Highlight • Natural Monument
Dunkery Beacon Summit
Hiking
5.0
(134)
Mountain biking
5.0
(53)
Running
5.0
(4)
Dunkery Beacon rises to 1,703 feet (519 m) and has a large, domed cairn on top. The hill formed part of Holnicote Estate and was donated to the National Trust in 1935, an act commemorated with the summit cairn. The views from the top are wonderful, reaching into Wales, and it’s a beautiful part of Exmoor to explore.
Go adventuring on Exmoor’s highest hill
Dunkery is criss-crossed with tracks, trails and bridleways, so you have plenty of choice when it comes to routes. There are several car parks on the hill and around it, allowing you to reach the summit quickly or to include it on a longer adventure. The heather-clad moorland turns the hillside purple in the warmer months.
The routes are fairly gentle and there are no steep sections to think about. Some of the trails are wide, with gravel and stones underfoot. When you reach the top, you’ll certainly know about it, thanks to the enormous cairn. There’s also a toposcope, detailing distant peaks. To the north, a clear day will reveal Wales’ Brecon Beacons.
You can explore Dunkery Beacon at any time of year but winter may bring snow and ice. Exmoor can experience changeable weather in any season, so keep an eye on the forecast and take appropriate clothing.
This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Tips
December 14, 2018
Hiking
June 19, 2022
Hiking
May 12, 2024
Hiking
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Dunkery Beacon Summit
4.9
(23)
82
hikers
5.01km
01:29
140m
140m
Embark on an easy 3.1 miles (5.0 km) hiking loop from Dunkery Gate, leading you to the iconic Dunkery Beacon and past ancient sites like Great Rowbarrow Cairn. This route involves a gentle ascent of 464 feet (141 metres) and typically takes about 1 hour and 28 minutes to complete. You will experience rolling heather moorland, offering a sense of open space and tranquility as you make your way around the circuit.
When planning your visit, you will find parking conveniently available at Dunkery Gate, which serves as the trailhead for this accessible route. While the path is generally easy, be prepared for some sections that can be rough, uneven, muddy, or stony, so wearing sturdy shoes is a good idea. There are no specific warnings about road closures, permits, or fees for this area, making it straightforward to access.
This trail takes you to Dunkery Beacon, the highest point in Exmoor and Somerset, offering expansive panoramic views on clear days across the Bristol Channel to the Welsh coast, Dartmoor, and the Quantock Hills. The moorland transforms with vibrant purple hues in warmer months, and you might spot Exmoor ponies and red deer roaming freely. It is a prime example of the natural beauty found within Exmoor National Park.
4.8
(12)
45
hikers
14.6km
04:11
340m
340m
Embark on the Dunkery Beacon & Stoke Pero loop, a moderate hike that takes you through the diverse landscapes of Exmoor National Park. You will cover 9.1 miles (14.6 km) and gain 1111 feet (339 metres) in elevation, typically taking around 4 hours and 10 minutes to complete. The route offers a mix of open moorland, where heather blooms, and sheltered woodlands, leading you to the panoramic views from Dunkery Beacon Summit, the highest point in Somerset.
When planning your visit, be aware that the trail features varied terrain, including stony, muddy, and uneven sections. You will encounter some steep ascents and descents, as well as shallow fords and a mix of gravel and rough paths underfoot. Sturdy walking boots with good ankle support are highly recommended to navigate these conditions comfortably and safely.
This loop provides a rewarding experience for hikers with good fitness levels, showcasing the natural beauty of the region. On a clear day, the views from Dunkery Beacon extend across the Bristol Channel, offering a memorable vista. The path also winds past the serene Nutscale Reservoir and through parts of Horner Woods, adding to the varied scenery you will enjoy.
4.3
(3)
24
hikers
19.4km
05:31
430m
430m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 510 m
Good to know
Family Friendly
yes
Wheelchair access
no
Dog Friendly
yes
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Friday 8 May
17°C
8°C
21 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 19.0 km/h
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