Birch Cleave ancient woodland -- Directly accessible from Simonsbath, this magical hanging oak woodland clings to the steep valley side above the River Barle. The gnarled, moss-covered oaks are remnants of the ancient forest that once covered Exmoor, and the wood is alive with birdsong, ferns, and lichens. A short but memorable walk.

Red deer watching -- Exmoor is home to England's largest wild red deer herd, and the remote moorland around Simonsbath is one of the finest places to spot them. Dawn and dusk offer the best chances, particularly during the autumn rut when the stags' roaring calls echo across the valleys. Several local operators offer guided 4x4 safari tours.

Exmoor ponies -- Wild Exmoor ponies graze freely on the moorland surrounding Simonsbath. These hardy, semi-feral ponies are one of the oldest native breeds in Britain and are a wonderful sight against the open moor. The Exmoor Pony Centre near Dulverton (approximately 14 miles) offers the chance to meet them up close.

Fishing on the River Barle -- The River Barle offers excellent salmon and trout fishing through some of the most beautiful river scenery in the south-west. The stretch around Simonsbath is particularly scenic. Permits and local advice are available from the Exmoor Forest Inn and fishing tackle shops in the area.

Dark Sky Reserve stargazing -- Exmoor was designated Europe's first International Dark Sky Reserve, and the remote moorland around Simonsbath has some of the lowest levels of light pollution in England. On a clear night, the Milky Way is visible to the naked eye. Guided stargazing events are held throughout the year.

Pinkworthy Pond and The Chains -- A wild moorland walk from Simonsbath leads to Pinkworthy Pond, a remote upland pool on The Chains -- the boggy plateau that forms the source of the River Barle. This is Exmoor at its most desolate and atmospheric, with sweeping views and a true sense of wilderness.

Tarr Steps -- An ancient clapper bridge across the River Barle, approximately 8 miles from Simonsbath. The bridge is formed from 17 massive stone slabs and is believed to be medieval in origin. It sits within a National Nature Reserve surrounded by beautiful oak woodland.

Dunster Castle -- A dramatic hilltop castle owned by the National Trust, approximately 15 miles from Simonsbath. Set within beautiful terraced gardens and parkland, with a medieval gatehouse, subtropical planting, and wonderful views over Exmoor to the Bristol Channel.

Lynton and Lynmouth -- Often called 'Little Switzerland', these twin villages on the Exmoor coast are approximately 10 miles from Simonsbath. Connected by the famous cliff railway -- the steepest fully water-powered railway in the world -- they offer dramatic scenery, the Valley of Rocks, and excellent walking along the coast path.

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Emmett's Grange, Simonsbath

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