SS1344 : Lundy - Disused lighthouse on Beacon Hill

Beacon Hill (Lundy)

144m Elevation
144m Prominence
England Country
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SS1344 : Lundy - Disused lighthouse on Beacon Hill

Colin Park Photo source

Overview

Beacon Hill (Lundy)

Beacon Hill, standing at a height of 134 meters, sits proudly on Lundy Island situated in the Bristol Channel. A Marilyn by classification, this little giant offers a modest ascent for a superb reward of striking views, proving that good things come in small packages.

Geology

The mountain boasts interesting Devonian sandstone that tells a story of volcanic activity from millions of years ago. While the geology may not be as thrilling as watching a cat on a skateboard, it certainly has its charms!

Access

Nearest Parking: There's practically no car traffic; the island is accessible only by ferry from Bideford, Ilfracombe, or Clovelly. Grab your binoculars and hop on!

Public Transport: Ferries run seasonally, so check times before planning your trip. They have a mind of their own, similar to your last minute holiday plans.

Nearest Town: Bideford is the locality from which you'll depart, just 20 miles from the dock where you’ll catch your boat to adventure.

Routes

The Lundy Island Trail is the route of choice to Beacon Hill. Covering roughly 9 kilometers, it provides a hearty excursion around the island’s highlights, perfect for the moderate hiker. Expect to be greeted by engaging wildlife, including seals and puffins, that might well put on a show just for you!

Summit Features

Upon reaching the summit, you'll find a quaint stone cairn, which isn’t a recently built Airbnb, mind you. Just down from the top, panoramic views extend over the sea and coastline, which must be one of the best free selfies you’ll ever take.

Views

The best vistas can be savoured in spring or autumn; the island’s wildflowers bloom magnificently, while autumn unveils a fiery palette of colours. On a sunny day, nothing beats the sight of the Bristol Channel sparkling like your grandma's favourite silverware!

Hazards

While there’s nothing too terrifying up here, do mind the steep cliffs, especially when conditions are slippery. Remember, even though the sheep are friendly, they won’t be carrying you back if you meet with an accident - woolly or not!

Facilities

After your trek, visit the adjacent pub for a pint or grab a few essentials from the shop. Just don’t expect a Michelin star experience; it’s more of a 'survival mode' vibe.

Conclusion

Beacon Hill on Lundy Island is a delightful destination for any outdoor enthusiast! Whether you’re seeking tranquillity or an adventurous day out, this little hill delivers splendidly. So pack your boots, prime your camera, and get ready for a marvellous day on Lundy!

Explore routes near Beacon Hill (Lundy)

Walks starting near this hill. Open a route to check its map, distance and full itinerary.

Braunton Walk with Men Walking & Talking

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Milton Damerel Level 3 walk

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Widemouth Bay to Bude Coastal and Canal

10.8 km ~3h Moderate

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Holsworthy Woods Level 3 walk

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Route planning notes

These notes describe possible approaches. Check a route's map and access information when planning your walk.

Lundy Island Trail

A circular walk around Lundy Island that includes a visit to Beacon Hill. This route offers stunning coastal views and encounters with wildlife.

9 km ~3.5 hours Moderate
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Hump 100-199m hill SIB Submarilyn

Elevation

144m

472 ft

Prominence

144m

Coordinates

51.1673, -4.6728

SS132442

OS Map

180

Explorer: 139

At the Summit

The summit is crowned with a stone cairn and offers spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding sea and neighbouring hills. The landscape is punctuated with rugged cliffs and an occasional curious sheep.

Terrain & Geology

Grassy rocky and coastal.

Beacon Hill is primarily composed of Devonian sandstone, with a rich geological history that reflects the volcanic activity that helped form Lundy Island. This rock type can easily erode, leading to interesting shapes and features on the hill itself.

Views & Scenery

On a clear day, enjoy views of the Bristol Channel, the rugged peaks of Exmoor, and the smaller islands and rock formations dotting the coastline.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Beacon Hill' derives from its historical use as a signal point by beacons, alerting passing ships.

Historical Significance

Lundy Island has a rich history, once home to various shipwrecks and tales of piracy. The island is also a nature reserve with many protected species.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

There are no cars on Lundy Island, access is primarily by boat from Bideford, Ilfracombe, or Clovelly. Once on the island, it’s all footpaths.

Public Transport

Regular ferry services operate from the mainland. Check the timetable for seasonal variations.

Nearby Facilities

There's a pub and a shop on Lundy, as well as basic toilet facilities, though don’t expect the Ritz!

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Be cautious of steep cliffs, especially in wet conditions. Sometimes, the local sheep lack an understanding of personal space!

General Safety Tips

  • Check weather conditions before setting out
  • Carry appropriate clothing and equipment
  • Let someone know your planned route
  • Take a map, compass, and GPS device
  • Carry emergency supplies: food, water, first aid kit, torch

Hills

Some common questions about the hills answered

Are there group walks up Beacon Hill (Lundy)?

Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Beacon Hill (Lundy) through the maps

Are there other walkers around Beacon Hill (Lundy)?

Activity varies by location and time, but Walkmates lets you see whether others have shared walks or shown interest in this area. Find other people through the walking friends search walking friends for Beacon Hill (Lundy) search or of course create your own walk for Beacon Hill (Lundy)

Can I organise a walk to Beacon Hill (Lundy)?

Yes. If there aren’t any walks listed already, you can create a walk and make it available for others to join.

If you're signed up to Walkmates, you can create a walk to Beacon Hill (Lundy).

How do I find a walk up this hill?

There are often multiple ways to walk this hill, depending on experience and route preference. Walkmates helps you explore walks and routes that others have shared.

Can I suggest a new route up Beacon Hill (Lundy)?

Yes. You can suggest or create routes to share with others. Walkmates focuses on the social side of walking, so routes are used to help people organise walks and explore areas together, rather than as detailed navigation tools or route libraries.

Other uses really appreciate knowledgeable walkers sharing their routes. Share your favourite route to Beacon Hill (Lundy) here

The is an error or something incorrect about this hill. How do I let you know?

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Location

Beacon Hill (Lundy) location map

Grid reference: SS132442

View on OpenStreetMap

Opens a map in a new tab, centred on the hill.

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