THE popular Exmoor Coaster bus service returns for the 2025 visitor season on Sunday (May 25) – but will not be ‘open top’.

First Bus said the service, which runs along the stunning Exmoor coastline from Minehead via Porlock and Lynton to Ilfracombe, will use a covered bus for the first, or ‘low’, part of the season.

The service has also been renamed for 2025 and is now called the Exmoor Explorer.

Open top double deckers will be in service from July 24 when the ‘high season’ timetable kicks in, and the last day of service for this year will be August 31.

During ‘high season’, the Exmoor Explorer route will also be extended to start from the Hoburne Holiday Park, in Blue Anchor, except on Sundays, to allow holidaymakers more opportunity to use it.

The bus is supported with £10,000 from Somerset Council and £50,000 from Devon County Council, and concessionary travel passes can be used.

A spokesperson said: “It is a relaxing, eco-friendly way to see the moor, with £3 single fares thanks to the national fare cap scheme.

“It is dog-friendly, camera-ready, and gives you a whole new perspective on Exmoor, literally, from the top deck.”

First Bus Somerset head of network Terrance James said: “We are delighted to reintroduce the Exmoor Explorer for the summer 2025 season.

“This service not only offers breathtaking views and a unique travel experience but offers residents and visitors an opportunity to explore the natural beauty of our region in a sustainable and enjoyable manner.”

Somerset executive Cllr Richard Wilkins sad: “It is a great day out and a fantastic way to see some of the best scenery Somerset has to offer.

“If you have not experienced it yet, I would urge you to climb aboard and support this unique service and make some memories along the way.”