Tallest tree in England on Exmoor

Did you know that Exmoor is home to England's tallest tree? It's a Douglas fir, on the Dunster Estate, near the Nutcombe Bottom picnic site. It's 197 feet (60m) high, and still growing. It can be seen on the Tall Trees Trail, a gentle walk through what was originally planted as an arboretum in the 1870s. Among the other trees (including other gigantic Douglas firs) there is the country's tallest magnolia too.

We did the Tall Trees Trail as part of a longer walk, via woodland, combes, open moorland and hillforts. As an added bonus, when we got to Bat's Castle, high above the coast, we saw a display by the Red Arrows over Minehead.

Walks taking in the estate could range from a short stroll to a full day's hike, and there are also cycle trails and bridleways. There's plenty of wildlife (and some chainsaw sculptures of wildlife too, if you don't manage to spot the real thing). Definitely worth a visit.

Frank wins the cup

It was our village fete the other weekend. As usual, Frank entered some of his cakes, jams, chutneys and other food, including a flan of local goat's cheese, smoked bacon & tomatoes.

We went along to the prize-giving and were delighted to learn that he'd won the trophy for best baking - the flan was a triumph! This is quite an honour, as there are some great home bakers in the village. The cup is away being engraved at the moment, but will be on display as soon as we get it back.

So the prize-winning flan will go on the menu (not the actual flan that won the prize, obviously - apart from anything else, it was sold in the auction). Book dinner at Exmoor House one night and you may get to try the recipe.

Christmas and New Year house parties at Exmoor House

I know, it's too early to be thinking about Christmas... or is it?

If you want to get together with family or friends, it pays to plan in advance. Have you thought about a different kind of celebration? You can book Exmoor House exclusively for your group (up to 12 people) for a Christmas or New Year house party, staying 2 or more nights on a full-board basis; we'll tailor-make menus to your requirements.

Imagine... spending some real quality time with the people you want to be with: relaxing by the fire, chatting, enjoying some fabulous food, taking bracing winter walks in Exmoor's beautiful scenery.

We guarantee... no TV repeats (no TVs in any of the guest rooms!); no organised entertainment; there'll only be turkey and Christmas pudding if that's what you want - and of course we do all the cooking and washing up. All you need to do is to turn up and have a great time.

What are you waiting for? See our website for more info, or give us a call to arrange a quote.

Exmoor Food Festival & Exmoor Walking Festival: more info

Exmoor Food Festival
This year's Exmoor Food Festival is from 2nd - 10th October. Here at Exmoor House we are doing Exmoor Tasting Platters - lunch with a difference - each day from 12 - 2pm. You can try a selection of our delicious pates and terrines, some local cheeses, salads, home-made bread and pickles, all served tapas-style. There are some lovely puddings to follow, if you still have room! The local theme continues with drinks: we've a good choice of local beers, Somerset ciders, even some wine from Exmoor; as well as Luscombe organic soft drinks, and tea and coffee from DJ Miles of Porlock.
Booking is essential for the Tasting Platters - just give us a call.


North Devon and Exmoor Walking Festival
Another date for your diary! The Autumn Exmoor Walking Festival is from 1st - 4th October. 'A Taste of High Exmoor' is a circular guided walk from Wheddon Cross with a Tasting Platter lunch at Exmoor House (plus a free tea or coffee) included. The walk's on Saturday 2nd October and places are limited, so do book early at http://www.exmoorwalkingfestival.co.uk/