Exmoor House, location of the Dulverton Exmoor National Park Centre from the Spring of 2025.
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Exmoor National Park Centre Dulverton

4.8
·124 reviews·, United Kingdom

Discover the wild beauty of Exmoor National Park, famed for its ponies, dramatic landscapes, and star-filled skies.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Best light for scenery

CrowdMedium
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Exmoor House, location of the Dulverton Exmoor National Park Centre from the Spring of 2025.

Exmoor National Park Centre Dulverton

Best Time

Summer mornings

Best light for scenery

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover the wild beauty of Exmoor National Park, famed for its ponies, dramatic landscapes, and star-filled skies.

4.8
(124 reviews)

"Magnificent National Park with outstanding wildlife and wild ponies roaming around."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Drive with Caution

Roads are narrow and winding. Be mindful of wildlife and potential flooding after rain.

🥾 Pack for All Weather

Exmoor's weather can change rapidly. Layers and waterproofs are essential, even on sunny days.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Exmoor Ponies

Exmoor Ponies

Throughout the park

Witness these hardy, wild ponies roaming freely across the moors and valleys. A truly iconic sight!

Exe Valley Views

Exe Valley Views

Various viewpoints

Experience breathtaking vistas of the Exe Valley, often shrouded in mist for a magical atmosphere.

Dark Skies

Dark Skies

Designated Dark Sky areas

Marvel at the star-filled night sky, with Exmoor being a designated International Dark Sky Reserve.

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Planning Your Visit

Navigating Exmoor's Charm

Exmoor National Park Centre in Dulverton offers a gateway to stunning landscapes. Be prepared for narrow, winding roads, especially if rain is forecast, as flooding can occur. While the village itself can be pricey, the surrounding countryside and wildlife, including the iconic Exmoor ponies, are a major draw.

Center's New Location

The Exmoor National Park Centre has relocated from its previous Dulverton spot. It's now situated at Exmoor House, near the river. The former Dulverton location now operates as a local craft center with well-priced goods. Confirm the current visitor center location before your visit.

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Best light for scenery
Crowd
Medium
When
Autumn afternoons
Why
Golden hour magic
Crowd
Low
When
Clear evenings
Why
Stargazing opportunities
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

#visitorcenter #nationalpark #giftshop #fypシ #granolagirl
@rileyexplores33
17.3K likes • 109.1K views

🚗 Drive with Caution

Roads are narrow and winding. Be mindful of wildlife and potential flooding after rain. Reddit

🥾 Pack for All Weather

Exmoor's weather can change rapidly. Layers and waterproofs are essential, even on sunny days. Instagram

Beautiful West Country valleys. An exceptional drive in many ways. Join us for a day... . . #availability #beautiful #countryside #exmoor #exclusive #exclusiveuse #partridge #pheasanthunting #pheasant #shootingseason #drivengame #criddlefieldsports #aboveandbeyond #bestofbritishshooting
criddle_fieldsports
166 likes • 0 views
Great shot of the Exe valley from @tom__wiggins beautiful countryside. #exmoor.experience 😀 . Posted @withrepost • @tom__wiggins Looking up the misty exe valley this morning #exevalley#abovethemist#likeablanket#exmoor#warrenrocks#Bdog
exmoor.experience
157 likes • 0 views

📍 Check Visitor Center Location

The main National Park Centre has moved. Confirm its current location before heading out. Reddit

📸 Capture the Scenery

From misty valleys to golden hour light, Exmoor offers incredible photo opportunities. Instagram+1

#goingdownofthesun #endofday on the walk back to my van by chance i was in the #perfectspot at the #perfectmoment #goldenhour #goldenbrown #exmoor #dulverton @visit_exmoor @visit_somerset @exmoormagazine @exmoor_national_park #autumnsunshine #autumnleaves #autumnscenes
royalplantsman
80 likes • 0 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Drive with Caution

Roads are narrow and winding. Be mindful of wildlife and potential flooding after rain. Reddit

🥾 Pack for All Weather

Exmoor's weather can change rapidly. Layers and waterproofs are essential, even on sunny days. Instagram

📍 Check Visitor Center Location

The main National Park Centre has moved. Confirm its current location before heading out. Reddit

📸 Capture the Scenery

From misty valleys to golden hour light, Exmoor offers incredible photo opportunities. Instagram+1

🐴 Horse Riding Adventures

Explore the moors on horseback for a unique perspective of the park. Instagram+1

What Travellers Say

4.8
(124 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Exmoor National Park for its magnificent scenery, outstanding wildlife, and the chance to see wild ponies. The dark skies are a significant draw for stargazers. However, some find the village of Dulverton expensive and note that the roads can be quite narrow and prone to flooding.

"Quite, narrow roads, if raining floods likely, lovely scenery, expensive village, camping good, Dulverton not like it used to be unfortunately."

ray gregory

"I'm blessed to live & work here.
You don't need to go abroad, just visit this magnificent National Park.
Wildlife is outstanding as well as the Wild Ponies roaming around."

Dave Sorrell

"Very friendly and service provider good shop as lots of information and goody's"

Christine matthews

What People Like

Magnificent scenery
Outstanding wildlife
Wild ponies

What People Dislike

Expensive village
Narrow roads
Flooding risk

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Exmoor National Park Centre is now located at Exmoor House, near the river in Dulverton. Access is primarily by car, with narrow, winding country roads leading to the area. Public transport options are limited, so planning your route in advance is recommended. Reddit

Yes, the roads within Exmoor National Park, including those around Dulverton, are often narrow, steep, and winding. Drivers should exercise caution, especially during wet weather when flooding can occur. Reddit

Parking availability can vary, especially in Dulverton village. It's advisable to check for local parking information upon arrival or consult the Exmoor National Park website for guidance. Reddit

While challenging, it is possible to visit parts of Exmoor National Park using public transport, such as buses that connect some villages. However, exploring the wider park is significantly easier with a car. Reddit

Many visitors find that driving allows for the most flexibility to explore the diverse landscapes. However, hiking and cycling are also popular ways to experience the park's natural beauty. Instagram+1

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Exmoor National Park is a public access area, and there is no general entry fee to visit the park itself. However, specific attractions or events within the park may have admission charges. Reddit

The Exmoor National Park Centre has relocated to Exmoor House. It's best to check the official Exmoor National Park website for the most up-to-date opening hours and any seasonal variations. Reddit

There is no entrance fee to visit Dulverton village. However, some visitors have noted that the village can be expensive for shopping or dining. Reddit

Generally, no booking is required for general access to Exmoor National Park. However, if you plan to participate in specific guided tours, activities, or stay at campsites, booking in advance is often recommended. Reddit

The Exmoor National Park Centre provides maps, information on walking routes, wildlife spotting, local attractions, and advice for visitors. The craft centre at the old location offers local products. TikTokReddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Exmoor is renowned for its diverse wildlife, including the iconic Exmoor ponies roaming freely, red deer, and a variety of bird species. Keep an eye out during your visit! InstagramReddit

Absolutely! Exmoor offers a vast network of walking trails, from gentle valley strolls to challenging moorland hikes. The South West Coast Path also runs through parts of the park. Instagram

Popular viewpoints include the Exe Valley, Porlock Hill, and various spots along the coast. The scenery is stunning, especially during sunrise and sunset. Instagram+2

Exmoor is a photographer's paradise, offering dramatic landscapes, unique wildlife, and stunning skies, especially during the golden hour and at night as a Dark Sky Reserve. Instagram+1

Yes, horse riding is a popular activity in Exmoor, with many stables offering hacks and treks across the moors and through valleys. Instagram+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Dulverton offers a selection of pubs, cafes, and restaurants. While some find the village expensive, you can find options for meals and refreshments. Reddit

Yes, Exmoor National Park has numerous beautiful spots perfect for picnics. Many scenic viewpoints and walking routes offer ideal locations to enjoy a packed lunch amidst nature. Reddit

The former Exmoor National Park Centre in Dulverton now houses a craft centre that sells well-priced local products, which may include food items. Reddit

While specific restaurants with panoramic views might be limited, many pubs and cafes in villages bordering the park offer pleasant settings. The true dining experience is often the picnic with a view. Reddit

Expect traditional British pub fare, often featuring local ingredients like lamb, game, and seafood. Cream teas are also a popular regional treat. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The 'golden hour' around sunrise and sunset offers beautiful light for landscapes. Clear nights are perfect for astrophotography due to Exmoor's Dark Sky status. Instagram+1

The Exe Valley, the rugged coastline, the open moors with ponies, and the charming villages like Dulverton are all highly photogenic. Instagram+1

A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. A tripod is recommended for low-light conditions and astrophotography. Instagram

While not always advertised, local photographers or guides may offer specialized photography tours. It's worth checking local tourism websites or asking at the visitor centre. Instagram

The unpredictable weather can be a challenge, but also creates dramatic photographic opportunities. Narrow roads require careful planning for access. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Exmoor National Park offers a fantastic natural playground for families. The chance to see Exmoor ponies and other wildlife is a huge hit with children. Many walking trails are relatively gentle, making them suitable for little legs, and the open spaces are perfect for running around. Instagram

Consider packing a picnic to enjoy at one of the many scenic spots. The former National Park Centre in Dulverton, now a craft centre, might offer some interesting local items for kids to see. Remember to dress everyone in layers and bring waterproofs, as the weather can be unpredictable. Reddit

🚶 Hikers and Walkers

Exmoor is a hiker's paradise with a diverse range of trails. From coastal paths to moorland treks and valley walks, there's something for every fitness level. The South West Coast Path offers dramatic sea views, while inland routes explore rolling hills and ancient woodlands. Instagram

Be sure to pick up detailed maps from the visitor centre (or download them beforehand) and be prepared for varied terrain and weather. Many trails offer stunning vistas and opportunities to spot wildlife, making for a rewarding hiking experience. Reddit

📸 Photographers

Exmoor National Park is a dream destination for photographers. The dramatic landscapes, from misty valleys to rugged coastlines, provide endless inspiration. The opportunity to capture the iconic Exmoor ponies and the breathtaking Dark Skies at night are major draws. Instagram+2

Timing is key; aim for the golden hours around sunrise and sunset for the best light. Be prepared for changing weather, as it can add incredible atmosphere to your shots. A good range of lenses and a sturdy tripod will enhance your photographic capabilities. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Iconic Exmoor Pony

The Exmoor pony is one of the oldest native pony breeds in the world, perfectly adapted to the harsh conditions of the Exmoor moorlands. These sturdy, sure-footed animals are a symbol of the national park and are often seen grazing freely across the landscape. Their presence adds a unique charm and wildness to the scenery. Instagram+1

Seeing these ponies in their natural habitat is a highlight for many visitors. They are generally docile but should be observed from a respectful distance. Avoid feeding them, as this can disrupt their natural diet and behavior. The sight of a foal with its mother is particularly heartwarming and a common subject for photographers. Instagram

While the ponies are wild, they are managed by various landowners and conservation groups. Their conservation is vital to maintaining the ecological balance of the moorland habitat. Spotting them can be a matter of luck, but areas like the open moors and higher ground are good places to look. Instagram

Navigating Exmoor's Roads

Driving in Exmoor National Park, particularly around Dulverton, requires a different approach than on main roads. The narrow, winding lanes are a defining characteristic of the landscape, often bordered by high hedges or stone walls. These roads are beautiful but demand constant attention and slower speeds. Reddit

Visitors should be prepared for limited passing places and the possibility of encountering oncoming traffic, agricultural vehicles, or even the park's famous Exmoor ponies. It's advisable to pull over when possible to let faster traffic pass and to allow for safe passage for others. Always check your route beforehand, as GPS signals can be unreliable in some areas. Reddit

Furthermore, Exmoor's weather can significantly impact driving conditions. Heavy rainfall can lead to flash floods in low-lying areas and valleys, making certain routes impassable. It's wise to check local weather forecasts and road conditions before setting out, especially if you are visiting during autumn or winter. Reddit

Exmoor's Dark Skies

Exmoor National Park is an International Dark Sky Reserve, recognized for its exceptionally clear and unpolluted night skies. This designation means that artificial light pollution is kept to a minimum, allowing for unparalleled stargazing opportunities. On a clear night, the Milky Way is often visible to the naked eye. Instagram

Several viewpoints across the park are particularly well-suited for observing the night sky. Areas away from village lights, such as open moorland or designated stargazing spots, offer the best experience. Visitors can often see a multitude of stars, planets, and even meteor showers with remarkable clarity. Instagram

For those interested in astronomy, local events or guided stargazing sessions may be available. Bringing a red-light torch is recommended to preserve night vision. Exmoor's dark skies provide a truly magical and humbling experience, connecting visitors with the vastness of the universe. Instagram

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