Read the book of Riverside Cottage

The story of Liz who visited and fell in love with Exmoor in her early 20’s. She went on to buy and restore a picturesque Victorian cottage in the small village of Brendon where she would live for the rest of her life. Liz documented her experiences in a manuscript which was found after her death. Now for the first time Liz’s story of moving from Bristol to Exmoor and teaching herself the skills both to restore Riverside cottage and create a sustainable way of life can be shared. Liz tells of how she ceased to be viewed as a townie in a humorous, encouraging and inspiring story, which also creates an invaluable record of how village life in Brendon evolved over the 70 years she knew and loved it.

Explore the Local Area

Brendon

This small and charming village is located in a beautiful valley created by the rushing waters of the spectacular East Lyn River. Situated on the west side of Exmoor it is easy to make the most of the parks natural wonders with many walking routes located close by.

Shops

There are two ways to access Brendon by road, both have large Tesco stores these are easily accessible, near Barnstaple (https://www.tesco.com/store-locator/barnstaple/rose-ln) and Minehead (https://www.tesco.com/store-locator/minehead/seaward-way), we usually stock up at one of this. There is also a good range of smaller shops in Porlock and Lynton.

Local Attractions

Exmoor has more to offer than just its beautiful countryside and there is lots to do for all the family. We have listed some of our favourite locations below.

The Staghunters Inn (https://www.staghunters.com/) 015980 741222

The Family owned and run Staghunters Inn is know for its fine food, offering seasonal and traditional Devon favourites and its wide choice of drinks including the highly regarded local Exmoor ale. All served in idyllic and peaceful location.

Exmoor Zoo (https://www.exmoorzoo.co.uk/) 01598 763352

Enjoy a day out in the North-west of Exmoor at Exmoor Zoo, one of the “west-country’s hidden gems” on the edge of the National Park. Here you can experience a truly unique rural zoo set into a valley in North Devon. Discover rare and unusual animals seldom found in other zoos like binturong and tayra, along with favourites like meerkats and lemurs.

The Lynton & Lynmouth Cliff Railway (https://www.cliffrailwaylynton.co.uk/) 01598 753486

The multi-award winning and famous Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway is the UK’s only fully water powered railway and Silver winner of Devon’s Large Attraction of the Year 2020. Built in 1888, it operates using only completely renewable and sustainable fresh river water and remains the world’s highest ‘Gold’ award for sustainable and ethical tourism, was voted by Which? as the UK’s best Cliff Railway and has multiple accolades for heritage engineering. With 862ft of steep track and an elevation of 500ft the railway provides a memorable experience for all that visit it.

West Ilkerton Farm (https://westilkerton.co.uk/farm-tours) 01598 752310

West Ilkerton Farm is a lovely family run sustainable farm which offers tours from April to October.

Brendon Manor (https://www.brendonmanor.com/) 01598 741246

Why not see Exmoor from horseback? Brendon Manor offer 1-3 hour treks, including lead rein and one-on-one treks in one of England’s finest National Parks. They welcome riders of all abilities and ages.

Surf South West (https://www.surfsouthwest.com/) 01271 890400

Surf South West offer surfing lesson for all ages, abilities and fitness levels. Whether you want a 1:1 or group lesson, are a beginner or intermediate or have SEN or adaptive requirements, there specialist instructors will ensure you get the maximum for your surfing experience.

Watersmeet (https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/watersmeet)

Watersmeet is the meeting place of the East Lyn river and Hoar Oak water and is surrounded by ancient woodland. This national trust park is over 2,000 acres and is well worth a visit even for a short stroll or part of a long hike.

Woody Bay (https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/heddon-valley/features/woody-bays-victorian-heritage)

Woody Bay, on the rugged Exmoor Coast, certainly lives up to its name. The rocky cove is backed by steep, heavily wooded cliffs. The Walk down to the beach is as much of a delight as the cove itself; the path zig-zags through the woods, passing some amusing signage on the way.

Lynmouth National Park Centre (https://www.visit-exmoor.co.uk/attractions/lynmouth-national-park-centre)

The friendly and informed staff at Lynmouth’s National Park Centre will be able to give you bespoke advice to ensure that you get the most out of your stay.

Explore the Local Area

Discover the Beauty of Brendon and Exmoor