Exmoor

An Introduction

by Val Sherwin

It is difficult to define the magnetism of Exmoor, but for those who visit, there are few leave without taking it to their heart, and many on leaving, find that a small part of their heart will remain there. The attractions are manyfold. In the space of a day one can see each element of the countryside unfold before the eyes, a unique tapestry of country life in all its glory - from woodland to coastline, from forestry to farmsteads.
It defies anyone to not to be impressed, whether your preference is for cream teas or serious climbing, bird watching or horse riding. Everyone is catered for in this, one of our smallest National Parks.
Exmoor - a unique tapestry of countryside.		The Park lies approximately 2/3 in Somerset and 1/3 in Devon and in its 267 sq miles has more to offer than many of its larger counterparts. It is famous not only for the classic Lorna Doone love story but also for its red deer - Britain s largest wild animal - Exmoor has the largest wild herd outside Scotland (and arguably the finest). The deer have played an important role in the history and development of the area for it was William the Conqueror who declared it a Royal Forest and so it remained until its sale to Mr John Knight in 1818.
The Royal Forest is somewhat deceiving. Exmoor was (and still is) excellent hunting country, and the title was given for this reason. A Royal Forest was another name for a Royal Hunting Ground - open moorland, and not as the name suggests tree covered and it is this title that has ensured the preservation of not only the deer, but nearly 1,000 species of wild plants, many other species of wildlife, including the adder, Britain s only venomous snake, and most importantly, a fiercely traditional way of life which had been lost for ever in other countryside communities.   A visit to Exmoor is to be treasured at any time of year. The snowdrop covered valleys in Spring bring new hopes for Summer. The villages colour washed thatched cottages in Summer show off their wild flower gardens. There is no more beautiful sight (and smell) than the heathers spreading their amethyst cloaks in August, whilst Autumn shoes off its finest reds, oranges and golds on many a drive through the rolling valleys. Winters can be hard - mists, rains and driving winds, but the heart soon warms at the sight of the woodsmoke rising from the chimney pots as a mediaeval village opens out through the mist.