Local Attractions
There is so much to see or do in the local areas of Dunster, Exmoor and Somerset. Below are a few of our "must see" attractions...
For a full range of local attractions why not check out Visit Exmoor's website here
Red Stag Safari
Exmoor Safaris by Exmoor people
"We will take you on a Safari over wild Exmoor to show you the rugged coastline, heather moors, steeply sloping combes with ancient woodland and fast flowing rivers. We believe you should enjoy your safari in comfort so we were the first operator to use a Land Rover Discovery which is more comfortable than the LR Defender used by most operators. Our Discovery 4 has air suspension giving a softer ride than the more rigid bumpy suspension in the Defender. There is air conditioning, more seating space and legroom and better visibility through larger windows compared to the Defender. The Discovery has the legendary off road ability of Land Rover combined with the comfort of a luxury car. We take smaller groups than some so passengers are not cramped. All seats are forward facing. We are fully licensed by West Somerset Council and insured – some operators are not – Beware!"
RSS is run by Andrew Turner, who is Somerset born and bred. His family have lived and farmed on Exmoor for over 200 years. Andrew is the guide who will use his local knowledge and experience gained from a lifetime on Exmoor to ensure you have the best chance of seeing the wildlife including the Exmoor Ponies, Red Deer and Birds of Prey. He will take you to remote places and to the best vantage points to enjoy the panoramic scenery, explain the geology, history and customs of the Moor. He will show you the bronze age settlements with their cairns, barrows and standing stones. You will ford rivers, see the Doone Valley and hear the tale of Lorna Doone. Learn about farming practices from someone who has actually worked on Exmoor Farms.
Exmoor Distillery Tours
Exmoor Distillery are open 7 days a week for distillery tours and tastings - find out how they produce their premium spirits and try the whole range of Gins, Rums and Vodka.
The history of Exmoor Distillery...
Located in the idyllic Somerset countryside, near the border of Devon, Exmoor Distillery sits on the southern gateway to Exmoor at Dulverton, on the edge of the Exmoor National Park.
This historic location, mentioned in the Domesday Book, is the perfect setting in which to distill one of the UK’s finest small batch artisan gins.
With the refined juniper flavour dancing in your mouth, where better to enjoy this premium spirit, than in the rolling hills and valleys of the English countryside at any time of year.
Developed from our own passion for fine spirits, Exmoor Distillery is a small family run distillery, sharing our love for a premium quality gin.
After sampling many of the world’s gins on our travels, there was nothing that quite hit the spot, so we decided to produce our own. Customers love the complex flavours of the juniper and botanicals that give our gin a decidedly country taste and smooth texture.
West Somerset Railway
Our local heritage railway is a true country branch line of the old Great Western Railway. It's full of fascination whether you are looking for a nostalgic ride back in time through lovely countryside or to study the railway and industrial heritage which our line preserves. Perfect for all
To plan your visit, click on the button below
Dunster Castle
An ancient castle and comfortable country home with dramatic vistas and subtropical gardens
Dramatically sited on a wooded hill, a castle has existed here since at least Norman times, with an impressive medieval gatehouse and ruined tower giving a reminder of its turbulent history.
The castle that you see today became a lavish country home during the 19th century for the Luttrell family, who lived here for 600 years. The castle boasts spectacular views toward the Bristol channel, the Quantock hills and up to the moors of Exmoor.
The Golden Retriever Experience
The Golden Retriever Experience (The GRE) is a family-run attraction in Minehead, West Somerset that gives the unique opportunity for you and your family and friends to have a personal encounter with a pack of trained Golden Retrievers.
A Fantastic family day out with our four legged friends.
7 Days a Week 11am - 6pm between March and October.
Exmoor Owl and Hawk Centre
For a great family day out with a difference, with Owl & Hawk Flying Experiences, Pony Experience for young Children, Individual Horse Rides for Experienced Riders, Gentle Horse & Rider Workshop and more...
Minehead & West Somerset Golf Club
'Stay & Play'
Would you like a discount on your green fees at Minehead & West Somerset Golf Club? Stay with us and get a discounted rate on your golf - just mention you are staying with us when you book your golf with Minehead & West Somerset Golf Club.
Minehead & West Somerset Golf Club is located in Minehead, just a 5 minute drive from our hotel.
Greencombe Gardens
Greencombe, is situated alongside the wooden slopes overlooking the Bristol Channel and was started in 1946 by Horace Stroud. It is only a 3.5 acre strip, but full of beautiful and rare plants.
The garden fell into the care and custody of Joan Loraine in September 1966. All you can see in the organic garden today is due to her dedication and love for this delightful woodland garden.
Valley of The Rocks
This fascinating valley is a U-shaped dry valley that is parallel to the sea. It lies about ½ mile to the west of Lynton. It is well known for its feral goats that roam freely and often quite hair-raisingly on the jagged cliff edges. It is thought that during the Ice Age the ice sheet prevented the East Lyn River from reaching the sea on its normal route and was diverted westwards. When the ice sheet retreated the river was able to resume its original path, leaving this valley riverless. Over the years the valley has silted up to become the U-shape we now see, not caused by a glacier. It is well-known for its unusual rock formations and caves.
Facilities: Mother Meldrum’s Cafe provides a range of refreshments, with public toilets and a picnic area at the Lynton end of the valley.
Culbone Church
If you fancy a coastal walk with a view, try the Porlock Weir to Culborne Church route via the South West Coastal path.
There are spectacular views across the Bristol Channel on a clear day, and the route passes the romantic remnants of Lord Byron's daughter's gothic mansion, with tunnels carved out of the hillside by nineteenth-century Swiss mountaineers.
Culbone Church, is located in the village of Culbone in Somerset and is said to be the smallest parish church in England. The church, dedicated to the Welsh saint Beuno, has been designated by English Heritage as a Grade I listed building and the churchyard cross is Grade II*. The church is recorded in the Domesday Book.
Exmoor Adventures
Calling all adrenaline junkies, Exmoor Adventures offers a huge range of award winning outdoor activities and courses, suitable for all ages and abilities, within Exmoor, the Quantock Hills and North Devon. Try your hand at kayaking, mountain biking, rock climbing, archery, coasteering, orienteering, paddle boarding, raft building, tree climbing or for those of you who want to take it a little easier, why not hire an electric bike from them to explore the wonderful local areas.
Tropiquaria Zoo
Tropiquaria is in a unique setting on the edges of Exmoor and the Quantocks, close by the sea.
We are small zoo based in and around an old "Art Deco" BBC Radio Transmitter station. This Grade II Listed building houses our Tropical Hall, Nocturnal House and Aquarium. The grounds house our outdoor collection
We are also an animal sanctuary and work closely with the RSPCA and other exotic wildlife organisations, to help rescue and rehome animals.
Wild About Exmoor - Guided Walks & Star Gazing
"We provide guided walks and stargazing on Exmoor on a bespoke or group basis. Our walks are all geared to explore the best of Exmoor National Park and can be themed to enjoy the literary connection with poets such as Coleridge or novelists such as R.D.Blackmore, author of Lorna Doone. We are happy to share the history of a place such as the Roman Fortlet at Heddons Mouth and always include foraging, homemade cakes or a locally sourced picnic. We can also go on a walking safari seeking out red deer and/or Exmoor ponies.
Then at night time we can provide all sorts of opportunities for stargazing with or without a meal or even a forest walk to spot nightjars at Nutcombe Bottom!"
Exmoor Zoo
The zoo had in the past specialised in smaller animals, providing natural living spaces for many creatures no longer seen in the city zoos. Today, new exhibits exist for larger animals such as Puma, reindeer, maned wolves, meerkats, Cheetah, European wolves and to name but a few and of course the Exmoor beast! Sand Cats, Binturong, singing dogs, wolves, Carpathian lynx, Clouded leopards, many of whom are endangered in their habitat. The careful planting of shrubs and trees as they have matured, will keep you wondering what is next, providing a very relaxing and natural atmosphere.
Wimbleball Lake
Tucked away between the rolling hills of Exmoor, Wimbleball Lake boasts a large range of activities for families, couples and solo adventurers on and off the water. Choose between a variety of 2 hour Have a Go taster sessions in kayaking, paddleboarding, high ropes, archery, sailing and windsurfing or even a family canoe adventure. Or you can hire our equipment for an hour or two! You can also get launch permits to use your own equipment.
Rather stay on dry land? Why not explore the 9 miles of footpaths surrounding the lake or venture off the beaten path on our new orienteering course! If you’re feeling peckish there is a café on site to satisfy your need for coffee or ice cream and plenty of beautiful spots for a picnic overlooking the water.
The Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway
The Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway is the UK's only fully water powered railway and the highest and the steepest fully water powered railway in the World! This multi-award winning attraction was built in 1888 and operates just using renewable and sustainable fresh river water. The attraction and the Cliff Top Café holds the highest 'Gold' award for sustainable and ethical tourism, was voted by Which? as the UK's best Cliff Railway, and has multiple accolades for heritage engineering. With 862ft of steep track and an elevation of 500ft the railway provides a memorable experience, and coastal stunning views, that will complete any visit to the beautiful towns Lynton & Lynmouth. An attraction for all ages, in all weathers, opens daily at 10am and dogs and muddy boots are welcome too.
Exmoor Village Walks
Wander through time with a walking tour of Dunster Village
Join Jackie for a two-hour guided walk through this picturesque and fascinating village. Jackie brings the history of the place and its people to life, taking in all the major sites and stopping on the way at some beautiful views. The walk is suitable for all ages. Children can take part in the ‘I Spy’. Dogs are welcome.
For an additional fee, private tours can also be arranged to fit your schedule.
Contact Jackie on 07789 767710 or at exmoorvillagewalks@gmail.com for more information.
Booking is essential.
