A great car-free day out around Dulverton, taking in the town and the surrounding countryside on foot. Or you can take the bus to local villages and attractions along the bus route.
Highlights
¨ 15th Century Church of All Saints
¨ The Town Hall
¨ The River Barle and bridge
¨ Lorna Doone statue
¨ Exmoor National Park Centre
¨ Dulverton Guildhall Heritage and Arts Centre
¨ Scenic walks along the River Barle
¨ Bus ride to Dunster or Minehead and bus back
¨ Bus rides or drives to local attractions
Walk around Dulverton
Take time to discover this wonderfully untouched ‘county town’ on the edge of Exmoor. The town is far enough away from any large conurbations to still enjoy a wide range of small shops. Walk into any of them and you will be greeted in a way that is more reminiscent of the 1950’s. People have the time to talk and enjoy helping you decide on your purchase.
As you stroll around the town, which feels much more like a village, visit the beautiful church overlooking the town. Bank Square beside the church still has a bank. Cobbled streets beside the church give an insight into the old town. In Fore Street you will find the old Town Hall with its unusual double outside stairs leading to the first-floor hall. Opposite is the National Park Centre and Dulverton Guildhall Heritage and Arts Centre where you can get information about Exmoor and includes an interesting exhibition.
As you walk on towards the river you will pass more fascinating specialist shops. On reaching the large five-arch bridge over the River Barle, turn right towards the National Park Authority headquarters which used to be the old workhouse. This is a good spot to have a break with sandwiches or something more exotic bought in one of the delicatessens in the town. The ducks will enjoy your leftovers.
An enjoyable walk beside the river can be taken by crossing the bridge. Turn immediately right into Oldberry Lane and when the lane turns hard left, continue ahead down a track. Shortly bear right through woodland following above the river. This track eventually reaches Marsh Bridge, about 1.5 miles from the start. You could return along the roads, but I would advise returning the way you came.
Bus outings
Take the 398 from Dulverton High Street bus-stop. We recommend you check bus times at the National Park Centre or at Traveline, https://www.travelinesw.com/
Go to Wheddon Cross, return buses at 1318, 1518, for a pub lunch
Go to Dunster to see the fairy-tale castle, the Yarn Market, the church and dovecot and the working mill.
Attractions
Exmoor Pony Centre, about 5.5 miles from Dulverton on the B3223 towards Exford and Lynton. It is signed to the left on Winsford Hill.
Wimbleball Lake, for those who like outdoor activities, or an enjoyable walk by the lake. About 6.5 miles from Dulverton, follow Dulverton High Street away from the bridge to Vicarage Hill and Jury Road. On reaching the main road (A396) in 1.5 miles, turn right and then shortly left towards Brompton Regis. In 3 miles bear right in the village and follow the road for another half mile to Mill Cross, a small crossroads. Turn left here and follow this lane uphill for not quite a mile. Turn right signed to the lake and take the second left to the car park and café.
Dunster Castle, Dunster Dolls Museum and Dunster Working Water Mill. You can reach Dunster on the 398 bus or by driving. Follow the directions above to the A396 and turn left to keep on this road for about 15.5 miles to reach Dunster.
Other Car-Free Days Out in this series
¨ Dunster
¨ Lynmouth
¨ Combe Martin
¨ Porlock
¨ Exford
¨ Minehead
Tourist Information
Dulverton National Park Centre, Fore Street, Dulverton, 01398 323841
Public Transport
For up-to-date information please contact Traveline on https://www.travelinesw.com/
Disclaimer
Timetables for public transport are correct at the time of going to press but may be subject to change over the lifetime of this blog. We recommend that you check the current bus timetables and opening times of attractions and eating places before travelling.