Hop On! The Exmoor Coaster Returns as the Exmoor Explorer for Summer 2025
The iconic open-top bus that winds its way along Exmoor’s dramatic coastline is back for summer 2025 – and it’s got a new name! Formerly the Exmoor Coaster, it’s now officially called the Exmoor Explorer, and it promises another unforgettable season of scenic rides and seaside adventures.
When is it running?
The Exmoor Explorer kicks off its 2025 season on Sunday 25 May, with daily service running right through until Sunday 31 August. You’ll spot the classic open-top buses returning from Wednesday 23 July – perfect timing for the summer holidays.
In the early season, the service runs with regular double-decker buses, but once high summer rolls around, the tops come off and the big views come out!
📍 New for this year: The route has been extended to include Blue Anchor holiday park in Minehead (except on Sundays), making it even easier for holidaymakers to join the ride.
Where does it go?
The Explorer takes passengers through some of Exmoor’s most scenic and charming locations:
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Minehead – a great place to start your journey with classic seaside vibes
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Porlock & Porlock Weir – with cosy pubs, galleries, and coastal paths
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County Gate – dramatic moorland and sea views, perfect for walkers
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Lynton & Lynmouth – known for its cliff railway, cream teas, and the wild Valley of Rocks
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Ilfracombe – with its harbour, beaches and coastal walks
And yes – you’ll cruise up Porlock Hill, one of the steepest A roads in the country, without having to drive it yourself!
Make it part of your holiday
We’ve got lots of brilliant cottages along the route – ideal for making the most of the Explorer and everything Exmoor has to offer. Click here to find out more.
Why take the Exmoor Explorer?
It’s a relaxing, eco-friendly way to see the moor, with £3 single fares (thanks to the national fare cap scheme). It’s dog-friendly, camera-ready, and gives you a whole new perspective on Exmoor – literally, from the top deck.
🚶♂️ Complete sections of the South West Coast Path by bus-hopping and returning to your cosy base each night.
🍸 Enjoy a few beers, ciders, or a G&T with lunch without worrying about the drive.
🚌 Kids and grown-ups will love the open-top experience and those jaw-dropping views!
- Read more in the BBC article here.
Timetables
- Stay up to date on First Bus
- EX1 Timetables – note the two seasons shown on the same page
Find out what to do in our village guides.