|
Brendon, Oare, Malmsmead, Rockford
These four villages lie in the valley of the East Lyn River, which flows
East-West and joins Hoaroak Water at Watersmeet, a couple of miles West of
Rockford. This is "Doone Country" - the setting for the famous
story 'Lorna Doone' by R. D. Blackmore. The little church at Oare is
where Lorna was shot on her wedding day.
A thorough account of the real history
of this area can be found in "Exmoor" by S. H. Burton (published
by Robert Hale, London: ISBN 0 7091 7153 6).
The valley between Watersmeet and Oare (about 5 miles) is steep sided and the
road closely follows the winding river. The scenery is very pleasant
with much of the valley clad in ancient woodland.
There are two notable watering holes;
The Staghunters Inn in Brendon
(01598-741222 EX35 6PS) and the Rockford Inn, Rockford (01598-741214 EX35
6PT). Good beer and food at both.
There are some great walks in the area, the most popular to the West being
along the river between Watersmeet (SS745486) and Rockford and also up the
hill North to Countisbury.
At Malmsmead, super views reward the walk up
to County Gate (SS794487).
There is also a lovely walk up "Doone
Valley" to the South following Badgeworthy Water; cream teas can be
had en-route at Cloud Farm.
In Malmsmead there is a picnic spot and a
tea room.
Footpath sign at County Gate
|
The 65 page Guide to the Brendon
Valley and Doone Country contains loads of
information including history, geography, walks, accommodation,
contacts etc.). Essential reading for visitors.
Copies are available in many of the local shops.
|
 |
|
The Brendon Valley from County Gate
Oare Church |
| Places to stay in Brendon and Oare |
|
Little Mead - Brendon - Self Catering Holiday Cottage
Peaceful, spacious cottage in large garden beside the East Lyn River. Kitchen/diner, sitting room, large
sun-lounge, bathroom, separate shower and WC. 3 bedrooms, 2 double and 1 twin. Close to moorland and the spectacular coastal path, where Exmoor meets the sea.
Superb walking riding and game fishing. Take a boat trip from Lynmouth Harbour, see red deer with an Exmoor Safari and try the Lynmouth to Lynton cliff railway. Walk to the pub (Brendon) which serves food. |
|
The Rockford Inn - B and B / Full Board
- Brendon
The Rockford Inn is a secluded country pub dating back to the 17th Century.
The Inn nestles in the Brendon Valley amongst a hamlet of houses beside the East Lyn River, deep in the Exmoor National Park
near Lynton & Lynmouth.
Good food, real ales and log fires. Beer garden overlooking the East Lyn River. Separate "Guests only" TV lounge with log burner.
Salmon & trout fishing permits can be purchased from the bar.
Great walks through the oak woods down to Watersmeet.
2 family rooms, 3 double rooms, 1 single. No pets. B&B or full board. Wifi. Plenty
of parking. All major Credit Cards accepted. |
|
Doone Valley Holidays - Oare - Camping
and Self Catering Cottages
Set in the heart of Exmoor’s beautiful and tranquil Doone Valley, Cloud Farm’s three riverside cottage accommodations, campsites, stables, tea room and gardens provide the perfect base for families and children, couples, walkers, riders and tourers seeking a break unlike any other, and at any time of year. Wake up to herons, red deer, buzzards, ponies, scenery and peace you'll remember forever. Explore from your own doorstep the breathtaking countryside, crystal streams, wooded valleys, rolling moorlands and the Lorna Doone legends which make up this lovely part of
Exmoor. So many who come and stay with us say, quite simply, "One visit is never enough…" |
|
Millslade Country Guest House - B and B - Brendon
A North Devon Guest House B&B providing tranquil, relaxing accommodation and fine cuisine in Brendon Valley,
Exmoor.
Millslade can comfortably accommodate up to 10 guests in a mix of double and twin rooms - making an ideal venue for large family gatherings or group's who would like to takeover the whole house for a few days or a weekend.
Resident proprietors Keith and Carol offer a warm and friendly welcome for all those wishing to enjoy the raw beauty of the Exmoor countryside, yet wish to retain all the pleasures of home. Decorated to a high standard, Millslade House is comfortable with a relaxed atmosphere.
Pets welcome |
|
Leeford Cottage - B and B - Brendon
16th century former
farmhouse offering high quality, 4 diamond, character accommodation
at reasonable prices. The cottage is kept spotlessly clean with prettily
decorated olde-worlde rooms all sporting beautiful views. A haven
of peace and tranquillity with a warm and friendly atmosphere. Our
"Best of British" cuisine is highly acclaimed. AA 4
Diamond rated. |
|
Meadpool House - B and B - Brendon
Delightful and peaceful
Edwardian house on the South bank of the East Lyn
river, offering friendly, high quality B&B accommodation. Dedicated guests'
lounge and separate dining room. Three bedrooms of good size, each with luxurious
en-suite or private bathroom. All rooms are carefully furnished
and full of character, with superb views. We regret that the
accommodation is not suitable for
children or dogs. Private fishing from our garden by arrangement. |
|
|
|
| Public Transport |
Bus:
L1 Tuesday only: Lynton/ Lynmouth/
Barbrook/ Brendon/ County Gate/ Porlock/ Minehead Lyn Valley Transport tel:01598-752367 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
