{"id":7799,"date":"2025-08-26T09:50:59","date_gmt":"2025-08-26T09:50:59","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.thebestofexmoor.co.uk\/blog\/?p=7799"},"modified":"2026-01-24T05:31:15","modified_gmt":"2026-01-24T05:31:15","slug":"exmoor-vs-dartmoor-which-national-park-is-bigger","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.thebestofexmoor.co.uk\/blog\/exmoor-vs-dartmoor-which-national-park-is-bigger\/","title":{"rendered":"Exmoor vs Dartmoor: Which National Park is Bigger?"},"content":{"rendered":"

When planning a trip to the South West, many people ask the same question: Exmoor vs Dartmoor \u2014 which is bigger?<\/span><\/p>\n

The answer: Dartmoor National Park is the larger of the two, covering about 954 km\u00b2, while Exmoor National Park spans 693 km\u00b2. But what Exmoor may lack in size, it makes up for with its unique blend of coastline, beaches, moorland, and charming villages.<\/span><\/p>\n

If you\u2019re choosing between the two, here are 10 reasons why Exmoor could be the perfect destination.<\/span><\/p>\n

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\"Exmoor<\/p>\n

Exmoor vs Dartmoor: 10 Reasons to Choose Exmoor<\/span><\/h2>\n

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1. Coast and Countryside in One Park<\/span><\/h3>\n

One of the biggest advantages in the Exmoor vs Dartmoor debate is Exmoor\u2019s coastline. With moorland hills rolling into the sea, you can enjoy both countryside walks and cliff-top views in the same day.<\/span><\/p>\n

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2. Dog-Friendly Beaches<\/span><\/h3>\n

Exmoor is a paradise for pet owners. Most Exmoor beaches such as Dunster Beach and Porlock Bay are dog-friendly all year round \u2014 making it easy to plan sandy, tail-wagging adventures.<\/span><\/p>\n

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3. England\u2019s Tallest Cliffs<\/span><\/h3>\n

Exmoor\u2019s dramatic coastline includes some of the tallest cliffs in England, offering incredible sea views. For coastal walks, Exmoor is hard to beat.<\/span><\/p>\n

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\"Exmoor<\/p>\n

4. South West Coast Path<\/span><\/h3>\n

The<\/span> South West Coast Path in Exmoor<\/b> i<\/span><\/a>s often considered its most scenic stretch. Rugged cliffs, hidden coves, and wooded valleys provide stunning walking routes.<\/span><\/p>\n

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5. A Dark Sky Reserve<\/span><\/h3>\n

Exmoor was the first <\/span>International Dark Sky Reserve in Europe<\/b><\/a>. On clear nights, thousands of stars are visible \u2014 an experience few places can match.<\/span><\/p>\n

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6. Wildlife on Exmoor<\/span><\/h3>\n

Exmoor ponies, red deer, buzzards, and rare butterflies all call Exmoor National Park home. Wildlife spotting is one of the top things to do in Exmoor.<\/span><\/p>\n

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7. Charming Exmoor Villages<\/span><\/h3>\n

Medieval <\/span>Dunster<\/b><\/a>, the harbour charm of <\/span>Porlock Weir<\/b><\/a>, and the twin villages of <\/span>Lynton and Lynmouth<\/b><\/a> are some of the most beautiful Exmoor villages to explore.<\/span><\/p>\n

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8. A Landscape That Inspires<\/span><\/h3>\n

From the legendary tale of <\/span>Lorna Doone<\/span><\/i> in the Doone Valley to Coleridge\u2019s walks along the coast, Exmoor has inspired writers and poets for centuries.<\/span><\/p>\n

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9. Space and Tranquillity<\/span><\/h3>\n

In the Exmoor vs Dartmoor debate, Exmoor stands out as the UK\u2019s least-visited national park. That means quieter trails, peaceful beaches, and more space to yourself.<\/span><\/p>\n

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10. Dog-Friendly Cottages and Holidays<\/span><\/h3>\n

We have a wide range of <\/span>dog-friendly Exmoor cottages<\/b><\/a> and <\/span>coastal stays.<\/b><\/a> From cosy retreats to large family homes, you can enjoy a true Exmoor walking holiday with your four-legged friend.<\/span><\/p>\n

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\"Exmoor<\/p>\n

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Final Thoughts on Exmoor vs Dartmoor<\/span><\/h2>\n

So, <\/span>Exmoor vs Dartmoor \u2014 which should you choose? Dartmoor may be bigger, but Exmoor offers moorland, coastline, beaches, wildlife, and villages all in one compact, easy-to-explore area.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ready to visit? Book one of our handpicked <\/span>self-catering cottages on Exmoor<\/b><\/a> and start planning your holiday today.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Helpful Links<\/span><\/h2>\n