Easter on Exmoor 2026 | Family Activities Guide

Easter is one of the most magical times to visit Exmoor. As spring takes hold across the moors, valleys and coastline, the landscape comes alive with wildflowers, newborn lambs and longer, lighter evenings. Whether you’re looking for egg hunts with the little ones, bracing coastal walks or simply a peaceful retreat in the countryside, Exmoor has something for everyone this Easter.

In 2026, Easter falls across the weekend of Friday 3rd April to Monday 6th April, giving you a lovely four-day break to explore one of England’s most beautiful national parks. With villages like Dunster, Porlock and Lynmouth on your doorstep, you’ll never be short of things to do.

We’ve put together this guide to help you plan the perfect Easter family holiday on Exmoor — from the best egg hunts and spring walks to rainy day ideas and our favourite cottages for the season.

1. Easter Egg Hunts & Family Fun

Easter on Exmoor wouldn’t be complete without an egg hunt, and there are plenty to choose from across the area. The National Trust properties are always a safe bet for a well-organised family day out.

Dunster Castle

This stunning medieval castle perched above the village of Dunster typically hosts an Easter trail over the bank holiday weekend. Children can follow clues through the beautiful grounds and subtropical gardens, with a chocolate reward at the end. It’s a wonderful way to combine a bit of history with some fresh air and family fun.

Arlington Court

Just across the border into North Devon, Arlington Court is another National Trust gem that usually runs Easter activities. The Carriage Museum and extensive grounds make it a great half-day out, and the parkland is ideal for little ones to run around in.

Village Easter Events

Many Exmoor villages organise their own Easter events over the bank holiday — from egg hunts on the village green to Easter bonnet parades and craft activities. Keep an eye on local noticeboards and village Facebook pages in the weeks before Easter for the latest listings. Dunster, Porlock and Dulverton are particularly good for community-led events.

Image Credit: Neville Stanikk

2. Spring Walks for Families

Spring is arguably the best time of year for walking on Exmoor. The weather is mild, the bluebells are beginning to carpet the ancient woodlands, and the days are long enough for a proper afternoon ramble. Here are some of our favourite family-friendly routes:

Tarr Steps

This ancient clapper bridge across the River Barle is one of Exmoor’s most iconic landmarks. The riverside walk is relatively flat and easy for younger children, with plenty of opportunities for paddling and stone-skimming. The woodland along the river is particularly beautiful in spring.

Porlock Weir to Bossington

A gentle coastal and woodland walk that takes you from the pretty harbour at Porlock Weir through to the pebble ridge at Bossington Beach. It’s about 2 miles each way and mostly flat — perfect for families with pushchairs or little legs. Look out for the wild marshland birds along the way.

Dunster Circular

Starting from the medieval yarn market in Dunster village, this circular route takes you up through the deer park behind the castle, along Grabbist Hill and back through the village. It’s around 3 miles with some gentle climbs, and the views across to the Bristol Channel are superb on a clear day.

Valley of Rocks, Lynton

One of the most dramatic landscapes in the south-west. The Valley of Rocks is home to wild feral goats, extraordinary rock formations and sweeping coastal views. The path from Lynton is relatively easy and the landscape feels almost otherworldly — children absolutely love it.

3. Wildlife Spotting

Exmoor is a haven for wildlife, and spring is a particularly exciting time to get out and explore with the family.

Exmoor Ponies

The iconic Exmoor ponies are one of Britain’s oldest native breeds and can be spotted grazing on the open moorland year-round. Spring is a lovely time to see them as the mares often have foals at foot. Good spots include Winsford Hill, Porlock Common and the moorland above Simonsbath. Remember to keep a respectful distance — they’re wild animals, not pets!

Red Deer

Exmoor is home to England’s largest wild herd of red deer. By April, the hinds may be starting to have their calves, though most are born in May and June. You’re most likely to spot deer at dawn and dusk on the open moorland around Dunkery Beacon, or in the wooded combes near Horner and Cloutsham.

Birdwatching

Spring brings migrant birds back to Exmoor. Listen for the distinctive call of the cuckoo across the moors, watch for dippers and grey wagtails along the rivers, and keep an eye out for buzzards circling overhead. The coastal path is also excellent for spotting seabirds, including fulmars, razorbills and the occasional peregrine falcon.

4. Beaches & Coastal Adventures

Exmoor’s coastline is wonderfully rugged and dramatic, and Easter is a brilliant time to explore it before the summer crowds arrive.

Porlock Weir

The tiny harbour at Porlock Weir is utterly charming. The pebble beach stretches along the coast and is a great spot for rock-pooling at low tide. There’s a lovely cafe right on the harbour for warming up with a hot chocolate afterwards.

Lynmouth

Nestled where the East Lyn and West Lyn rivers meet the sea, Lynmouth is a picturesque harbour village with a small beach. Take the cliff railway up to Lynton for incredible views, or explore the stunning Glen Lyn Gorge.

Combe Martin

At the western edge of Exmoor, Combe Martin has a sandy beach that’s popular with families. The rock pools here are some of the best on the coast, and the village is home to several family-friendly attractions.

Minehead

For a more traditional seaside experience, Minehead has a long sandy beach, a promenade and all the essentials for a classic family beach day. It’s also the starting point of the South West Coast Path if you fancy a longer walk.

5. Rainy Day Activities

Let’s be honest — this is Exmoor, and April showers are part of the deal. But a rainy day on Exmoor is far from a wasted one. Here are some brilliant indoor and sheltered activities:

Exmoor Zoo

This intimate, family-run zoo near Barnstaple is home to a wonderful collection of animals including lynx, wolves, cheetahs and a huge variety of smaller creatures. The keeper talks and feeding sessions are a real highlight, and much of the zoo is covered or sheltered.

West Somerset Railway

Britain’s longest heritage railway runs from Bishops Lydeard to Minehead and often puts on special Easter services. A steam train ride through the Somerset countryside is magical for children and grown-ups alike.

Dunster Castle

Even if you’ve done the outdoor Easter trail, the castle itself is well worth exploring on a wet day. The interior is packed with history, from the 13th-century gatehouse to the grand Victorian rooms. Children can pick up a family trail at reception.

Cream Teas

When all else fails, a proper Exmoor cream tea is the answer. You’ll find excellent tearooms in Dunster, Porlock, Dulverton and Lynmouth — just remember, in Somerset it’s jam first, then cream (we won’t tell Devon).

6. Where to Eat with Families

Exmoor has a wonderful food scene, and there are plenty of family-friendly options across the area. Here’s where to head:

Dunster

The village has several pubs and tearooms that welcome families. You’ll find hearty pub lunches, cream teas and local ales within easy walking distance of the castle and high street.

Porlock & Porlock Weir

Porlock village has a good selection of cafes and pubs, while Porlock Weir’s harbourside eateries are perfect for a post-walk lunch. Fresh seafood is a speciality here.

Dulverton

Often called the “Gateway to Exmoor,” Dulverton has a lovely selection of independent cafes and traditional pubs. It’s a great stop on the way to or from Tarr Steps.

Lynmouth & Lynton

Both villages have a good range of restaurants, cafes and fish-and-chip shops. Lynmouth in particular has some lovely waterside spots for a family meal.

Tip: Easter is busy on Exmoor, so it’s worth booking ahead for evening meals at popular pubs and restaurants, especially over the bank holiday weekend.

7. Our Top Easter Cottages

We’ve handpicked a selection of our favourite holiday cottages across Exmoor that are perfect for an Easter break. From cosy couples’ retreats to spacious family homes, there’s something here for every group.

Browse All 76 Easter Cottages →

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