Coast Of Britain - Exmoor National Park
Surrounded by undulating, verdant countryside, as well as
diminutive, charming hamlets, Exmoor is justifiably acknowledged
as the land of cottages and combes. Located on the north Devon
coast, Exmoor National Park is residence to a plethora of
chocolate box villages along with magnificent landscapes.
Exmoor is the smallest National Park in Britain, although the
scale of grandeur is by no means less. Wildlife flourishes
throughout the impressive expanse of rural area. Exmoor ponies
graze the vast spread of summer meadows and red deer still roam
unbound. Modest rural communities operate their commerce, as
farmers persevere to make hay while the sun shines.
Travelling eastwards along the A39, we enter Exmoor National
Park at the northwestern corner and meet the wonderfully named
Valley of Rocks. One of the showpieces of the area, Valley of
Rocks is a glorious cliff top gorge, soaring above the shoreline
resembling titanic sentries. Toothed peaks penetrate the sky as
the rocks stand watch over the coast.
Barely east of Valley of Rocks are the twin villages of Lynton
and Lynmouth. From its prominent position high on the north
Devon coastline, Lynton is home to some of the most dramatic
views across the Bristol Channel. Beneath Lynton, at the mouth
of the river, sits the quaint fishing village of Lynmouth, scene
of the dreadful flooding of 1952. The two villages were united
in 1890 by the cliff railway.
A further eastward along the A39 rests the beautiful little
village of Oare. Positioned two miles inland, Oare lies in a
picturesque valley, bathed in stunning surroundings. At the
heart of the village is Oare Church, dating back to the 14th and
15th centuries. When constructed, the church would have
accommodated approximately twelve people, however in recent
times capacity has increased.
To be found amid the rolling sea green coastline, the tiny rural
community of Culbone is home to the smallest parish church in
England. The church rests deep in the woody hills and features a
bell dating back to the 14th century.
The village of Porlock lies in the northeastern region of Exmoor
Heritage Coast. Formerly a significant port, Porlock now sits
one mile inland as a consequence of rising land levels and
receding sea.
Located in the outermost northeastern corner of Exmoor National
Park, Minehead is a modern, active town and serves as the
western terminus of the West Somerset railway. Amid pleasant
climate and fresh amenities, Minehead operates as a contemporary
seaside resort. The stone quay, built in 1616, was once an
essential trading port with Africa and North America, while
today works primarily leisurely pursuits.