The Exmoor Coast and Doone Valley Adventure

Walk description:

Our walk begins in County Gate Car Park set high up on the Exmoor Hills. Following some brief introductions and safety talks we will begin our adventure by heading onto the most forested coastline in the UK through The Combe and past the Sisters Fountain Spring to pick up the South West Coastal Path National Trail.

The undulating coastal path will steer us west through the Glenthrone plantations and Chubhill and Gurney's Woods, before reaching The Foreland and Foreland Point lighthouse. After a quick break we will continue to make our way along the coastal path, now out of the woods so able to enjoy far-reaching views out to sea and west towards our destination at Lynton and Lynmouth. Please be aware that in poor weather this stretch can be very exposed and overall is a strenuous leg of walking with plenty of ups and downs to enjoy!

Upon descending into the village there will be the option to stop for a cream tea/pasty/some kind of yummy lunch with time to enjoy the local sights and sounds, including the flood memorial museum and Cliff Valley Railway.

The next stretch of our walk takes on a very different feel to the miles traversed earlier, as we will be following the roaring East Lyn River. Look out for herons and dippers hunting in the swirling pools and enjoy the feel of the ancient woodlands all around alive with birdsong. Arriving at Watersmeet house, once a fishing lodge and now used as a National Trust cafe and shop, we will stop for another break, before continuing to climb alongside the river. This stretch of path also follows the Coleridge Way, a long-distance footpath of 51 miles, starting at Nether Stowey on the Quantock Hills, and finishing at Lynton and Lynmouth.

Eventually we will leave the river behind having passed through the petite and characteristic village of Brendon, waving goodbye as we begin our final steep climb up to Ashton Cleave and the car park. Once back at the car we will conclude the weekend, each heading home having enjoyed two days of inspiring landscapes and company.

NB: there is very little mobile signal for most providers along much of this walk, especially when following the East Lyn River.

Places are always limited on our walks, so do book on as soon as you can! 

We require a minimum of 5 bookings for events to go ahead.

Walk length:

13.5 miles

We class this is a strenous walk due to the length and elevation loss and gain, so please ensure that it is within your abilities.

Date and time:

Saturday 3rd June 2023. Meet at 9:15am, start walking at 9.30am

Start/finish location:

OS Explorer OL9 794 486 (nearest postcode: EX35 6NQ)

County Gate Car Park, Exmoor

Getting to the car park:

County Gate Car Park, Exmoor, Countisbury, Lynton EX35 6NY - please use Google Maps to assist

Cars are left at the owner's own risk.

Toilet Stops:

There are toilets at the start of the walk in the car parkm at at Lynmouth on the coast, and at Watersmeet House

Media:

By signing up to a walk with us you are giving us permission to take photos for promotional use across our website and social media pages. If you specifically do not want media taken with you in it, please do feel able to get in touch. We encourage you to take photos during your walk but ask you to be sensitive to other members. Also, we'd love to have a copy of any you are particularly proud of so we share them too!

Accidents and Incidents:

Abbie and our walk leaders are all qualified first aiders and will always carry an appropriate first aid kit. Should you be involved in an accident or become injured during the walk it is important that you notify Abbie or other walk leaders as soon as possible so that appropriate action can be taken. Should you feel unwell or require first aid please let them know. Please use the booking form and the paper disclaimer you will be given on the day as an opportunity to raise anything you feel the walk leader should know about. Abbie is also a qualified and insured Hill and Moorland Leader.

Due to the nature of walking in an outdoor area there is often a level of risk. You will need to take responsibility for your own actions, health and involvement during the walk and will be expected to exercise judgement based on your fitness levels as to whether you can complete the walk. Any queries please get in touch. You will also be expected to abide by any safety instructions and decisions made by us and have a duty to exercise judgement regarding your own personal safety and that of other members of the group. If you choose to ignore safety instructions we cannot be held responsible for the consequences.

Weather:

Our walks are weather dependant. The weather can play a major role in our enjoyment of a day's walking and in some cases can present a real danger. We always review the weather forecast in detail the day before and will send you an email if we have to change any plans. This is however only likely if we feel heading out will put us at real risk. Please check the forecast for yourself and come prepared for whatever the weather! You should come fully kitted out for a full day's hike in the walking area.

Food and Drink:

We will not be providing any food or drink on this walk except emergency rations. Please ensure you have adequate food and drink for the day. If you have any questions or need any help/advice with what food to bring, please feel able to get in touch.

No Drug and Alcohol Policy:

Spend More Time In The WILD has been set up in order to inspire and motivate followers to head outside for the benefit of mental and physical health. We are committed to providing a safe, healthy and secure space for anyone walking out a journey of freedom from addiction and substance abuse and as such have a strict no drug or alcohol policy on our walks and camping events.

Cancellations:

By Us: In the rare case that we have to cancel an event, you will be notified by email and offered a full refund. We may cancel up to 12 hours ahead of an event due to personal injury or safety concerns re the weather and will notify you by email.

By You: We require 30 days cancellation notice prior to your scheduled arrival, otherwise we will charge you cancellation fee as below.

- 75% of your total amount will be charged if you notify us about your cancellation or any changes by 30 days to 7 days before your scheduled arrival.

- 100% of your total amount will be charged if you do not notify us about your cancellation or any changes within 7 days.

If you have any questions regarding the walk or booking, please get in touch via the admin@spendmoretimeinthewild.co.uk. You will be supplied with a contact number for emergency use on the day of the walk in your booking package.