Dartmoor & Exmoor
Kentisbury Down
337M
1106FT
About Kentisbury Down
Rising above the North Devon coast on the western fringe of Exmoor, this modest Tump offers an easy-going ascent through enclosed farmland and open common. At 337 metres, it serves as a fine vantage point for looking across the Bristol Channel toward the distant Welsh coastline and the nearby cliffs of Great Hangman.
Key Statistics
Rank
84th Highest in Region
Parent Range
Exmoor
Prominence
?
61m
Nearest Town
North Devon
Geology
The ground beneath your boots is formed from Kentisbury Slates. This fine-grained, layered rock creates the sturdy foundation of the down you are exploring today.
Classifications
Nearby Fells
Find It
OS Grid Reference
SS639434
Latitude
51.1736°N
Longitude
3.9483°W
Did You Know?
- •The name Kentisbury is derived from the Old English 'Chentesberie', likely meaning the manor or fortified place belonging to a man named Centa.
- •Situated on the very edge of the Exmoor National Park, the down acts as a natural balcony overlooking the transition from high moorland to the verdant Taw Valley.
- •From the summit, walkers can identify the distinctive hogback profile of Great Hangman to the north, which remains the highest sea cliff in England.
- •The surrounding landscape contains several prehistoric burial mounds, indicating that this elevated ground has held local significance since the Bronze Age.
- •While the name suggests a 'Down', the final ascent provides enough of a lift to ensure the panoramic views of the Bristol Channel feel thoroughly earned.