Cottages in Porlock

Visit the traditional village of Porlock, one of the gems of Exmoor in Southwest England. You will find a diversity of landscapes, from beaches to moorlands, in this timeless destination. Travellers will also discover the friendliest pubs and classic tea time traditions, as well as the smallest church in England. Somerset is the county surrounding Porlock, famous for its cheddar cheese and apples which is likely the reason the two are traditionally served together in some restaurants.

Have a once in a lifetime holiday experience at one of our timelessly beautiful cottages with gardens and ocean views. Boasting an elegant interior surrounded by the idyllic Exmoor National Park, these listings are suitable for families, groups and couples. Many of these heritage cottages provide a large kitchen, internet, outdoor seating area, cosy living area, and more! Get warm by the fireplace. Relax in the lovingly maintained garden. Watch the sunset from the balcony with your favourite tipple in hand. This is the holiday you’ve been daydreaming of!

Porlock Bay offers nature lovers and beach buffs excellent options for circular walks, bird watching, and swimming at high tide, but beware of strong currents. The car park at Bossington village offers access to Bossington beach. The bay starts at Hurlstone Point and Porlock Weir, and covers the ridge and salt marsh with exceptional scenic views, fascinating birds, and rare plants. The Porlock Salt Marsh is an SSSI biological site for its geomorphological features and awesome cliffs. Selworthy Beacon has circular walks along the ridge speckled with ancient cairns and awe-inspiring views, especially in autumn when there’s purple heather and fiery gorse bush.

If you’re planning a summer BBQ, or something special for dining in, Clive’s in Porlock features organically fed animals, wild game, pastries, and pies. Afterwards, go for the cheese at The Big Cheese in Porlock stocking over 40 British cheeses, wine, cider, and more. While you’re in town, try local fare at Piggy in the Middle with delightful views of the beach. Sample wild game and awesome fish-n-chips. Or, opt for vegan and gluten free options. The Royal Oak maintains the country pub tradition of real ales, live music, and lots of activities including Quiz night and billiards.

Porlock is blessed with a plethora of locally owned shops. Enjoy the thrill of discovering unusual items while on holiday. Magpie Antiques features antique furniture, jewellery, silver repairs and more. Handmade Exmoor is a lovely shop featuring the truly extraordinary, handmade craft items by the owner who works her wonders in many mediums. Exmoor Rambler offers everything for outdoorsy folks including clothing, camping equipment, and boots. Jana Henrie has fashionable natural fibre clothing, wool yarn, and delightful accessories to go with everything. This is just a taste of the goodness in this county.

The Doverhay Manor Museum, built in the 1400s, is a well-maintained museum giving you the feeling of stepping into the past to observe the lifestyles of the high-class. Admire centuries old memorabilia, and paintings from the community, including press clippings from the 1889 rescue mission. A restored herb garden resides in the rear.

At Exmoor Owl and Hawk Centre you can book a bird of prey experience for an hour or a day. Your guide will help you lure an owl to your gloved hand. Or be a spectator and enjoy watching the amazing flying birds displays.

Greencombe Gardens, near Porlock Weir, offer an enchanting respite to those who visit. You’ll be immersed in the magical beauty of rare lilies, roses, dog’s tooth violets and azaleas under a canopy of holly, conifers, and sweet chestnuts. The sloping hillsides overlook Porlock Bay and can be enjoyed from April through July.

The Ship Lodge of Porlock, built in the 1200s, is famous for patrons Samuel Coleridge and Robert Southey. Have an English roast and pint in Southey’s corner snug (private room) and make some history of your own while admiring the décor.

Porlock Hill is famous for its steep incline, 1:4 in some places, as an A-road climb. You will probably encounter other adventurous athletes, including cyclists’ and runners, looking for the ‘burn’ on its winding climb of 220 metres terminating at the lovely sprawling moors on the summit.

At Allerford Museum you’ll feel you’ve stepped back in time as you explore its ancient artefacts and memorabilia. This area greets you with old cottages and a packhorse bridge preparing you for the yesteryear experience that awaits. The museum is housed in the Victorian school room of 1821 and features many items common to the schoolhouse, including slates, farm tools, and hundreds of photos.

Enjoy mid-afternoon teatime in Somerset. That is the 4PM tea with fresh scones, clotted cream, and delicious jams guilt-free because it’s a mandatory tradition! Whortleberry Tea Room offers a delightful garden to accompany your tea, or hearty steak and ale. Mrs Jackson’s Victorian Tea Rooms has a Victorian vibe and Home Cook Café features choice coffees to enhance your English experience.