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Event Days
Exmoor Events Calendar
How to use our Calendar
Here you will find a range of events and walks provided by Exmoor National Park Authority and other organisations. Each organisation is responsible for their own listings, ring the contact telephone numbers provided if you require additional information. (If you are the organiser of a local event and would like to submit it to appear in the calendar click here)
Use the tick boxes to filter the type of events you are interested in or leave the boxes blank to see all events. Tick as many boxes as you like, but please note you will only see events that meet all the categories you have ticked. For example if you are looking for an event that is both "free" and "great for families" and where "dogs are welcome" - then you need to tick all those boxes and then press "update calendar". The more boxes you select - the more events will be filtered out of the calendar to only leave those that meet your search criteria. You can view a week or a month at a time. Click on individual entries in the calendar for more information about the event.Search Events
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Christmas Art Exhibition
Saturday 18th November 2023
Location: Lanacre Barn Gallery, Lanacre Farm, Withypool
Duration: 16 days
Description: Free entry, open daily 11am - 5pm. Refreshments offered. Public conveniences. On two floors, no lift.Wonderful variety of works, sculpture, oil paintings, drawings, watercolours, photographs, printmaking and ceramics, with a strong Exmoor and N.Devon theme. Something for everyone including prints, cards and Christmas wreaths. You will receive a warm welcome. Plenty of off-road parking. Come on up to the moor, walk your dog, have a pub lunch and catch this exciting show. Please go to website for more information
More information
Dunster by Candlelight
Friday 1st December 2023 05:00 pm
Location: Dunster
Duration: 1 day and 4 hours
Description: The Event was started mainly because trade virtually stopped in the area when Dunster castle closed at the end of October. The traders needed something to keep the village alive during the winter months.
As Candlelight got bigger, the main High Street and Church Street had to be closed to traffic during the evenings. It was originally thought too difficult to close West Street but now West Street is also closed making it much safer and fascinating with the old cottages and various activities located there.
After many disastrous attempts at providing parking for candlelight visitors in the 90's it was decided to do a type of park and ride from Minehead. It proved very successful and buses now also run from Watchet, Williton and Wheddon Cross.
Remember there is no cash point in Dunster Village
More information
Charity Santa Abseil on behalf of St Margaret’s Hospice.
Saturday 2nd December 2023 08:00 am
Location: Cheddar Gorge, CHEDDAR BS27 3QF
Duration: 8 hours and 30 minutes
Description: Charity Santa Abseil at Cheddar Gorge on behalf of St Margaret’s Hospice.
It's back! Take on our charity Santa Abseil challenge at Cheddar Gorge. For its second year, you can take on our much anticipated and thrilling Santa Abseil challenge, tackling a 60ft drop over the breath-taking views of Cheddar Gorge. The challenge, abseil one of Britain's most spectacular natural landmarks, all while dressed as Santa! Places are limited, so book now to avoid disappointment. No previous abseil experience necessary.
We can accept 12 people per 30-minute slot, please book into your preferred time slot. Each abseiler must pay £35 to secure their place as well as pledge to raise at least £125.
Your registration fee covers the cost of the abseil and your Santa Suit. By registering you automatically create a fundraising page which means you can start raising money straight away!
For more information about the event please contact the Marketing and Events Officer on 01935 709182 or email Amy.Garland@st-margarets-hospice.org.uk
More information
Dulverton by Starlight
Sunday 3rd December 2023 02:00 pm
Location: Dulverton
Duration: 5 hours
Description: Dulverton by Starlight once again brings the festive spirit to Exmoor in 2023 – with most of the 40+ independent shops open for the event, craft market, entertainment and of course the wonderful Fireworks too!
Taking place from 2-7pm on Sunday 3rd December the annual winter festival sparkles with white lights on the Christmas trees that line the streets of this pretty moorland town. The shops and businesses will be traditionally dressed for the season and many of them will open all day for browsing and buying for Christmas goodies.
The popular Indoor and Outdoor Winter Market will run from 2pm to 7pm selling local crafts, gifts and food. Roaming entertainers will keep you enthralled wherever you are in town with their pop-up performances, juggling, tricks and endless jokes. Look out for Santa in the Heritage Centre from 3pm, carols to sing along to by the big Christmas tree at 5.45pm and the ever popular fireworks to finish off a fun day at 6.15pm.
More information
Life and Otter Miracles
Sunday 3rd December 2023 02:00 pm
Location: TA22 9HB
Duration: 3 hours
Description: Join best selling author, Hazel Prior, to celebrate her latest title set on her beloved Exmoor...
This promises to be a delightful, heart-warming, festive afternoon, so please do join author and harpist Hazel Prior by the fireside at Seven Fables and discover her joyous writing.
Life and Otter Miracles is her fourth novel, her previous titles include Ellie and the Harp Maker, likewise set on Exmoor, and Away with the Penguins, which was a featured pick for not only the BBC Radio 2 Book Club but also the Richard and Judy Book Club.
When asked about her writing genre and style, Hazel’s reply is, ‘I’m not sure that my books fit into any genre apart from ‘book club’ but they’ve all been described as original and uplifting. I have done my best to write what is true, what is lovely, what is important and what is fun… and I’ve sneakily managed to put in some of my favourite things, like harps and penguins!’ We believe she needs to add otters and Exmoor to that list.
Hazel's books will be available to purchase on the day, and Hazel is happy to sign and dedicate copies, so a perfect Christmas gift. Sunday the 3rd of December is also Dulverton by Starlight, so do wrap warm up to enjoy the seasonal atmosphere. Seven Fables will be open from 11am until 7pm, and Hazel will be reading and signing books from 2pm until 5pm - we look forward to seeing you in your finest winter coat.
More information
Stoke Pero Guided Walk and Carol Service
Sunday 3rd December 2023 03:00 pm
Location: Cloutsham Gate Common
Duration: 3 hours
Description: This walk is in two parts. The first half takes us up in a loop through Cloutsham Farm and along a lovely traverse, crossing Prickslade Combe and passing through Church Farm before reaching the church for the 4pm carol service.
The second part, after the service, follows the small surfaced lane back to Cloutsham Gate. We should be able to see lots of stars as the moon will not have risen.
Those who wish to, can just walk the lane to the church and back, self-guided as it is sign-posted.
This is a family friendly event and dogs are welcome as long as they are kept on a lead.
3pm - 6pm
2.5 mile easy walk or 1.5 mile easy self-guided option (some muddy patches)
Refreshments; mince pies and mulled wine.
More information
Dulverton - Barle River, Weir and Leat
Thursday 7th December 2023 10:00 am
Location: Meet outside National Park Information Centre in Dulverton
Duration: 3 hours
Description: A walk around Dulverton, taking in the old mills, the mill leat, the weir, and the River Barle as far as Marsh Bridge. If there is time, we will also visit Oldberry Castle. Up to 240m/800ft of climb and expect it to be muddy in places.
3.5mls/3hrs walk. Dogs on leads. Older children welcome. Refreshments locally.
More information
Dark Skies Discovery Hub Stargazing Supper Club
Thursday 7th December 2023 1206
Location: Exford Bridge Tearooms Chapel Street Exford
Duration: 4 hours
Description: The Dark Skies Discovery Stargazing Supper Club brings you a wonderful evening chatting about the stars and the night sky. Come for a delicious 3 course meal with telescopes, a planetarium presentation and an optional walk out into the dark skies reserve area to sit and enjoy the skies with us. Please bring warm, waterproof clothing and good walking or welly boots, if you wish to join us for the walk. Please email info@wildaboutexmoor.com for booking and enquiries
Location: Exford Bridge Tearooms Chapel Street Exford TA247PY
Booking: Booking essential
Contact: 07990521604 or email info@wildaboutexmoor.com
More information
Living Nativity
Friday 8th December 2023 06:00 pm
Location: Dovery Manor Museum, Porlock
Duration: 1 hour
Description: Join Mary and Joseph walking with their donkey through the Exmoor village of Porlock. Is there room at the Inn? Are the angels coming? Sing hymns along the route and watch dramatic performances. The procession finishes in a tableau behind the Porlock Visitor Centre.
A wonderful event for all the family and starts off the Christmas season in the most delightful way. Your hands may be cold but your heart will be warmed.
More information
Lynton Town Hall Christmas Market
Saturday 9th December 2023 12:00 pm
Location: Lynton Town Hall
Duration: 6 hours
Description: Join us for our 2nd Christmas Market
Food, drink, crafts, gifts all under one roof at the fabulous Lynton Town Hall.
More information
Christmas Tree Festival
Saturday 9th December 2023 06:00 pm
Location: St Dubricius Church, Porlock
Duration: 25 days and 21 hours
Description: A creative selection of Christmas Trees provided by community organisations and groups to decorate the church at this festive time of the year. Official Opening: 6pm on Saturday 9th December 2023. Thereafter you may visit whenever the church is open (with the exception of during church services and concerts) but the trees may only be lit during the hours of 10.00 am to 4.00pm.
More information
Lynton Town Hall Christmas Market
Sunday 10th December 2023 10:00 am
Location: Lynton Town Hall
Duration: 6 hours
Description: Join us for DAY TWO of our 2nd Christmas Market
Food, drink, crafts, gifts all under one roof at the fabulous Lynton Town Hall.
More information
Porlock Weir Tabernacle Guided Walk with St Nicholas' Patronal Service
Sunday 10th December 2023 01:00 pm
Location: Porlock St Dubricious Church
Duration: 3 hours and 30 minutes
Description: This walk is in two parts. The first half takes us from Porlock St Dubricious church to the Porlock Tin Tabernacle along Underway, passing the back of Greencombe Gardens and through the ancient deer park.
At the church, we will enjoy the traditional St Nicholas Patronal service, at which St Nicholas may appear (without his sleigh we fear).
After the service, the walk will take us to Porlock Beach and across the pebbles to reach the edge of the marsh, returning past the air crew war memorial to reach Porlock.
This is a family friendly event and dogs are welcome as long as they are kept on a lead.
1pm - 4.30pm
4.5 mile easy walk but pebbles on return leg.
Refreshments; mince pies and mulled wine.
More information
Christmas Bird Walk
Thursday 14th December 2023 10:00 am
Location: Porlock Weir car park
Duration: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Description: Join a local bird enthusiast for a festive 3 mile circular walk from Porlock Weir along the shingle ridge to Porlock Marsh. Learn how to spot and identify the coastal birds that visit this fascinating coastal landscape in winter.
Some of the likely species you might spot include Stonechats, winter ducks Teal, Pintail, Widgeon, Pochard and waders such as Redshank, Oyster Catcher, Knot, Dunlin, Turnstone, Curlew.
Suitable for beginners and those with some knowledge of birds.
Meet in the car park at Porlock Weir (TA24 8PB) for a 10:00am start. Return to vehicles by 12:30pm. (Please note the car park is pay and display).
Walking boots/wellingtons advised along with warm waterproof clothing. Dark clothing if possible, so as not to scare birds. Bring binoculars and a warm drink.
Accessibility: This walk includes ares of uneven ground, with frequent cobbles near the shingle ridge.
Sorry no dogs.
Booking essential.
Free event - donations welcome to our CareMoor for Exmoor scheme supporting heritage, nature and access projects on Exmoor.
More information
Carol Service
Sunday 17th December 2023 06:00 pm
Location: St Dubricius Church, Porlock
Duration: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Description: Join us for our annual Carol Service in beautiful Porlock parish church which dates from the 13th Century.
More information
Selworthy Church to Lynch Chapel of Ease Guided Walk
Tuesday 19th December 2023 10:00 am
Location: Selworthy Church
Duration: 3 hours
Description: This walk starts with a visit to Selworthy Church and then a walk across the green into the woods of the Holnicote Estate. After passing Katherine's Well and Agnes' Fountain, we will drop into the hamlet of Lynch and the tiny chapel of ease.
After a break, we will walk along the side of Horner Water to reach West Luccombe. After a short climb over the wooded ridge we will drop to cross Piles Mill water meadows and around the grounds of Holnicote House.
We will then follow in the footsteps of Baron and Lady Ackland on their way to church up Private Path and Back Lane to pass Selworthy Farm and return to Selworthy village.
This is a family friendly event and dogs are welcome as long as they are kept on a lead.
10am - 1pm
5 mile moderate walk
Refreshments; please bring your own for the break in the chapel.
More information
Christmas break in Dunster
Saturday 23rd December 2023 01:44 pm
Location: Yarn Market Hotel, Dunster,
Duration: 4 days
Description: Enjoy a traditional Christmas in the medieval village of Dunster. The Yarn Market Hotel in Dunster, based within Exmoor National Park is hosting a Christmas break on a full board basis, including a traditional Christmas lunch and gala dinners. Also during the break there is a programme of quizzes and activities, or simply relax and enjoy a stroll around the medieval village and see the shops windows decorated for Christmas, or take a longer walk on any of the well waymarked footpaths leading from the village. No single supplements are charged.
More information
Twixtmas family break
Wednesday 27th December 2023
Location: Yarn Market Hotel, Dunster,
Duration: 3 days
Description: A 3 night break between Christmas and the New Year to enjoy Dinner Bed and Breakfast and including admission to two West Country attractions, choose from Dunster Castle and Gardens, The West Somerset Railway, Exmoor Zoo, Eden Project, SS Great Britain, RNAS Yeovilton, RHS Rosemoor, The Tank Museum, National Marine Aquarium or Longleat (transport to the attractions is not included).
More information
New Year Jazz break
Saturday 30th December 2023
Location: Yarn Market Hotel, Dunster,
Duration: 3 days
Description: 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, for 3 nights Dinner Bed and Breakfast and entertainment each evening.
More information
Contact details
Exmoor National Park Authority,
Exmoor House,
Dulverton,
Somerset, TA22 9HL
Tel: 01398 323665
Email: info@exmoor-nationalpark.gov.uk
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