Dunkery & Horner Wood NNR - Image 1
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Dunkery and Horner Wood National Nature Reserve

4.8
·243 reviews·Wheddon Cross, United Kingdom

Highest point in Exmoor offering breathtaking panoramic views and ancient woodland walks. A must-visit for nature lovers and hikers.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Late Summer Mornings

Heather in full bloom, clear skies

CrowdMedium
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Dunkery & Horner Wood NNR - Image 1

Dunkery and Horner Wood National Nature Reserve

Best Time

Late Summer Mornings

Heather in full bloom, clear skies

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Highest point in Exmoor offering breathtaking panoramic views and ancient woodland walks. A must-visit for nature lovers and hikers.

4.8
(243 reviews)

"On a clear day the views are fantastic, you can clearly see South Wales in one direction, and Dartmoor in the other."

Vertical photo
TIP

Wear Sturdy Footwear

Paths are rocky & uneven. Hiking boots are recommended for comfort and safety. :athletic_shoe:

Check Weather for Views

Clear days offer incredible views to Wales & Dartmoor. Don't miss out! :sunwithface:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Dunkery Beacon Summit

Dunkery Beacon Summit

Highest point in Exmoor

Reach the summit for unparalleled 360-degree views across Exmoor, the Bristol Channel, and beyond. A truly rewarding climb.

Horner Wood Ancient Woodland

Horner Wood Ancient Woodland

Valley below Dunkery

Wander through ancient oak and beech trees, a serene and atmospheric woodland offering a different kind of natural beauty.

Heather in Bloom

Heather in Bloom

Moorland slopes

During late summer, the moorland transforms into a carpet of vibrant purple heather, creating a spectacular visual display.

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Planning Your Visit

Best Footwear for the Terrain

Sturdy, rocky, and uneven paths are common at Dunkery and Horner Wood. Opt for hiking boots or robust walking shoes to ensure comfort and safety during your exploration. :athletic_shoe:

Timing Your Visit for Views

Clear days offer breathtaking panoramic views stretching to South Wales and Dartmoor. Check the weather forecast before you go to maximize your experience of the stunning vistas. :sunwithface:

Best Times

When
Late Summer Mornings
Why
Heather in full bloom, clear skies
Crowd
Medium
When
Clear Autumn Afternoons
Why
Crisp air, stunning vistas
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Freakin Beacon
@awesomepizzaman
6.8K likes • 64.7K views

Wear Sturdy Footwear

Paths are rocky & uneven. Hiking boots are recommended for comfort and safety. :athletic_shoe: Reddit

Check Weather for Views

Clear days offer incredible views to Wales & Dartmoor. Don't miss out! :sunwithface: Reddit

Hidden doughnut shop in Chicago alleyway.📍Beacon Doughnuts offer small-batch, vegan doughnuts. // #fabfoodchicago #lincolnpark #beacondoughnuts #vegandesserts #chicagoeats #doughnut
@fabfoodchicago
6.7K likes • 204.5K views
383 Main Street Beacon NY #donut #donuts #vegan #beacon #fyp #foryoupage #fypシ #hudsonvalley #newyork #ny #FoodTok #foodtiktok #Foodie #FoodLover
@peacefulprovisions
5.8K likes • 87.2K views

Dog-Friendly Trails

A great place for walking your dog, but keep them under control around sheep. :dog: Reddit

Parking Advice

Limited parking at the main car park; use lay-bys if needed, especially off-season. :car: Reddit

HUDSON VALLEY FOOD HALL, the place to go for friends that can't agree on where to eat! Right on the main walking strip of Beacon NY, this place has tons of different options including Mexican, Thai, BBQ, British, French, Middle Eastern, and more! With indoor and outdoor seating, AND a bar inside, consider this place if you can't decide where to eat! Tag your friend that always makes it harder to p...
@jbitvlogs
5.8K likes • 100.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Wear Sturdy Footwear

Paths are rocky & uneven. Hiking boots are recommended for comfort and safety. :athletic_shoe: Reddit

Check Weather for Views

Clear days offer incredible views to Wales & Dartmoor. Don't miss out! :sunwithface: Reddit

Dog-Friendly Trails

A great place for walking your dog, but keep them under control around sheep. :dog: Reddit

Parking Advice

Limited parking at the main car park; use lay-bys if needed, especially off-season. :car: Reddit

Extend Your Walk

Numerous footpaths branch off, perfect for longer hikes beyond the main beacon climb. :hiking_boot: Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(243 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the stunning, far-reaching views from Dunkery Beacon, describing them as 'fantastic' and 'amazing,' especially on clear days. The energetic climb is considered well worth the effort, and the option to extend hikes through various footpaths is appreciated. Some note limited parking and the need for sturdy footwear due to rocky terrain.

"Amazing views, plenty of parking, a nice 25 minute climb and plenty of footpaths in different directions to extend the hike - free to all and so pretty with all the Heather in bloom."

Bert Youell

"Just what you would expect from the highest point in the area. Great view and a walk uphill. If you come from the car park nearby, be sure to take the right path for the shortest route. It is not the one just across the road, go up the road for a short distance, then turn left and go up the moor. 🥸"

Henrik Gravengaard

"An energetic walk is needed to reach the top of Dunkery Beacon, but it was well worth it! On a clear day the views are fantastic, you can clearly see South Wales in one direction, and Dartmoor in the other. Wear sturdy footwear though as the paths are rocky and uneven. Great place for walking your dog. Limited parking, but a few lay-bys handy, so parking, especially off season shouldn't be a problem."

Allan Benson

What People Like

Spectacular panoramic views
Rewarding energetic climb
Beautiful heather in bloom

What People Dislike

Limited parking
Rocky, uneven paths

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The reserve is accessible by car, with a main car park near Dunkery Beacon. For the shortest route to the beacon from the car park, go up the road a short distance and turn left onto the moor. :car: Reddit

Public transport options are limited. It's best to check local bus routes for services that may get you close to the Exmoor National Park area, though direct access to the reserve is challenging without a car. :bus:

The reserve is located within Exmoor National Park. Nearby towns include Porlock and Dunster, which offer amenities and further exploration opportunities. :town_hall:

While cycling is possible on some bridleways within Exmoor, the terrain around Dunkery Beacon can be challenging. Stick to designated cycle routes for a safer experience. :mountain_bicyclist:

Yes, the reserve and key points like Dunkery Beacon are generally well-signposted within Exmoor National Park, guiding you towards the main access points. :road_sign:

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to Dunkery and Horner Wood National Nature Reserve is completely free. It's a public access area for everyone to enjoy. :ticket:

As a natural reserve, there are no set opening or closing hours. You can visit at any time, though daylight hours are best for enjoying the views and walking. :clock1:

There is no admission fee to enter Dunkery and Horner Wood National Nature Reserve. Enjoy the natural beauty without any cost. :moneywithwings:

Yes, the reserve is open year-round. However, weather conditions can significantly impact accessibility and the enjoyment of the views, especially in winter. :calendar:

Visitors are asked to respect the natural environment, stay on marked paths where possible, and keep dogs under control, especially around livestock. :pray:

🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience

From the main car park, take the path that goes up the moor for the most direct and rewarding climb to the summit. Sturdy footwear is essential due to rocky, uneven terrain. :hiking_boot: Reddit

The climb to Dunkery Beacon from the nearby car park is typically around 25 minutes, depending on your pace. You can extend your hike by exploring the many footpaths. :timer_clock:

You might see sheep grazing on the moorland, and if you're lucky, various bird species. Horner Wood is home to ancient trees and a rich woodland ecosystem. :sheep: :bird:

There are no dedicated facilities such as toilets or cafes directly within the reserve. It's advisable to use facilities in nearby towns before your visit. :toilet:

Yes, families can enjoy the walks. The main beacon climb is energetic but manageable for most, and Horner Wood offers gentler woodland paths. Ensure children are supervised. :familywomanwoman_boy:

📸 📸 Photography

The summit of Dunkery Beacon offers incredible panoramic views, especially at sunrise and sunset. Horner Wood provides atmospheric shots of ancient trees and dappled light. :camerawithflash:

Early mornings and late afternoons provide the best light for landscape photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Sunrise and sunset from the beacon are particularly spectacular. :sunriseovermountains:

Focus on the gnarled branches of ancient oaks, the moss-covered trunks, and the play of light filtering through the canopy. Look for fungi and woodland flora. :evergreen_tree:

Drone usage in National Nature Reserves can be restricted. It's essential to check the specific regulations for Exmoor National Park and obtain any necessary permissions before flying. :aerial_tramway:

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views from Dunkery Beacon. For Horner Wood, a versatile zoom lens or a prime lens with a wider aperture can be useful for low-light conditions. :camera:

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Dunkery and Horner Wood offers a fantastic outdoor adventure for families. The climb to Dunkery Beacon is energetic but manageable for most children, providing a sense of accomplishment upon reaching the summit. Reddit The panoramic views are sure to captivate young imaginations. Horner Wood provides a gentler, more shaded environment for younger children or those who prefer a less strenuous walk, with its ancient trees and woodland paths offering a sense of wonder. TikTok Remember to pack snacks and drinks, as facilities are limited. Sturdy shoes are a must for everyone, and keeping an eye on children is important, especially near livestock and on uneven terrain. :familywomanwoman_boy: :apple:

🚶‍♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts

For dedicated hikers, Dunkery and Horner Wood presents a rewarding experience with varied terrain. The ascent to Dunkery Beacon offers a good workout and unparalleled views, while the numerous footpaths allow for extended treks across the moorland. Reddit Nature enthusiasts will be drawn to the unique ecosystems of both the open moor, especially when the heather is in bloom, and the ancient woodland of Horner Wood. TikTok Birdwatchers and those interested in flora and fauna will find plenty to observe. Pack layers, as the weather can change quickly on the moor, and be prepared for potentially uneven and rocky paths. :hiking_boot: :binoculars:

🐶 Dog Owners

Dunkery and Horner Wood is a wonderful destination for dog owners looking for an outdoor escape. The open moorland and woodland trails provide ample space for dogs to explore and enjoy. Reddit However, it's crucial to keep your dog under close control, especially when sheep are present on the moor, to prevent any disturbance or harm. Reddit Ensure your dog is comfortable with varied terrain and potentially changing weather conditions. Always bring water for your pet and be prepared to clean up after them. :dog: :water_wave:

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring Dunkery Beacon

Dunkery Beacon stands as the highest point in Exmoor National Park, offering an iconic hiking experience. The ascent, while energetic, is relatively short, typically taking around 25 minutes from the main car park. The paths are described as rocky and uneven, making sturdy footwear a must. Reddit The reward for your climb is an absolutely breathtaking 360-degree panorama. On a clear day, the views are expansive, stretching across the moorland, towards the Bristol Channel, and even as far as South Wales in one direction and Dartmoor in the other. Reddit This makes it a prime spot for photography, especially during sunrise and sunset when the light paints the landscape in dramatic hues. :camerawithflash: :sunriseovermountains:

Visitors often note the presence of sheep grazing freely on the moor, adding a touch of rural charm to the scenery. Reddit While the main path is clear, there are numerous other footpaths branching off, allowing you to extend your walk and explore more of the surrounding moorland. This flexibility means you can tailor the length and difficulty of your hike to your preference. Parking is available, though it can be limited, so arriving early or utilizing nearby lay-bys is a good strategy, particularly during peak seasons. :car: Reddit

The Enchantment of Horner Wood

Nestled below Dunkery Beacon, Horner Wood is a captivating ancient woodland that offers a stark contrast to the open moorland. This serene environment is characterized by its mature oak and beech trees, some of which are centuries old. TikTok The atmosphere here is one of tranquility, with dappled sunlight filtering through the dense canopy, creating a magical, almost ethereal feel. It’s a perfect place for a more relaxed stroll or a peaceful picnic. :evergreentree: :picnictable:

Walking through Horner Wood, you'll discover a rich tapestry of flora and fauna. The ancient trees are often draped in moss and lichen, and the woodland floor is carpeted with ferns and other shade-loving plants. Keep an eye out for fungi during the autumn months. While less dramatic than the views from Dunkery Beacon, Horner Wood provides a deeply immersive natural experience. It’s a place to connect with nature on a more intimate level, listening to the sounds of the woodland and breathing in the fresh, earthy air. :leafy_green: :mushroom:

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