How to Drive the South West Coast Path Exmoor

The South West Coast Path is the longest National Trail in England, stretching 630 miles from Minehead in Somerset to Poole Harbour in Dorset. Within this iconic route lies the dramatic and windswept stretch known as Exmoor a section that traverses rugged cliffs, hidden coves, heather-covered moorland, and historic coastal villages. While the path is primarily designed for walkers, many visitors seek to experience its majesty by vehicle, whether to access trailheads, explore viewpoints, or navigate between key coastal towns. Driving the South West Coast Path Exmoor is not about following the trail itself on tarmac, but rather strategically using the surrounding road network to maximize access, safety, and appreciation of this UNESCO-recognized landscape.

This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step resource for planning and executing a successful driving experience along the Exmoor section of the South West Coast Path. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer, understanding the road infrastructure, parking protocols, seasonal challenges, and scenic pull-offs will transform your journey from a simple commute into an immersive coastal adventure. This tutorial covers practical navigation, best practices for minimizing environmental impact, essential tools, real-world examples, and answers to common questions all tailored to help you drive smart, stay safe, and connect deeply with one of Britains most breathtaking coastal corridors.

Step-by-Step Guide

Plan Your Route Before You Leave

Driving the South West Coast Path Exmoor begins long before you turn the ignition. The Exmoor segment spans approximately 50 miles, running from Lynmouth in the north to Minehead in the south, with key access points including Lynton, Porlock Weir, Bossington, and Combe Martin. Unlike the footpath, which hugs the coastline, the road network runs parallel often on higher ground or inland. Your first task is to map a route that connects these access points efficiently.

Use a detailed topographic map or GPS app with offline capability (such as OS Maps or Gaia GPS) to identify the most scenic and practical roads. The A39 Atlantic Highway is the primary artery running north-south through Exmoor, connecting Barnstaple to Lynmouth. However, the real gems are the smaller B-roads: the B3227 from Lynton to Lynmouth, the B3225 through Porlock, and the B3226 from Bossington to Combe Martin. These roads offer tighter curves, elevated viewpoints, and direct access to trailheads.

Mark your start and end points. A common itinerary begins in Lynmouth, heads south through Lynton, Porlock Weir, and Bossington, then continues to Minehead. This route allows you to experience the full range of Exmoors coastal geology from the steep, wooded valleys of the Lyn Valley to the exposed limestone cliffs near Minehead.

Check road conditions. Exmoors coastal roads are narrow, winding, and often subject to fog, high winds, and sudden weather changes. Avoid driving during peak storm seasons (NovemberFebruary) unless youre experienced in adverse conditions. Always confirm closures via the Highways England website or local council updates.

Understand Parking Regulations and Designated Access Points

Parking is one of the most critical elements of driving the South West Coast Path Exmoor. Many popular trailheads have limited, pay-and-display parking, and illegal parking can damage sensitive habitats or block emergency access. Never park on grass verges, footpaths, or double yellow lines even if other vehicles are doing so.

Key parking locations include:

• Lynmouth Harbour Car Park (EX35 6JG) Closest to the start of the South West Coast Path and the famous cliff railway.
• Lynton Town Car Park (EX35 6JS) Convenient for the Valley Walk and access to the coastal path via the West Lyn Trail.
• Porlock Weir Car Park (EX35 6NP) Offers direct access to the path and stunning views of Porlock Bay.
• Bossington Beach Car Park (EX35 6JW) A quieter option with direct path access and tide-dependent parking.
• Combe Martin Beach Car Park (EX35 6HD) Ideal for the northern stretch near the Ilfracombe boundary.
• Minehead Harbour Car Park (TA24 5BP) The southern terminus of the Exmoor section.

Always pay for parking using official machines or apps (such as RingGo or PayByPhone). Some sites accept cash only carry small change. During peak season (AprilSeptember), arrive before 10 a.m. to secure a spot. Overnight parking is prohibited at most coastal lots.

Drive with Caution on Narrow and Climbing Roads

The roads around Exmoor are not designed for high-speed travel. Many are single-lane with passing places, steep gradients, and blind corners. The B3227 between Lynton and Lynmouth features a 1-in-4 gradient on parts of the climb equivalent to a 25% incline. Use low gears when descending, and avoid coasting. Engine braking is essential.

Watch for wildlife. Exmoor ponies, deer, and sheep frequently cross roads without warning, especially at dawn and dusk. Slow down when you see warning signs. Flash your headlights if approaching animals on the road they often respond to light.

Be prepared for sudden weather shifts. Fog can roll in over the cliffs within minutes, reducing visibility to under 10 meters. If this occurs, pull into a safe layby, turn on hazard lights, and wait until conditions improve. Do not attempt to overtake in poor visibility.

Use passing places wisely. When you encounter oncoming traffic on a narrow stretch, identify the nearest passing place often marked by a white sign with a car symbol. If youre closer to one, pull in. If not, signal clearly and proceed slowly. Never force your way through.

Identify and Stop at Scenic Overlooks and Viewpoints

Driving the South West Coast Path Exmoor isnt just about getting from A to B its about experiencing the landscape. Several designated viewpoints offer panoramic access to the coast without requiring a hike. These are ideal for photography, short breaks, or simply absorbing the scale of the terrain.

Must-stop viewpoints include:

• Valley of Rocks (near Lynton) A dramatic glacial valley with tors and panoramic views over the Bristol Channel.
• Windy Corner (B3227, between Lynton and Lynmouth) A sharp bend offering a sweeping vista of the sea and cliffs below.
• Porlock Ridge (B3391) Elevated position overlooking Porlock Bay and the offshore islands.
• Combe Martin Cliff Top (B3226) Offers unobstructed views of the coastline stretching toward Ilfracombe.
• Blackmoor Gate (A39, near Minehead) A historic stopping point with interpretive panels on local geology and ecology.

When stopping, ensure your vehicle is fully off the carriageway. Do not block gates, entrances, or emergency access routes. Use hazard lights if parking on a steep or blind section. Take only photographs and leave no trace.

Connect with the Trail Without Leaving Your Vehicle

Even if youre not walking, you can still engage with the South West Coast Path. Many trailheads have interpretive signage detailing the history, flora, and fauna of the area. Look for QR codes on information boards scanning them with your phone provides audio guides and historical context.

Some viewpoints are located directly above the path. From your car, you can often spot walkers below particularly at low tide when the path runs along the foreshore. Use binoculars to observe seabirds like choughs, peregrine falcons, and guillemots nesting on the cliffs.

For those with mobility limitations, driving to these access points allows you to experience the paths grandeur without physical exertion. Always respect trail closures even if the path is closed due to erosion or nesting birds, the roadside views remain accessible and awe-inspiring.

Time Your Drive for Optimal Conditions

Timing is everything. The Exmoor coast is most photogenic during golden hour the hour after sunrise and before sunset. During these times, the light glows across the cliffs, illuminating the heather and sea spray. Avoid midday in summer when the sun is directly overhead shadows flatten the landscape and reduce photographic depth.

Check tide times. The South West Coast Path runs along the intertidal zone. At high tide, sections of the path are submerged, and the cliffs become the only viable route. If you're driving to a viewpoint near a bay (such as Bossington or Porlock), high tide creates a dramatic, uninterrupted seascape. Low tide reveals rock pools and tidal islands best viewed from a distance to avoid disturbing wildlife.

Plan your drive for weekdays if possible. Weekends and bank holidays bring heavy congestion, especially around Lynton and Lynmouth. Early mornings (79 a.m.) and late afternoons (46 p.m.) offer the smoothest traffic flow and the most peaceful experience.

Prepare Your Vehicle for Coastal Conditions

Exmoors coastal environment is harsh on vehicles. Salt spray, high winds, and frequent rain accelerate corrosion. Before your trip:

• Wash your vehicle thoroughly, especially undercarriage and wheel arches.
• Check tire pressure low pressure increases the risk of aquaplaning on wet roads.
• Ensure your windscreen wipers are in good condition and your washer fluid is topped up.
• Carry a full-size spare tire and the tools to change it. Many rural roads are miles from assistance.
• Keep your fuel tank at least half full. Petrol stations are sparse between Lynmouth and Minehead.

Consider renting a vehicle with higher ground clearance if you plan to explore minor lanes or farm tracks near the coast. While not necessary for main roads, it provides peace of mind for occasional detours.

Best Practices

Respect the Environment

Exmoor is a designated National Park and Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). The South West Coast Path corridor supports rare plant species, nesting seabirds, and protected marine habitats. As a driver, your responsibility extends beyond road safety you are a steward of this landscape.

Never litter. Even small items like tissues or food wrappers can be carried by wind into the sea or cliffside vegetation. Use a sealed bag in your car for trash until you reach a proper disposal point.

Do not drive off-road. Even well-intentioned shortcuts across grassy verges can damage root systems and erode soil. The moorland vegetation is slow-growing and easily destroyed.

Turn off your engine when parked for more than two minutes. Idling contributes to air pollution in sensitive areas and disturbs wildlife. Many visitors dont realize how much noise pollution affects birds and mammals.

Minimize Traffic Congestion

Popular spots like Lynton and Porlock Weir experience severe congestion during peak season. To reduce your impact:

• Travel outside school holidays if possible.
• Combine multiple stops into one trip dont make separate journeys to the same area.
• Consider carpooling with friends or using local shuttle services that operate between trailheads.
• Use public transport to reach your starting point, then drive only the final leg.

Remember: the goal is not to dominate the landscape, but to observe it responsibly.

Be Aware of Local Culture and Etiquette

Exmoors coastal villages are tight-knit communities. Many residents rely on tourism but also value quiet and order. Avoid loud music, honking, or lingering in residential streets. Park only in designated areas even if your car fits on the side of the road, it may block a driveway or emergency access.

When stopping at cafs or shops, support local businesses. Buy a coffee, pick up a local guidebook, or purchase a postcard. These small acts help sustain the communities that maintain the path and its surroundings.

Drive with Awareness, Not Just Navigation

GPS devices are helpful, but they cant replace situational awareness. Roads in Exmoor change seasonally due to landslides, erosion, and maintenance. A route that was open last month may now be closed.

Always look for road signs they are updated regularly by Devon County Council and Somerset County Council. Pay attention to:

• Speed limit reductions (often 30 mph or lower on coastal roads)
• Weight restrictions on narrow bridges
• Warning signs for falling rocks or landslides

Carry a paper map as a backup. Mobile signal is unreliable in deep valleys and behind high cliffs.

Prepare for Emergencies

Mobile coverage is patchy. In an emergency, you may not be able to call for help. Always carry:

• A fully charged power bank
• A physical copy of the South West Coast Path guidebook with emergency contact numbers
• A basic first aid kit
• A reflective warning triangle and high-visibility vest

Know the emergency number for the coastguard: 999, then ask for Coastguard. If youre stranded, stay with your vehicle. Its easier for rescuers to spot than a person on foot.

Tools and Resources

Navigation Apps

While Google Maps is widely used, it lacks detail for Exmoors rural roads. Better alternatives include:

• OS Maps (Ordnance Survey) The gold standard for UK hiking and driving routes. Offers offline maps, 1:25,000 scale, and trail overlays.
• Gaia GPS Excellent for integrating trail data with road navigation. Allows you to download Exmoor-specific layers.
• Waze Useful for real-time traffic alerts and road closures, though less accurate on narrow lanes.

Offline Maps and Guides

Download these before your trip:

• South West Coast Path Association Official Guide Available as a PDF or printed booklet. Includes road access points, parking codes, and tide tables.
• Exmoor National Park Authority Map Free to download. Highlights public roads, footpaths, and restricted zones.
• UK Tide Times App Provides accurate tide predictions for every coastal location in Exmoor.

Weather and Road Condition Services

Check these daily:

• Met Office Exmoor Forecast Offers hyperlocal weather predictions for coastal Exmoor.
• Highways England (A39 updates) Live traffic cameras and closure alerts.
• Devon County Council Road Conditions Updates on roadworks, flooding, and rockfalls.

Photography and Observation Tools

Enhance your experience with:

• Binoculars Essential for birdwatching and viewing distant cliffs.
• Polarizing filter for camera lens Reduces glare from wet rocks and sea spray.
• Sound recorder app Capture the wind, waves, and birdsong for a multisensory memory.

Local Information Centers

Stop by these before you begin your drive:

• Lynmouth Visitor Centre Offers free maps, trail condition updates, and parking advice.
• Porlock Information Point Staffed by volunteers who know local road quirks.
• Minehead Tourist Office Provides tide charts, seasonal events, and wildlife spotting tips.

Real Examples

Example 1: A Familys Weekend Drive from Lynton to Minehead

A family from Bristol planned a two-day trip to experience Exmoor without hiking. They started at Lynton Town Car Park at 8 a.m. on a Saturday in May. Using OS Maps, they drove the B3227 to Lynmouth, stopping at Windy Corner for photos. They then took the B3391 to Porlock Weir, where they parked, had coffee at a local caf, and walked 100 meters to the cliff edge to watch puffins. After lunch, they continued on the B3226 to Bossington, where they spotted seals on the rocks at low tide. They ended the day at Minehead, having covered 48 miles in 5.5 hours with 3 hours of stops. They returned home Sunday morning, avoiding Monday traffic. Their trip was quiet, respectful, and deeply rewarding all achieved by planning the route around driving access, not footpaths.

Example 2: A Solo Photographers Sunset Route

A professional photographer from Cornwall wanted to capture the golden hour light on Exmoors cliffs. He drove from Barnstaple to Combe Martin via the A39, arriving at Blackmoor Gate at 5 p.m. He parked legally, set up his tripod, and waited. As the sun dipped below the horizon, the limestone cliffs turned amber, and the sea below glowed with reflected light. He captured 17 images before moving to Combe Martin Beach Car Park, where he photographed the silhouette of walkers returning along the path. He used tide times to ensure the rocks were exposed, and avoided flash to preserve the natural ambiance. His work was later published in a national magazine all because he prioritized timing, location, and respect for the environment.

Example 3: A Mobility-Limited Visitors Accessible Journey

A visitor with limited mobility from Manchester wanted to experience the South West Coast Path without walking. She drove from Taunton to Porlock Ridge via the B3391, stopping at every viewpoint with accessible parking. She used her cars windows as a viewing platform, bringing binoculars and a tablet to scan QR codes on signage. She learned about the history of smuggling along the coast and the conservation efforts for the rare Exmoor heather. She spent three hours driving and viewing, then returned home feeling deeply connected to the landscape. Her story highlights how driving can be a valid and enriching way to engage with the path.

FAQs

Can I drive directly on the South West Coast Path?

No. The South West Coast Path is a designated National Trail for pedestrians only. Driving on the path is illegal, dangerous, and environmentally destructive. The route is often narrow, rocky, and eroded unsuitable for vehicles. Use the surrounding road network to access trailheads and viewpoints.

Are there any tolls or fees for driving the Exmoor coast?

No tolls exist on any roads along the Exmoor section. However, parking at official car parks requires payment. Fees range from 26 per day depending on location and season. Always use official payment methods.

What is the best time of year to drive this route?

April to October offers the most reliable weather and open access. May and June are ideal for wildflowers and bird activity. September is quieter and still warm. Avoid November to February unless youre experienced with winter driving roads can be icy, foggy, and prone to closures.

Can I camp overnight in my vehicle along the route?

No. Wild camping and overnight parking are prohibited in most areas along the South West Coast Path Exmoor. Designated campsites are available, but vehicles must be parked in official lots during the day only. Check with Exmoor National Park Authority for permitted overnight locations.

Are electric vehicles compatible with this route?

Yes. There are now over 20 public EV charging points along the A39 and B-roads serving Exmoor, including in Lynmouth, Lynton, Porlock, and Minehead. Use the Zap-Map app to locate real-time availability. Charging is typically slow (722 kW), so plan your stops accordingly.

What should I do if I see someone parking illegally or littering?

Do not confront them. Instead, note the vehicle registration, location, and time, and report it to the local council or Exmoor National Park Authority via their website. Reporting helps enforce protections for the landscape.

Is the route suitable for large vehicles like RVs or campervans?

Many sections are narrow and winding. While larger vehicles can navigate the A39, B-roads like the B3227 and B3226 are often too tight for vehicles over 6 meters in length. Check vehicle size restrictions on signage. If in doubt, park at a larger lot and use public transport or taxis for the final leg.

Can I bring my dog in the car?

Yes. Dogs are welcome in vehicles, but must be secured. Never leave them unattended in parked cars temperatures can rise rapidly, even on mild days. Many coastal car parks have dog waste bins use them.

Conclusion

Driving the South West Coast Path Exmoor is not about speed or distance its about intention. Its about choosing the right roads, stopping at the right moments, and respecting the fragile beauty of one of Britains most treasured landscapes. By following this guide, you transform a simple drive into a meaningful exploration of coast, cliff, and culture.

You are not just a driver you are a visitor, a witness, and a protector. Every time you park legally, turn off your engine, and admire the view without leaving a trace, you help preserve this place for future generations. The cliffs will endure, the ponies will roam, and the sea will crash against the rocks but only if we choose to tread lightly.

Plan your route. Respect the rules. Embrace the silence. And let the rhythm of the Exmoor coast guide you not your GPS, but your sense of wonder.