Exmoor is a year-round destination, and each season has its own magic. Whether you’re a nature-lover, a photographer, or simply in search of peace and fresh air, there’s never a bad time to visit. Here’s a glimpse of what to expect in every season.
Spring
As the moors wake from winter, Exmoor comes alive with birdsong and fresh growth. It’s the season of the dawn chorus, wild garlic, and early foraging walks. Bluebells carpet the ancient woodlands, and it’s a brilliant time to spot rare species like the fritillary butterfly. If you’re lucky, you might even see Exmoor’s famous foals taking their first steps.
Summer
Exmoor in summer is warm but rarely overcrowded — even at its busiest, it’s far quieter than Dartmoor, Cornwall, or the Devon coast. The hills glow yellow with gorse and purple with heather, and the long days are perfect for coastal walks, wild swims, or lazy pub lunches.
Autumn
Crisp mornings, golden woods, and rutting stags make autumn a favourite for many. It’s also the season for the Exmoor Dark Skies Festival, when the National Park celebrates its status as Europe’s first International Dark Sky Reserve. Come for stargazing, night walks, and autumnal colours at their finest.
Winter
Quiet lanes, cosy cottages, and maybe even a dusting of snow. Winter on Exmoor is peaceful and full of charm. Head to Snowdrop Valley in late winter, or enjoy the sight of frost clinging to the hedgerows. Many of our cottages have log burners or open fires — the perfect end to a brisk walk.
So, when’s the best time to visit?
The truth is… any time! Exmoor’s beauty changes with the seasons, and every visit offers something new.
Absolutely — winter is one of the quietest and most peaceful times on Exmoor. Many cottages have log burners, and Snowdrop Valley is a magical highlight.
Each season has its own spectacles. Spring brings birdsong, wildflowers, and Exmoor pony foals. Autumn is ideal for deer spotting and bird migrations.
Heather generally blooms from late July to the end of August, often overlapping with golden gorse for an unforgettable display.
Yes — the Exmoor Dark Skies Festival in autumn is a must for stargazers. Spring and summer also offer wildflower walks and guided nature tours. Each article on our blog highlights what’s on throughout the year.
January and February tend to be the most peaceful months, ideal for quiet getaways and fireside retreats.
Yes — many of our cottages are dog-friendly and the area is perfect for year-round dog walks. Just be mindful of lambing season and wildlife.