Hole Station Campsite

Wading birds and butterflies (plus roaming Exmoor ponies) inhabit the watery landscape at Meeth Quarry Nature Reserve (20 minutes). Take a leisurely stroll along the trails, or turn your walk into a hike by joining the long-distance Tarka Trail from here. Speaking of tarka and other otters, you might be able to spot these critters in Halsdon Nature Reserve (half an hour). For a walk among fragrant blooms, head to RHS Garden Rosemoor (half an hour), where the so-called Hot Garden comes into a fiery riot of reds, yellows and oranges in the summer. There is also a collection of exotic plants, a cherry garden and orchards. Pop into neighbouring Cornwall to visit Tintagel Castle (one hour), on a rugged island accessed via a hanging bridge. The atmospheric medieval ruins and spectacular surrounds are inextricably linked with the legend of King Arthur. Check out his life-size bronze statue, then wait for low tide to explore Merlin’s Cave.