SY0387 : Defensive earthworks, Woodbury Castle

Woodbury Common

184m Elevation
100m Prominence
England Country
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SY0387 : Defensive earthworks, Woodbury Castle

Roger Cornfoot Photo source

Overview

Woodbury Common

Woodbury Common is a gem in the East Devon landscape, beloved by locals and visitors alike. Towering at 251 meters, it offers a moderately challenging hike that rewards effort with stunning views.

Geology

The geology here is quite the conversation starter! Primarily formed from volcanic rock, encompassing ash and basalt, Woodbury Common presents a unique terrain that supports diverse flora and fauna. If you’re into geology, keep your eyes peeled for interesting rock formations along the trails. Just make sure you don’t trip over them while you’re looking!

Access and Facilities

Getting to Woodbury Common is a breeze. The main car park is located off the B3179 and is equipped with ample parking space. Do keep in mind that it can fill up quickly on summer weekends, so an early start is advised. For those relying on public transport, the nearest bus stop in the village of Woodbury requires about a 20-minute stroll to the common.

As for facilities, treat yourself at the nearby café in Woodbury for a well-deserved post-hike snack. They say a hiker’s best fuel is cake—don't let anyone tell you differently!

Routes

One popular route is the Woodbury Common Circular Route, a lovely trek of approximately 7.5 km that meanders through enchanting woodlands and open heath. It takes about 2.5 hours to complete at a moderate pace, where you'll be sure to find spots perfect for taking in the scenery and snapping a few photos.

Views

From the summit, the views are nothing short of spectacular. On a clear day, you can gaze over the Exe estuary and even catch glimpses of the distant Blackdown Hills. Autumn is particularly impressive with its bursting palette of colours, while springtime brings the enchanting bloom of wildflowers.

Summit Features

Reaching the summit, hikers are greeted by a prominent trig point, offering a great spot for those all-important selfies. Embrace the majesty of nature, but don’t forget to pause and appreciate the journey.

Hazards

As always in the great outdoors, a few cautionary notes: be cautious of potential mudslides during rainy weather, and beware of low visibility conditions when the fog rolls in. Safety first, folks!

History

Woodbury Common is steeped in history, with its name meaning 'stronghold by the wood', hinting at its significance in ancient times. Evidence of early settlements can be found, making this not just a hike but a glimpse into the past.

Next time you find yourself near East Devon, take a trip to Woodbury Common. It's not just a hill; it's an experience!

Happy hiking!

Explore routes near Woodbury Common

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

Exeter Canal, Double Locks and Countess Wear river circuit

8.2 km ~2h 30m Easy

View route

Killerton to Clyston Mill: Broadclyst farmland and heritage walk

8.9 km ~2h 30m Easy

View route

Tiverton Grand Western Canal: Crownhill Bridge Return

8.4 km ~2h 40m Easy

View route

Sampford Peverell to Whipcott Bridge: Grand Western Canal return

13.1 km ~3h 45m Easy

View route

Route planning notes

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

Woodbury Common Circular Route

A circular walk starting from the main car park, taking you through scenic woodland and open heathland.

7.5 km ~2.5 hours Moderate
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

100-199m hill Subhump

Elevation

184m

602 ft

Prominence

100m

Coordinates

50.6789, -3.3710

SY032874

OS Map

192

Explorer: 115

At the Summit

The summit features a prominent trig point, offering a perfect spot for a photo op or existential musings about life’s big questions.

Terrain & Geology

Varied including heathland grassland and woodland paths.

Woodbury Common is primarily composed of volcanic rock, specifically ash and basalt, resulting from ancient geological processes. This makes for interesting terrain and unique flora.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, one can see across the Exe estuary and, on clear days, the distant peaks of the Blackdowns.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Woodbury' derives from the Old English meaning 'stronghold by the wood', a nod to its historical significance.

Historical Significance

This area has been inhabited since prehistoric times, with evidence of ancient settlements found in the vicinity.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

Woodbury Common Main Car Park, accessible via B3179. Ample space is available, but it can fill up quickly on weekends.

Public Transport

The nearest bus stop is in Woodbury, from where it is a 20-minute walk to the parking area.

Nearby Facilities

There's a nearby café in Woodbury where you can grab a coffee and a slice of cake to reward your hard work hiking!

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Watch for mudslides in wet weather and be cautious of low visibility in foggy conditions.

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 Woodbury Common?

Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Woodbury Common through the maps

Are there other walkers around Woodbury Common?

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 Woodbury Common search or of course create your own walk for Woodbury Common

Can I organise a walk to Woodbury Common?

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 Woodbury Common.

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 Woodbury Common?

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 Woodbury Common 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

Location

Woodbury Common location map

Grid reference: SY032874

View on OpenStreetMap

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

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