Map & Elevation
About this Route
This GPX climbs Selworthy Beacon directly from Selworthy through the wooded combe and returns the same way. It covers 3.6 km with about 190 m of ascent, usually taking 1½ to 2½ hours. The lower walk is sheltered and green, while the open heath around the beacon catches strong wind from the Bristol Channel.
Leave Selworthy on the signed path rising through Selworthy Combe. The route passes woodland, banks and field edges before emerging onto heath. Continue uphill through gorse and heather to the broad summit area. Selworthy Beacon stands at 308 m and has far-reaching views towards Dunkery, Minehead Bay, Porlock and the Welsh coast in clear weather. Archaeological earthworks and burial sites lie around the hill, so keep to established tracks.
Return to the village by the same combe path. This GPX does not complete the wider Bury Castle, Bossington or coast-path circuits. Junctions in the woodland and small paths through gorse can be confusing, while the open top is exposed in poor weather. Keep dogs close around livestock and ground-nesting birds, and take care on muddy woodland steps.
From Selworthy, wooded combes give way to sweeping views across Exmoor and the Bristol Channel.
National Trust
Route Waypoints
Begin in or near Selworthy using designated visitor parking. Keep the village lanes and residents' access clear.
Follow the signed path uphill through the wooded valley. Avoid private drives and garden entrances.
Continue on the main rising path over roots and muddy steps. Smaller side paths lead into the Holnicote estate.
Leave the trees for open heath. Look back and note the return entrance to the combe.
Climb between gorse and heather, staying on the broad track to protect habitat.
The ground opens near the high point. Wind may be much stronger than in the woods.
Reach the 308 m summit area and viewpoint. Leave archaeological features undisturbed.
Retrace the heath and woodland path to Selworthy, checking the woodland-edge junction.
Essential Tips
Keep to established paths and keep dogs close, particularly during the ground-nesting bird season.
In mist, the correct path back into Selworthy Combe can be missed among gorse tracks.
Roots, leaves and steep steps remain slippery after rain. Wear footwear with grip.
Bossington and Bury Castle belong to longer circuits. This GPX returns through Selworthy Combe.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do I park for Selworthy Beacon?
Start at the Selworthy National Trust Car Park. Use designated visitor parking and keep the village lanes and residents' access clear.
Can I walk my dog on Selworthy Beacon?
Yes, but keep dogs close around livestock and ground-nesting birds, particularly during nesting season. Stay on established paths to protect the heathland habitat.
What can I see from the top of Selworthy Beacon?
From the 308 m summit, you get far-reaching views towards Dunkery, Minehead Bay, Porlock and the Welsh coast in clear weather. The open heath catches strong winds from the Bristol Channel, so the exposed top can be challenging in poor conditions.