Attractions and Places To See around Dunkeswell - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Dunkeswell include a blend of historical sites and natural landscapes. Situated within the Blackdown Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the region offers diverse opportunities for exploration. Visitors can discover ancient monuments, historical churches, and scenic viewpoints. The area provides a variety of settings for outdoor activities and cultural experiences.
Best attractions and places to see around Dunkeswell
- The most popular attractions is Culmstock Beacon Viewpoint, a historical site that offers far-reaching views across the Culm Valley. This flint hut was part of an Elizabethan early warning system against invasion.
- Another must-see spot is Grand Western Canal, an other man-made feature. This 11-mile stretch through the Somerset countryside is known for cycling and horse-drawn barges.
- Visitors also love Wellington Monument, a natural monument commemorating the Duke of Wellington’s victory at the Battle of Waterloo. This 175-foot-tall obelisk provides expansive views of the surrounding area.
- Dunkeswell is known for historical sites, natural features, and outdoor activities. The region offers a variety of landmarks, scenic routes, and cultural points of interest to see and explore.
- The attractions around Dunkeswell are appreciated by the komoot community, with 13 upvotes and 8 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: June 18, 2026
Wellington Monument
Highlight • Climb
Tours are available from April to October 10:00 - 16:00, booking essential. You can view the monument from outside and walk around the area which has great views without booking.
The Wellington Monument is the tallest three sided obelisk in the world at 175ft. It was commissioned in 1817 to commemorate the Duke of Wellingtons victory at the battle of Waterloo. Originally designed to be a plinth with a stature of the duke on top but the money ran out and it was eventually finished in 1820.
It's been damaged by lightning and needed major restoration several times since it's completion.
The National Trust took over the management in 1934 and undertook many cycles of repair over the years. The most recent 3.1million pound project has been recently completed with the aim of not needing more repair work in the near future.
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St Mary's Church and Hemyock Castle
Highlight • Religious Site
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Grand Western Canal
Highlight (Segment) • Structure
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Culmstock Beacon Viewpoint
Highlight • Historical Site
The beacon is the flint hunt which was part of an early warning system against invasion during Elizabethan times. Most notably warning against the Spanish Armada. Fires were lit on the beacons when ships were seen, the series of beacons reaching from the south west to London.
You can go into the beacon, which was rebuilt in 1870 and look up at the sky where the fire would have been lit.
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Dunkeswell Abbey
Highlight • Monument
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Tips from the Community
wellington monument sits on the top of the black down hills so be prepared for a big climb from all directions
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Great walks there is many ways to get to the Beacon, it's very cold up there and the ground was rocky wet and very muddy, good boots needed, you can see Dartmoor Exmoor and Somerset on a clear day.
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A good few tracks and paths up here to explore, it never gets old
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St Mary’s church Hemyock appeared on the show”Blind Date” in 2008 The church can be traced back to 1120 and Hemyock castle adjacent was a focal point of clashes during the civil war fought between Cromwell and his parliamentarians (Roundheads) and the the royalists under the King Charles 1.
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Moderate trail for everyone to explore and enjoy
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Culmstock Beacon provides a stunning viewpoint south to the River Culm valley and the historic village of Culmstock. The Beacon is on Black Down
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High on the southwest point of Blackdown Common is Culmstock Beacon. It is one of a chain of Elizabethan beacons used for lighting fires to warn of advancing enemies, for example, The Spanish Armada. The beehive-shaped structure was built of flint. It was rebuilt in 1870 after the collapse of the earlier one. Culmstock Beacon is a wildlife haven with stunning views, particularly in the late summer when the bell-heather is in bloom. Access via public bridleway.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I visit around Dunkeswell?
The region is rich in history. You can explore the serene ruins of Dunkeswell Abbey, a Cistercian monastery founded in 1201. Nearby, the Holy Trinity Church contains fragments from the original Abbey and features a Norman font. Don't miss the Culmstock Beacon Viewpoint, a historic flint hut that was part of an Elizabethan early warning system. Also, St Mary's Church and Hemyock Castle offer a glimpse into medieval and Norman times.
Are there any significant monuments or viewpoints in the area?
Yes, the Wellington Monument is a prominent landmark. This 175-foot-tall obelisk commemorates the Duke of Wellington's victory at the Battle of Waterloo and offers expansive views of the surrounding area. You can also enjoy far-reaching views across the Culm Valley from the Culmstock Beacon Viewpoint.
What natural features can I explore near Dunkeswell?
Dunkeswell is nestled within the picturesque Blackdown Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), offering abundant opportunities for enjoying nature. You can walk through the secluded Madford Valley, which provides lovely views, especially on routes incorporating the Dunkeswell Abbey ruins. The Quants Nature Reserve, also within the Blackdown Hills AONB, features a mosaic of heathy grassland and ancient woodlands.
What outdoor activities are available around Dunkeswell?
The Blackdown Hills AONB is ideal for hiking, cycling, and bird watching. For a unique experience, consider a glider adventure or skydiving from Dunkeswell Airfield. If you prefer ground-based thrills, Mansell Raceway offers go-karting. The Grand Western Canal is also a popular spot for cycling, with an 11-mile stretch through the Somerset countryside.
Are there family-friendly attractions or activities?
Absolutely. The Grand Western Canal is a great option for families, offering flat cycling paths and the chance to spot traditional horse-drawn barges. For animal lovers, The Donkey Sanctuary in nearby Sidmouth provides a heartwarming visit. Yaraks Bird of Prey, also close by, offers a chance to see various birds up close.
Where can I go hiking near Dunkeswell?
There are many hiking opportunities in the area, particularly within the Blackdown Hills AONB. Popular routes include 'Hemyock to Culmstock Beacon' and 'Wolford Chapel loop from Godford Farm'. You can find more details and routes on the Hiking around Dunkeswell guide.
Are there easy walking trails suitable for all abilities?
Yes, several easy walks are available. Consider the 'Hemyock Village Pump – Whitehall Manor House loop from Hemyock' or the 'Knowles Wood loop from Blackborough'. These routes are generally shorter and less challenging. For more options, check the Easy hikes around Dunkeswell guide.
What is the Dunkeswell Airfield Heritage Centre?
The Dunkeswell Airfield Heritage Centre provides a fascinating look into the airfield's past as a crucial US naval base during World War II. It features artifacts, memorabilia, mission narratives, and replica uniforms, offering a deep dive into its wartime history.
Can I go mountain biking near Dunkeswell?
Yes, the region offers mountain biking trails. Routes like 'Broadhembury Village – Heron's Way Woodland Track loop from Broadhembury' provide options for different skill levels. You can explore more trails on the MTB Trails around Dunkeswell guide.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Dunkeswell?
Visitors frequently appreciate the blend of historical significance and natural beauty. The expansive views from sites like Culmstock Beacon Viewpoint and the Wellington Monument are highly praised. The peaceful atmosphere of the Grand Western Canal and the historical insights at places like St Mary's Church and Hemyock Castle also receive positive feedback.
Is there public transport available to reach attractions?
While specific public transport routes to every attraction may vary, many sites within the Blackdown Hills AONB are best accessed by car. However, some villages like Hemyock, which hosts St Mary's Church and Hemyock Castle, may have limited bus services. It's advisable to check local transport schedules for specific destinations.
Most popular routes around Dunkeswell
Most popular attractions around Dunkeswell
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