Exmoor Events Calendar
April 2024
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Childrens Crafting
Bookmarks, greeting card making, and colouring activities with lots of pencils, crayons, felt tips and stickers to keep your little ones amused during the Easter holidays. (Donations requested)
Pop-up Lynmouth Flood talks
A 10-minute illustrated talk on the Lynmouth Flood Disaster followed by 10 minutes of historical film from the time.
A chance to learn what happened and how it changed the village. No need to book. (Donations requested). Not Mondays
The Women of Hoar Oak Cottage
A fascinating insight into the women that lived and worked at this isolated farmhouse from Elizabeth Vellacott in 1810 right through to Gertie Antell in the 1960’s. What was it like living without the benefits of running water, electricity or gas, plumbing or telephone or a road that could be used by a motorised vehicle.
Spring in to Art at Lynmouth National Park Centre
‘Spring into Art’ and ‘Fall into Art’ at the National Park Centre Lynmouth is a fresh idea bringing together several local artists to paint for the day under one roof. Talking to visitors about what inspires them and how they represent that inspiration in their art. Original works, as well as prints and cards, will be on sale so a great opportunity to get something absolutely unique.
Ruins in the Woods
The 19th century mineral line was built to carry iron from the Brendons to Watchet for shipment to South Wales. Spectacular remains are hidden in the hills. This is a one hour stroll to look at Langham Engine House, then a two hour walk down the steep miners' track to see Bearland Flue and other features connected with iron mining. We may visit Burrow Farm Engine House or Kennisham Hill. Free. Booking essential.
Dunster Outback Walk
A 2-2.5hr/4 mile guided walk, taking in the historical sites of Dunster village and the breathtaking views above the village from the ancient hillforts of Grabbist Hill and Bat’s Castle.
Accessibility: The walk route includes some steep inclines, over uneven ground. A moderate level of fitness is required.
Please ensure you bring suitable outdoor clothing and walking boots.
Dogs on short leads allowed.
Booking recommended.
Free event - donations welcome (for the CareMoor for Exmoor scheme supporting heritage, nature and access projects on Exmoor).
Mozart Choral Singing Weekend
The Yarn Market Hotel, based within Exmoor National Park, hosts a 2 night choral singing workshop break, led by Ian Chesworth, to sing this popular masterpiece and also Mozart Solemn Vespers.
The break is on a full board basis with Sunday lunch included. Non residential places are also available for local singers. Residential package from £325.00 per person. Non residential singing only £50.00 per person.
Simonsbath Walking Holiday
Explore the stunning Exmoor National Park with our guided Simonsbath Walking Holidays. Come and stay in comfort and share 3 days of spectacular walks with our knowledgeable guides. Check Website for price options
Talks at the Pavilion: Plastic Free Exmoor
Join Peter Hoyland from Plastic Free Exmoor for a free event to find out more about what Exmoor is doing as a community to reduce and eliminate single use plastics and, importantly how you can help reduce your own plastic footprint.
Barnacle Buoys Shanty evening
The popular Barnacle Buoys Shanty Band. An evening of rousing shanties and sea themed songs at Porlock Village Hall. Licensed Bar. Start time 7.30 p.m. Doors open at 7.00 p.m. Price: £12.50/ ticket, available from Porlock Information Centre or We Got Tickets https://www.wegottickets.com/event/610126/
More info: www.porlock.co.uk
Free Choral Concert - Mozart Requiem
The choir from the Yarn Market Hotel’s choral singing weekend will be performing in Dunster’s historic Tithe Barn at 2.30 pm – Mozart Requiem and Solemn Vespers, conducted by Ian Chesworth.. Admission is free and all are welcome to attend. There will be a retiring collection in aid of charity.
Lynmouth Flood Talk and Walk
A half hour presentation looking at 1950’s film and photograph of the Lynmouth Flood Disaster followed by a gentle stroll around the village to look for signs of the Flood and how it changed the Village. A free event with donations to CareMoor for Exmoor appreciated.
A Walk through Dunster's History
A 2hr guided walk around a village steeped in history.
Accessibility: The walk route includes some gentle inclines around the village lanes and passes over some uneven ground towards the end of the route. The route can be adapted - if you have a particular mobility requirement please contact Dunster National Park Centre prior to booking for further information.
Please ensure you bring suitable outdoor clothing and stout footwear.
Dogs on short leads allowed.
Booking recommended.
Free event - donations welcome for the CareMoor for Exmoor scheme supporting heritage, nature and access projects on Exmoor.
Walking Book Club: Night Swimmers
Join the Seven Fables Walking Book Club in the woods of Dulverton to discuss Night Swimmers the debut novel from Roisin Maguire.
'Exquisitely written, teeming with wonderfully relatable characters and sporting a gloriously eccentric, cranky and memorable 50-year-old heroine, Night Swimmers is one of the most emotionally intelligent novels I've read in a long time.' Dr Sharon Blackie, author of The Enchanted Life
A level of walking fitness is required, please wear suitable footwear and dress appropriately as we walk in all weathers. Bring a drink and a snack to enjoy, a flask is a good idea when the weather is cooler, and something to keep your bottom dry as we often sit on a mossy bank or fallen log!
Happy & sociable dogs are welcome. We kindly request short leads only, however once in the woods they may roam off lead kept under close control.
Walk + Book £14.00 (rrp £16.99) Walk Only £7.00
Rockpooling with a Ranger
We will hunt for anemones, crabs, sea sponges and all sorts of other marine critters. With our knowledgeable rangers as your guide, you will learn more about the diversity of life on our shores and gain the skills to carry on rockpooling in your own time. All equipment provided including identification guides, nets and buckets. The site is exposed so please remember sun cream and water (filling station in Lynmouth near the toilets). Sandals or waterproof shoes are useful but not essential. Everyone welcome!
West Somerset & Exmoor Bridleways Association Fun Ride
Bring your horse along to enjoy our annual fun ride of approx 10 miles through the beautiful Exmoor countryside, with the additional option of riding to Dunkery Beacon.
*Pre-book only*
*Rosettes for all riders*
* True to You Photography in attendance, to capture your special moments*
£22 per adult/£12 per child (Members £17 per adult/£7 per child)
Enticing Exmoor Guided Walking Holiday
The Yarn Market Hotel in Dunster, based within Exmoor National Park, in conjunction with Wilkes Walks, has a 7 night accommodation break with 5 days guided walking led by Julian Wilkes. A free time day is included to explore more or relax as you wish. The schedule is broken into daily sections of an average of 9 to 10 miles walking. The break includes Dinner, bed and breakfast, packed lunches for the walking days, transport to and from the start and finish of each days walk, and expert guiding by Julian Wilkes. You will see fantastic scenery along the route including coastal, moorland, wooded combes, farmland, ancient hill forts, the twin villages of Lynton and Lynmouth and the Valley of the Rocks, and wonderful views over the Bristol Channel to South Wales. The pace is on a average to suit all the walkers abilities.
£895.00 per person inclusive. Details can be found on Wilkes Walks website www.wilkeswalks.co.uk and bookings to be made direct with Wilkes Walks. For more information please contact the hotel on 01643 821425 or email hotel@yarnmarkethotel.co.uk
Exmoor Warbler Walk
Discover which warblers make Exmoor their home in Spring and how to identify them. Some species you might spot include Willow Warbler, Stonechat, Blackcap, Chiffchaff, Whitethroat, Linnet & Meadow Pipet.
This walk is ideal for beginners and those with some knowledge of birds.
Stargazing at the Poltimore Inn Observatory, North Molton
Using the purpose built observatory telescopes under expert astronomer guidance. This event also has the option of a pub meal as well as an overnight/weekend stay in one of the beautifully appointed observatory lodges.
Abstract Landscape Collage with John Crush
Join local artist John Crush on a day long workshop creating an abstract landscape collage working on what inspire you about Exmoor or go freehand and create from your own memories.
Spaces are limited so please book early, lunch, tea and coffee included.
Booking essential on 01598 752509.
£75 per person.
Jazz Festival break
The Yarn Market Hotel in Dunster, based within Exmoor National Park, hosts a 3 night break on a dinner bed and breakfast basis, with entertainment each evening after dinner from jazz bands the Riviera Ramblers, Great Gatsby Trio and Debs, Megs & the Gang. Our jazz breaks are a well established feature with Yarn Market Hotel guests and jazz aficionados from all over the UK and beyond. Johns Shillito’s Riviera Ramblers 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. The Great Gatsby Trio play Great American Songbook classic jazz with lots of harmony vocals. Debs, Megs & the Gang are 6 piece jazz band with harmony vocals and a variety of instrument and great drum sounds.
Supper and Stars
Join us for supper with a short walk plus laser guided stargazing at Exford Bridge Tea Rooms which is one of the Dark Sky Hubs for Exmoor National Park. If weather cloudy, we will use a virtual planetarium inside the tearooms and star hop with constellation stories. £40 pp £20 for anyone 16 or under. Booking essential.
Dulverton Farmers Market
Visit Dulverton’s Farmers Market on the last Saturday of the month – April to September – from 10am to 2.30pm in the Lion Stables Car Park in the heart of the town.
Showcasing the best produce and crafts from Exmoor, Devon and Somerset – including home-reared meat, local cheese, Exmoor-brewed ales, delicious jams and chutneys, and even Dulverton-distilled spirits! You’ll find local craftspeople here too, selling belts, bags, baskets, books, photographs and more. Refreshments and live entertainment too. Treat yourself to a great day out and discover Dulverton Farmers Market!
For more information visit the Farmers Market page of the Visit Dulverton website.
Literary Walk in the Doone Valley
Follow in the footsteps of RD Blackmore as we recount some of the wonderful landscapes as pictured in the writings of Lorna Doone, in a guided walk. Places can be reserved by clicking the link.
Pastels for Beginners with Beryl Perriam
New for 2024, Beryl shares her significant experience as a freelance professional artist with us each month. She begins with an insight into the wonderful world of pastels. Bring your own pastels, if you have them, paper will be supplied.
Booking essential on 01598 752509
£25 per person or book 3 months for £65.
Ann Hyde Art Exhibition
From Watercolours, acrylics and, her favourite medium Oils, Ann captures the atmosphere of the day with her artworks. Preferring to paint 'en plein air’ Ann admits there is no better way to capture the scene than being there in person. Her art shows this with atmosphere and light, saying even on an overcast day there can be contrasts.
Ann can often be seen setting up her easel at various locations around Exmoor National Park. Exmoor itself offers so many different challenges with landscapes, seascapes and wildlife.
Hidden Porlock
Meet at Porlock Visitor Centre TA24 8QD.
Advisable to book. Donations appreciated. Proceeds to CareMoor Exmoor and Porlock Visitor Centre. For more info and to book Tel: 01643 863150 or email: visit@porlock.co.uk