
Simonsbath Exmoor
Tranquil village in Exmoor National Park, offering stunning moorland walks, a renowned inn, and artistic inspiration.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Wildflowers bloom, wildlife stirs

Simonsbath Exmoor
Best Time
Wildflowers bloom, wildlife stirs
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Tranquil village in Exmoor National Park, offering stunning moorland walks, a renowned inn, and artistic inspiration.
"A perfect escape into Exmoor's heart, with incredible food and breathtaking scenery."

🚗 Scenic Drives
Explore Exmoor's winding roads; the A30 offers enjoyable stretches. Enjoy the moorland views!
🥾 Sturdy Footwear Essential
Trails can be uneven. Pack good walking boots for exploring Simonsbath's varied terrain.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Exmoor Forest Inn
Simonsbath
Savor locally sourced, sustainable dishes in a charming inn nestled in Exmoor's heart. A true taste of the region.

Cow Castle
Near Simonsbath
Hike to this ancient mound for panoramic views and a refreshing wild swim spot. A rewarding adventure.

Simonsbath Sawmill
Simonsbath
Discover local crafts and handmade goods at this community hub, especially during seasonal fairs.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Moorland Pace
Walks & Wildlife Wonders
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Scenic Drives
Explore Exmoor's winding roads; the A30 offers enjoyable stretches. Enjoy the moorland views!
🥾 Sturdy Footwear Essential
Trails can be uneven. Pack good walking boots for exploring Simonsbath's varied terrain.
🏊♀️ Wild Swimming Spots
Discover refreshing spots like near Cow Castle for a dip on your walks.
🍽️ Book Dining Ahead
The Exmoor Forest Inn is popular. Reserve your table to avoid missing out on local flavors.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Scenic Drives
Explore Exmoor's winding roads; the A30 offers enjoyable stretches. Enjoy the moorland views!
🥾 Sturdy Footwear Essential
Trails can be uneven. Pack good walking boots for exploring Simonsbath's varied terrain.
🏊♀️ Wild Swimming Spots
Discover refreshing spots like near Cow Castle for a dip on your walks.
🍽️ Book Dining Ahead
The Exmoor Forest Inn is popular. Reserve your table to avoid missing out on local flavors.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Exploration
Many areas around Simonsbath welcome dogs, perfect for a countryside adventure.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Simonsbath's stunning natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere, making it a perfect escape into Exmoor National Park. The Exmoor Forest Inn is a highlight for its delicious, locally sourced food and welcoming ambiance. Some find the limited public transport and occasional challenging terrain to be minor drawbacks.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Simonsbath is best accessed by car. From the north, take the A396 and then smaller roads towards Simonsbath. From the south, routes via the A30 and then B3223 are common. The roads can be narrow and winding, offering scenic drives. Parking is available at designated areas, such as Ashcombe car park for walks towards Cow Castle.
Public transport options are limited in Simonsbath. Bus services may run to nearby villages like Exford, but direct routes to Simonsbath are infrequent. It's advisable to check local bus timetables for the most up-to-date information, though many visitors find a car essential for exploring the area.
The roads around Simonsbath offer a classic Exmoor driving experience with plenty of twists and turns. While not strictly 'fast' roads, they are incredibly scenic. The B3223 and surrounding lanes provide beautiful moorland vistas.
Cycling is a popular way to explore Exmoor, and Simonsbath is accessible via various routes. Be prepared for hilly terrain and potentially narrow roads. Many cyclists enjoy the challenge and the stunning scenery.
The nearest major train stations are in Taunton or Barnstaple. From these stations, you would typically need to arrange onward travel by bus or taxi to reach Simonsbath, as direct public transport links are scarce.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Simonsbath itself is a village and the surrounding Exmoor National Park are free to enter and explore. There are no general admission tickets required for the village or most of the natural attractions.
While the village and most walking routes are free, specific attractions like the Exmoor Forest Inn have their own pricing for food and drink. Events at places like the Simonsbath Sawmill may also have entry fees.
The Exmoor Forest Inn typically serves food and drinks throughout the day. It's best to check their official website or contact them directly for the most current opening hours, especially outside of peak season.
Parking is generally available in Simonsbath, often in designated car parks or roadside areas. While some parking might be free, it's always wise to check for any signage indicating parking fees, especially in popular spots like near trailheads.
The Simonsbath Sawmill hosts events and fairs, which have specific opening times. Outside of these events, access may be limited. It's recommended to check their schedule for any upcoming fairs or markets.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Simonsbath is a gateway to numerous walks. Popular options include the walk to Cow Castle, sections of the Two Moors Way, and the Tarka Trail. Many circular walks offer varied scenery and terrain.
Yes, Exmoor National Park, including the Simonsbath area, is rich in wildlife. You might spot red deer, various bird species, and other native fauna. Early mornings and late evenings are often best for sightings.
Yes, there are opportunities for wild swimming. Cow Castle is a known spot where visitors enjoy a refreshing dip. Always exercise caution and be aware of water conditions.
Expect classic Exmoor scenery: rolling moorland, ancient woodlands, river valleys, and open heathland. The landscape is dramatic and beautiful, changing with the seasons.
Absolutely! Simonsbath and its surroundings offer stunning photographic opportunities, from sweeping moorland vistas to charming village scenes and artistic inspiration.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Exmoor Forest Inn is a highly recommended dining spot, known for its local and sustainable produce, including venison and beef from their own farm. It offers a true taste of Exmoor.
Yes, the Exmoor Forest Inn prides itself on using local and sustainable ingredients, with many items sourced from their own organic hill farm.
While Simonsbath itself has limited options, nearby villages like Withypool and Winsford offer additional pubs and tea rooms. Exploring these can add to your Exmoor culinary adventure.
The Exmoor Forest Inn focuses on local and seasonal produce, so it's likely they offer vegetarian options. For specific vegan requirements, it's best to inquire directly when booking or visiting.
Yes, the beautiful Exmoor landscape around Simonsbath is perfect for picnics. Many scenic spots along walking trails offer ideal locations to enjoy a packed lunch amidst nature.
📸 📸 Photography
Simonsbath offers diverse photographic opportunities. Capture the rolling moorland, the charming Exmoor Forest Inn, views towards villages like Withypool and Winsford, and the natural beauty along walking trails.
Golden hours, both sunrise and sunset, offer beautiful light for landscape photography. Misty mornings can also create a dramatic atmosphere. The changing seasons also provide unique photographic subjects.
Cow Castle provides a great vantage point for panoramic shots. The Exmoor Forest Inn itself is picturesque, and the surrounding natural landscapes are prime subjects.
A versatile lens (e.g., 24-70mm) is useful for landscapes and village scenes. A wide-angle lens can capture the expansive moorland. Consider a tripod for low-light conditions or long exposures.
Yes, Exmoor is home to wildlife. Bring a telephoto lens if you hope to capture shots of deer or birds. Remember to maintain a respectful distance and avoid disturbing the animals.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When planning your visit, consider shorter, well-defined walks that are manageable for little legs. Bringing snacks and drinks is always a good idea, as facilities can be spread out. The slower pace of life in Simonsbath can be a refreshing change, allowing families to disconnect and enjoy quality time together amidst beautiful scenery.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers
For safety, always inform someone of your hiking plans, carry a map and navigation tools, and be prepared for changing weather conditions. The sense of solitude and connection with nature is a major draw for solo visitors, offering a chance for reflection and rejuvenation. Consider joining a guided walk or a local conservation volunteer day for a social element.
🚗 Road Trip Enthusiasts
Consider incorporating Simonsbath into a larger Exmoor road trip, perhaps linking it with visits to nearby villages like Withypool or Winsford. Ensure your vehicle is in good condition, and be mindful of livestock that may be on the roads. The drive itself is a significant part of the experience here.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Exmoor's Trails from Simonsbath
One of the most popular excursions from Simonsbath is the walk to Cow Castle, an ancient hill fort offering commanding views of the surrounding landscape. This route often incorporates sections of public bridleways and footpaths, making it a well-trodden but rewarding path. For those interested in conservation, participating in local volunteer days, such as tree planting initiatives with organizations like the National Trust, offers a unique way to connect with the environment and contribute to its preservation.
When planning your walks, it's essential to be prepared. Sturdy walking boots are a must due to the often uneven and sometimes boggy terrain. Carrying a map, compass, and sufficient water and snacks is also advisable, as mobile signal can be patchy in remote areas. The weather on Exmoor can change rapidly, so packing layers and waterproofs is always a good idea, even on seemingly clear days.
The Culinary Delights of the Exmoor Forest Inn
Visitors consistently praise the quality and flavor of the food, highlighting dishes like the venison and beef as standouts. The inn's dedication to local sourcing extends to other elements of the dining experience, ensuring that guests are enjoying the freshest seasonal produce. This farm-to-table approach not only supports local suppliers but also offers a more authentic and delicious culinary journey for visitors.
Beyond the food, the Exmoor Forest Inn offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere, making it a perfect spot to relax after a day of exploring. Whether you're seeking a hearty meal or a delightful dessert like their crème brûlée, the inn provides a memorable dining experience that is central to the Simonsbath visit. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during busy periods, to secure a table at this popular establishment.
Artistic Inspiration and Village Charm
The village itself, with its charming architecture and connection to the Exmoor Forest Inn, offers a picturesque setting. Events like the spring craft fair at the Simonsbath Sawmill showcase local talent and provide an opportunity to discover unique handmade items, reflecting the creative spirit of the community. This blend of natural beauty, artistic legacy, and local craft makes Simonsbath a place that appeals to a wide range of interests.
For those looking to capture the essence of Simonsbath, the opportunities for photography are abundant. From the sweeping vistas of the moorland to the intimate details of village life and the artistic expressions found at local events, there are countless subjects to explore. The area's ability to inspire both artists and visitors underscores its enduring appeal as a special corner of Exmoor.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit