Coast

Exmoor is one of only two National Parks in England with a coastline. The impressive coastal elevations along its 36 mile length include the highest sea cliff in mainland Britain (Great Hangman) and some of the most remote and inaccessible shoreline. This is one of the few places in England where moorland meets the sea, with coastal heaths adorning the cliff tops, interspersed by extensive Atlantic oakwoods which form the longest stretch of coastal woodland in England. Exmoor’s coastline also has a rich cultural heritage from Roman fortlets and prehistoric landscapes to historic harbours. It inspired Romantic Poets including Southey, Coleridge and Wordsworth. There are also relics of the 19^th century fashion for picturesque landscapes such as the Italianate terraced gardens at Ashley Combe designed for Ada Lovelace.

These natural and cultural heritage assets are increasingly at risk from coastal change. Sea level rise and increased risk of coastal flooding puts low lying areas at risk. On Exmoor, this primarily affects the settlements of Porlock Weir and Lynmouth. The low-lying coast around Porlock includes the distinctive breached shingle ridge and salt marsh behind. This part of the coast is dynamic and particularly vulnerable to rising sea level and the effects of storms and tidal surges, which can result in rapid and dramatic change. A saltmarsh has been developing at Porlock Marsh since the breach in the shingle ridge in 1996 opened the land up to daily inundation by the sea. Coastal erosion of Exmoor’s high cliffs also threatens heritage assets and public access.

The King Charles III England Coast Path / South West Coast Path starts just outside the National Park at Minehead, and runs for 630 miles around the peninsula to Poole in Dorset. Many people come to walk all or some of the route each year, and it is an important attraction for local tourism businesses. It is therefore important to protect the peaceful environment, seascapes and long-distance views from the path, as well as enhancing the wildlife value of the coastal margin. Coastal erosion and flooding pose significant on-going threats to the long-distance path, so preserving its integrity is paramount, alongside promoting sustainable access and engagement with the coast’s unique features.

At the foot of the cliffs are wave-cut platforms, sea caves and rocky bays with hidden, often inaccessible, beaches. Less is known about these inter-tidal and marine areas, although more research is being undertaken to  better understand and care for our coastal and marine environments.  There is great interest in the opportunities that could arise from off-shore renewable energy, including tidal energy due to the second largest tidal range in the world in the Bristol Channel. We seek to ensure that Exmoor plays its part in these considerations in a way that is compatible with National Park purposes.

Exmoor's coastline is a valuable resource, where people, nature, and heritage can thrive together while building resilience against the challenges of coastal change, sea level rise and increased flood risks. We aim to protect Exmoor’s coast and seascapes, while providing opportunities for public enjoyment, understanding, and responsible development, ensuring that the area remains resilient to climate change and accessible for future generations.