Five recommended ways to embrace Exmoor this autumn to honour the 70th anniversary of its official designation as a National Parks since October 19 1954
1. The Exmoor Dark Skies Festival
A huge range of events from October 18 to November 3 giving enthusiastic stargazers, wildlife watchers and families the chance to enjoy Europe’s first designated Dark Sky Reserve.
The festival programme is packed this year with immersive Planetarium experiences, Dark Skies Yoga by Moonlight, a Family Astro Party, Ranger-led Dark Skies Walk and talks, a Gin and Stargazing evening, Space Detectives and Fireside Storytelling.
2. The official opening of Great Bradley Bridge.
Great Bradley Bridge (across the River Barle, will provide a secure, sustainable route along the Two Moors Way between Tarr Steps and Withypool).
The 28-metre-long bridge is made of a recycled steel and locally sourced oak and has been built with support from generous donors. The bridge will make an enormous difference to walkers and horse riders, allowing them to cross the river safely all year round.
You can order a plaque on Great Bradley Bridge via exmoor-nationalpark.gov.uk/caremoor
3. The 70 for 70 CareMoor appeal
Give or fundraise anything from 70 pence to 70 pounds to help our Exmoor landscape stay special for another 70 years. Funds raised will boost nature recovery and education projects happening on Exmoor.
If you’re feeling energetic, join the 70 for 70 virtual walk. Clock up your steps and your fundraising either at home, in the gym or out and about on Exmoor. You can sign up to take part and get more info and walking route advice at exmoor-nationalpark.gov.uk/exmoor70
4. Read more about Exmoor
Dr Lucy Shipley highlights 70 of Exmoor’s special sites in a brilliant new blog series that helps to tell its story, from the Mesolithic Era to World War II. Check out exmoor-nationalpark.gov.uk for the full range of Exmoor historic site stories.
Exmoor Farms: A Year on the Moor is written by local farmer and author, Victoria Eveleigh and photographed by Eleanor Davies. This project offers a captivating exploration of contemporary farming life in one of the UK's most remarkable upland regions.
5. Exmoor Young Chef Competition: A Platform for Culinary Excellence
Celebrating its third year, the Exmoor Young Chef Competition takes place on October 5 and is designed to inspire and empower aspiring young chefs aged 13-17. This initiative offers a unique platform for participants to engage directly with professional chefs from across the region. Finalists are chosen by an expert panel and will have the thrilling opportunity to captivate judges with a locally sourced, three-course menu at West Somerset College in Minehead. Keep tabs on these budding chefs by following updates on visit-exmoor.co.uk and social media.
Further events and celebratory news can be found via exmoor-nationalpark.gov.uk and visit-exmoor.co.uk. Follow on social media too @exmoornp and @visit_exmoor
