We are the Dorset 4050 Ramblers. We are a friendly, mixed-age group of walkers.
A circular walk that begins in the quaint village of Exford, 22 minutes’ drive from Porlock. As it suggests, the village sits astride the River Exe, and our walk mostly follows its south-easterly flow early on, leaving this only as we turn north, beginning our climb to Luckwell Bridge along path, road, field and woodland trail, crossing the River Avill as we go. We will find a lunch spot before passing through Dunkery Gate en route to the Dunkery Beacon, Exmoor’s highest point, where we pause to take in the beautiful views inward across the moor, and seaward to Porlock Bay and (on a fine day) the coast of South Wales. From there we slide gradually westward off the moor’s high points before a steep drop off through Exford Common and back to our start.
Booking essential, priority given to Dorset 4050 members. Please use the link below to book your provisional place. You’ll receive confirmation of your place from Andy within ten days if not before.
Toilets
There are public toilets at the car park start point only.
Parking - free
Free but popular with limited space, streetside parking available in the village so allow extra time to walk to the start.
Fitness
All participants are responsible for their own health and fitness to undertake this walk / programme. We’re known for being one of the quicker-walking Dorset groups, our pace is reasonably brisk, with periodic drink stops. In addition, the Exmoor terrain is hilly and moderately challenging – please contact walk leaders if you have any doubts, as on rare occasions it’s been necessary to inform people they should not take part.
Food & drink
Make sure you bring enough snacks and drink to keep you going for the duration of the walk. We will stop en route to eat a packed lunch.
Pace
Circa 2.8 miles per hour.
Clothing
Check the weather forecast beforehand and dress appropriately.
Weather
This area is renowned for rapid and unexpected changes in visibility / weather (even at this time of the year), so come prepared.
Dogs
No dogs
Post Walk refreshments
We will return directly to Porlock – those who wish to can meet in one of the three pubs in the village.
Exford car park. Parking is free but popular with limited space, street side parking available in the village but do allow extra time to walk to the start. Directions: Whatthreewords is again the best option as the car park is poorly marked. Otherwise, put ‘Dunkery Services’ into Google Maps and this takes you into Exford and then down an unmarked street (facing opposite the Crown Hotel). In this street pass ‘New Central Garage’ and stay straight about 50 metres to the car park.
