Scenic Exmoor bus route to return with council funding

A popular bus route will return in the summer after funding was secured from two councils.

The Exmoor Explorer, previously known as the Exmoor Coaster, will operate from 25 May until 31 August 2025.

The bus service takes passengers from Minehead to Ilfracombe along a route that takes in views of Exmoor National Park and the villages of Porlock and Lynmouth.

First Bus in Somerset said the service is returning after funding contributions from Devon County Council and Somerset Council’s Bus Service Improvement Plans.

The service will start with a low season timetable when it will operate with closed top double deckers.

From 24 July onwards, buses will run on a high season timetable, with open top buses.

During high season, the service is also being extended to the Blue Anchor holiday park in Minehead.

In line with the government’s fare cap initiative, single journeys on the Exmoor Explorer will be priced at £3.

Damien Jones, Deputy Director, Transport Operations, Environment and Waste at Devon Council said: “It’s great to see the return of this popular and well-loved service. It’s testament to the successful partnership involved and we’re proud to be supporting it again this summer.”

Councillor Richard Wilkins, Somerset Council’s Lead Member for Transport and Waste Services added: “I’m delighted to see this service once again confirmed for the summer. It’s a fantastic way to see some of the best scenery.”