Garth Hill

About Garth Hill

Overlooking the medieval village of Dunster, this prominent wooded hill offers a short, steep ascent on the edge of the Bristol Channel. While the summit is enclosed by forestry, the approach tracks provide clear, earned views of Dunster Castle, the West Somerset Railway, and the distant Welsh coastline.

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Did You Know?

• •The name 'Garth' originates from the Old Norse 'garðr', meaning an enclosure or yard. In this local context, it likely refers to the hill’s historical status as a managed deer park and hunting ground for the Dunster Castle estate, which has occupied the lower slopes since the 11th century.
• •From the clearer vantage points on the forest tracks, walkers can look directly down onto the 17th-century octagonal Yarn Market in Dunster. Looking further afield across the water, the skyline of South Wales is visible, often including the distinct silhouette of the Brecon Beacons.
• •The hill is a significant landmark on the Macmillan Way West, a long-distance path connecting Barnstaple to Abbotsbury. While it stands at a modest 307 metres, it is classified as a Marilyn, indicating it has a prominence of at least 150 metres over the surrounding landscape.
• •The character of the hill was significantly altered by the Luttrell family, owners of Dunster Castle for six centuries, who turned the slopes into a 'pleasure ground' during the 18th century by planting extensive woodlands and creating ornamental walks.
• •Bagging the true summit requires a certain amount of faith and a willingness to push through dense conifers; the highest point is so deeply buried in timber that the most impressive views are actually found a few hundred yards before you reach the top.