With a history dating back 300 years, the Royal Oak free house can be found in the heart of Exmoor. Recently re-opened under new management, the menu is created using seasonal local produce and guests can enjoy their food in either of the inn's two bars or restaurant. As well as a range of local beers, the inn also serves an extensive selection of whiskies and wine.
A typical country watering hole that dates from the 1750s, dogs are welcome and traditional home-made pub food is served.
In a glorious position next to the River Barle, Tarr Farm does great lunches, cream teas and bistro-style dinners; choose from Exmoor lamb, Devon Red Ruby beef, fresh Cornish seafood, local venison and game.
An absolute must for anyone staying in the area, this gem of a walk takes you to one of the oldest bridges in the world, through a peaceful valley and ancient woodland. Choose from a short stroll to a longer 12 mile trek.
Drive up onto Exmoor from Wheddon Cross and park at Dunkery Gate just as you get on National Trust land, then choose an open moorland walk to the top of Dunkery Beacon via a long or short route, where you will get a view over Porlock and across the Bristol Channel to Wales.
One of Exmoor's oldest coaching inns. With real ales and a roaring log fire in the cosy bar. For special occasion dining, try the local meat and fish in the restaurant.
Starting around Ilfracombe and moving along the coast through Lynton, Lynmouth and Porlock before ending in the Dunster area, it is held at the beginning of May for a scenic Spring series of walks.
Snowdrop Valley lies on the River Anvill in eastern Exmoor, near the village of Wheddon Cross. The valley has become such a popular spot for walking during snowdrop season (usually February) that the road is closed off to general traffic and the Exmoor National Park Authority operates a park-and-ride service from Wheddon Cross to Snowdrop Valley during this period. (See website for regularly updated details.) Welllies or walking shoes recommended.
The Barle River rushes through Tarr Steps all winter, slowing to a trickle during the summer. The bridge is a medieval clapper bridge, perhaps one of the most photographed in the world. It's a lovely spot for a picnic.
Situated in the highest village on Exmoor, it's been serving travellers for around 200 years.
A few years ago, the Classic Cottages team started writing about where we live and why we love it. Over time these have evolved into the Classic Guide.
17 May 2026
With a history dating back 300 years, the Royal Oak free house can be found in the heart of Exmoor. Recently re-opened under new management, the menu is created using seasonal local produce and guests can enjoy their food in either of the inn's two bars or restaurant. As well as a range of local beers, the inn also serves an extensive selection of whiskies and wine.
13 November 2022
A typical country watering hole that dates from the 1750s, dogs are welcome and traditional home-made pub food is served.
1 August 2022
In a glorious position next to the River Barle, Tarr Farm does great lunches, cream teas and bistro-style dinners; choose from Exmoor lamb, Devon Red Ruby beef, fresh Cornish seafood, local venison and game.
27 September 2020
An absolute must for anyone staying in the area, this gem of a walk takes you to one of the oldest bridges in the world, through a peaceful valley and ancient woodland. Choose from a short stroll to a longer 12 mile trek.
24 November 2011
Drive up onto Exmoor from Wheddon Cross and park at Dunkery Gate just as you get on National Trust land, then choose an open moorland walk to the top of Dunkery Beacon via a long or short route, where you will get a view over Porlock and across the Bristol Channel to Wales.
11 April 2011
One of Exmoor's oldest coaching inns. With real ales and a roaring log fire in the cosy bar. For special occasion dining, try the local meat and fish in the restaurant.
Starting around Ilfracombe and moving along the coast through Lynton, Lynmouth and Porlock before ending in the Dunster area, it is held at the beginning of May for a scenic Spring series of walks.
Snowdrop Valley lies on the River Anvill in eastern Exmoor, near the village of Wheddon Cross. The valley has become such a popular spot for walking during snowdrop season (usually February) that the road is closed off to general traffic and the Exmoor National Park Authority operates a park-and-ride service from Wheddon Cross to Snowdrop Valley during this period. (See website for regularly updated details.) Welllies or walking shoes recommended.
The Barle River rushes through Tarr Steps all winter, slowing to a trickle during the summer. The bridge is a medieval clapper bridge, perhaps one of the most photographed in the world. It's a lovely spot for a picnic.
Situated in the highest village on Exmoor, it's been serving travellers for around 200 years.