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ACTIVITIES FOR 2021

1 Discover with Red Stag 4x4 Safari

Hop in Andrew’s 4x4 for a three to four hour safari. Cross local rivers, take in panoramic scenery and have the best chance to spot the wild red deer and Exmoor ponies. Andrew has a fabulous knowledge of the landscape, birds and wildlife. There’s plenty of space in the Land Rover Discovery for up to six people. Book in advance with Andrew at www.redstagsafari.co.uk email [email protected] or call 01643 841831 (evenings).

2 Take the high road along the A39

We love this road trip – so dig out your sunnies and your favourite tunes and hit the road! Take the A39 from or and head to . The scenery is stunning with plenty of stopping off points en-route. And on your return, take the toll road for a different view through the woods – just remember to make sure you have some change to pay the toll (£2.50).

3 Exmoor Pony Centre

The Exmoor Pony Centre situated in , Dulverton, is home to around 20 ponies and foals that arrive from the moor. The centre offers the chance to get close to an Exmoor pony and chat to the staff and volunteers about their work. Free entry but donations are welcome. Call 01398 323093 or visit www.exmoorponycentre.org.uk to pre-book your visit and for directions.

4 Pick your own Exmoor Blueberries

Visit this family run planation of 12 acres near the village of Exford in the centre of Exmoor National Park. The blueberries are maintained by nature, pollinated by bumblebees and protected from the wind by long grasses. Picking starts in August and picnic tables are provided so take your own goodies. www.exmoorblueberries.co.uk or [email protected] 07583 187558/01643 831558

5 Travel back in time at Cleeve Abbey

History fans will love the ruins of the medieval monastery at – and you often have it to yourself. With cloisters, an angel roof and a lovely country setting, you can imagine what monastic life would have been like 800 years ago. Find out more here: www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/ places/cleeve-abbey/

6 Discover Rockpools and Fossils

From Blue Anchor Bay and Watchet to , this stretch of West coast is great for discovering fossils and rockpools. There’s plenty of parking, space, and a choice of some great beaches for all the family to choose from. Just follow the road signs from the A39 towards . Blue Anchor Bay | Somerset | UK Beach Guide (thebeachguide.co.uk) 10 activities 2021.qxp_Layout 1 26/03/2021 18:51 Page 4

2 9 Weir Boat Shed Museum Minehead A39 Road Trip 8 Stargazing A39 6 6 Dunkery 10 7 Beacon Walk Blue Anchor Bay Kilve Dunster A39 Exmoor 4 5 Beach Blueberries 1 Red Stag Cleeve Abbey 4x4 Safari

A396 Exmoor Pony Centre 3 www.exmoorcharactercottages.co.uk

7 Dunster

Dunster is one of ’s most beautiful and fascinating medieval villages. Soak up the history at the Yarn Market, water mill and ancient packhorse bridge. Browse the lovely independent shops nestled side-by-side on the cobbled streets, and enjoy morning coffee, lunch or afternoon tea at one of the many cafes. If you’ve got longer to spend, walk the Tall Trees Trail at Nutcombe Bottom or hike up to Conygar Tower for panoramic views to coast and countryside.

8 See the Stars from the back garden

Lose yourself in the stars! Our local astronomer, Tim, will come to your Exmoor cottage with a telescope, and from a safe distance, talk you through the skies above and what you can see. Perfect for stargazers young and old. Contact Lucy to pre-book this one.

9 Porlock Weir Boat Shed Museum

Packed full of fascinating objects and information on nautical topics, this is an interesting and free museum located in Porlock’s historic harbour. Make an afternoon of it, enjoying the views of the fisherman’s cottages, the harbour itself and the eclectic traders under the arches, including a glass maker and tasty Thai street food café. If in season, you can also sample the local Porlock oysters. https://porlockweir.co/galleries-shops-museums/

10 Walking Exmoor with the ‘Little Book of Walks’

Choose from 12 self-guided walks in our ‘Little Book of Walks’. We’ve put Dunkery Beacon as our chosen expedition, but the book spans the Exmoor national park including Tarr Steps, the Valley of Rocks, Countisbury, Lorna Doone Valley, Porlock Weir, Horner Wood, Selworthy and Dunster. Guests can use the leaflets in the Book – you’ll find a copy in your cottage. Whichever you choose, you’ll enjoy beautiful countryside, lots of wide open spaces, fabulous views and plenty of fresh air. 10 activities 2021.qxp_Layout 1 26/03/2021 18:50 Page 1

LUXURY SELF-CATERING HOLIDAY COTTAGES IN THE HEART OF EXMOOR

The Oval Pilgrim Corner The Old Sweet Shop Stone Barn

[email protected] www.exmoorcharactercottages.co.uk