There’s something quietly unforgettable about standing beneath a sky full of stars. No streetlights. No car horns. Just the hush of the moorland and the soft sweep of the Milky Way overhead.
Exmoor is one of the best places in the UK for stargazing. But hidden among its footpaths is something even more special: a purpose-built walking route that lets you experience the magic of the night sky on foot — the Exmoor Dark Sky Discovery Trail.
This isn’t just any walk. It’s a journey through one of Europe’s first International Dark Sky Reserves, designed to help you discover the constellations, connect with nature after dark, and enjoy the stillness of the night — safely and simply.
What is the Exmoor Dark Sky Discovery Trail?
Opened in October 2021, the Exmoor Dark Sky Discovery Trail is a short, mostly level route across remote open moorland starting near Exford in the heart of Exmoor National Park’s Dark Sky Reserve. The trail leads you to the ruins of Larkbarrow Farm, where you’ll find a 360-degree view of pristine night skies with absolutely no artificial light pollution.
This short, mostly level trail leads you on a mini-adventure into remote moorland where you can truly absorb the tranquillity of Exmoor — with only the sound of the wind and the soft call of night birds for company. And if the skies are clear, you’ll be rewarded with a panoramic view of the stars, the Milky Way arcing overhead, and perhaps even a passing meteor or two.
The route follows glow-in-the-dark waymarker signs crafted with luminescent paint, making them easy to follow by night. The path is a wide, stony track suitable for a range of abilities, and the ruins at Larkbarrow provide an atmospheric backdrop for an unforgettable stargazing stop. Sit, listen, and gaze — it’s a moment you won’t forget.
Practical Information: Plan Your Visit
Essential Trail Details
- Start Point: Lay-by near Larkbarrow Corner, Wellshead Lane near Exford
- Grid Reference: SS 8275 4177
- What3Words:
notices.reworked.rebel - Google Maps: View Location
- Distance: 3.2 km / 2 miles (out and back)
- Time: Allow 1.5 hours including stargazing stop
- Difficulty: Easy — mostly level, suitable for families
- Parking: Limited spaces in lay-by — park considerately, don’t block gates or access
- Facilities: None on trail — nearest in Exford village (2.8 miles)
- Accessibility: Wide stony path, generally suitable for confident walkers
🐄 Important Notice: Between May and September, cattle (possibly with calves) may be in the fields. Do not approach or disturb them, and take extra care with dogs — keep them on leads.
Trail Resources
You can follow the OS digital map online, or purchase a water and tear-resistant trail guide (£1) from:
- Exmoor National Park Authority online shop
- Exmoor National Park Centres in Dulverton, Dunster, or Lynmouth
The printed guide includes fascinating historical information about the area, astronomy tips from expert Jo Richardson FRAS, a detailed route map, and safety advice for enjoying the trail after dark.
What You’ll Experience on the Trail
The Night Sky Above Exmoor
Exmoor’s skies are among the darkest in the country, with light pollution levels similar to a true dark site location. On a clear night, you can see the Milky Way and up to 3,000 stars with the naked eye — compared to just 200 stars visible from a typical city location.
It’s one of the few places where you might catch the glow of the Andromeda Galaxy, spot shooting stars darting overhead during meteor showers, or watch planets rise above the horizon. The trail’s remote location at Larkbarrow Farm provides unobstructed 360-degree views with no artificial lights whatsoever.
Wildlife & Natural Sounds
As you walk across the open moorland, listen for the sounds of Exmoor’s nocturnal wildlife. You might hear:
- Owls calling across the darkness
- Bats echolocating — 16 of the UK’s 17 breeding bat species live on Exmoor
- The rustle of nocturnal mammals moving through the heather
- The soft sounds of grazing sheep and cattle in nearby fields
Exmoor’s Dark Sky Reserve status benefits nocturnal wildlife enormously by preserving their natural light cycles and hunting patterns.
The Ruins of Larkbarrow Farm
The trail’s midpoint brings you to the atmospheric ruins of Larkbarrow Farm, now a derelict farmstead surrounded by miles of open moorland. This is your stargazing stop — a place of complete remoteness and tranquility, where the only sounds are the wind and the natural world.
Sit on the raised ground, spread out a blanket, and simply gaze upward. The ruins provide a fascinating historical backdrop while you immerse yourself in the wonders of the night sky.
Video Guide: Preview the Trail
Watch this short video created by Exmoor National Park Authority to see what you can expect on the Dark Sky Discovery Trail and feel confident about walking it after dark:
When to Visit: Best Times for Stargazing
⭐ THIS WEEKEND IS IDEAL! (November 21-23, 2025)
Current Moon Phase: New Moon
- Friday, Nov 21: 0% moonlight – PERFECT CONDITIONS
- Saturday, Nov 22: 3% illumination – EXCELLENT
- Sunday, Nov 23: 7% illumination – EXCELLENT
This is the darkest period of the month — ideal for seeing the Milky Way and up to 3,000 stars!
Best Stargazing Windows: December 2025 – February 2026
December 2025
- ❌ AVOID: Dec 4-5 (Full Moon / Super Moon – very bright)
- ✅ BEST: Dec 16-23 — New Moon Dec 19-20
Perfect for Christmas stargazing! Combine with Dunster Christmas events.
January 2026
- ❌ AVOID: Jan 4 (Full Moon – very bright)
- ✅ BEST: Jan 15-22 — New Moon Jan 18-19
Ideal timing before Snowdrop Valley opens (Jan 24). Cold, clear winter skies!
February 2026
- ✅ BEST: Mid-to-late February (dates TBC)
Combine with Snowdrop Valley visits and Exmoor Food Fest events!
Understanding Dark Sky Timing
For the best stargazing experience on the trail, you need three things to align:
- New Moon periods — When there’s 0-10% moonlight, the Milky Way becomes visible
- Clear, cloudless nights — Check weather forecasts in advance
- Full darkness — Allow 1.5 hours after sunset for the sky to become truly dark
📅 Live Dark Sky Calendar: Check real-time moon phases and the best viewing nights using Go Stargazing’s interactive calendar for the Exmoor Dark Sky Discovery Trail.
Seasonal Considerations
The trail is accessible year-round, but each season offers unique advantages:
- Autumn & Winter (October-February): Longest dark hours (up to 14+ hours of darkness), clearest skies, and the annual Exmoor Dark Skies Festival in late October
- Spring (March-May): Milder temperatures (more comfortable for longer viewing), spring constellations, and fewer crowds
- Summer (June-August): Warm evenings but shorter darkness window (only 5-6 hours) and higher humidity can affect visibility
💡 Pro Tip: Winter months (December-February) offer the longest darkness and statistically clearest skies, making them ideal for first-time visitors to the trail. The cold also means fewer insects and better atmospheric clarity!
What to Bring: Essential Kit
Navigation & Light
- Red-light torch — preserves night vision better than white light
- Trail guide or OS map downloaded to your phone
- Fully charged phone for emergencies
- Spare batteries for torches
Comfort & Safety
- Warm layers — even summer nights get chilly on the moor
- Windproof jacket
- Sturdy walking boots or shoes with good grip
- Hat and gloves in colder months
- Hot drink in a flask
- Snacks for energy
Stargazing Extras (Optional)
- Blanket or sit mat for comfort at Larkbarrow
- Binoculars for closer views of planets and star clusters
- Star map app (like SkyView or Star Walk 2)
- Camera with long exposure capability for astrophotography
💡 Pro Tip: Let your eyes adjust to the darkness for at least 15-20 minutes before serious stargazing. Your night vision will dramatically improve, revealing thousands more stars.
Beyond the Trail: More Dark Sky Experiences
Exmoor Dark Sky Discovery Trail
Every October, Exmoor National Park hosts the Dark Skies Festival — a two-week celebration featuring over 50 events including:
- Guided night walks with expert astronomers
- Telescope viewing sessions
- Astrophotography workshops
- Planetarium shows for families
- Stargazing suppers and pizza nights
- Yoga under the stars
Other Dark Sky Viewing Spots
While the Dark Sky Discovery Trail is purpose-built for stargazing, Exmoor has several other excellent viewing locations:
- Dunkery Beacon — Highest point in Exmoor with 360° views
- Wimbleball Lake — Stars reflecting in the water (popular for astrophotography)
- County Gate — Coastal views with dramatic cliff backdrop
- Brendon Two Gates — Remote moorland location
- Haddon Hill — Flat grassy area with overhead views
Stay in the Stars: Dark Sky-Friendly Accommodation
We are proud to be a Dark Skies Friendly Business, and many of our self-catering cottages fall within the Dark Sky Reserve itself — offering spectacular views straight from your garden, terrace, or bedroom window.
The Old Forge, Exford
Perfect base for the Dark Sky Discovery Trail — this beautiful mid-terrace cottage is located in the heart of Exford, just 2.8 miles from the trail start point.
Sleeps: 4 guests | Bedrooms: 2
Key Features:
- Pet-friendly — bring your dog
- Central Exford location within Dark Sky Reserve
- Electric ‘wood-burner’ for cosy evenings
- Opposite two village pubs
- Free roadside parking
- Walking distance to shop and Post Office
Distance to Trail: 2.8 miles — 8-minute drive to start point
Merrijig, Dulverton
Spacious detached property with stargazing garden — modern accommodation on the edge of Dulverton with excellent dark sky views from the rear garden.
Sleeps: 6 guests (plus cot) | Bedrooms: 3
Key Features:
- Large upstairs living room with wood-burning stove
- Sliding doors onto balcony with moorland views
- Enclosed private garden — perfect for stargazing
- Edge of village yet easy walk to amenities
- Family bathroom plus en-suite and additional toilet
- Modern kitchen with range cooker
Distance to Wimbleball Lake: 9 miles — excellent stargazing spot
Ready to experience one of the UK’s most unique walking trails? Bring your torch, wrap up warm, and walk beneath the stars.
FAQs: Exmoor Dark Sky Discovery Trail
Where does the trail start?
The trail starts from a lay-by near Larkbarrow Corner on Wellshead Lane near Exford. Grid Reference: SS 8275 4177 or What3Words: notices.reworked.rebel. Limited parking is available — please park considerately.
Is the route suitable for beginners or children?
Yes, the walk is short (2 miles), mostly level, and well-marked with glow-in-the-dark signs, making it ideal for families or anyone new to stargazing walks. The wide stony path is suitable for confident walkers of most abilities.
How long does it take?
Allow 1.5 hours total, including time to stop and enjoy the night sky at Larkbarrow Farm. The walk itself is about 45 minutes return journey.
When is the best time to go?
On clear, moonless nights throughout the year. Autumn and winter bring longer dark hours (ideal from October-February), but summer can offer warm, calm evenings too. Check moon phases and weather forecasts before visiting.
What should I bring?
Essential items: torch with red light (better for night vision), warm clothes in layers, sturdy walking shoes, hot drink in a flask. Optional extras: blanket or sit mat, binoculars, star map app, and camera for astrophotography.
Can I bring my dog?
Yes, but keep them on a lead — especially between May and September when cattle (possibly with calves) may be in the area. Never approach or disturb cattle.
Do I need to book in advance?
No, the trail is free to access at any time. However, parking is very limited, so arrive early if visiting during popular times like Dark Skies Festival weekends. For guided stargazing events during the festival, booking is usually required.
How do I check if tonight is a good night for stargazing?
Visit Go Stargazing’s live calendar for the trail which shows current moon phases and darkness periods. Look for dates with black backgrounds (showing stars) — these are the darkest nights. Yellow sections indicate moonlight. Aim for 0-10% moon illumination for the best views of the Milky Way.
Where can I stay nearby?
Explore our handpicked collection of Dark Sky-friendly cottages near the trail and across the Dark Sky Reserve on The Best of Exmoor. Many properties are in Exford (2.8 miles from trail), Dulverton, and surrounding moorland villages.
What can I see in the night sky from the trail?
On a clear, moonless night you can see up to 3,000 stars with the naked eye, the Milky Way arcing across the sky, the Andromeda Galaxy, planets (when visible), meteor showers, and countless constellations. The views are among the darkest and most spectacular in the UK.
Safety Notes & Trail Etiquette
Personal Safety
- Always tell someone where you’re going and when you expect to return
- Carry a fully charged mobile phone (signal may be limited)
- Bring spare batteries for torches
- Wear warm, layered clothing and waterproofs
- Check weather forecasts before setting out
- Walk in small groups rather than alone when possible
Respecting the Environment
- Stay on the marked path to protect moorland vegetation
- Take all litter home with you
- Respect grazing animals — give cattle wide berth, especially with calves
- Keep dogs on leads at all times
- Avoid using white torchlight unnecessarily — it disturbs wildlife and other stargazers
- Keep noise to a minimum to preserve the peaceful atmosphere
Light Pollution Awareness
Exmoor’s Dark Sky Reserve status depends on everyone’s cooperation to minimize light pollution:
- Use red-filtered torches where possible
- Turn off vehicle lights once parked
- Avoid using camera flashes
- Dim mobile phone screens to the minimum brightness
All photos by Shaun Davey