On offer

4 Night Exmoor Guided Walking Holiday

On Exmoor can be found the oldest breed of native pony in the British Isles.
Duration: 4 nights
Type: Signature guided walking
Walking Grade: 2 & 3
from £559pp £499pp

Treasured for its forests, moorland, valleys, wild ponies, and velvet black skies, Exmoor National Park is perfect for outdoor adventures big and small. Our guided walking holiday is an ideal introduction to the region’s sweeping landscape, dramatic seascapes, big-name attractions, and postcard-perfect villages and towns.

What you’ll love

  • Discovering the immense beauty of Exmoor on foot
  • Visiting some of Somerset’s most picturesque villages
  • Learning more about Europe's first International Dark Sky Reserve
  • Spending time with like-minded people in the great outdoors
  • Finding exciting walking routes with your HF Holidays Leader 
  • Staying at Holnicote House near the pretty village of Selworthy

What’s included

  • Comfortable en-suite accommodation in our country house
  • Cream tea on arrival day
  • Cooked or continental breakfast every morning
  • Daily packed lunches
  • Three-course evening meals, plus tea & coffee
  • Guided walking with experienced HF Holidays Leaders
  • Choice of up to three different-grade daily walks
  • All transport to and from walks where necessary
  • Easy-to-follow routes, maps, and information in our Discovery Point if you want to explore independently

Trip Notes

Easy to download as a PDF, our trip notes provide detailed information for every holiday. Please click below to find the trip notes for your departure date.

All our carefully-curated itineraries are designed by our experts. While we make every effort to adhere to the described itinerary, we may take alternative routes or adapt the running order for weather and/or operational reasons.

See Dates, Prices & Trip Note tab to check which itinerary is running

You're welcome to check in from 4pm onwards. Enjoy a complimentary cream tea on arrival.


Option 1 - Selworthy to Dunster

Distance: 7 miles (11km)

Ascent: 1200 feet (360m)

In summary: Heading straight out from Holnicote House, we follow the track and road to Headon Cross where we will see the pretty colours of the hamlet of Tivington Heights. We then head up through a mixed broadleaf wood onto the ridge line of Wootton Common before descending Grabbist Hill to the medieval village of Dunster.

Highlight: Look out for red deer on your journey across this broad ridge line, although illusive, you may hear the loud barking call of the stags especially during rutting season.

Option 2 - Over the Hills to Dunster

Distance: 9½ miles (15 km) 

Ascent: 1,650 feet (500m)

In summary: Walk from Holnicote House to historic Dunster. Our route takes us through the woods to the viewpoint at Webber's Post, then enjoy the fine views as we follow the ridge over Wootton Common. 

Highlight: Dunster Castle was the home of the Luttrell family for over 600 years, and is now managed by the National Trust.

Option 3 - Over Dunkery Beacon to Dunster

Distance: 12½ miles (20km)

Ascent: 2,500 feet (760m)

In summary: Walk from Holnicote House up onto Dunkery Beacon, the highest point on Exmoor.  After descending across the moor to Wootton Courtenay, we'll continue over the hills to Dunster.

Highlight: Our walk concludes by descending Grabbist Hill - a spot said to have inspired the hymn All things bright and beautiful.


Option 1 - Doone Valley

Distance: 7½ miles (12.5km)

Ascent: 1,300 feet (400m) 

In summary: Starting high on Exmoor we'll visit the valleys of Oare Water and Badgworthy Water, then take the charming riverside path beside the East Lyn river to Watersmeet.

Highlight: Our walks end at the National Trust's tearoom at Watersmeet. This is the confluence of the East Lyn and Farley Water; a delightful spot in a beautiful wooded valley.

Option 2 - Badgworthy Water

Distance: 9½ miles (15km)

Ascent: 1,600 feet (500m)

In summary: We'll head to Oare church then follow Badgworthy Water into a remote corner of Exmoor. Our walk concludes beside the cascading waters of the East Lyn river to Watersmeet. 

Highlight: Walk in the footsteps of Lorna Doone, the heroine of RD Blackmore's novel. We'll stop at Oare church, the scene of the wedding between Lorna and John Ridd.

Option 3 - Wild Exmoor West

Distance: 11 miles (17.5km)

Total ascent: 1,300 feet (400m)

In summary: Walk in Lorna Doone country and along Badgworthy Water before crossing wild moorland to join the Two Moors Way on Cheriton Ridge. We descend along Hoaroak Water to arrive at Watersmeet via some impressive waterfalls. 

Highlight: An opportunity to step off the beaten track and discover the wild corners of Exmoor. Enjoy great views as you cross the high moors.


Option 1 - Quantocks & Nether Stowey

Distance: 7 miles (11.5km)

Ascent: 650 feet (200m)

In summary: Starting inland the walk heads through the Quantocks Hills with the coast ahead. We then turn and descend through the woods to the delightful village of Nether Stowey.

Highlight: The walk takes in Will's Neck the highest point on the Quantocks at 1260 feet.

Option 2 - Quantock Ridge & Combe

Distance: 8½ miles (14km)

Ascent: 1,050 feet (320m)

In summary: Ascend from the village of West Quantoxhead onto the ridgeline walking south along the ridgeline before descending through Quantock Combe towards Nether Stowey.

Highlight: Don't forget to turn around as you climb to take in the expansive views out into St Audries Bay and beyond onto South Wales when the air is clear. 

Option 3 - Quantock Ridge

Distance: 11½ miles (18.5km)

Ascent: 1,500 feet (460m)

In summary: Starting close to the coast we head up into the Quantock Hills with the Bristol Channel behind us, before turning and crossing the hill an dropping down to the village of Nether Stowey.

Highlight: Look out for red deer as you walk along the Quantock Hills; as Britain's largest wild mammals they are always an impressive sight.


Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before making your way home.


See Dates, Prices & Trip Note tab to check which itinerary is running

You're welcome to check in from 4pm onwards. Enjoy a complimentary cream tea on arrival.


Option 1 - Exploring Horner Hill

Distance: 5½ miles (9km)

Ascent: 1000 feet (300m)

In summary: This circuit from the house takes you through the pretty village of Horner, and then in to Hrner Wood and Horner Hill, before heading back to the house.

Highlight: The village of Horner and Horner Hill

Option 2 - Over the Beacon

Distance: 9 miles (14.5km)

Ascent: 1,450 feet (440m)

In summary: Ascend from Wheddon Cross through the Raleigh Manor Estate onto Dunkery Beacon. Our descent takes us over the moors, then through Horner Wood Nature Reserve.

Highlight: This walk is another good opportunity to spot red deer. Take your binoculars for the best chance of seeing these beautiful creatures.

Option 3 - Roof of Exmoor

Distance: 12 miles (19km)

Ascent: 1,300 feet (400m)

In summary: Walk over the moors from Exford to the summit of Dunkery Beacon. Continuing across the moor we descend to Stoke Pero church, then head through Horner Woods back to Holnicote House.

Highlight: Choose a clear day and your efforts will be rewarded with a panoramic view that stretches to Dartmoor, and across the Bristol Channel to South Wales.


Option 1 - Quantocks & Nether Stowey

Distance: 7 miles (11.5km)

Ascent: 650 feet (200m)

In summary: Starting inland the walk heads through the Quantocks Hills with the coast ahead. We then turn and descend through the woods to the delightful village of Nether Stowey.

Highlight: The walk takes in Will's Neck the highest point on the Quantocks at 1260 feet.

Option 2 - Quantock Ridge & Combe

Distance: 8½ miles (14km)

Ascent: 1,050 feet (320m)

In summary: Ascend from the village of West Quantoxhead onto the ridgeline walking south along the ridgeline before descending through Quantock Combe towards Nether Stowey.

Highlight: Don't forget to turn around as you climb to take in the expansive views out into St Audries Bay and beyond onto South Wales when the air is clear. 

Option 3 - Quantock Ridge

Distance: 11½ miles (18.5km)

Ascent: 1,500 feet (460m)

In summary: Starting close to the coast we head up into the Quantock Hills with the Bristol Channel behind us, before turning and crossing the hill an dropping down to the village of Nether Stowey.

Highlight: Look out for red deer as you walk along the Quantock Hills; as Britain's largest wild mammals they are always an impressive sight.


Option 1 - Selworthy to Dunster

Distance: 7 miles (11km)

Ascent: 1200 feet (360m)

In summary: Heading straight out from Holnicote House, we follow the track and road to Headon Cross where we will see the pretty colours of the hamlet of Tivington Heights. We then head up through a mixed broadleaf wood onto the ridge line of Wootton Common before descending Grabbist Hill to the medieval village of Dunster.

Highlight: Look out for red deer on your journey across this broad ridge line, although illusive, you may hear the loud barking call of the stags especially during rutting season.

Option 2 - Over the Hills to Dunster

Distance: 9½ miles (15 km) 

Ascent: 1,650 feet (500m)

In summary: Walk from Holnicote House to historic Dunster. Our route takes us through the woods to the viewpoint at Webber's Post, then enjoy the fine views as we follow the ridge over Wootton Common. 

Highlight: Dunster Castle was the home of the Luttrell family for over 600 years, and is now managed by the National Trust.

Option 3 - Over Dunkery Beacon to Dunster

Distance: 12½ miles (20km)

Ascent: 2,500 feet (760m)

In summary: Walk from Holnicote House up onto Dunkery Beacon, the highest point on Exmoor.  After descending across the moor to Wootton Courtenay, we'll continue over the hills to Dunster.

Highlight: Our walk concludes by descending Grabbist Hill - a spot said to have inspired the hymn All things bright and beautiful.


Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before making your way home.


See Dates, Prices & Trip Note tab to check which itinerary is running

You're welcome to check in from 4pm onwards. Enjoy a complimentary cream tea on arrival.


Option 1 - Bilbrook, Coast & Dunster

Distance: 6 miles (10km)

Ascent: 500 feet (160m) 

In summary: From Bilbrook we head out to the coast via Old Cleeve, and along to Blue Anchor Bay before heading back inland to Dunster. 

Highlight: Look out for knots, curlews and oystercatchers chasing the tide along Blue Anchor bay, in search of worms and small crustaceans.

Option 2 - Selworthy to Dunster

Distance: 7 miles (11km)

Ascent: 1,200 feet (360m)

In summary: From the house we pass through the beautiful village of Selworthy, before climbing Tivington Hill. From the top of this long wooded ridge we descend to Dunster and it's spectacular castle. 

Highlight: The views from the top of the ridgeline looking down over Dunster and Blue Anchor bay beyond.

Option 3 - Webbers Post and Dunster

Distance: 8½ miles (14km) 

Ascent: 1,550 feet (480m)

In summary: Walk from Holnicote House to historic Dunster. Our route takes us through the woods to the viewpoint at Webber's Post, then enjoy the fine views as we follow the ridge over Wootton Common. 

Highlight: Dunster Castle was the home of the Luttrell family for over 600 years, and is now managed by the National Trust.


Option 1 - Bossington & Selworthy

Distance: 7 miles (11km)

Ascent: 1,000 feet (300m)

In summary: A circular walk exploring the countryside and villages around Holnicote House. Our route takes us to the coast via the village of Bossington, returning along the wooded slopes to charming Selworthy village.

Highlight: Selworthy village was rebuilt in 1828 by the Acland family to house the elderly workers of the Holnicote estate. The tea room is a delightful spot to relax in towards the end of the walk.

Option 2 - Selworthy Beacon

Distance: 7½ miles (12km)

Ascent: 1,350 feet (420m)

In summary: Ascend through the woods to the Iron Age hillfort and the glorious viewpoint of Selworthy Beacon. After a hilltop walk we'll descend through the fields to Selworthy village.

Highlight: Its a steep climb to the top of Selworthy Beacon, but your efforts will be rewarded with a great view north over the Bristol Channel and south towards the hills of Exmoor.

Option 3 - Somerset Coast Path

Distance: 10 miles (16km)

Ascent: 2,050 feet (620m)

In summary: Head through the woods to Hurlstone Point, then along the rugged coastal path that meanders along the northern slopes of Selworthy Beacon. We'll then ascend onto the summit and return via Selworthy village.

Highlight: This section of the coast path has a real 'away from it all' feel as it traverses around three deep combes above the sea.


Option 1 - Selworthy and its Beacon

Distance: 5 miles (8km)  

Ascent: 1,100 feet (340m)

In summary: We pass through Allerford, famous for its picturesque pack horse bridge then continue to Lynch and the old Chapel. We then start our ascent to Selworthy Beacon through woodland, finally emerging to cross moorland to the trig point at the Beacon. After taking in the views across to the Welsh coast line, we descend via Selworthy village where we can explore the white-washed church and thatched cottages huddled around the green. Then it’s time to make our way back to the House via an old cobbled track.

Highlight: Spectacular views from Selworthy Beacon, to Nash Point Lighthouse, the Quantocks and beyond on a clear day. 

Option 2 - Dunkery Beacon Circuit

Distance: 9 miles (14km)

Ascent: 1,950 feet (600m)

In summary: This is a circular walk visiting the highest point on Exmoor and Somerset. The walk takes us through woodland and then moorland to Dunkery Beacon and returns on a meandering path alongside the delightful river Horner.

Highlight: The views from the top of Dunkery Beacon are fabulous. 

Option 3 - Dunkery Beacon & Great Rowbarrow

Distance: 11 miles (17.5km)

Ascent: 2,050 feet (620m)

In summary: A strenuous circular walk visiting the highest point on Exmoor and Somerset. The descent takes us past the tiny Stoke Pero Church, the highest church on Exmoor, and back through Horner Woods alongside Horner Water.

Highlight: There are great views from the top of Dunkery Beacon making the ascent well worth the effort! 


Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before making your way home.


Holnicote House

There’s plenty to look forward to at this beacon of Somerset hospitality near the impossibly pretty village of Selworthy. The location couldn’t be more perfect; within rolling-out-of-bed distance from Exmoor National Park and an easy drive from Dunster Castle, Coleridge Cottage, the twin villages of Lynton and Lynmouth, and the sandy delights at Porlock and Minehead. The walking opportunities here are standout, too, not least for the trails around the Quantock Hills, Dunkery Beacon, Bossington, and a section of the England Coast Path that takes you on a glorious journey along the county’s coastline.    

Rooms

Designed with your comfort in mind, Holnicote House has 32 well-appointed guest rooms available in three categories: Classic, Premium, and Superior. 

Classic Rooms are comfortable en-suite guest rooms, ideal for a peaceful night's sleep. Amenities include free Wi-Fi, tea and coffee-making facilities, toiletries (hand wash, shampoo, and shower gel), and a TV. 

Premium Rooms are more spacious en-suite guest rooms. Amenities include free Wi-Fi, tea and coffee-making facilities, toiletries (hand wash, shampoo, body lotion, shower gel), and a 32-inch TV. Extras include bathrobes, slippers, and comfortable mattresses.

Superior Rooms are even more spacious en-suite guest rooms offering upgraded views of the surrounds. Amenities include free Wi-Fi, tea and coffee-making facilities, toiletries (hand wash, shampoo, body lotion, shower gel), and a 32-inch TV. Extras include bathrobes, slippers, and comfortable mattresses. 

We love: The rooms in the main building or the thatched grounds, especially Rooms 1 and 4. The first floor rooms have fabulous views across Crawter Hill and Dunkery Hill. 

The Choose Your Room service is available at our UK country houses, allowing you the option of choosing and confirming a specific room for an extra charge of £30 per room. This is subject to availability. Upgrade supplements apply. 

Check in & check out
You are welcome to check in from 4:00pm at the earliest. On arrival, you’ll enjoy a complimentary cream tea and get to meet your fellow guests, our HF Holidays Leaders, and the rest of the friendly team.  

On the day of departure, we kindly ask all guests to check out by 10:00am. You’ll be asked to settle your bill prior to leaving. You may, of course, make a charitable donation to our HF Holidays Pathways Fund if you wish. Please note that we only accept card payments. 

Room supplements

Superior Premium single Premium double/twin Choose your room
£25 pppn £20 pppn £20 pppn £30 per room

About your stay

A warm welcome
We want you to feel comfortable from the moment you arrive. You’ll find a welcome pack in your room with guest registration forms, menus, order forms for dinners and picnic lunches, the Wi-Fi password, and the front door code. Our houses are locked at night, so we recommend noting the Duty Manager’s number on arrival in case of an emergency (or getting locked out). 

Evening entertainment
While evening entertainment varies from house to house, the HF Holidays Big Pub Quiz held after dinner on Wednesdays is a weekly staple. Your HF Holidays Leader may be around for tips on guided and self-guided walking routes as well as visit-worthy local attractions. 

Walks talks 
Our HF Holidays Leaders host guided walking information briefings before dinner on arrival days. This is followed by a group Walks Talk for information on the following day’s walking delights (held before dinner every evening). Self-guided walking guests are, of course, welcome.  

The walking day
Prior to setting off on walks, your HF Holidays Leader will run you through a short safety briefing. There’s also an up-to-date weather forecast on display at the house to ensure you have appropriate clothing and footwear. If you choose to do your own walks or are on a self-guided walking holiday, we ask that you please complete an Independent Walker Card each day. These can be found near the Discovery Point in the house. 

Food & drink

Led by experienced chefs, we serve a wide range of dishes made with fresh and seasonal ingredients. We always aim to source the best produce available and use home-grown herbs and vegetables from our own gardens whenever possible. Additionally, we have a licensed bar with beers, soft drinks, and a superb selection of spirits. Full-board comes as standard and includes a cream tea on arrival and a hearty breakfast on departure day.

HF Holidays understands the importance of managing allergens effectively to ensure food is safe for guests with food allergies. Whilst we are always able to confidently inform guests which allergens are present in our ingredients and dishes, we are unable to guarantee absolute freedom from the 14 main allergens in our kitchens. Vegetarian and vegan menu choices are available. If you have allergies, food intolerances, or any special dietary requirements, please inform our reservation team at the time of booking.

Accessibility

For accessibility and assistance information, please contact our expert team on 020 3974 8865 or view the accessibility information online for Holnicote House

10684_0056 Holnicote House - Exterior

Getting to Holnicote House

Find out more about this location including travel details and room types.

More Information

Essential information

The UK has a famously unpredictable climate so it's best to be prepared for weather that’s sunny one minute and raining the next.  To make it easier, here’s a list of items you should consider packing.  

Essentials 

  • Suitable footwear such as waterproof walking boots that provide ankle support and good grip 
  • Waterproof and windproof jacket, preferably insulated 
  • Comfortable clothing (jeans & waterproof capes are not suitable) 
  • Waterproof overtrousers 
  • Gloves and a warm hat (or sunhat) 
  • Rucksack 
  • Water bottle (at least 1 litre capacity) 
  • A small torch 
  • Sunscreen 
  • Mobile phone and portable charger 
  • Watch 
  • UV sunglasses 

Recommended 

  • Several base layers (long-sleeve or short-sleeve) 
  • Cushioned walking socks to avoid blisters 
  • First aid kit, including plasters and insect repellent 
  • Sit mat  
  • Spare pair of socks 
  • Energy snacks 
  • Waterproof pouch for valuables 
  • Rubbish bag (remember to always leave no trace) 
  • Wallet/purse 

Optional extras

  • Walking poles, useful for descents 
  • Flask for hot drinks 
  • Durable lunch box 
  • Gaiters 
  • Blister kit  
  • Waterproof rucksack liner 
  • Head torch 
  • GPS device 

Holnicote House Calendar

  • Guided Walking
  • Self-Guided Walking
  • Special Interests
  • Unavailable to Book

Guest reviews

All holidays are subject to availability. Supplements may apply.

Non-member fee: £30 per person.

All our carefully-curated itineraries are designed by our experts. While we make every effort to adhere to the described itinerary, we may take an alternative route, or vary the running order for weather and/or operational reasons.


Holiday prices

Date (Start - End) Itinerary Double / Twin Room Single Room Notes / Offers Trip Notes Book
2024

04 Mar - 08 Mar 2024

4 nights

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11 Mar - 15 Mar 2024

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25 Mar - 29 Mar 2024

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£639

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29 Mar - 02 Apr 2024

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15 Apr - 19 Apr 2024

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06 May - 10 May 2024

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13 May - 17 May 2024

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20 May - 24 May 2024

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03 Jun - 07 Jun 2024

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17 Jun - 21 Jun 2024

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24 Jun - 28 Jun 2024

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08 Jul - 12 Jul 2024

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22 Jul - 26 Jul 2024

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12 Aug - 16 Aug 2024

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09 Sep - 13 Sep 2024

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23 Sep - 27 Sep 2024

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30 Sep - 04 Oct 2024

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14 Oct - 18 Oct 2024

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21 Oct - 25 Oct 2024

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04 Nov - 08 Nov 2024

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Duration:
4 nights
Type:
Signature guided walking
Walking Grade:
2 & 3

4 nights from £559pp £499pp

On offer

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