
Bat's Castle
Explore the enigmatic ruins of Bat's Castle, a historical gem nestled within the wild beauty of Exmoor National Park.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather

Bat's Castle
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the enigmatic ruins of Bat's Castle, a historical gem nestled within the wild beauty of Exmoor National Park.
"A captivating historical site offering stunning views and a touch of ancient mystery in Exmoor."

Wear Sturdy Footwear
The terrain around Bat's Castle can be uneven. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring the ruins and surrounding paths. :athletic_shoe:
Pack a Picnic
Enjoy a scenic lunch with stunning views. Local spots like the Valley of Rocks offer great picnic potential. :sandwich:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Castle Ruins
Exmoor National Park
Explore the atmospheric remains of this ancient structure, offering a glimpse into its storied past.

Scenic Exmoor Views
Surrounding area
Enjoy breathtaking panoramic vistas of the rolling hills and rugged coastline of Exmoor National Park.

Wildlife Spotting
Exmoor National Park
Keep an eye out for the diverse wildlife that calls Exmoor home, including the famous feral goats.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Bat's Castle
Exmoor National Park Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Sturdy Footwear
The terrain around Bat's Castle can be uneven. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring the ruins and surrounding paths. :athletic_shoe:
Pack a Picnic
Enjoy a scenic lunch with stunning views. Local spots like the Valley of Rocks offer great picnic potential. :sandwich:
Check Local Weather
Exmoor's weather can change quickly. Be prepared for sun, wind, or rain to make the most of your visit. :cloudwithrain:
Respect Wildlife
Observe the feral goats and other wildlife from a distance. Never feed them to ensure their safety and natural behavior. :goat:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Sturdy Footwear
The terrain around Bat's Castle can be uneven. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring the ruins and surrounding paths. :athletic_shoe:
Pack a Picnic
Enjoy a scenic lunch with stunning views. Local spots like the Valley of Rocks offer great picnic potential. :sandwich:
Check Local Weather
Exmoor's weather can change quickly. Be prepared for sun, wind, or rain to make the most of your visit. :cloudwithrain:
Respect Wildlife
Observe the feral goats and other wildlife from a distance. Never feed them to ensure their safety and natural behavior. :goat:
Capture the Scenery
Bring your camera to capture the dramatic landscapes and ancient ruins. Drone footage is popular for unique perspectives. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Bat's Castle for its atmospheric ruins and stunning natural setting within Exmoor National Park. The opportunity to explore historical remnants and enjoy breathtaking views is a major draw. However, some find the site lacks extensive interpretation, and clear signage could be improved for easier navigation.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bat's Castle is located within Exmoor National Park. The most common way to reach it is by car, navigating the scenic but sometimes narrow country roads. Parking is available at designated points, often near visitor centers or trailheads. Public transport options are limited, so driving is generally recommended for flexibility.
Public transport to the immediate vicinity of Bat's Castle is scarce. While buses may serve larger towns within Exmoor National Park, you'll likely need to arrange local transport or a taxi from there. It's best to check local bus routes and schedules in advance.
Driving to Bat's Castle involves rural roads within Exmoor National Park. These can be winding and narrow, with occasional steep gradients. Drive cautiously, be mindful of cyclists and walkers, and allow extra time for your journey.
Yes, there are typically pay-and-display car parks available near popular Exmoor sites, including those close to Bat's Castle or along the South West Coastal Path. Always look for official signage to ensure you're parking legally.
Yes, you can drive through the Valley of Rocks, which is a notable nearby attraction. There's a car park available, making it a convenient spot for a picnic or to start exploring the area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Bat's Castle is an open-air historical site within Exmoor National Park, and generally does not require an entrance fee. Access to the ruins and surrounding natural areas is typically free.
As an outdoor ruin, Bat's Castle does not have set opening hours. It is accessible during daylight hours. However, it's advisable to visit during the day for safety and to fully appreciate the surroundings.
There is no admission fee to enter Exmoor National Park itself. However, charges may apply for specific car parks, facilities, or attractions within the park.
While technically accessible, visiting Bat's Castle at night is not recommended due to safety concerns, lack of lighting, and potential for disorientation. The historical and scenic aspects are best enjoyed in daylight.
Specific guided tours for Bat's Castle itself are not commonly advertised. However, local Exmoor National Park visitor centers may offer information on guided walks or historical talks that could cover the area.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
At Bat's Castle, you can explore the ancient ruins, enjoy the stunning natural scenery of Exmoor, and potentially spot local wildlife like feral goats. It's a great spot for photography and a peaceful walk.
Yes, Bat's Castle and its surroundings can be a wonderful experience for families. Children can enjoy exploring the ruins and the open spaces, but adult supervision is essential due to the uneven terrain.
Exmoor National Park is known for its diverse wildlife. You might see the famous feral goats, various bird species, and other native animals. Keep a respectful distance and enjoy observing them in their natural habitat.
Direct facilities at the Bat's Castle ruins themselves are unlikely. However, visitor centers or nearby villages within Exmoor National Park often have restrooms and cafes. It's wise to use facilities before heading to more remote spots.
Absolutely! Bat's Castle and the surrounding Exmoor landscape offer incredible photographic opportunities, from the ancient stonework to the sweeping vistas. Drone videography is also popular here.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While Bat's Castle itself doesn't have dining options, the surrounding Exmoor National Park has charming villages and towns with pubs, cafes, and restaurants. Consider stopping in places like Lynton or Porlock for refreshments.
Yes, picnicking is highly encouraged! There are many scenic spots around Bat's Castle and within Exmoor National Park perfect for enjoying a packed lunch amidst nature.
Expect traditional British pub fare, local seafood (if near the coast), and dishes featuring local produce. Many establishments pride themselves on using ingredients sourced from the Exmoor region.
Some unique accommodations in Exmoor, like Ursabear Cabin, might offer special dining packages. Otherwise, look for farm shops or local markets for artisanal products to create your own unique meal.
Most pubs and restaurants in tourist areas are increasingly offering vegetarian and vegan options. It's always a good idea to check menus online or call ahead to confirm availability.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hours, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, offer the most dramatic lighting for photographing Bat's Castle and the Exmoor landscape. Midday can be harsh, but still offers good visibility.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views and ruins. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting. A sturdy tripod is helpful for low-light conditions or long exposures.
Drone usage in national parks can be restricted. Always check the latest regulations for Exmoor National Park and specific site guidelines before flying a drone.
The castle ruins themselves, panoramic viewpoints overlooking the valleys, and the rugged coastline are prime photography locations. Don't forget to capture the unique wildlife like the feral goats.
Yes, but always maintain a safe and respectful distance. Use a zoom lens to get close-up shots without disturbing the animals.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When visiting, prioritize safety by ensuring children wear sturdy shoes for uneven terrain and stay close during exploration. Nearby attractions like the Valley of Rocks offer more open spaces for running around. Consider incorporating a visit to a local ice cream shop or a traditional pub for a treat after your explorations.
🚶 Hikers and Nature Lovers
Nature lovers will be captivated by Exmoor's biodiversity. Beyond the iconic feral goats, the park is rich in flora and fauna. Bring binoculars for birdwatching and keep an eye out for smaller wildlife. The Valley of Rocks and Tarr Steps are highly recommended natural wonders to explore alongside Bat's Castle.
📸 Photographers and Content Creators
Consider bringing a wide-angle lens for sweeping vistas and a telephoto lens for wildlife. Drone footage can offer unique aerial perspectives, but always ensure you comply with park regulations. Don't forget to capture the unique character of the feral goats and the charming villages scattered throughout the park.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Exmoor National Park
When planning your visit to Bat's Castle, consider it as part of a larger Exmoor adventure. Many visitors combine a trip to the castle ruins with exploring nearby attractions like Tarr Steps, a prehistoric clapper bridge, or the picturesque coastal towns of Lynton and Lynmouth. The park's accessibility is primarily by car, with winding country roads offering scenic drives, though they require careful navigation.
For those seeking unique stays, Exmoor offers quirky accommodations like the Ursabear Cabin, featured on 'George Clarke's Amazing Spaces', providing an idyllic escape amidst nature. Whether you're a keen hiker, a wildlife enthusiast, or simply seeking tranquility, Exmoor National Park provides an unforgettable backdrop for your exploration of Bat's Castle and its surroundings.
The History and Mystery of Bat's Castle
Some intriguing local folklore suggests that Mary Queen of Scots may have used it as a hiding place, and that James VI was imprisoned nearby. While concrete evidence for these specific claims is scarce, they contribute to the site's rich tapestry of history and legend. The presence of a 16th-century painted ceiling and tales of hidden treasure further fuel the imagination.
Today, Bat's Castle stands as a picturesque ruin, offering a tangible link to the past. Its strategic location likely provided commanding views over the surrounding landscape, making it a significant point of interest in its historical context. Exploring the remnants allows visitors to ponder its past inhabitants and the stories it could tell.
Wildlife Encounters in Exmoor
Beyond the goats, Exmoor supports a diverse range of fauna. Birdwatchers can spot various species, including birds of prey soaring over the moors. The park's woodlands and heathlands are also home to smaller mammals and a rich insect population. The Devils Coach Horse beetle has even been documented in the area.
When exploring, remember to observe wildlife from a respectful distance. Avoid feeding animals, as this can disrupt their natural behaviors and diets. Bringing binoculars can enhance your wildlife viewing experience, allowing you to appreciate the natural inhabitants of this beautiful region without disturbance.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit