our base at Porlock Weir, we will set you up with your e-bike and lights and explain how to use. We will then guide you on a selection of easy going off-road trails, and quiet roads, climbing up onto the moors. We will enjoy a few stops on the way, taking in the night sky, and enjoying being out at night! This trip is perfect for beginner/ intermediate riders who have done some mountain biking before. The route is likely to be roughly 20km. Exmoor is an International Dark Sky Reserve; what better way to see the spectacular stars than by exploring Exmoor by e-bike? Once you have had a chance to appreciate the incredible night sky you will experience the thrill of descending the trails by bike lights. £49 pp.

Contact email exmooradventures@gmail.com

Gin & Stargazing

WE ARE SORRY TO ADVISE THAT WE UNDERSTAND THIS EVENT HAS BEEN CANCELLED. Please contact the organisers direct with any queries (this is not an Exmoor National Park Authority organised event).

Enjoy a taste of the Spirit of Exmoor with the award-winning Wicked Wolf Gin crafters, Pat & Julie, followed by a planetary experience with Moor Wild Experiences. Discover the slow distillation process behind the 5 botanically blended premium gins, which will be enjoyed as 'tasters', alongside a nibble platter of cheeses and crusty bread - avoiding vinegary spoilers! Step outside Caffyn's Farm Barn Cafe into the dark open sky setting, to spot Saturn's rings, the Milky Way and galaxies in our Dobsonian telescopes. Enjoy an indoor projected show of Deep Space imagery and much more. £55 per head (adults only) Limited availability. Why not book a dinner at Caffyn's in advance?

Contact email stay@exmoorcoastholidays.co.uk

Wild Mushroom Forage and Feast with Joe Szocs

Photo of people looking up at a starry sky

It’s a beautiful time of the year to be out foraging for seasonal flavours and wild mushroom hunting. Come and explore the valley of Oare with our experienced guide and fungi expert, Joe Szocs. Learn how to find, identify and forage mushrooms sustainably, before enjoying a freshly prepared lunch with some wild gathered ingredients. **** Sorry, this event has now sold out ****

Space-themed Craft Session for Children

Milky way over Dunkery

A free drop-in arts and crafts session all themed around the starry skies and moon. Materials provided but donations to CareMoor welcome. No need to book.

Family Astro Party with Exmoor National Park and Space Detectives

Presentation and space-themed workshop with fun experiments and activities led by astronomer Jo Richardson from Space Detectives and National Park staff. Pause for your picnic tea before a Ranger guided night walk, more stargazing activities and telescopes. Hot drinks and snacks for sale. Great for children. £7pp

Cliff Railway Spooktacular Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway

Photo of people looking up at a starry sky
Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway Lynmouth (bottom station) EX35 6EQ Lynton (top station) EX35 6HW

Do you Dare to ride the railway in the dark? Spooky goings on, terrifying tales, staff in costume and lots more!  Normal costs apply (all single tickets) £3.50 per adult, £2.20 per child
No booking required, just turn up

Stargazing Sunday Roast @ Nettlecombe Court

Dunkery Beacon Keith Trueman

Discover Saturn's rings, the moon and galaxies close up, under Exmoor's darkest skies at Nettlecombe Court Estate. After a hearty 2-course Roast Dinner and hot dessert in the Grade I listed Great Hall, step outside a short distance onto the lawns and peak through the collection of Dobsonian telescopes with your guides, Liz and Gary. Enjoy a Deep Space projected show in the beautiful Trevelyan room, surrounded by 900 years of history. Dinner is served  'refectory style', dining at long tables. No dogs in the centre, dogs can be walked with a lead around the grounds. £30 pp

Dark Skies Quiz and Stargazing Evening

Dunkery Beacon Keith Trueman

Sorry, this event has been cancelled.

Contact phone 01568 428005 Contact email shoulsbry@gmail.com

Dark Skies in Watercolour, Painting Sessions for Children

Join Sophie Tyler from Exmoor National Park for a 1½ hour creative watercolour painting session. Most suited to ages 7-11. All materials provided. Two session times to choose from. £4 per session

Dark Skies in Watercolour, Painting Sessions for Children

Join Sophie Tyler from Exmoor National Park for a 1½ hour creative watercolour painting session. Most suited to ages 7-11. All materials provided. Two session times to choose from. £4 per session

Stargazing Evening

stars over wimbleball

A fun, educational evening with astronomers Jo & Pete Richardson from Space Detectives (www.spacedetectives.com). An opportunity to learn all about stars, galaxies and the Exmoor Dark Sky Reserve and put questions to our experts! We’ll have a telescope available to view the stars and planets and a planetarium projection. Supper will be provided. Plenty of parking. £30/adult, £10/child under 14. To book please email polly@westerclose.co.uk or phone 01643 831302.

Contact phone 01643 831302 Contact email polly@westerclose.co.uk

Dark Skies in Watercolour, Painting Sessions for Children

10am session is now full. 1pm session has limited spaces left.

Hidden 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

Dark Skies in Watercolour, Painting Sessions for Children

Join Sophie Tyler from Exmoor National Park for a 1½ hour creative watercolour painting session. Most suited to ages 7-11. All materials provided. Two session times to choose from. £4 per session

Art Exhibition by Beryl Perriam

Exhibition

Beryl Perriam is a self-taught artist, she started painting and drawing 45 years ago and was very quickly taken on by many suppliers of art material to demonstrate their use.

Beryl paints in acrylic oils and pastels as well as coloured pencils and graphite, she has taught numerous artists in these mediums.

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

Dark Skies Wildlife Walks with Night Vision Cameras

Join one of our escorted walks along the Doone Valley with our ranger team. Using night vision cameras, you will get to see what incredible evening wildlife calls the valley home. Choose between 5pm and 6.30pm. The walk will last approximately 90 minutes. Refreshments available from the Buttery Tea Rooms. Adult £12 Child £7.

Wildlife After Dark Talk with Wildlife Expert Stephen Powles

stars over wimbleball

Join us at the Royal Oak in Withypool for a two course supper followed by an interesting and informative ‘Wildlife after Dark’ talk with Stephen Powles; a former vet, wildlife photographer and engaging presenter. The cost is £25 for adults and £10 for children including dinner. There will also be a raffle with all proceeds going to CareMoor. 5pm (dinner) talk to start at 6pm. Booking is essential so call Gail or Janet on 01643 831506
or email joinus@royaloakwithypool.co.uk to book your place.

Contact phone 01643 831506 Contact email joinus@royaloakwithypool.co.uk

E-bike Night Rides with Exmoor Adventures

Milky way over Dunkery

Experience the thrill of E-Mountain Biking at night! We provide everything you need, including Specialized Tero e-bikes and powerful 1,200 lumen lights!  Meeting at our base at Porlock Weir, we will set you up with your e-bike and lights and explain how to use. We will then guide you on a selection of easy going off-road trails, and quiet roads, climbing up onto the moors. We will enjoy a few stops on the way, taking in the night sky, and enjoying being out at night! This trip is perfect for beginner/ intermediate riders who have done some mountain biking before. The route is likely to be roughly 20km. Exmoor is an International Dark Sky Reserve; what better way to see the spectacular stars than by exploring Exmoor by e-bike? Once you have had a chance to appreciate the incredible night sky you will experience the thrill of descending the trails by bike lights. £49 pp.

Contact email exmooradventures@gmail.com

Dark Skies Wildlife Walks with Night Vision Cameras

Join one of our escorted walks at Heddon Valley with the National Trust ranger team, using night vision cameras you will get to see what incredible evening wildlife calls the valley home. At the start of the event visitors will be able to purchase hot and cold drinks and snacks at the Pantry. Adult £12 Child £6.

Ranger Guided Walk up Dunkery Beacon

Milky way over Dunkery
from Webbers Post up to the top of Dunkery Beacon

Join National Park Ranger Tim Parish for a guided walk from Webbers Post up to the top of Dunkery Beacon - the highest point on Exmoor as the sun sets. There'll be astronomers on hand to guide you around the constellations if skies are clear. Under clear skies the 360° views of the night sky will be awe-inspiring but even on a cloudy, wet day we'll make our way up listening for the deer and sounds of Exmoor at night. Parts of the 4-mile walk (around 3 hours) will be on uneven, narrow paths in the dark, and use of head torches is discouraged. A reasonable level of fitness is required. Adult £5, Under 16s £3.

Dark Skies Wildlife Walks with Night Vision Camera

Photo of people looking up at a starry sky

Join one of our escorted walks at Heddon Valley with the National Trust ranger team, using night vision cameras you will get to see what incredible evening wildlife calls the valley home. At the start of the event visitors will be able to purchase hot and cold drinks and snacks at the Pantry. Adult £12 Child £6.

Exmoor Ponies & Wildlife at Night

Photo of people looking up at a starry sky

A family friendly evening meeting Exmoor ponies and finding out about Exmoor's nocturnal wildlife with our staff team. Hot chocolate and marshmallows. Drink and biscuits included. £7 Adult £5 Child. Book by emailing info@exmoorponycentre.org.uk

Contact email info@exmoorponycentre.org.uk

Dark Skies Wildlife Walks with Night Vision Camera

Photo of people looking up at a starry sky

Join one of our escorted walks at Heddon Valley with the National Trust ranger team, using night vision cameras you will get to see what incredible evening wildlife calls the valley home. At the start of the event visitors will be able to purchase hot and cold drinks and snacks at the Pantry. Adult £12 Child £6.