Your Driver

Barle Valley Safaris was founded in 1998 by Alison Simms and Duncan Waller who are the full time drivers. Their Land Rover Defender now carries about 2,000 visitors a year to experience the sights and less well known features of the Exmoor National Park.

Alison, Duncan & family at Station Cottage

Before settling on Exmoor Alison drove tourists on safari in the deserts and mountains of the United Arab Emirates and the Sultanate of Oman for 20 years. She spoke colloquial Arabic and her knowledge of the customs and history of the Bedou made her a friend of the local people and a pioneer of tourism in that region. She was also a well known figure in the Emirates through her journalism, photography and desert rallying.

Duncan was a Master Mariner who sailed the oceans for 20 years in merchant ships. Later, he was a marine consultant and surveyor specialising in ship casualty investigations for marine third party insurers. He lived in Singapore for quite a while and was based in Dubai for many years. He became an experienced '4 x 4' vehicle driver of necessity when required to attend stranded ships and polluted shore lines on the remote coasts of the Arabian peninsula. Duncan Waller Marine Consultant

Alison and Duncan settled on Exmoor eleven years ago. They have applied their many talents to studying the history, geography and natural life of Exmoor ensuring all their passengers enjoy a leisurely, informative and exhilerating trip in safely driven vehicles.

During the busiest times of the year you may meet up with our part time drivers who include Daphne Brace and Keith Parker. They live within the National Park and are knowledgeable with various fields of expertise..