• Exmoor Cottages – An Overview

    Exmoor Cottages – Your Perfect Self-Catering Holiday

    If you’re looking for Exmoor cottages for a self-catering holiday, you’ve come to the right place. At The Best of Exmoor, we specialise solely in Exmoor National Park — offering the widest choice of cottages in this magical part of Somerset and North Devon. From cosy bolt-holes for two to large farmhouses for family gatherings, we’re proud to showcase the very best of Exmoor holiday accommodation.


    Find Your Ideal Exmoor Cottage

    We know that every holiday is different. That’s why we’ve made it easy to explore our cottages by style and feature:


     

    Exmoor Cottages for Couples

    cottages for couples exmoor

    Looking for a romantic escape? Our cottages for couples range from remote hideaways to pretty village homes within strolling distance of pubs and tearooms. Whether it’s stargazing under Exmoor’s Dark Sky Reserve or exploring heritage sites hand-in-hand, there’s something to make every break memorable.

    romantic cottages


     

    Exmoor Cottages for Families

    exmoor cottages for family fun

    Exmoor is a natural playground for children — rock pools to explore, ponies to spot, ice creams by the harbour, and woodland trails to wander. Families will love our cottages with gardens, easy access to beaches, or space for board games and film nights. For older kids, long moorland walks are a brilliant way to reconnect away from screens.

    exmoor cottages for family fun


     

    Exmoor Cottages for Larger Groups

    exmoor cottages for large groups

    Planning a big get-together? Our large cottages sleep up to 21 guests, ideal for birthdays, anniversaries, or simply time together. We also offer groups of smaller cottages close to one another — giving everyone their own space while keeping you all within easy reach.

    exmoor cottages for large groups


     

    Dog-Friendly Exmoor Cottages

    exmoor cottages dog friendly

    Exmoor is heaven for dogs, with miles of open moorland, wooded valleys, and dog-friendly beaches to enjoy. Most of our cottages welcome pets — just look for the paw icon. And it’s not just the cottages: plenty of local pubs, cafés, and attractions are happy to host dogs too.

    exmoor cottages for dogs


     

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    Why Choose Exmoor?

    Exmoor is a place people fall in love with and return to year after year. Here you’ll find:

    • Wild moorland and windswept coastlines, where Exmoor ponies graze.

    • Sheltered combes, rolling farmland, and picture-perfect villages.

    • Historic landmarks — castles, churches, and stone bridges.

    • Cosy pubs, tea rooms, and local produce from cider to whortleberry jam.

    • Space to breathe, time to think, and landscapes that restore the soul.

    Whether you’re here for walking, wildlife, star-gazing, or simply unwinding by the fire, Exmoor always delivers.


    Ready to book your stay? Browse all our Exmoor cottages or dive straight into our special collections above.


     

    Exmoor | A Magical Place to Stay

    Those who visit Exmoor will never do so only once. This stunning, ancient land has an otherworldly quality where it feels like time stands still. Here, there is space to breathe, time to think, beauty and light that leave you feeling inspired and refreshed.

    Exmoor cottages

    Many people are surprised to find the landscape richly varied on Exmoor. Images of high heathy moorland and rugged, windswept trees come to mind. This you can undoubtedly find, where salty sea breezes and wild Exmoor ponies will lift your spirits. But often forgotten is the abundance of soft, rolling hills and pretty woodlands, coves, beaches and sheltered footpaths following meandering brooks. Harbour hamlets scatter the coast with beautiful boats and plenty of spots for ice cream. Villages of higgledy-piggledy cottages with thatched roofs and well-loved roses look like the thing of fairy-tales, with tea rooms, castles and ancient monuments for good measure.

    Plenty is going on, from outdoor pursuits to galleries, walks, country shows and various fun days out for the little ones. You can check out our Things to Do and What’s On pages for some inspiration. Even just staying in for some quality time together – whether you make the most of our many cottages with gardens for some summer alfresco dining or one with a wood fire for cosy evenings snuggled in.

    Autumn brings a softer feel to Exmoor compared with Dartmoor’s wilder expanses — read our guide: Exmoor vs Dartmoor: Which National Park is Bigger?

    Exmoor cottages
    Dunster Deer Park – a view East towards the Quantocks.
    Exmoor cottages
    Flossie checking out the stream near Bossington. Perhaps time for a swim soon…?
    Exmoor cottages
    Mouse on route to Gallox Bridge, Dunster
    Exmoor cottages
    Boats of Porlock Weir harbour at low tide

     


     

    About The Best of Exmoor

    We’re the only holiday letting agency based right here in Exmoor. That means we know the area inside out — from the best local pubs to the quietest walking routes. Many of our guests return year after year, drawn back by our personal service and unrivalled choice of cottages.

    If you’d like to know more about us, meet the team, or browse our village guides and things to do pages for inspiration.

    Not sure where to start? We’re always happy to help you find the right cottage. Get in touch with us today and start planning your Exmoor escape.

     

    Are Exmoor cottages dog-friendly?

    Yes! Most of our Exmoor cottages welcome well-behaved dogs. Many feature secure gardens, enclosed paddocks, and are located near dog-friendly beaches and moorland walks. We provide local recommendations for the best dog walks and dog-welcoming pubs.

    How far are Exmoor cottages from the beach?

    Exmoor cottages vary in distance to beaches. Our coastal properties in Lynmouth and Porlock are right by the sea, whilst moorland cottages are typically 15-30 minutes from dog-friendly beaches like Blue Anchor, Woolacombe and Dunster Beach

    Do Exmoor cottages have Wi-Fi and modern amenities?

    Yes, most of our cottages include Wi-Fi, smart TVs, and modern kitchen appliances. Many also feature luxury touches like hot tubs, games rooms, and log fires. We ensure every property meets high standards for comfort and convenience.

    What’s the best time to visit Exmoor for a cottage holiday?

    Exmoor is beautiful year-round, but autumn (September-November) is particularly stunning with golden colours. Spring offers bluebells and newborn ponies, whilst summer provides the warmest weather for beach days and outdoor activities.

    Can I see Exmoor ponies near the cottages?

    Absolutely! Wild Exmoor ponies roam freely across the moorland and often graze near our cottages, especially those in Exford, Winsford, and Simonsbath areas. Early morning and evening are the best times for pony spotting.

    How do I book an Exmoor cottage and what’s included?

    Booking is simple through our website or by calling our local team on 01182300750. Most cottages include linen, towels, Wi-Fi, and welcome information. Many properties offer welcome hampers, logs for fires, and local produce.