Spring and Easter Self Catering Breaks on Exmoor
Spring is a lovely time to visit Exmoor. The days are getting longer, hedgerows are coming back to life, lambs are appearing in the fields and the hills are usually quieter than in the main summer holidays. If you are looking for a peaceful base for walks, family days out and a bit of breathing space after winter, Woodcombe Lodges and Cottages is well placed.
Set on the edge of Minehead with Exmoor National Park on its boundary, Woodcombe is a long established four star self catering site with six timber lodges and two stone cottages in about three acres of gardens. From here you can explore coast and countryside, enjoy spring events and Easter activities, and come back to a comfortable lodge at the end of the day.
Why spring is a great time to visit Exmoor
Spring on Exmoor has its own character. You can expect:
- Fresh growth in the hedgerows and woods, with primroses, bluebells and new leaves appearing
- Lambs and calves in the fields and more visible wildlife on quiet lanes and paths
- Often clearer views and fresher air than in high summer
- Generally fewer crowds on the paths, in the villages and at popular viewpoints
The weather can be changeable, so layers and waterproofs are still sensible, but on a good day you get bright light, big skies and the sense of the landscape waking up after winter.
Easter usually brings a little extra buzz too, with events at places like Dunster Castle, the West Somerset Railway and family attractions across Exmoor.
Woodcombe Lodges works well for spring and Easter breaks
Choosing the right base helps you make the most of the season. Woodcombe suits spring and Easter self catering breaks because it offers:
- Quiet setting with open views
At the end of a small lane on the edge of Minehead, Woodcombe feels rural and peaceful. The lodges and cottages are set on a gentle slope with views across the valley to the hills, which change colour as spring comes on. - Space to enjoy the outdoors
With about three acres of gardens, lawns and a putting green, there is room to sit out, watch the birds and let children play once the weather begins to warm up. - Warm, comfortable lodges and cottages
All accommodation is rated four star and has electric heating, proper kitchens and covered verandas. You can still get cosy evenings even if the temperature drops after sunset, and you are not reliant on eating out every night. - Good for families, couples and friends
Different sized units suit everything from a couple on a quiet walking break to a larger family group or multi generational Easter stay. - Dog friendly and accessible options
Most lodges are dog friendly and three lodges are designed for wheelchair user guests, which can be helpful if you are planning a spring break with a dog, older relatives or someone with reduced mobility.
You have the flexibility to go out in good weather and stay in comfortably if the odd spring shower comes through.
Spring walks and countryside from Woodcombe
Spring is a great time to get out on Exmoor before summer heat and crowds arrive. From Woodcombe you can build walks into your break without making everything feel too strenuous.
- Walks from the door
The owners provide simple walk sheets starting at the site, ranging from short loops to half day routes. These let you stretch your legs among fields and hedgerows, see spring flowers and enjoy views, all without moving the car. - Coastal walks from Minehead
Minehead is the start of the South West Coast Path, so you can choose anything from a seafront stroll to longer sections towards North Hill and Porlock. Spring can be a good time for these coastal routes before bracken grows up and paths become busier. - Villages and gentle exploring
Nearby villages such as Dunster, Selworthy, Allerford and Bossington are especially attractive in spring, with gardens and trees coming into leaf. Many walks link these villages with short sections of coast or hillside, and you can usually build in a café or pub stop. - Rivers and woods
If you prefer more sheltered routes, riverside walks such as Tarr Steps on the Barle or the Doone Valley near Malmsmead feel particularly fresh in spring, with new leaves and higher water levels after winter.
For detailed route maps and up to date ideas, Exmoor National Park and Visit Exmoor provide plenty of suggestions for all abilities.
Easter and spring activities near Woodcombe
Alongside walking, there are plenty of seasonal activities and days out that fit well with a spring or Easter break.
Dunster Castle and village
The National Trust often runs seasonal trails and family activities at Dunster Castle and its gardens around Easter. Combined with a wander through the medieval village, shops and cafés, it makes a very satisfying half day out from Woodcombe. It is always worth checking the National Trust website for current events, opening times and access details before you visit.
West Somerset Railway
The West Somerset Railway is based in Minehead and usually runs special services and events during the Easter period and spring weekends. Steam train rides along the coast and through the countryside are a simple way to see more of the landscape without a long walk, and tend to appeal to all ages. Timetables and event listings are updated on the railway’s own website.
Family attractions
If you are travelling with children, spring is a good time for:
- A day at Butlins Minehead on a day pass, with rides and indoor pools
- Visits to Tropiquaria Wildlife Park, Torre Cider Farm or Doniford Farm Park to see animals and enjoy play areas
- A trip to Wimbleball Lake for lakeside walks, play spaces and, later in the season, watersports
These give you options if you want to mix countryside and coast with more structured family activities.
Dark skies and evenings
Spring can still bring some good stargazing nights on Exmoor, especially earlier in the season when it gets dark a little earlier. You may be able to step out after dinner and enjoy a sky that is significantly darker than at home, and if you are keen, you can combine your stay with Exmoor stargazing events or hire a telescope via local schemes.
For current stargazing events and recommended dark sky spots, Exmoor National Park and Visit Exmoor are the best reference points.
Planning a spring or Easter break at Woodcombe
A bit of forward planning will help you get the most from a spring stay.
- Booking ahead for Easter
Easter is a popular time, so it is worth booking lodges and cottages well in advance, especially if you want a particular unit or have accessibility or dog friendly needs. - Packing for mixed weather
Spring can move from warm sunshine to showers in the same day. Layers, waterproof jackets, sensible footwear and a couple of cosy options for the evening will cover most situations. - Planning a flexible structure
Many guests find it helpful to sketch out one or two bigger outings, such as a Dunster day or a trip on the West Somerset Railway, then leave space for local walks, beach time and quieter days on site. - Checking event listings
National Trust, West Somerset Railway, Exmoor National Park and Visit Exmoor publish Easter trails, special services and seasonal events on their websites. Checking these before you travel helps you avoid disappointment and make the most of what is on.
FAQs – spring and Easter breaks at Woodcombe Lodges
Is Woodcombe suitable for an Easter holiday with children?
Yes. Many families choose Woodcombe for Easter. There is space to play in the gardens, beaches and family attractions are close by, and you can take part in local Easter events such as castle trails or steam railway days while returning to a calmer base in the evening.
Will everything be open in spring, or is it too early in the year?
Most of the main attractions and local businesses around Minehead and Exmoor are open by spring, although some may still be on reduced hours outside of school holidays. It is always best to check opening times on official websites such as National Trust, West Somerset Railway, Exmoor National Park and Visit Exmoor when planning your days out.
Is spring a good time for walking on Exmoor?
Spring is an excellent time for walking. Paths are often quieter than in summer and the countryside is fresh and green. You still need to be prepared for mud and changeable weather, but you can enjoy everything from short strolls from Woodcombe to longer days out on the coast or moor.
Can I bring my dog on a spring or Easter break at Woodcombe?
Yes, provided you book one of the dog friendly lodges and follow the site’s dog guidelines. Spring is a lovely time for dog walking on Exmoor, although you do need to be particularly mindful of lambing and ground nesting birds, keeping dogs on leads where required.
Is spring suitable for guests with reduced mobility?
It can be. Three of the lodges at Woodcombe are designed for wheelchair user guests, and there are accessible friendly routes and viewpoints across Exmoor, as well as level seafront walking in Minehead. If you or someone in your party has reduced mobility, it is a good idea to discuss your needs with the Woodcombe owners and check Exmoor National Park’s and Visit Exmoor’s accessibility information before planning specific outings.
If you like the idea of a spring or Easter self catering break with fresh air, countryside, coast and dark skies, you can check availability for Woodcombe Lodges and Cottages on their website. For up to date information on local walks, attractions and seasonal events across Exmoor, visit Exmoor National Park’s and Visit Exmoor’s websites, along with the National Trust and West Somerset Railway for their specific spring and Easter programmes.
