Mother’s Day on Exmoor is something special. It falls on Sunday 15th March 2026 this year – and what better gift than a few days in the countryside? Forget the chocolates and flowers (well, maybe bring those too). Give Mum the kind of break that involves log fires, coastal air, morning mist over the moors, and absolutely nothing on the to-do list.
Whether you’re treating your mum to a cottage for two, planning a family getaway, or simply looking for a special day out – Exmoor in mid-March is quietly perfect. Spring is arriving, the days are getting longer, and the villages are waking up after winter. Here’s everything you need to plan the perfect Mother’s Day on Exmoor.
In This Guide
When Is Mother’s Day 2026?
Mark your calendar
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Sunday 15th March 2026
Mothering Sunday – the fourth Sunday of Lent
💡 Booking tip: Mid-March is the sweet spot between winter prices and Easter demand. Book now for the best choice of
cottages – the smaller romantic ones go quickly.
IMAGE CREDIT: SARAH HAILSTONE
Why Exmoor for Mother’s Day?
Five reasons Mum will thank you
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🌷 Spring Is ArrivingLonger days, daffodils in the hedgerows, and the first warmth of the year. The countryside is coming alive. |
🏡 Cottages with CharacterLog fires, exposed beams, cosy corners. Our cottages are handpicked for comfort and charm. |
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🧭 Peace and QuietBefore the Easter crowds arrive, Exmoor in March is wonderfully peaceful. Empty paths and space to breathe. |
💷 Better ValueMid-March falls between winter and Easter peak season. More availability and better rates. |
❤️
Time Together
No itinerary needed. Walk together, eat together, sit by the fire together. The best gift is undivided attention – and Exmoor gives you the space for exactly that.
Romantic Cottages for Two
Treat Mum (or yourself) to a quiet escape for two this Mother’s Day on Exmoor
More Romantic Cottages for Two
| Cottage | Location | Sleeps | Book |
|---|---|---|---|
| Worthy Cottage | Porlock Weir | 2 | Book |
| Coachmans Cottage | Porlock Weir | 2 | Book |
| The Cottage at Woodlands | Lynton | 2 | Book |
| The Folly | Bratton Fleming | 2 | Book |
| Horner Cottage | Luccombe | 2 | Book |
| The Old Post Office | Exford | 2 | Book |
| Bramley Hut | Allerford | 2 | Book |
| The Woodman’s Hut | Minehead | 2 | Book |
| Byre Cottage | Dulverton | 2 | Book |
| Dunkery View | Wootton Courtenay | 2 | Book |
Family Cottages – Bring the Whole Crew
Celebrating Mother’s Day on Exmoor with the whole family? Everyone’s welcome
Spring Walks for Mother’s Day on Exmoor
Gentle routes, big views, and the first signs of spring
🌺 Dunster Village & Castle Grounds
1–2 miles
1–2 hours
Wander through Dunster’s medieval streets, past the Yarn Market, and up through the castle grounds. In mid-March, the daffodils are out and the views across the Bristol Channel are lovely. Stop at the Watermill Tearoom on the way back for a cream tea.
Highlight: The castle gardens are full of early spring flowers in March.
🌿 Porlock Weir to Culbone Church
4 miles return
2–3 hours
Follow the coastal woodland path from Porlock Weir through ancient oak woods to Culbone Church – the smallest parish church in England. The path winds through trees with glimpses of the sea below. A truly special walk.
Highlight: Culbone Church has stood here since the 12th century, hidden in the woods. Unforgettable.
🌲 Tarr Steps & the River Barle
2–4 miles
1.5–2.5 hours
Cross the ancient clapper bridge at Tarr Steps – one of Exmoor’s most iconic landmarks – and walk along the River Barle through moss-covered woodland. The river is beautiful in spring, and you might spot dippers and grey wagtails along the way.
Highlight: Tarr Steps is believed to be over 3,000 years old. A must-see on Exmoor.
🌻 Selworthy & Bossington
3 miles
2–3 hours
Start at Selworthy’s thatched village and walk through the green to Bossington and its pebble beach. The views across Porlock Vale are gorgeous, and this route is perfect for a relaxed morning with Mum before a pub lunch.
Highlight: Selworthy is one of the prettiest villages in Somerset – cream-coloured thatched cottages around a medieval church.
Afternoon Tea & Dining
The best places to eat this Mother’s Day on Exmoor
☕ Afternoon TeaWatermill Tearoom, DunsterOverlooking the River Avill in a working watermill. Freshly baked scones, local clotted cream, and a proper pot of tea. Exactly the kind of place Mum would love. Periwinkle Tearoom, SelworthyTucked into Selworthy’s National Trust village. Cream teas with a view of the thatched cottages and Exmoor hills. A real treat on a spring afternoon. The Harbour Lights Cafe, Porlock WeirWatch the harbour from your table while enjoying cakes and a coffee. Simple, charming, and right by the water. |
🍽️ Pub Lunches & DinnerThe Royal Oak, LuxboroughA classic Exmoor pub in a quiet valley. Real ales, hearty food, and a log fire. The kind of pub you wish was your local. The Exmoor Forest Inn, SimonsbathIn the heart of the moor. Good food, local ales, and a cosy atmosphere. The surrounding landscape is wild and beautiful – stop here after a moorland walk. The Crown Hotel, ExfordA traditional coaching inn on the village green. Sunday lunch here is a proper occasion – perfect for Mother’s Day. |
Unique Exmoor Experiences
Make your Mother’s Day on Exmoor extra memorable
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Dark Sky Stargazing
Exmoor is a designated International Dark Sky Reserve. On a clear March evening, the sky above the moor is full of stars. Bring a blanket and a flask.
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West Somerset Railway
Britain’s longest heritage railway runs 20 miles through Exmoor’s countryside. Check the timetable here. A nostalgic trip along the coast and through the hills – Mum will love it.
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Exmoor Cream Tea
The cream-first-or-jam-first debate runs deep here. Find a village tearoom, order a scone, and let Mum have the final word.
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Red Deer Spotting
Exmoor is home to England’s largest wild red deer herd. Spring is a great time to spot them on the open moor, especially around Dunkery Beacon and the Brendon Hills.
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Dunster Castle
A National Trust gem perched above the village. Explore the castle, the subtropical gardens, and the medieval dovecote. The spring gardens are beautiful in March.
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Village Artisan Shops
Dunster, Porlock, and Dulverton have lovely independent shops – local pottery, handmade jewellery, books, and artwork. Pick up a gift for Mum while you explore.
Frequently Asked Questions – Mother’s Day on Exmoor
When is Mother’s Day 2026 in the UK?
Sunday 15th March 2026. It falls on the fourth Sunday of Lent (Mothering Sunday).
Can I book a short break for Mother’s Day weekend?
Yes! Many of our cottages offer short breaks from 2–3 nights. A Friday-to-Sunday or Friday-to-Monday stay over Mother’s Day weekend is perfect.
What’s the weather like on Exmoor in mid-March?
Expect temperatures around 8–12°C. Spring is arriving but Exmoor can still be changeable – bring layers, a waterproof, and good walking shoes. The days are getting noticeably longer though, with sunset around 6pm.
Are the cottages dog-friendly?
Many are! Check each listing for the dog-friendly tag. Exmoor is brilliant for dogs – miles of footpaths, open moorland, and plenty of dog-friendly pubs.
How do I get to Exmoor?
Exmoor is in Somerset/Devon, about 3 hours from London by car (via the M5). The nearest train station is Taunton (30–45 mins from the moor). Most villages have free parking.
Is mid-March a good time to visit Exmoor?
It’s a lovely time. Spring flowers are appearing, lambs are in the fields, the days are getting longer, and you’ll have the paths largely to yourselves before Easter.