Exmoor - Dulverton & Dunkery

Navigating The Route

This is a circular driving Spy Mission around Exmoor: Dulverton & Dunkery, with Agents sent to Exmoor to find a long-lost code linked to a hidden bunker before the Debadguys get there first.

The operation covers 53 miles and should take 5+ hours to complete, with about 3 miles of walking over 7 stops. You'll start in Dulverton, then investigate moorland villages, harbour stops and historic streets before the mission finishes back at the area around Wheddon Cross, where you can continue north or south on the A396.

This Trail is not suitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs. Due to the fact that some sections of this Trail are set along narrow roads with cobbled or no pavements, unfortunately the Trail is not suitable for wheelchair users. One section also warns that the road is narrow with no pavement, so keep close to the sides.

Exmoor is populated by sheep, ponies and deer roaming freely on the open moorland. Care should be taken at all times whilst driving on the moors.

Getting There

By car: Start the mission in Dulverton (TA22 9EX). There are two pay and display car parks in Dulverton, plus some free on-street parking in the square.

As this is a driving route, you'll also use stopping points along the way. In Winsford, use the small car park just past the war memorial on the left (TA24 7JE), or park where safe to do so. At Porlock Weir car park (TA24 8PB), you will need to pay and display. At the end of Porlock village, use Doverhay car park (TA24 8QA); limited on-street parking is also available. In Dunster, park in Dunster village car park (TA24 6SE). At Wheddon Cross, use Wheddon Cross car park (TA24 7DU), on the right. At Dunkery Beacon, park in the small car park on the right.

By public transport: Make your way to Dulverton (TA22 9EX) to begin the operation. This is a 53 mile driving Trail with multiple stops around Exmoor, so plan how your squad will move between locations before setting off.

Need the Loo?

There are toilets at most stops, so Agents should have regular opportunities for a tactical comfort break during this 5+ hour operation.

Bring Your Furry Sidekicks

Four-legged Agents can join the mission 🐾

Dogs may need to be kept under close control on the open moorland because sheep, ponies and deer roam freely. The route also includes a narrow road with no pavement, so take extra care near traffic and keep canine recruits close when the investigation leaves safer ground.

Food & Drink Stops

Code-hunting across Exmoor takes decent field rations. There are plenty of refreshments available along the way, and a general store is passed in Winsford.

If you'd rather pack your own supplies, there is a small picnic area at Clue 06.

Want to Make a Day of It?

Porlock Weir harbour

Porlock Weir is a tidal harbour with a small home-based flotilla of yachts, with lots more visiting in spring and summer. Its history has a dramatic edge too: in 1052 Harold Godwinson came from Ireland with nine ships and plundered the area. Ideal intel for Agents who like their sea air with a side of raiding.

Dunster

Dunster is described as probably the largest and most intact medieval village in England, so it's well worth giving your squad extra time here. Time Team's Dig Village chose it as its first village to investigate, and the Trail takes in the National Park Information Centre, the Yarn Market, High Street and Church Street.

Dunkery Beacon

Dunkery Beacon is the highest geographical point in Somerset at 520m. For an optional extra challenge, follow the bridleway further up the road on the left to the beacon for spectacular views which are well worth the effort.

Winsford

Winsford includes the war memorial and a picnic area, making it a useful pause in the mission. It also comes with local legend in the shape of Tom Faggus, a 17th-century highwayman who haunted the area around Winsford and only robbed from the rich.

Dulverton Parish Church of All Saints

The mission begins by sending Agents to the Parish Church of All Saints, with early intel gathered in the church grounds. It's a fitting first stop before your crew heads deeper into Exmoor in pursuit of that long-lost code.