Steam Railway		The East Somerset Steam Railway, founded by wildlife Artist David Shepherd, runs steam train journeys through the Mendip Hills. If you long to get up close and personal with the locos the railway also runs Footplate Experience courses; and on some days you can be a “driver for a fiver!” A taste of footplate life! Also visit the engine sheds or watch the signalman at work. www.eastsomersetrailway.com
Steam Railway		The West Somerset Railway, (Steam and vintage diesel trains) runs from Minehead to Bishops Lydeard, (Taunton on special days). Take a journey back in time on this 20-mile line. See Exmoor through your window, travel peacefully through the Quantocks. Sights on the way include waves breaking on sandy beaches, Dunster Castle and 10 lovingly cared-for stations. www.west-somerset-railway.co.uk
Boating		Boat lovers; don't miss a visit to Watchet Marina in the historic port of Watchet. The tidal range here is second only to the Bay of Fundy, Nova Scotia! The Marina opened in July 2001 and provides berths for 250 boats so there is always plenty to see. Take care not to wake the “Old Salt” sitting on the Esplanade.  www.watchet-harbour-marina.com
Day Cruising & Paddlesteamers		Cruise on the big ships! Board the jaunty Waverley, the world's only remaining ocean going paddle steamer, or her sister ship the majestic Balmoral. Both ships sail from Minehead Harbour and other Bristol Channel ports in the summer. Trips to Lundy Island, the Holm Islands, Ilfracombe, the Welsh Coast etc.  Don't miss the Balmoral's Diamond Anniversary Day, June 17th 2009. Both ships cruising the Bristol Channel. Wow!  www.waverleyexcursions.co.uk
Day Cruising		Exmoor Coastal Cruises operate from picture-book Lynmouth. They are run by the owners of the Glen Lyn Gorge,  an amazing cleft in the Exmoor landscape with a breath-taking ravine providing hydro electric power for the village. The cruises feature the fabulous cliffs and scenery of the Exmoor coast, often referred to as “the hidden edge.”  www.theglenlyngorge.co.uk
Sail Training & Diving		If you hunger for the days of sail you will love “Josefine,” a traditional Gaff Rigged oak vessel.  Based at Watchet Marina she departs at the end of May for Plymouth, taking in Clovelly along the way. Josefine offers training and diving trips. Definitely one for the purist connoisseur. www.sailjosefine.com
Day Cruising		At Ilfracombe you will find the Ilfracombe Princess.  This stunning canary yellow vessel is one of the most technically advanced passenger craft in the UK. Magical tours of the Exmoor coastline take you to see seals, porpoises and dolphins. If you love wildlife this is a must. Sights from the sea also include coves, lighthouses and Water Mouth Harbour. www.ilfracombeprincess.co.uk
Day Cruising		The Stuart Line operates calm water tours on the River Exe. But if you want to see where Dinosaurs walked, their exciting tours of the Jurassic World Heritage Coast are a must. The line also has trips taking in Torquay and Brixham plus wildlife and geological tours. Special events for 2009 include Exeter Canal Cruises and fireworks cruises. www.stuartlinecruises.co.uk
Trains'n'Boats		Steam trains and boats all in one day? This is for you! - River Link.  It's famous “Round Robin” circular tour features a wonderful all-day treat, including steam railway (Paignton & Dartmouth Steam Railway), boat trip, and open-top bus ride, taking in Totnes, Dartmouth Kingswear and Paignton. See the home of Agatha Christie from the River Dart.  www.pdsr.co.uk

 
GENERAL EXMOOR VISITOR LINKS
Exmoor is famous for outdoor pursuits, but the park and surrounding area have numerous other attractions. 
We share links to many and are delighted to recommend our favourites.  Use your "Back" button to return here

Folk Music		There is a wealth of folk tradition on Exmoor where homemade music and fun abounds. One of our favourites is definitely the Acorn Folk Club held at the Old Ship Aground Pub on Minehead's picturesque harbour. Sing, play an instrument, tell a story, or just listen.   www.acornfolkclub.co.uk
		Or get even deeper into folk and fun at the West Somerset Folk Festival, 10th to 12th of July.  The venues are the Butcher's Arms, Carhampton (just outside Minehead) and the village recreation ground and hall. (Camping on site.) Concerts, singarounds and workshops plus much more.  www.westsomersetfolkfestival.co.uk
Safaris		If you hunger for excitement, Barle Valley Safaris and Discovery Safaris of Porlock will take you by Land Rover to the remote reaches of Exmoor to get up close and personal with Red Deer, Exmoor Ponies and other Exmoor wild life.
		Barle Valley Safaris depart from Dulverton, Minehead and Dunster for a three hour trip. The driver gives an informative commentary and there are stops to look at things of interest and take photos. www.exmoorwildlifesafaris.co.uk
		Discovery Safaris of Porlock  depart from Porlock Visitor Centre or prearranged pick-up points. Suitable for comfort lovers. The Land Rover is even air conditioned! The driver gives an informative commentary and there are stops to look at things of interest and take photos. www.DiscoverySafaris.com
Exmoor Pony		For those who love all things equine, a visit to the Exmoor Pony Centre www.exmoorponycentre.org.co.uk is an absolute must. The sturdy Exmoor Pony is one of the oldest and purist breeds on the planet. You can meet them hands-on at the centre with opportunities to groom, handle and ride them. You can even adopt one!  www.exmoorponycentre.org.uk
Zoo/Museum		Off the A39 near Watchet is the amazing Tropiquaria -  part zoo, part museum and absolute paradise for children. You can cuddle a Tarantula Spider or make friends with a snake if you wish. Marian hasn't managed it yet! The life-size pirate ships in the Adventure Park offer spectacular fun. www.tropiquaria.co.uk
Caves		If you are London-bound homewards you could turn off the M5 for a visit to Cheddar Caves & Gorge. www.cheddarcaves.co.uk Marvel at beautiful Gough's Cave, be stunned by the calcite “sculptures” in Cox's Cave, follow the Crystal Quest, take the open-top bus tour of the gorge or climb the look-out tower for bird's eye views of the gorge. Allow plenty of time!  www.cheddarcaves.co.uk