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October on Exmoor is something special. The summer crowds have gone home, the bracken has turned copper, and the valleys fill with that golden, low-slung light photographers wait all year for. Then the sun goes down, and things get really interesting.
This is the season when Lynton and Lynmouth come alive after dark. There are star-filled skies, pumpkin-lit paths, a Victorian cliff railway glowing against the night, and a sauna steaming away under the Milky Way. Whether you’re planning a quiet escape for two or an October half-term adventure with the kids (and the dog), there’s a wonderful mix of things to do near Lynton and Lynmouth this month.
Here’s our local guide to what’s on, from the team who live and breathe this corner of North Devon.
1. Exmoor Dark Skies Festival: 16th October–1st November
This year marks the 10th edition of the Exmoor Dark Skies Festival, and it’s a milestone worth celebrating. Exmoor became Europe’s first International Dark Sky Reserve in 2011. Since then, the festival has grown into one of the UK’s most-loved stargazing events, with more than 60 events spread across the National Park.
Expect guided stargazing with Exmoor’s Rangers, night walks, planetarium sessions, astrophotography workshops and nocturnal wildlife encounters. There’s plenty for complete beginners and curious children, as well as seasoned astronomers. Many events book up well ahead, so it’s worth browsing the full programme on the Exmoor National Park website before you travel.
Good for: couples, families, first-time stargazers
2. Secret Sauna: 28th & 30th October
Picture it. You’re wrapped in a towel with cheeks glowing from the heat of a wood-fired sauna, stepping out into the cold Exmoor air and looking up at thousands of stars. Secret Sauna’s mobile wood-fired sauna is the ultimate way to warm up after an evening under the dark skies, and this year we’re hosting the sauna right on our campsite to be enjoyed whilst stargazing during the Dark Skies Festival!
Good for: adults only, couples, friends, anyone in need of a proper reset
3. Lynton & Lynmouth Pumpkin Trail: 24th October–1st November
Grab your wellies and a torch. The Lynton & Lynmouth Pumpkin Trail brings a little autumn magic to the twin villages across the half-term week. It’s a brilliant way to explore the streets and discover a few hidden corners you might otherwise walk straight past. Little ones will love hunting for every pumpkin.
Good for: young families, dog walkers
4. Festival of Light at the Cliff Railway: 29th & 30th October, 5–8pm
The Lynton & Lynmouth Cliff Railway has been carrying passengers up and down the cliff since 1890, powered entirely by water. It’s charming enough in daylight. On the evenings of 29th and 30th October, the Festival of Light gives it a whole new atmosphere, with the railway lit up against the darkening sky above Lynmouth Bay.
Even better, dogs are welcome, so the whole family can join in.
Good for: couples, families, dog owners
5. Halloween at the Cliff Railway: 31st October, open until 9pm
If your crew likes a little spooky fun, the Cliff Railway stays open late on Halloween night, until 9pm. A twilight ride up the cliff with the lights of Lynmouth twinkling below is a memorable way to spend Halloween, and a gentle one for younger children who’d rather skip the full fright-fest.
Good for: families, couples looking for a characterful evening out
6. Planetarium & Nature Adventure at Lee Abbey: 31st October
Just along the coast from Lynton, Lee Abbey hosts a day of planetarium sessions as part of the Dark Skies Festival. Step inside the Space Odyssey mobile planetarium for an immersive journey through the universe with an experienced science teacher and Fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society. Shorter sessions suit younger children.
Afterwards, join Exmoor’s Ranger team for nature activities and exploring around Lee beach. Tickets are £7.50 for adults and £5 for under-16s. Booking is through the Exmoor National Park website.
Local tip: Make a day of it. Catch a planetarium session at Lee Abbey during the day, then head to the Cliff Railway for Halloween in the evening.
Good for: families, curious minds of all ages
Making the Most of October on Exmoor
October is one of our favourite times of year on Exmoor, and not just because of the events. The coast path is quieter and the Valley of Rocks is at its most dramatic. There’s a good chance of spotting red deer as the autumn rut echoes across the moor. And when the weather turns, as it sometimes does, there’s nothing better than a cosy pub, a steaming hot tub and a clear night sky to finish.
Whether you come for one event or plan your whole week around them, you’ll find this corner of North Devon wonderfully easy to slow down in.
Where To Stay…
Tucked within Exmoor National Park, with views out over Lynmouth Bay, Lynmouth Holiday Retreat is the perfect base for an autumn of stargazing and exploring. We’re just a short drive from Lynton and Lynmouth and every one of our stays is dog-friendly, so you bring along the whole family!
Stargazer Geodomes: These were made for Dark Skies season. Our geodome tents let you fall asleep beneath Exmoor’s skies in comfort, with no need to set an alarm to go outside and look up. They’re a lovely choice for couples or a small family adventure.
Safari Tents with Private Hot Tubs: The true glamping experience, with a hot tub to sink into after a chilly night of stargazing.
Hot Tub Lodges: Lodges like Blackmoor Lodge offer extra space and comfort, ideal for families or anyone who likes their adventures with a proper roof and a warm bed.
Glamping Pods: These are cosy and heated, and a snug option for two (plus the dog).
Touring & Motorhome Pitches: These are for those who like to bring their own home comforts.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Exmoor Dark Skies Festival 2026?
The 10th Exmoor Dark Skies Festival runs from 16th October to 1st November 2026, with events across Exmoor National Park.
Are October events in Lynton and Lynmouth dog-friendly?
Many are. The Festival of Light at the Cliff Railway welcomes dogs, and all accommodation at Lynmouth Holiday Retreat is dog-friendly. Check individual event listings before you go.
What is there to do in Lynton and Lynmouth at October half-term?
Highlights include the Pumpkin Trail (24th October–1st November), the Cliff Railway’s Festival of Light and Halloween late opening, planetarium sessions at Lee Abbey, and family-friendly Dark Skies Festival events.
Where can I stay near Lynton for the Dark Skies Festival?
Lynmouth Holiday Retreat sits within Exmoor National Park, Europe’s first International Dark Sky Reserve. You can choose from our Stargazer Geodomes, hot tub safari tents, lodges, glamping pods and touring pitches.
Are the glamping pods heated?
Yes. All our glamping pods at Lynmouth Holiday Retreat are heated, so you can stay warm and snug after an evening of stargazing, even on the chilliest October nights.
Is all accommodation at Lynmouth Holiday Retreat dog-friendly?
Yes. Every stay at Lynmouth Holiday Retreat is dog-friendly, from our glamping pods and Stargazer Geodomes to our hot tub lodges and touring pitches. We were proud runners-up at the Dog Friendly Awards 2025, and four-legged guests are always welcome.
What happens if it’s cloudy during the Dark Skies Festival?
Clouds do roll in on Exmoor from time to time, so it’s worth building in a few indoor options. The planetarium sessions at Lee Abbey run whatever the weather, and plenty of festival events include talks and indoor activities. Staying a few nights also gives you more chances of catching a clear sky.
View Accommodations at Lynmouth Holiday Retreat...
Foxglove Safari Tent
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Pet Friendly
Hot Tub
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Sleeps 5
Kestrel Safari Tent is pet friendly and sleeps up to 5 guests and 2 dogs, featuring a master double bedroom…
Sea View Glamping Pods
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Sleeps 2
Coastal Views
Pet friendly
Our Glamping Pods are a great option if you are looking for cosy accommodation for two.
Kemacott Stargazer Geodome
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Kemacott is our Stargazer Geodome with sea views.
Valley View Glamping Pod
Lynmouth Retreat
Pet friendly
Views
Sleeps 2
Our Pet Friendly Glamping Pods are a great option if you are looking for cosy accommodation for two.
Lyn Bay Lodge
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Coastal Views
Decking
Hot Tub
New in 2024! Lyn Bay Lodge sleeps up to 4 guests, featuring a master double bedroom and a twin room.
The View – Hardstanding Super Serviced Touring & Motorhomes Under 6.5 Metres
Lynmouth Retreat
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Pet friendly
Electric hook up
6.5M Pitch
These pitches are hardstanding and super serviced with Electric, water and grey waste. The pitch size is approximately 5M (width)…
Rabbit Field – Hardstanding, Electric Campervans, Touring & Motorhomes
Lynmouth Retreat
Electric Hook Up
Views
Pets allowed
6.5M Pitch
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Coombe Stargazer Geodome
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Coombe is our pet friendly Stargazer Geodome and comprises a double bed and room for up to 2 pets!
Bay View – Grass, Electric Camping & Campervans
Lynmouth Retreat
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Electric Hook Up
Pets allowed
8M Pitch
These pitches offer breathtaking views across Lyn Bay and include electric hook-up. Each pitch measures approximately 10m x 10m, made…
What’s On This October Near Notter Bridge & the Tamar Valley
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