Molland – Moorland, Starry Skies and History

Molland brings together extensive moorland, ancient landscape features and the layered history of St Mary. If you are looking for a hotel in Molland, these themes can help you decide what to focus on during your trip: paths across the moor, observations of the night sky or a look at architectural and landscape history.

Moorland and paths around Molland

Molland Moor lies on the southern edge of Exmoor National Park and covers 681 ha. Local walking routes cross open moorland and pass through deeply cut, sheltered combes. These walks offer contrasting impressions of open landscapes and sheltered valleys. The Molland Explorer Walk follows a bridleway north to Molland Moor, while the Molland Family Walk leads to a gate at the corner of Bond Wood. By bike, the Molland Cycling Trail reaches East Anstey Common, an open moorland section of the route.

When choosing a route, you can compare the information by mode of travel and destination: the two walks lead to different points, while the Cycling Trail reaches East Anstey Common. Check local conditions before walking or cycling.

Starry skies over Molland Moor

Molland Moor is an observation spot with an unobstructed 360° view of the moon, constellations and planets. Its panoramic view makes it interesting for different kinds of skywatching. Weather and light pollution can affect conditions. So plan flexibly and check the forecast in advance if skywatching is to be the focus of your trip.

Archaeological traces and St Mary

Molland Moor preserves an extensive, well-preserved system of medieval ridge and furrow and cultivation strips. Prehistoric remains are also found there. The contrast helps put them in context: the cultivation features date from the Middle Ages, while the other remains reach back to prehistoric times. Molland Moor is therefore shaped not only by its moorland landscape, but also by traces from different periods.

Molland's historic landscape offers another perspective. It is characterised by small fields, tall, overgrown hedgerows and narrow, winding lanes dating from Saxon times or earlier. The area's history therefore extends beyond individual buildings and archaeological traces to the structure of the landscape itself.

St Mary is a listed building in the highest category of protection, Grade I. The church has Saxon origins, a medieval exterior and an interior dating entirely from the 18th century. It has one of the finest examples of an unrestored church interior in the country. The different periods are reflected in different parts of the church: its origins, its exterior and its later interior.

Discover more destinations: Dittisham, Virginstowe, Bideford, Stoke Rivers, Blackawton, Yarcombe, Moretonhampstead, South Molton

For the main travel overview: Devon.