Together with Involved Holidays, Simonsbath House Hotel offer guided walking holidays on Exmoor. Being one of the smallest National Parks in the UK, Exmoor has such a variety of walking in a small area. From rolling farmland, remote moors, ancient wooded valleys, quaint villages and dramatic coastlines. So come and join us on one of our holidays. Take in the sights, feel the history and soak up everything the stunning Exmoor National Park has to offer.
The guided walking holidays include;
– Dinner, Bed & Breakfast in the hotel
– Minibus transport if needed for walking locations
– Packed lunches for the walking days
-Knowledgeable and experienced local guides to keep you safe, navigate, show you the highlights and give stories of interest along the journey
To book a place on one of our walking holidays, please contact:
enquires@simonsbathhousehotel.co.uk
2025 dates
Self-Guided Walking
Use us as a base for Self Guided Walking on Exmoor. With many long distance trails nearby including:
- South West Coast Path
- Two Moors Way
- Coleridge Way
- Macmillan Way (West)
- Tarka Trail
There are countless other shorter route nearby if you are looking for more relaxed exploration of Exmoor (For more information on activities and where to go on Exmoor please see our information page) .
We can provide:
- Route cards
- Walking route advice from experienced and knowledgeable staff
- Packed lunches for walking days
- Minibus drop off / pick up for groups (available upon request)
Exmoor Information
Exmoor – It’s a different world!
Exmoor is one of the most beautiful places on earth – and its steeped in history, folklore and tradition, the 265 square miles of unparalleled natural beauty, offer spectacular scenery and endless views, from deep wooded combes to towering cliffs and hidden coves.
The area abounds with picturesque villages but one of the most attractive spots must be Simonsbath, in the heart of what the locals refer to as “Exmoor Proper”, overlooking the splendour of the Barle Valley. The views are breath-taking; a crystal clear river bubbles through the valley and heather clad hills reach as far as the eye can see.
Simonsbath House stood alone for over 150 years before the small hamlet developed in the 19th Century, with the local Church, St Lukes, built in 1856, presiding over the largest Parish in Somerset, some 56 square miles but with only 75 houses and 134 occupants.
There are many great walks from Simonsbath, notably down the River Barle and north through Ashcombe onto the high moor, overlooking the magnificent Exmoor coastline taking you across moorland and woodland where wild Exmoor ponies and red deer roam.
Within a short drive visit picturesque villages with good food pubs, stop off at Dunster with its mediaeval castle, Lynton & Lynmouth often called England’s little Switzerland, Porlock and the well-known weir, or discover delightful Dulverton. You can always find something to do in the attractive bustling seaside town of Minehead, or you could just spend your time exploring the six hundred of miles of footpaths and bridleways.
Drive across the moor to the 4 mile long beach (Blue Flag rated) at Woolacombe, ideal for small children and surfers alike. See the unique Braunton Burrows or walk the spectacular South West Coastal Path around Martinhoe, Ilfracombe and Combe Martin. Go deep into unspoilt countryside to the market town of South Molton or shop till you drop at the busy towns of Barnstaple or Taunton. Visit National Trust properties like Dunster Castle, Knightshayes Court near Tiverton, Arlington Court near Barnstaple all having wonderful gardens as does the quite outstanding RHS garden at Rosemoor near Great Torrington. Go fishing and sailing on several different reservoirs, Wimbleball Lake also has a children’s play area.
Whatever your interest, you’re sure to find lots and lots to see and do – all within about an hours drive of wherever you choose to stay. This corner of the UK offers something for everyone.
As you stand at the top of Dunkery Beacon turn north and look out over the Bristol Channel and into Wales, east to the Quantocks beyond. Dartmoor is in the south with extensive views of all of the land between the two moors, a more breathtaking view is difficult to imagine. You will probably be alone at dawn or dusk and its then you will feel and see Exmoor’s magic and understand why this natural Eden is a very special place and the perfect destination.”