Sunlight breaks through the canopy of trees that hang over the river
The East Lynn and Hoar Oak Water rivers flowing down the gorge
The Edwardian fishing lodge nestled in the woodland of Watersmeet
The Glenthorne Cliffs tower high over the Devonshire coast
Looking down into the deep wooded Lyn Valley
Dramatic river gorge near the rocky North Devon coast
Take a stroll around the 2,000 acres of Watersmeet and Countisbury and find yourself otter-spotting next to a bubbling, boulder-strewn river under the shade of hanging oaks, or standing ankle-deep in purple heather gazing across the sea to Wales.
Watersmeet is one of Britain's deepest river gorges and boasts the highest cliffs in England. The painter Thomas Gainsborough and the Romantic poets Wordsworth and Coleridge were all seduced by Watersmeet’s natural beauty.
Some 38 miles of footpaths cut, twist and wind their way around this corner of Exmoor, including a stretch of the South West Coast Path, leaving you with a labyrinth of routes to enjoy.
Begin exploring this rich, wildlife-filled area of moorland, coastline, heathland and woodland at the Edwardian fishing lodge, Watersmeet House. Hop over the two rivers, which meet at the gorge, across a zig-zag of bridges and get close to the waterfalls they create as they tumble over the gorge. Hear the ‘honk’ of ravens calling out along the cliffs, and the harsh call of stonechats. Catch a glimpse of the Silver-washed Fritillary butterflies twirling and dancing in flight in sunlit woodland glades. And look out underfoot for the rare Irish spurge plant.
After your walk, hang up your exploring boots and nestle down in the cosy tea-room at Watersmeet House, for a divine home-baked scone and steaming pot of tea.