This year, Exmoor celebrates the 70th anniversary of its designation as a National Park - and the 10th anniversary of the Exmoor Hill Farming Network (EHFN).
To mark these milestones, EHFN together with the Exmoor Society, have commissioned Exmoor Farms : A Year on the Moor, a photographic book and exhibition that will explore what it means to farm this beautiful corner of the UK’s uplands in the 21st century.
The project spans a farming year and includes profiles of farms, together with portraits of the people who live and work on them, and accounts of the activities, markets and shows that fill the year, highlighting the successes and challenges experienced.
Pop into Exmoor National Park Centre, Lynmouth to see some of the stunning photos from the book taken by Eleanor Davis. Open 10am – 5pm seven days a week (closed Christmas Day and Boxing Day)
You can meet author Victoria Eveleigh on Saturday 7th and Sunday 8th December between 10.30am and 12.30am.
The Yarn Market Hotel in Dunster, based within Exmoor National Park, is hosting a 3 night break over the New Year with fantastic entertainment each evening after dinner from veteran trumpeter John Shillito and his band the Riviera Ramblers. Our jazz breaks with John are a well established feature with Yarn Market Hotel guests and jazz aficionados from all over the UK and beyond. The South Devon band comprises six excellent musicians steeped in the nostalgic sounds of classic jazz and swing, and with 2 guitars, adds an additional “gypsy jazz” flavour, with echoes of New Orleans, Harlem and Paris. Residential weekend ticket only.
Embark on a unique photography walk designed to inspire creativity and sharpen your skills. Whether you're a seasoned photographer or just beginning your journey, this event offers something for everyone. Guided by passionate photographers, you'll explore stunning landscapes, Exmoor’s hidden gems of Tarr Steps while learning techniques that go beyond the lens.
This walk is about more than capturing beautiful images. It’s a chance to develop observational skills, appreciate light and composition, and practice patience – valuable traits both in photography and everyday life. Along the way, you'll engage with themes like storytelling, perspective, and the art of noticing details in the world around you.
The interactive, hands-on approach ensures you gain practical experience with your camera or smartphone, covering everything from basic settings to advanced creative techniques. Group discussions foster collaboration and idea-sharing, while one-on-one guidance helps tailor the experience to your needs.
By the end of the session, you’ll walk away with more than just stunning photos – you’ll have honed your ability to see the extraordinary in the ordinary, a skill that enriches both your photography and your daily experiences. Join us and discover how photography can transform the way you see the world.
All abilities and experience are catered for. Materials supplied, learn in a fun atmosphere with friendly tutor Chris Howe £23 per person for each two-hour session. Booking essential. Please contact Chris Howe for more information and to book:
Come and Stargaze with us and Space Detectives @ the Poltimore Observatory in North Molton. Experience the darkness of Exmoor skies, enhance your knowledge and have the opportunity to look through and observe the heavens with the observatory telescopes. In the event of cloudy skies, all is not lost as we will include star hopping using a virtual sky as well as take you on a space related journey using our Virtual Reality headsets.
Explore the ancient craft of willow basket weaving in this 3 hour hands-on workshop at Quince Honey Farm!
Using natural locally grown willow from the grounds of Quince Honey Farm, you will learn how to create a traditional stake and strand round basket and the weaving techniques to craft the base, side weave, and borders. Immerse yourself into the wonderful world of willow weaving and finish with a beautiful and practical basket to take home with you.
Come along and experience Europe's First Dark Sky Reserve at the Exmoor Dark Sky Hub with locally based "Wild about Exmoor." Enjoy a 3 course meal, a short presentation and then a walk into the darkness. Complete with laser guided and telescopic observations. If it's cloudy we will use our Virtual Sky instead and stay in the warmth of the tearooms.
Snowdrop Valley is a privately owned remote valley in a hidden part of Exmoor close to Wheddon Cross. The Badgworthy Land Company kindly allow access to the valley while the beautiful carpet of snowdrops is in bloom.
There are various walking routes for visitors to enjoy, the most popular being the shorter walks, which are approximately 1 mile down to the valley and looping back uphill for a further mile. Maps of the walks will be available from the parking kiosk, staffed from 9.00 – 4.00 each day.
Stargazing @ Holworthy Farm with Space Detectives is a warm and welcoming event with a 2 course home cooked farmhouse meal and he opportunity to gaze at the wonderous Exmoor Dark Skies from the edge of Wimbleball Lake. There is also the opportunity to stay overnight on a bed and breakfast basis.
Star Gazing -Looking at the Starry Night with presentation by Space Detectives Jo and Pete Richardson. £30 per person includes a hot 2 course supper, tea/coffee.
The Yarn Market Hotel in Dunster, based within Exmoor National Park, Europe’s first designated Dark Skies Reserve, is hosting an Autumn 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.
Inclusive charge £240.00 per person. No single supplements.
