The Exmoor White Horse Inn

Great Britain has almost 15% of the world’s moorland, as it prospers in our mild and wet climate. Part of this, along with the heathland, makes up Exmoor National Park. It is rare to see this type of land and although it is in abundance in the UK, it cannot be found in very many other places. The land is ideal for growing heather, one of the moor’s most common plants. Situated in North Devon and Somerset, it can be found on Exmoor, particularly in the late summer months, when it is absolutely carpeted in heather.

The heather mainly grows around the edge of the Exmoor Forest, on the heathland, and in the park’s coastal areas. The soils in these areas mainly consist on sandstone, rather than the acidic peat which can be found on most of the moor. The sandy soil, in addition to the steep slopes, help to encourage the growth of these plants, in particular the ling and bell types of heather. These areas must always be kept clear of trees and bushes; this is done by burning and controlled grazing.

Exmoor is open to exploration and observation of this beautiful plant throughout the year. It is a wonderful place to walk through and take photographs of, and is a place to both relax in and put in a hard day’s work hiking. In the middle of a long hike, the Exmoor White Horse Inn is the perfect place to stop in for a refreshing lunch. From here you can take in the views of Exmoor while you rest.

The heather is fully in bloom throughout the summer and really is a sight to see that will really make you appreciate our Great British countryside. Why not take a holiday and relax in one of the country’s most beautiful areas? The Exmoor White Horse Inn is at the centre of the moor so that the heathland, along with the rest of the moor, is easily accessible, and is a wonderful place to return to after taking in the sights all day.

This sort of vegetation is almost exclusive to the UK and at Exmoor it can be found in abundance. Make the most of your country’s glorious countryside and come to see the heather in full bloom while it still lasts. It really is something you need to see for yourself; the sheer scale of the growth of it on the moor is immense, and it really will blow you away. It is also surrounded by other beautiful scenery; plants, wildlife and other natural features; which will make you never want to leave.

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