Map & Elevation
About this Route
This GPX is a 2.6 km out-and-back from Dunkery Gate to Dunkery Beacon, gaining 131 m. From the designated parking on the southern edge of the beacon, follow the recorded stony moorland path north and then north-east to the large summit cairn and memorial. At 519 m, Dunkery Beacon is the highest point on Exmoor and Somerset's county top, with extensive views across the moor and Bristol Channel in clear weather. Return by the same line. The route is short and non-technical, but it is fully exposed and the broad heather moorland can be disorientating in mist.
The high point is open moor rather than a sheltered viewpoint, and Exmoor weather can change quickly across the short approach. Keep to the stone path where possible because surrounding peat and heather are easily damaged. In mist, the return to Dunkery Gate is less obvious than the outward climb, so note the bearing and nearby boundary features before leaving the cairn. Livestock and ground-nesting birds also require dogs to be kept under close control. Take waterproofs even when the Vale of Porlock looks clear.
A walk along a stony track gently climbing to the summit of Dunkery Beacon.
Exmoor National Park
Route Waypoints
Start from the designated roadside parking at grid SS 895 406, about 385 m above sea level. Follow the GPX north on the stony moorland path; leave gates and access clear.
At roughly 450 m elevation, continue on the established path as it trends towards the broad summit. Drainage channels, loose stones and wet patches can make footing uneven.
Around 500 m, the path crosses open heather moorland towards the visible summit cairn. In mist, keep checking the GPX and compass rather than following any informal tread.
Reach the large cairn and memorial at 519 m, the highest point on Exmoor and Somerset's county top. This is the GPX turnaround point.
Leave the beacon by the same stony path. In mist, check the bearing before moving away from the boundary features.
Stay on the worn line across the heather and peat. Avoid spreading onto soft ground beside the path.
Retrace the same stony path to the parking area. Keep to the maintained line and take care on loose or wet stones during the descent.
Return to the recognised roadside parking. Keep gates and access points clear for estate and emergency vehicles.
Essential Tips
There is no shelter on the route. Carry windproof and waterproof layers even for this short walk, and turn back if strong wind, lightning, ice or poor visibility makes the ridge unsafe.
The summit is obvious in clear conditions, but mist can remove every distant landmark. Carry OS Explorer OL9 and a compass, and keep the offline GPX available without relying on mobile signal.
Although short, the path includes loose stones, drainage channels and wet sections. Wear supportive footwear and allow extra time if mobility or balance is limited.
Stay on the established track to protect heather and archaeological features. Keep dogs under close control around livestock and ground-nesting birds, and take all litter home.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Dunkery Beacon walk from Dunkery Gate?
This GPX is a 2.6 km out-and-back with 131 m of ascent. The calculated walking-time estimate is about 44 minutes before stops at the summit.
How difficult is this Dunkery Beacon route?
TrailTrack grades it Moderate. It is short and non-technical, but the stony surface is uneven and the open moorland is fully exposed to wind, rain, mist and winter ice.
Where does the GPX start and which OS map covers it?
Start from the designated Dunkery Gate parking at grid SS 895 406. Carry OS Explorer OL9, Exmoor, plus a compass; this is a different start from the shorter accessible route at SS 904 420.