SS6147 : Holdstone Hill

Holdstone Hill [Holdstone Down]

350m Elevation
90m Prominence
England Country
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SS6147 : Holdstone Hill

Roger Cornfoot Photo source

Overview

Holdstone Hill [Holdstone Down]

Holdstone Hill, or Holdstone Down as it’s sometimes affectionately referred to, rises proudly at an elevation of 372 meters within the stunning Exmoor National Park. This Marilyn may not be the tallest, but she makes up for it with character and splendid views!

Geology

The hill's rocky makeup is derived from ancient sandstone and slate, which give it a unique rugged charm. Expect to see ancient geological formations as you ascend, adding a bit of a geological adventure to your hike!

Routes

Holdstone Hill Walk

This moderate 4.5 km route starts at the nearby car park and meanders through intoxicating landscapes. Allow about 1.5 hours for this delightful trek, and don't forget to bring your camera to capture the views - the only thing to rival them will be your friends’ envy!

Summit Features

The summit is proudly adorned with a trig point and a stone cairn, making it an ideal stopping point to appreciate the breathtaking views. Just be careful when you try to take that perfect photo; the wind has a tendency to make off with hats!

Terrain Type

Expect a mix of grassy and rocky terrain, with well-defined paths leading you to the peak. Do tread carefully as parts of the trail can get a tad boggy, especially after a good rain.

Views

From the summit, the panoramic views stretch over the Bristol Channel and the rolling hills of Exmoor. It’s best to visit in spring or autumn when the scenery is ablaze with colour and visibility is at its peak - it’s like nature’s very own Instagram filter!

Hazards

As with any outdoor adventure, be mindful of the weather; conditions can change unexpectedly. Slippery paths can lead to unexpected tumbles, so tread carefully!

Nearby Summits

Just a stone’s throw away is Saddle Tor, rising to 394 meters. A short jaunt to this summit could easily complement your hold on the hill.

Access

The hill is conveniently located near Lynton, where you can find parking at SS619477. Public transport is also available from Lynton, though you may want to check the schedules in advance!

Facilities

While you won’t find facilities on the hill itself, Lynton boasts a variety of cafes, pubs, and even public toilets. Perfect for a post-hike treat!

History

The name 'Holdstone' suggests roots in ancient practices related to landmarks and local navigation. This area has a rich tapestry of folklore and natural history, adding depth to your hike.

So whether you're a seasoned hiker or a weekend warrior, Holdstone Hill promises a delightful excursion into the heart of Exmoor’s wild beauty!

Happy hiking!

Explore routes near Holdstone Hill [Holdstone Down]

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

Lynmouth, Watersmeet and Ash Bridge woodland circuit

8.5 km ~2h 45m Moderate

View route

Doone Valley circular walk from Malmsmead

10 km ~3h 30m Hard

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Braunton Walk with Men Walking & Talking

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Dunkery Beacon sunset ranger walk

View route

Route planning notes

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

Holdstone Hill Walk

A scenic route leading from the local village up to the summit, perfect for a casual day hike with beautiful views.

4.5 km ~1.5 hours Moderate
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

300-399m hill Subhump

Elevation

350m

1,147 ft

Prominence

90m

Coordinates

51.2118, -3.9776

SS619477

OS Map

180

Explorer: OL9W

At the Summit

The summit features a prominent trig point and a stone cairn, perfect for those Instagram shots. Grab a picture before the wind blows your hat off!

Terrain & Geology

Grassy and rocky with some well-defined paths. Be prepared for a few boggy spots especially after rainfall.

The hills are primarily composed of ancient sandstone and slate, offering a glimpse into the geological history that shaped this stunning part of the UK. The rocky outcrops provide a striking contrast to the lush moorland.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, you can see the shimmering waters of the Bristol Channel and the rolling hills of Exmoor, creating a breathtaking panoramic view.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name Holdstone is believed to derive from 'hold' meaning 'to keep,' perhaps referring to the ancient stone markers used by locals.

Historical Significance

Holdstone Hill is a popular spot for both hikers and local folklore, often featured in stories about the area's heritage and natural beauty.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

There is a small car park at SS619477, which is easily accessible from the road.

Public Transport

Buses run from the nearest town, Lynton, to the surrounding areas, but check schedules for service frequency.

Nearby Facilities

While there are no facilities directly on Holdstone Hill, Lynton has several cafes, pubs, and public toilets for your convenience.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Potential for sudden changes in weather, slippery paths after rain, and uneven terrain. Always keep an eye on the sky and your footing!

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 Holdstone Hill [Holdstone Down]?

Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Holdstone Hill [Holdstone Down] through the maps

Are there other walkers around Holdstone Hill [Holdstone Down]?

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 Holdstone Hill [Holdstone Down] search or of course create your own walk for Holdstone Hill [Holdstone Down]

Can I organise a walk to Holdstone Hill [Holdstone Down]?

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 Holdstone Hill [Holdstone Down].

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 Holdstone Hill [Holdstone Down]?

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 Holdstone Hill [Holdstone Down] here

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

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Location

Holdstone Hill [Holdstone Down] location map

Grid reference: SS619477

View on OpenStreetMap

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

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