Top 12 Natural Monuments around North Molton

Near North Molton, you can discover a variety of unique natural features, primarily within Exmoor National Park. These include the ancient Tarr Steps clapper bridge set in a wooded river valley, the dramatic coastal cliffs and rock formations of the Valley of Rocks, and the tranquil Wimbleball Lake. Watersmeet offers a picturesque river gorge where two rivers converge amidst ancient woodlands.

Yes, the area boasts several historical natural monuments. The Tarr Steps clapper bridge is an ancient structure, possibly dating back to the Bronze Age or medieval period. Additionally, you can find the View of Cow Castle, which overlooks an Iron Age univallate hillfort, a Scheduled Ancient Monument with local legends suggesting it was built by fairies.

The natural monuments around North Molton offer a wide range of outdoor activities. You can enjoy walking and cycling trails around Wimbleball Lake, which also offers watersports like sailing, canoeing, windsurfing, and fishing. The wooded valleys around Tarr Steps and Watersmeet are perfect for tranquil walks and birdwatching. For more extensive hiking, mountain biking, or cycling, you can explore the many routes available in the wider Exmoor National Park area. Find more inspiration for outdoor activities in the hiking, MTB, and cycling guides around North Molton.

Absolutely. Several natural monuments are well-suited for families. The Tarr Steps clapper bridge offers easy walking trails and a pub nearby. The Coin Tree in Exmoor National Park is a curious sight that children often enjoy. Wistlandpound Reservoir Bird Hide features an easy 2.6 km accessible path around the lake, suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs, with opportunities for birdwatching.

For breathtaking scenic views, the Valley of Rocks offers dramatic panoramic vistas over the Bristol Channel. The View of Cow Castle provides privileged views of the Iron Age hillfort and the River Barle valley. Additionally, the Wistlandpound Reservoir Bird Hide offers tranquil views of the lake and surrounding forest.

The natural monuments around North Molton are beautiful year-round. Spring brings wild garlic and bluebells to riverbanks, while autumn offers vibrant foliage, especially around Tarr Steps. The Tarr Steps clapper bridge is noted as being great for walks in both autumnal rain and summer sun. Wimbleball Lake is excellent for stargazing as part of Europe's first International Dark Sky Reserve, making it a great evening or night-time destination.

Yes, the Valley of Rocks is particularly notable for its geological significance. It features dramatic dry valleys with towering cliffs and unique, weather-shaped rock formations. Its Devonian Lynton Beds are highly fossiliferous, containing some of the oldest Devonian rocks in North Devon, making it a fascinating site for those interested in geology.

Yes, you can encounter a unique tradition near Tarr Steps: the Coin Tree in Exmoor National Park. This fallen tree trunk is embedded with coins, a custom believed to bring good luck or transfer illness. It's a curious and memorable sight along routes in the park.

The region is rich in wildlife. Around Tarr Steps, you might spot dippers, grey wagtails, pied flycatchers, dormice, otters, bats, and red deer. The Valley of Rocks is home to a herd of feral goats. Wimbleball Lake is excellent for birdwatching, with Canada Geese and Mallard, and mammals like red deer, hedgehogs, and weasels. Watersmeet is a haven for red deer, otters, and various bird species. Keep an eye out for wild moorland ponies along trails like the Two Moors Way.

Yes, the path around Wistlandpound Reservoir Bird Hide is specifically mentioned as being accessible for both wheelchairs and pushchairs, offering an easy 2.6 km hike through the forest and along the water's edge.

Visitors frequently appreciate the unique blend of historical mystery and natural beauty, particularly at sites like the Tarr Steps clapper bridge. The dramatic landscapes of the Valley of Rocks and the tranquil settings of Wimbleball Lake and Watersmeet are also highly valued for their scenic beauty and opportunities for outdoor activities. The komoot community has shown strong appreciation, with over 110 upvotes and 60 photos shared across these natural monuments.

While specific wild swimming spots are not detailed, Wimbleball Lake offers various watersports, including activities that involve being in the water. For river swimming, caution is always advised, and it's best to check local regulations and safety information before entering any natural waters.