Hembury Woods and Hembury Castle
Explore ancient hill fort ruins and enjoy breathtaking Dartmoor views from Hembury Castle, with scenic woodland and riverside walks.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Wildflowers bloom, fewer crowds
Hembury Woods and Hembury Castle
Best Time
Wildflowers bloom, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore ancient hill fort ruins and enjoy breathtaking Dartmoor views from Hembury Castle, with scenic woodland and riverside walks.
"Great views from the top and lots of paths to explore."
Wear Sturdy Footwear
The paths can be steep and uneven, so good walking shoes are a must! :athletic_shoe:
Look for the Turning
The sign for Hembury Castle can be tricky to spot; watch carefully after the hill's crest. :round_pushpin:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Hembury Castle Ruins
Summit of the hill
Explore the remnants of an ancient hill fort and castle, offering a glimpse into history.
Panoramic Dartmoor Views
Summit of the hill
Breathtaking vistas stretch across the rolling hills and valleys of Dartmoor.
River Dart Riverside Walk
Base of the hill
Enjoy a peaceful stroll alongside the River Dart, a refreshing contrast to the climb.
Impressive Ant Hills
Various locations within the woods
Observe the surprisingly large and active ant hills scattered throughout the area.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Steep Trails & Ancient Views
Navigating the Site
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Sturdy Footwear
The paths can be steep and uneven, so good walking shoes are a must! :athletic_shoe:
Look for the Turning
The sign for Hembury Castle can be tricky to spot; watch carefully after the hill's crest. :round_pushpin:
Combine with River Walk
Descend to the River Dart for a lovely, flatter walk alongside the water. :river:
Pack a Picnic
Enjoy the stunning views with a packed lunch at the summit. :sandwich:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Sturdy Footwear
The paths can be steep and uneven, so good walking shoes are a must! :athletic_shoe:
Look for the Turning
The sign for Hembury Castle can be tricky to spot; watch carefully after the hill's crest. :round_pushpin:
Combine with River Walk
Descend to the River Dart for a lovely, flatter walk alongside the water. :river:
Pack a Picnic
Enjoy the stunning views with a packed lunch at the summit. :sandwich:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Hembury Woods and Castle for its stunning panoramic views and the historical intrigue of the ancient remains. The opportunity for a riverside walk is also a highlight. However, some find the castle ruins to be minimal, with much of the site being just earthworks, and note the steepness of the climb.
"Not too much to see as it's all gone apart from the remains of the moat. It's a steep hill, which kind of explains why it was a good place for a hill fort. Reasonably signposted but if you approach from Buckfast Abbey the turning to the right is after the brow of the hill so you feel you have missed it. Great views from the top and lots of paths to explore. Path shared by horses, great to be able to get right down to the river and walk alongside it too."
Simon Rose
"First time being in this area of Dartmoor and the views from up on the ruins of Hembury castle are stunning. So are the size of the Ant hills we watched them for awhile. Short walks all over the area and not that hard to find from roadside."
Trev Packer
"Beautiful location and some great walking trails too"
Mark Hawkins
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Hembury Woods and Castle are located near Buckfastleigh in Devon. Access is typically by car. If approaching from Buckfast Abbey, be mindful that the turning for the castle can be easily missed as it's just after the brow of the hill. Parking is available nearby, though specific details might vary.
Public transport options to Hembury Woods and Castle are limited. It's best to check local bus routes to Buckfastleigh and then consider a taxi or a longer walk to the site.
The nearest town to Hembury Woods and Castle is Buckfastleigh. It's a good base for exploring the area and offers amenities.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Hembury Woods and Castle are generally free to access, making it a great budget-friendly option for exploring Dartmoor.
Hembury Woods is an open natural area, so there are no set opening or closing hours. You can visit at any time, though daylight hours are recommended for safety and enjoyment.
There is parking available near Hembury Woods and Castle, though it can be limited during peak times. Arriving early is advisable.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
At Hembury Castle, you can explore the archaeological remains of an Iron Age hill fort and a later motte-and-bailey castle. While much has eroded, the earthworks, including the moat, are still visible, offering a sense of its historical scale.
The trails can be challenging due to the steep incline to the castle ruins. However, there are also flatter paths along the River Dart, offering varied walking experiences. Sturdy footwear is recommended.
Yes, dogs are generally welcome at Hembury Woods. However, it's important to keep them under control, especially as the paths are shared with horses.
Hembury Woods is home to various wildlife. Visitors have noted seeing impressive ant hills, and the woodland setting supports diverse birdlife and other small creatures.
Hembury Woods offers a great outdoor adventure for families. The climb can be a good challenge for older children, and the riverside walk provides a gentler option. Exploring the historical remains adds an educational element.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit of Hembury Castle offers stunning panoramic views of Dartmoor, perfect for landscape photography. The ancient earthworks themselves also make for interesting historical shots. The woodland paths and the River Dart provide scenic backdrops throughout the year.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, provides beautiful soft light for capturing the expansive views from Hembury Castle. Midday can be harsh, but offers clear visibility of the historical features.
The highest points of the castle remains offer the most expansive views. Look for clearings in the woods for framing shots of the landscape. The riverbanks also provide picturesque scenes.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For a more relaxed outing, the riverside walk along the River Dart offers a gentler path suitable for all ages. It's a great spot for a picnic and to enjoy the natural beauty. Remember to wear sturdy shoes, as some paths are steep and uneven, and keep an eye on children, especially near the river and where paths are shared with horses.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers
Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the woodland environment and the opportunity to observe local wildlife, including the notable ant hills.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Hembury Castle
Archaeological investigations have revealed evidence of settlement and activity dating back thousands of years. The scale of the earthworks suggests a substantial community once resided here, utilizing the natural defenses of the hilltop. The transition from a hill fort to a castle highlights the evolving military and social landscape of the region.
Today, exploring Hembury Castle is a journey through time. Visitors can walk the ancient ramparts, imagine the lives of those who defended this strategic point, and appreciate the enduring presence of history etched into the landscape. The site is a testament to the long and varied human history of Dartmoor.
Exploring Hembury Woods
A key feature of the woods is the presence of the River Dart, which flows at the base of the hill. A walk along the riverbank provides a different perspective of the landscape and a peaceful escape. The paths here are generally flatter and more accessible, making it a pleasant option for those seeking a less strenuous walk.
Beyond the walking trails, visitors often remark on the presence of large and active ant hills within the woods. These natural formations add an interesting element to the exploration, showcasing the diverse ecosystem of the area. The combination of historical ruins, woodland scenery, and riverside tranquility makes Hembury Woods a multifaceted destination.
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