How to Drive the Exmoor National Park

Exmoor National Park, spanning over 267 square miles across Somerset and Devon in southwest England, is a landscape of ancient woodlands, sweeping moorlands, dramatic coastal cliffs, and hidden valleys. While many visitors come to hike, cycle, or photograph its untouched beauty, driving through Exmoor offers a uniquely immersive way to experience its diverse terrain and secluded charm. Unlike urban or highway driving, navigating Exmoor requires an understanding of narrow lanes, unpredictable weather, wildlife crossings, and historic infrastructure. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step resource for anyone planning to drive through Exmoor National Parkwhether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler seeking deeper insight into the regions roadways.

Driving in Exmoor isnt just about getting from point A to point B. Its about connecting with the rhythm of the land, respecting its natural heritage, and appreciating the quiet majesty of a landscape shaped by centuries of human and environmental interaction. Proper preparation, awareness, and mindful driving are essential to ensure your journey is safe, enjoyable, and sustainable. This guide will walk you through everything you need to knowfrom route planning and vehicle readiness to local regulations and real-world scenariosso you can drive Exmoor with confidence and care.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Plan Your Route in Advance

Exmoors road network is not designed for high-speed transit. Many of its lanes are single-track, winding, and lined with stone walls, hedgerows, and overhanging branches. Before setting out, use detailed mapping tools like Ordnance Survey (OS) maps or specialized apps such as ViewRanger or Komoot to plot your route. Avoid relying solely on GPS apps that default to the fastest routethese often recommend narrow, unsuitable lanes or roads closed to motor vehicles.

Key routes to consider include:

• A39 (Atlantic Highway): The main arterial road running east-west along the northern edge of Exmoor. It connects Barnstaple to Minehead and offers the most direct access to major entrances. While wider and better maintained, it still has sharp bends and frequent wildlife crossings.
• B3227: Runs from Lynton to Lynmouth and continues through the heart of Exmoor. This is one of the most scenic but also most challenging roads in the park, with steep gradients and hairpin turns.
• B3225: Links Dulverton to Simonsbath and passes through some of the most remote parts of the moor. Ideal for those seeking solitude and panoramic views.
• B3224: Connects Porlock to Lynton via the famous Porlock Weir descent. Narrow and steep, this route demands caution, especially in wet conditions.

Always identify alternate routes in case of road closures, which are common due to landslides, flooding, or livestock movement. Download offline maps and save key waypoints such as parking areas, petrol stations, and emergency contact points.

2. Choose the Right Vehicle

While most standard cars can navigate Exmoors main roads, certain conditions make vehicle selection critical. If you plan to explore minor lanes or access remote viewpoints, a vehicle with higher ground clearance, good suspension, and reliable traction is strongly advised.

Consider the following:

• Ground Clearance: Many farm tracks and minor roads have ruts, potholes, and uneven surfaces. A vehicle with at least 15cm (6 inches) of clearance will handle these better.
• Traction and Tyres: Even in summer, dew and mist can create slick conditions on moss-covered tarmac. All-season or all-terrain tyres with good tread depth are essential. Avoid summer-only tyres.
• Size and Maneuverability: Large SUVs and campervans can navigate main roads but may struggle on single-track lanes with passing places. If youre driving a large vehicle, ensure youre comfortable reversing and using lay-bys to let others pass.
• Navigation and Lighting: Ensure your headlights are properly aligned and functional. Many roads lack street lighting, and dusk arrives early due to the parks topography.

For those planning to drive beyond paved roads (e.g., to remote hilltops or disused quarries), a 4x4 is recommendedbut only if youre experienced. Unauthorized off-road driving is illegal and damages fragile ecosystems.

3. Understand Road Conditions and Weather Patterns

Exmoors weather is notoriously changeable. You can experience sunshine, fog, rain, and wind within a single hour. The moorlands elevationpeaking at 519 meters at Dunkery Beaconmeans temperatures are consistently cooler than surrounding lowlands, and mist can roll in without warning.

Check the Met Offices Exmoor-specific forecast before departure. Pay attention to:

• Fog: Common in valleys and on high ground, especially during autumn and spring. Reduce speed and use fog lights if visibility drops below 100 meters.
• Rain: Exmoor is one of the UKs wettest regions. Wet roads become slippery quickly, particularly where moss or algae accumulate. Avoid sudden braking or sharp turns.
• Wind: Strong gusts, especially along coastal cliffs, can affect high-sided vehicles. Keep both hands on the wheel and be cautious near exposed ridges.

After heavy rain, watch for waterlogging on lanes and potential landslides on steep embankments. If a road appears flooded or eroded, do not attempt to cross. Turn around and seek an alternate route.

4. Navigate Single-Track Roads with Confidence

Single-track roadswhere only one vehicle can pass at a timeare common in Exmoor. These roads feature designated passing places, often marked by widened sections of tarmac or gravel. The key to navigating them is courtesy and communication.

Follow these rules:

• Look for passing places: These are usually marked by white signs with a white car symbol on a blue background. If you see an oncoming vehicle, pull into the nearest passing place on the left.
• Yield appropriately: If youre approaching a passing place and see a vehicle coming, wait. If youre already in a passing place, allow the other vehicle to proceed.
• Use hand signals: A wave or flash of headlights can signal your intention to pass or yield. Avoid aggressive horn useit disturbs wildlife and residents.
• Never assume: Just because you see a passing place doesnt mean the other driver intends to use it. Slow down, observe, and communicate clearly.

When driving behind another vehicle on a single-track road, maintain a safe distance. Do not tailgate or attempt to overtake on blind corners.

5. Be Aware of Wildlife and Livestock

Exmoor is home to a rich variety of wildlife, including Exmoor ponies, red deer, badgers, and birds of prey. Livestock such as sheep and cattle often graze freely near roadsides, especially in summer months.

Always:

• Reduce speed: Slow down to 2030 mph in areas marked with wildlife signs. Many accidents occur due to excessive speed.
• Watch for sudden movement: Animals may dart across the road without warning. Be especially alert at dawn and dusk.
• Do not feed animals: Feeding wildlife disrupts natural behavior and can lead to dangerous encounters.
• Keep windows closed: Open windows may attract curious animals or allow insects to enter.

If you encounter livestock on the road, stop and wait patiently. Do not honk, rev your engine, or attempt to shoo them. They are often under the care of local farmers who may be nearby. If a gate is open, leave it as you found itclosing it may trap animals.

6. Respect Parking Regulations

Exmoor has numerous designated parking areas, many managed by the National Park Authority or local councils. Parking illegally not only risks fines but also blocks access for emergency services, farmers, and other visitors.

Key parking rules:

• Use official car parks: Locations like Tarr Steps, Lynton & Lynmouth, and the Exmoor Centre in Simonsbath have well-maintained, signposted parking.
• Never park on bends, narrow lanes, or near gates: This obstructs visibility and access.
• Check for time limits: Some parking areas have seasonal restrictions, particularly near popular viewpoints.
• Do not park on grass verges: Even if the grass looks hard, it can damage underlying habitats and cause erosion.

Many parking areas require payment via app or machine. Download the PayByPhone app or carry exact change. Some rural spots are honor-system parkingleave payment in the provided box.

7. Prepare for Emergencies

Mobile signal coverage is patchy across Exmoor. In remote areas, you may have no reception at all. Always carry a physical map, a fully charged power bank, and an emergency kit.

Essential items to keep in your vehicle:

• First aid kit
• Water and non-perishable snacks
• Warm clothing and blankets (even in summer)
• Flashlight with extra batteries
• Tyre repair kit or spare tyre
• High-visibility vest
• Emergency contact list (including National Park emergency numbers)

If you break down:

• Move to a safe location, if possible.
• Turn on hazard lights.
• Exit the vehicle on the side away from traffic.
• Use your phone to call 999 and ask for Police and Roadside Assistance.
• If no signal, walk to the nearest house or farmsteadmany locals are accustomed to helping stranded travelers.

Best Practices

1. Drive Slowly, Even When the Road Seems Clear

The temptation to speed on quiet roads is strongbut Exmoor rewards patience. Driving slowly allows you to absorb the landscape, react to hazards, and reduce your environmental impact. Speed limits on many Exmoor roads are 3040 mph, but conditions often demand slower speeds. There is no prize for finishing first. Take your time.

2. Avoid Driving at Night Unless Necessary

While some visitors choose to drive at night for stargazing opportunities, it is strongly discouraged. Poor lighting, lack of road markings, and increased wildlife activity make nighttime driving risky. If you must drive after dark, ensure your headlights are clean and properly adjusted, and reduce your speed by at least 25% compared to daytime limits.

3. Minimize Your Environmental Footprint

Exmoor is a protected landscape. Every vehicle contributes to noise pollution, emissions, and road wear. To minimize your impact:

• Combine tripsplan multiple stops in one journey.
• Carry all waste out with you. Littering is not only illegal but harmful to wildlife.
• Use eco-friendly cleaning products if washing your vehicle near the park.
• Consider carpooling to reduce overall vehicle numbers.

4. Respect Quiet Zones and Cultural Sites

Exmoor is home to ancient stone circles, medieval trackways, and historic farms. Many of these are located near or beside roads. Avoid playing loud music, revving engines, or lingering unnecessarily near sites like the Roman road at Simonsbath or the standing stones at Hurlstone. Silence enhances the experience for everyone.

5. Learn Local Driving Etiquette

Exmoor residents are accustomed to visitors but value courtesy. Always:

• Give way to tractors and farm vehiclesthey have priority on narrow lanes.
• Do not stop in the middle of the road to take photos. Use designated viewpoints or pull into a safe lay-by.
• Be patient with slower-moving vehicles, including cyclists and horse riders.

6. Prepare for Seasonal Changes

Each season brings different challenges:

• Winter (DecFeb): Ice, snow, and flooding are common. Chains are rarely needed but may be useful in extreme conditions. Avoid driving if weather warnings are in place.
• Spring (MarMay): Mud from livestock movement can cover roads. Drive slowly and avoid cutting corners.
• Summer (JunAug): Highest tourist traffic. Expect queues at popular spots. Arrive early to avoid congestion.
• Autumn (SepNov): Leaves on the road create slick conditions. Fog is frequent. Watch for deer crossing.

7. Stay Informed About Road Closures and Events

Check the Exmoor National Park Authority website and social media channels for real-time updates. Events such as the Exmoor Pony Trek or military exercises on the training grounds can cause temporary closures. Local village noticeboards and community Facebook groups are also reliable sources of current information.

Tools and Resources

1. Official Maps and Apps

For accurate navigation, rely on trusted sources:

• Ordnance Survey Explorer Maps (OL13 & OL14): The definitive topographic maps for Exmoor. Available in print or as digital downloads via the OS Maps app.
• Exmoor National Park Authority App: Provides interactive maps, parking locations, walking routes, and live alerts.
• Komoot: Excellent for planning scenic driving routes with elevation profiles and user reviews.
• Google Earth (Offline Mode): Use to preview terrain and road gradients before departure.

2. Weather and Road Condition Services

• Met Office Exmoor Forecast: https://www.metoffice.gov.uk
• Highways England (for A39 updates): https://highwaysengland.co.uk
• Exmoor National Park Road Status: https://www.exmoor-nationalpark.gov.uk/roads

3. Emergency and Assistance Contacts

• Police: Dial 999 for emergencies, 101 for non-urgent matters
• Exmoor National Park Office: 01643 821333 (for road and access queries)
• Exmoor Rescue Team: Volunteer mountain rescue available for serious incidents

4. Recommended Reading and Guides

• Driving Exmoor: A Guide to the Roads and Routes by David H. Williams
• The Exmoor Companion by Peter Herring
• Exmoor National Park Visitor Centres (Lynton, Dulverton, Simonsbath) offer free printed driving guides and seasonal tips.

5. Vehicle Preparation Tools

• Tyre pressure gauge: Cold weather affects pressurecheck before departure.
• Windscreen washer fluid with anti-frost: Essential for winter driving.
• Microfiber cloths and glass cleaner: Keep windows clear of mist and insects.
• Portable jump starter: Useful in remote areas with no cell service.

Real Examples

Example 1: The Lynton to Lynmouth Descent

A couple from London drove their compact sedan from Exeter to Exmoor, planning to visit Lynton and Lynmouth. They followed their GPS, which directed them down the B3224 via the Lynmouth Cliff Railway route. The road, steep and narrow, was slick with morning dew. Halfway down, they encountered a tractor carrying hay. With no passing place in sight, they stopped and waited for 20 minutes. They later learned that the official parking for the railway is located 1.2 miles before the descent. Had they consulted an OS map, they would have avoided the narrow stretch entirely. Their experience highlights the importance of route planning over automated navigation.

Example 2: A Solo Motorcyclists Mistake

A motorcyclist from Bristol, eager to capture sunrise at Dunkery Beacon, drove through Exmoor at 11 PM. He ignored the warning signs about fog and drove at 50 mph on the B3225. Near the top of the moor, he lost control on a patch of black ice. He was uninjured but stranded for three hours until a passing farmer found him. He later wrote a blog post warning others: Exmoor doesnt forgive arrogance. Respect the road, or it will remind you.

Example 3: Family Road Trip with a Campervan

A family from Manchester rented a 7.5-meter campervan to explore Exmoor. They planned their route using Komoot, selected only main roads and designated parking areas, and avoided single-track lanes. They arrived at Tarr Steps early in the morning, parked legally, and walked the ancient stepping stones. They spent the afternoon in Dulverton, using the visitor centre to learn about local history. Their trip was smooth, stress-free, and deeply rewarding. Their key takeaway: Size doesnt matter if you plan wisely.

Example 4: Photographers Late-Night Shoot

A landscape photographer from Cornwall wanted to capture the Milky Way over the Brendon Hills. He parked at a legal viewpoint near Simonsbath, used a red-light headlamp to avoid disturbing wildlife, and left no trace. He waited for three hours, documenting the changing sky. He later shared his images online with the caption: Exmoors silence is its greatest gift. Drive with reverence.

FAQs

Can I drive through Exmoor National Park in a regular car?

Yes, most main roads are suitable for standard cars. However, for minor lanes, high ground clearance and good tyres are recommended. Avoid large vehicles on single-track roads unless you are confident in your maneuvering skills.

Are there speed cameras in Exmoor?

Yes, fixed and mobile speed cameras operate on key routes such as the A39 and B3227. Speed limits are strictly enforced, especially near villages and wildlife zones.

Is fuel readily available?

Fuel stations are limited. Major towns like Dulverton, Lynton, and Minehead have petrol stations. Fill up before entering remote areassome stretches have no fuel for over 20 miles.

Can I drive off-road on Exmoor?

No. Driving off designated roads is illegal under the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000. Off-road driving damages sensitive habitats and is subject to heavy fines.

Are dogs allowed in cars in Exmoor?

Yes, but they must be securely restrained. Never leave animals unattended in vehicles, especially in warm weather. Exmoors climate can cause rapid temperature changes.

What should I do if I see an injured animal on the road?

Do not approach. Call the Exmoor National Park Authority or the RSPCA on 0300 1234 999. Provide your location and description. Do not attempt to move the animal unless instructed by professionals.

Are there tolls or congestion charges in Exmoor?

No. Exmoor National Park has no toll roads or congestion zones. Parking fees may apply at certain sites, but there are no mandatory road charges.

Can I drive through Exmoor in winter?

Yes, but only if you are prepared. Roads are gritted on main routes, but secondary lanes may be icy or blocked. Check conditions before departure and consider delaying your trip during severe weather.

Whats the best time of year to drive through Exmoor?

May to September offers the most reliable weather and open roads. Autumn (October) is stunning for foliage, but prepare for fog and rain. Winter driving is possible but not recommended for inexperienced drivers.

Are there restrooms along Exmoors roads?

Public toilets are available at major car parks and visitor centres. There are no facilities on remote roads. Plan ahead and use facilities before heading into isolated areas.

Conclusion

Driving through Exmoor National Park is more than a journeyits an encounter with a living landscape shaped by geology, weather, wildlife, and centuries of human stewardship. To drive Exmoor is to slow down, observe closely, and move with intention. It demands respectnot just for the road, but for the people, animals, and ecosystems that call this place home.

This guide has provided you with the tools, knowledge, and mindset needed to navigate Exmoors roads safely and responsibly. From planning your route with precision to understanding the subtle etiquette of single-track lanes, every step you take should reflect a commitment to preservation and mindfulness.

Exmoor doesnt reward speed. It rewards presence. The mist that rolls over Dunkery Beacon, the call of a red deer stag at dawn, the quiet hum of a sheep bell in a distant fieldthese are the moments youll remember. Drive slowly. Drive kindly. Drive with care.

And when you leave, take nothing but photographs, and leave nothing but tire tracksfaint, fleeting, and respectful.