Bossington Hill
Bossington Hill offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Bristol Channel and is a prime spot for sunset photography, with free-roaming Exmoor Ponies...

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Golden hour magic
Bossington Hill
Best Time
Golden hour magic

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Bossington Hill offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Bristol Channel and is a prime spot for sunset photography, with free-roaming Exmoor Ponies.
"Fantastic place to go for a walk with lovely views, but be prepared for a challenging drive and steep climb back up."
🚗 Challenging Drive Ahead
Be prepared for narrow, winding roads and steep inclines to reach the summit. :car:
🥾 Steep Climb Back Up
The walk down to Porlock Weir is lovely, but the return climb is steep. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Bristol Channel Views
Summit of Bossington Hill
Breathtaking vistas of the Bristol Channel, especially magical during sunset.

South West Coast Path Access
Trailheads from Bossington Hill
Explore sections of the iconic SW Coast Path, offering coastal beauty and challenging gradients.

Encountering Exmoor Ponies
Grazing areas on Bossington Hill
Keep an eye out for the curious and friendly Exmoor Ponies roaming freely.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Views
Navigating the Scenic, Yet Steep, Terrain
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Challenging Drive Ahead
Be prepared for narrow, winding roads and steep inclines to reach the summit. :car:
🥾 Steep Climb Back Up
The walk down to Porlock Weir is lovely, but the return climb is steep. :athletic_shoe:
🐎 Watch for Wild Ponies
Exmoor Ponies are common here and can be very curious! :horse:
📸 Sunset Spectacle
The views are incredible at sunset, making it a popular time for photographers. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Challenging Drive Ahead
Be prepared for narrow, winding roads and steep inclines to reach the summit. :car:
🥾 Steep Climb Back Up
The walk down to Porlock Weir is lovely, but the return climb is steep. :athletic_shoe:
🐎 Watch for Wild Ponies
Exmoor Ponies are common here and can be very curious! :horse:
📸 Sunset Spectacle
The views are incredible at sunset, making it a popular time for photographers. :camerawithflash:
🚶♀️ Coastal Path Adventures
Access the South West Coast Path for stunning seaside walks. :hiking_boot:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning, panoramic views of the Bristol Channel and the magical sunset opportunities at Bossington Hill. The chance to see curious Exmoor Ponies and access the South West Coast Path are frequently highlighted as major draws. However, some find the drive challenging due to narrow, steep roads, and the climb back up from the coast can be strenuous.
"Great viewpoint overlooking the Bristol Channel and a great place for an evening walk. This is the end point for the road from Minehead that goes up past St Andrew's church and along the ridge to this point where there is a carpark."
Bernard Savage
"Beautiful place 😍
Lovely sunset
Friendly natives 😁
Will definitely vist again next year with the family"
Blue Bubblegum
"Beautiful spot, lovely views, challenging drive at times though, not suitable if you cannot manage narrow roads, hills and tight bends"
Debs H.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The drive to Bossington Hill involves navigating narrow, winding roads with steep inclines and tight bends, particularly if coming from Minehead. It's recommended for drivers comfortable with challenging rural routes. There is a car park at the summit.
While direct public transport to the very summit is limited, you can reach nearby villages like Bossington or Porlock by bus and then undertake a walk. Check local bus schedules for routes serving Porlock and surrounding areas.
Several trailheads from Bossington Hill provide access to the South West Coast Path. You can walk down towards Bossington village and then connect to the path, or head towards Hurlstone Point for different coastal perspectives.
Yes, there is a car park located at the summit of Bossington Hill, which is a convenient starting point for walks and enjoying the views.
Cycling to Bossington Hill is possible, but be aware of the steep gradients and narrow roads. It's best suited for experienced cyclists who are comfortable with challenging terrain.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Bossington Hill is a natural landscape and part of Exmoor National Park, so there is no entrance fee to access the hill itself or the surrounding walking trails. Parking may be subject to charges in designated car parks.
Bossington Hill is accessible at all times, as it is an open natural landscape. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and to fully appreciate the views.
No, tickets are not required for Bossington Hill. It's a public access area, so you can visit spontaneously.
As part of Exmoor National Park, visitors are expected to respect the natural environment. Please follow the Countryside Code, stay on marked paths, and do not disturb wildlife.
Yes, dogs are generally welcome at Bossington Hill and on the South West Coast Path. However, they must be kept under close control, especially around livestock like the Exmoor Ponies.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy scenic walks, take in panoramic views of the Bristol Channel, spot Exmoor Ponies, and access the South West Coast Path for longer hikes. It's also a popular spot for photography, especially at sunset.
A short orbit of Bossington Hill can take around an hour, but if you plan to walk down to Bossington village, Porlock, or Porlock Weir, allow several hours for the round trip, including the steep climb back up.
There are limited facilities directly at the summit car park. Restrooms and cafes are more readily available in nearby villages like Bossington, Porlock, and Porlock Weir.
The most notable wildlife are the Exmoor Ponies that graze on the hills. You may also see various bird species and other small mammals common to the coastal heathland environment.
While the views are beautiful, the steep gradients and potentially challenging terrain might make it difficult for very young children or those with mobility issues. A short walk on the flatter parts of the summit is manageable.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit offers sweeping views of the Bristol Channel, ideal for landscape photography. The paths leading down towards the coast and the village also provide picturesque scenes, especially with the Exmoor Ponies.
Sunset is particularly spectacular, casting a warm glow over the landscape and sea. Early mornings can also offer beautiful light and fewer visitors.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife photography, especially if you want to photograph the Exmoor Ponies from a respectful distance.
Look for the interplay of light on the water, the rugged coastline, and the grazing Exmoor Ponies. The winding paths and the distant views of Wales can also make for compelling shots.
Drone usage is subject to regulations within Exmoor National Park. Always check the latest guidelines from the National Park authority and ensure you fly responsibly and with consideration for wildlife and other visitors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For a more accessible experience, explore the flatter parts of the village of Bossington or the accessible paths around Porlock Weir. Always keep children close, especially near the cliff edges and when observing wildlife.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Walkers
Popular routes include walks down to Bossington village and Porlock Weir, or heading towards Hurlstone Point. Be prepared for steep ascents and descents, and always wear appropriate footwear. The opportunity to see Exmoor Ponies adds to the wild, natural appeal of these walks.
📸 Photographers
Key subjects include the sweeping coastal vistas, the charming village of Bossington, and the iconic Exmoor Ponies grazing on the hillsides. A wide-angle lens is perfect for capturing the expansive scenery, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife shots. Be prepared for potentially challenging driving conditions to reach the best vantage points.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the South West Coast Path
Walkers can choose various routes, from shorter loops that take in Hurlstone Point and the charming village of Bossington, to longer treks towards Porlock Weir or even further afield. The terrain can be challenging, with steep ascents and descents, making it a rewarding experience for those seeking a good hike. Remember to wear sturdy footwear and be prepared for changing weather conditions.
Many visitors find the coastal path walks from Bossington Hill to be a highlight of their trip, offering a chance to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Exmoor National Park and breathe in the fresh sea air. It's a perfect way to experience the rugged charm of the North Devon and West Somerset coastline.
The Enchanting Exmoor Ponies
These ponies play a vital role in maintaining the unique landscape of Exmoor by grazing the heather and grasses. Visitors are encouraged to observe them from a respectful distance and never feed them, as they are wild animals. Their presence adds a magical, almost timeless quality to the scenery, and spotting them grazing peacefully against the backdrop of the Bristol Channel is a memorable experience.
Photographers and nature lovers alike will find the Exmoor Ponies to be a captivating subject. Their calm demeanor and adaptation to the rugged environment make them a symbol of the wild beauty of this national park. Remember to keep dogs under control when near ponies to ensure their safety and yours.
Driving and Access Challenges
It's advisable to approach the drive with caution and patience. If you are uncomfortable with such roads, consider alternative access points or modes of transport. However, for those who navigate the route successfully, the reward is a stunning viewpoint and access to beautiful walking trails.
Once at the summit car park, be aware that the walk down to the villages of Bossington and Porlock Weir involves a significant, steep climb back up. Planning your visit with this in mind, especially if you have mobility concerns or are carrying young children, is recommended.
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