Yurt in the Orchard

Yurt in the Orchard is four miles from the village of Witheridge and 10 miles south of Exmoor National Park. The Two Moors Way, coast-to-coast walking route passes close by and provides a route to walk to the village of Witheridge where you’ll find the closest shop and pub. The quiet country lanes around site are also great for walking but, of course the national park, has some excellent places for that too. The Tarr Steps (16 steps) are a popular place on this side of the park to visit on a walk. It’s the longest clapper bridge in England, constructed of stones and boulders only dating from at least Tudor times and crossing the River Barle. The Exmoor Pony Centre (13 miles) is nearby and offers a chance to see and support the protection of the wild horses of Exmoor. The twin coastal villages of Lynton and Lynmouth (30 miles) are other popular places to head for with the tallest and steepest funicular railway in the UK linking them. There’s also the Valley of the Rocks with its population of feral goats just outside Lynton. For surf and sand, head west instead to Woolacombe Bay (35 miles) or Braunton Burrows (30 miles). Dartmoor National Park is a similar distance to the south, a drive of about an hour. South Molton (nine miles) and Tiverton (14 miles) are two towns worth a visit, within half an hour in the car.

A taste of apple juice pressed from the orchard’s apples and some eggs from your host’s chickens are a lovely welcome gift. For basics, you can head for the two general stores in Witheridge (four miles) and, for more than that, pretty South Molton (nine miles) is one option, Tiverton (14 miles) is another. Both have a range of independent shops and supermarkets too. Witheridge is also the direction to head in, for a meal at the most local pub. That’s The Mitre Inn, a 17th century pub with a fireplace, seating out front and a menu of good pub grub. If you’re in the area on Sunday though, your hosts recommend The Stag Inn in Rackenford for a roast. It’s just a little further, but also a pleasant walk. And if you don’t mind hopping in the car for good food – make your way to The Mason’s Arms (five miles) in Knowstone. It’s a pretty thatched inn with Michelin Star food and drink.