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Locking Parklands–Hutton–Christon
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Dunkery Beacon
Dunkery Beacon Group Walks | Join a Walk
520m
Elevation
414m
Prominence
England
Country
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Classifications
Marilyn
Dodd
Dewey
County Top (Historic)
County Top (Administrative)
County Top (Current)
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Don't walk alone! Find friendly walkers to explore Dunkery Beacon together. Join scheduled group walks or start your own.
Elevation
520m
1,706 ft
Prominence
414m
Coordinates
51.1628, -3.5867
SS891415
OS Map
181
Explorer: OL9E
At the Summit
The summit is marked by a prominent stone cairn and a trig point, offering a perfect spot to catch your breath and take in the views.
Terrain & Geology
Mixed heathland with rocky outcrops and well-trodden paths.
Dunkery Beacon is primarily composed of volcanic rocks dating back to the Devonian period. The summit features a mix of heather moorland, granite outcrops, and gorse, creating a unique habitat for wildlife.
Views & Scenery
On clear days, enjoy views stretching as far as the Bristol Channel and the surrounding moors of Exmoor.
History & Heritage
Name Origin
The name 'Dunkery' is believed to derive from the Old English term meaning 'hill where the oak trees grow.'
Historical Significance
The mountain has been a beloved landmark for locals and visitors alike and is steeped in local folklore.
Photo Gallery
View allPopular Routes
Dunkery Beacon Circular from Webber's Post
ModerateStarting at Webber's Post, this popular circular route takes you through beautiful woodland before ascending to Dunkery Beacon. Enjoy panoramic views from the summit and return via a different path through Horner Wood.
8.5 km
3 hours
Dunkery Beacon via Dunkery Gate
EasyThis straightforward and direct route begins at Dunkery Gate, following a well-defined track to the summit of Dunkery Beacon. It's a shorter option that's ideal for families or those looking for a quick hike.
4.5 km
1.5 hours
Dunkery Beacon and Horner Wood Loop
ModerateA varied route combining the climb to Dunkery Beacon with a scenic descent through the enchanting Horner Wood. This longer route offers a mix of open moorland and shaded woodland paths.
12 km
4 hours
Dunkery Beacon from Wootton Courtenay
ModerateStarting in the picturesque village of Wootton Courtenay, this route traverses fields and moorland before reaching Dunkery Beacon. A peaceful trail with fewer crowds and excellent views.
10 km
3.5 hours
Dunkery Beacon via Snowdrop Valley
ModerateThis scenic route begins in Snowdrop Valley, climbing gradually through forested trails before emerging onto open moorland. The ascent to Dunkery Beacon provides stunning views of Exmoor.
9 km
3 hours
Getting There & Facilities
Parking
Dunkery Beacon Car Park, located at SS893414, which provides easy access to the summit.
Public Transport
Regular bus services operate from Minehead to Exford, with a short walk to the trailhead.
Nearby Facilities
Nearby, you'll find the Exmoor Pony Centre, equipped with a small café and restrooms.
Safety Information
Known Hazards
- Be mindful of changing weather conditions, as fog can roll in quickly, reducing visibility.
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
Find Walking Companions
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Walks Near Dunkery Beacon
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Hills
Some common questions about the hills answered
Are there group walks up Dunkery Beacon?
Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Dunkery Beacon through the maps
Are there other walkers around Dunkery Beacon?
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 Dunkery Beacon search or of course create your own walk for Dunkery Beacon
Can I organise a walk to Dunkery Beacon?
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 Dunkery Beacon.
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 Dunkery Beacon?
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 Dunkery Beacon here
The is an error or something incorrect about this hill. How do I let you know?
We always strive to keep the information on Walkmates as accurate as possible. If you find an error, please let us know through the contact form and we'll aim to correct it as quickly as possible
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Location
Grid Ref: SS891415
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