Spring on Exmoor is one of the most quietly beautiful times of year.
As winter loosens its grip, the landscape begins to reawaken. Hedgerows soften into green, woodland floors fill with wildflowers and the moor feels alive once again with birdsong and movement. It’s a season of fresh air, new life and gentle warmth. The days stretch longer, the light softens across the valleys and the countryside takes on that vivid green that only lasts for a few fleeting weeks each year.
For guests looking to experience Exmoor at a slower, more peaceful pace, spring is hard to beat.
One of the great joys of spring is exploring Exmoor’s ancient woodlands as they come into bloom.
Bluebells carpet the forest floor and primroses pop up in the combes from late April into May, creating one of the most atmospheric walking experiences of the year. Closer to the farm, our own woodland and riverbanks offer peaceful routes alive with birds, insects and early dragonflies darting above the water.
It’s the perfect time for unhurried walks, wellies or boots on, camera in hand, with plenty of pauses along the way.
Spring brings a wonderful sense of renewal across Exmoor.
Lambs appear in the fields, foals begin to arrive on the moor and wildlife becomes easier to spot as the days lengthen. Buzzards circle overhead, deer move through the valleys and birdlife flourishes across farmland and woodland alike.
For nature lovers, it’s one of the richest seasons to visit.
For guests bringing horses, spring offers exceptional riding conditions.
The ground begins to dry, temperatures are ideal for longer rides and the moorland opens out in every direction beneath wide skies. With miles of bridleways, quiet lanes and open tracks, riders can explore Exmoor at its most colourful and alive, often spotting ponies, deer and birds of prey along the way. For the adrenaline seekers out there, there is the chance to attend one of the closing hunt meets of the season which tend to be quite the spectacle.
👉 Find out more about horse stays here:
One of the pleasures of staying at West Hollowcombe Farm is being able to head out without getting in the car.
From the farm, guests can walk towards Tarr Steps, Withypool, Anstey Common and along river valleys and moorland tracks, routes that feel particularly special in spring when the landscape is at its freshest.
Pack a picnic, take your time and enjoy the stillness.
Spring is also a wonderful time to explore Exmoor’s coastline. Porlock Weir and Lynmouth offer fresh sea air, dramatic views and quieter beaches before the height of summer arrives.
Back at the farm, longer evenings invite time outdoors, whether sitting on the patio, watching a herd of deer graze on the far bank, lighting the BBQ or watching the light fade across the valley. On clear nights, the dark skies above Exmoor reveal remarkable stargazing even in spring.
With four beautifully restored self-catering cottages set within Exmoor National Park, West Hollowcombe Farm offers a peaceful base for spring escapes. Whether you’re visiting for walking, riding, wildlife or simply time away, the season brings a sense of calm and renewal that makes stays here feel especially restorative.
Spring on Exmoor isn’t about packed itineraries or busy attractions. It’s about fresh air, open space, birdsong mornings and unhurried days. It delivers the kind of stay that leaves you feeling properly reset.
We’d love to welcome you to experience it.
👉 Check availability for spring stays here:
Space to be together - set deep in Exmoor
West Hollowcombe Farm, Broad Lane, Hawkridge, Exmoor National Park, TA22 9QL
