Oare Church St Mary
A historic Exmoor church, famed as a key setting in R.D. Blackmore's 'Lorna Doone,' offering peace and literary connection.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Tranquil atmosphere
Oare Church St Mary
Best Time
Tranquil atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic Exmoor church, famed as a key setting in R.D. Blackmore's 'Lorna Doone,' offering peace and literary connection.
"A beautiful little church in the Doone Valley, a must for Lorna Doone fans!"
🚗 Road Caution
Steep, narrow roads! Avoid motorhomes & caravans. Drive carefully on Exmoor's challenging routes.
📖 Lorna Doone Link
Explore the setting of Blackmore's classic novel. The valley and church are key locations.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lorna Doone Connection
Doone Valley
Experience the heart of the 'Lorna Doone' novel, with the church as a central landmark in this picturesque valley.
Original Boxed Seating
Interior
Step back in time with the church's original, age-old boxed seating, offering a unique glimpse into its history.
Peaceful Contemplation
Church Grounds
Find a moment of quiet reflection in this stunning, peaceful setting, maintained beautifully for visitors.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Doone Valley
A Literary Pilgrimage
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Road Caution
Steep, narrow roads! Avoid motorhomes & caravans. Drive carefully on Exmoor's challenging routes.
📖 Lorna Doone Link
Explore the setting of Blackmore's classic novel. The valley and church are key locations.
🤫 Quiet Reflection
Enjoy the peaceful ambiance for moments of quiet contemplation. A truly serene spot.
🕰️ Historic Interior
Don't miss the original boxed seating, a unique historical feature inside the church.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Road Caution
Steep, narrow roads! Avoid motorhomes & caravans. Drive carefully on Exmoor's challenging routes.
📖 Lorna Doone Link
Explore the setting of Blackmore's classic novel. The valley and church are key locations.
🤫 Quiet Reflection
Enjoy the peaceful ambiance for moments of quiet contemplation. A truly serene spot.
🕰️ Historic Interior
Don't miss the original boxed seating, a unique historical feature inside the church.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Oare Church St Mary for its deep connection to the 'Lorna Doone' novel and its serene, peaceful setting in the beautiful Doone Valley. The original boxed seating is a unique historical highlight. However, the challenging, narrow, and steep access roads are a significant drawback for some, particularly those with larger vehicles.
"Called in here on a tour of Exmoor with friends. The roads are steep and narrow, DO NOT ATTEMPT in a motor home or towing a caravan!"
Angela Blanchard
"For fans of the book /dramatisations of the Lorna Doone Book by Blackmore this area is a must as a lot of the book is set in this beautiful area Strangely enough when telling one of my post customers on my round in Newcastle Staffs in the 1980s of me visiting the area she told me she was a great great granddaughter of the Author !! She was then well in her eighties and over a 100 when she eventual;ly died"
Michael Cooke
"Beautiful little church at Oare in the Doone Valley, Exmoor. The story of Lorna Doone was set in this area of Exmoor."
Jess Horton
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Access is via steep and narrow roads within Exmoor National Park. It's strongly advised not to attempt this route with a motorhome or caravan due to the challenging terrain. Careful navigation is essential.
Public transport options to Oare Church are very limited due to its rural location. It's best to travel by car, but be mindful of the road conditions.
The church is located in the Doone Valley, near the village of Oare. Larger nearby towns include Lynton and Lynmouth on the coast, and Porlock.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Oare Church St Mary is a place of worship and generally open for visitors without an entrance fee. Donations are welcome to help with its upkeep.
The church is typically open during daylight hours for visitors seeking quiet contemplation. It's advisable to check local listings or inquire if you need specific access times.
Yes, the church and its surrounding valley are accessible year-round, though weather conditions on Exmoor can impact travel, especially in winter.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside, you'll find original boxed seating dating back to the building's age, offering a unique historical perspective. The atmosphere is one of peaceful contemplation.
The church and its setting in the Doone Valley are incredibly picturesque, making it a popular spot for photography, especially for those interested in landscapes and historical architecture.
Its primary significance lies in its association with R.D. Blackmore's famous novel 'Lorna Doone,' which is set in this beautiful Exmoor valley.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Dining options are limited directly at the church. Nearby villages like Oare, Porlock, or Lynton offer pubs and cafes for refreshments. It's wise to pack a picnic to enjoy in the scenic valley.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
📚 Literary Enthusiasts
Consider reading or re-reading the book before your visit to fully appreciate the connection between the real location and the fictional narrative. The church's interior, with its original boxed seating, offers a tangible link to the past that inspired Blackmore's storytelling.
🚗 Adventurous Drivers
This route is best suited for smaller vehicles and those who enjoy scenic, albeit challenging, drives. The reward is reaching a secluded and beautiful spot, far from the usual tourist crowds, offering a true sense of discovery.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The 'Lorna Doone' Connection
Walking through the valley and seeing the church can evoke a strong sense of place, transporting you back to the 17th century when the novel is set. The rugged beauty of Exmoor, with its rolling hills, ancient woodlands, and winding streams, perfectly complements the romantic and often perilous narrative of 'Lorna Doone.' It's an experience that appeals to both literature enthusiasts and those who appreciate the wild, untamed beauty of the British countryside.
Architectural and Historical Features
Beyond the boxed seating, the church often exudes a profound sense of peace and tranquility. Visitors frequently comment on the peaceful atmosphere and the opportunity for quiet contemplation it provides. The church grounds themselves are beautifully maintained, contributing to the serene environment. This sense of calm, combined with its historical significance, makes Oare Church St Mary a place of quiet reflection and appreciation for those who visit.
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