Attractions and Places To See around Culmstock - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Culmstock highlight the village's historical significance and natural beauty within Mid Devon. Situated in the Blackdown Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the area offers diverse landscapes for exploration. Visitors can discover ancient landmarks, cultural sites, and scenic natural features. The region provides opportunities for walking and experiencing the local heritage.
Best attractions and places to see around Culmstock
- The most popular attractions is Wellington Monument, a man-made monument that commemorates the Duke of Wellington’s victory at the Battle of Waterloo. This 175-foot-tall, three-sided obelisk offers views and the possibility to climb over 200 steps to a lookout point.
- Another must-see spot is Nynehead Hollow, a scenic road that forms part of NCN 3. This impressive road has been carved through solid rock, featuring high walls and trees growing above.
- Visitors also love St Mary's Church and Hemyock Castle, a historic church and medieval castle. The church dates back to Norman times, and the 14th-century castle was a focal point during the Civil War.
- Culmstock is known for historical sites, natural monuments, and scenic routes. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient structures to unique natural formations.
- The attractions around Culmstock are appreciated by the komoot community, with 13 upvotes and 8 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: July 2, 2026
Wellington Monument
Highlight • Climb
Tours are available from April to October 10:00 - 16:00, booking essential. You can view the monument from outside and walk around the area which has great views without booking.
The Wellington Monument is the tallest three sided obelisk in the world at 175ft. It was commissioned in 1817 to commemorate the Duke of Wellingtons victory at the battle of Waterloo. Originally designed to be a plinth with a stature of the duke on top but the money ran out and it was eventually finished in 1820.
It's been damaged by lightning and needed major restoration several times since it's completion.
The National Trust took over the management in 1934 and undertook many cycles of repair over the years. The most recent 3.1million pound project has been recently completed with the aim of not needing more repair work in the near future.
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St Mary's Church and Hemyock Castle
Highlight • Religious Site
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Braziers Coffee Roasters
Highlight • Cafe
The café serves great coffee as well as other drinks, cakes and food. It's not huge and it's a good idea to bring a lock as you can't always see your bike from the tables.
Open everyday from 8:30 - 16:00.
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Wellington Monument
Highlight • Natural Monument
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Nynehead Hollow
Highlight • Structure
The “Hollow” was said to be dug out by the Sandford family in the hope of making Nynehead Court quicker to get to from the servant houses which were situated in East Nynehead.
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Tips from the Community
Nynehead Hollow is a super cool landmark on the outskirts of Nynehead Village. The road has literally been roughly carved through solid rock, with high walls and trees growing above.
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wellington monument sits on the top of the black down hills so be prepared for a big climb from all directions
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St Mary’s church Hemyock appeared on the show”Blind Date” in 2008 The church can be traced back to 1120 and Hemyock castle adjacent was a focal point of clashes during the civil war fought between Cromwell and his parliamentarians (Roundheads) and the the royalists under the King Charles 1.
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The Wellington Monument is a 175-foot-high triangular obelisk located on a point of the Blackdown Hills, 3 km south of Wellington in the English county of Somerset. It is a grade II* listed building and is the tallest three-sided obelisk in the world.
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Nynehead Hollow is a scenic lane forming part of NCN 3. It's an impressive road that has been roughly carved through solid rock, with high walls and trees growing above. The “Hollow” was said to be dug out by the Sandford family in the hope of making Nynehead Court quicker to get to from the servant houses which were situated in East Nynehead.
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Hemyock is the largest village within the Blackdown Hills Area of Natural Beauty in Somerset. The village features a number of fascinating historic buildings, including a medieval castle, an Elizabethan chapel, a church that dates back to Norman times, and a pub that's been established since 1740!
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There is a busy road before the final climb to the monument. The great Iron Duke lives on in memory with this recently refurbished monument. The history and the superb views make this a great choice for a hike 😀
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical landmarks can I explore in Culmstock?
Culmstock is rich in history. You can visit the ancient St Mary's Church and Hemyock Castle, with the church dating back to Norman times and the castle from the 14th century. The village also features the medieval Culmstock Bridge, known for its six archways, and the remains of Fox Brothers Mill, a testament to the area's wool trade history. Don't miss the Elizabethan Culmstock Beacon, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into its past as a signal station.
Where can I find scenic views and natural beauty spots around Culmstock?
For breathtaking views, head to Culmstock Beacon on Blackdown Common, which offers outstanding panoramas across the Culm Valley. The entire area is part of the Blackdown Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), providing numerous footpaths and trails with stunning vistas. The River Culm, which flows through the village, also offers pleasant walks, and the landscape is particularly beautiful in late summer when the bell-heather blooms.
Are there opportunities for walking or hiking near Culmstock?
Absolutely! The Blackdown Hills AONB surrounding Culmstock is ideal for walking. You can find a variety of trails, including easy hikes that lead to scenic spots like Culmstock Beacon. For specific routes, explore guides such as Easy hikes around Culmstock, which features routes like the Blackdown Common Pond & Culmstock Beacon loop.
Can I go cycling or gravel biking around Culmstock?
Yes, the area offers excellent opportunities for cycling and gravel biking. You can explore scenic routes through the Blackdown Hills. Check out guides like Cycling around Culmstock and Gravel biking around Culmstock for detailed tour suggestions, including routes like the Hemyock & Culmstock loop from Uffculme.
What is the significance of the Wellington Monument near Culmstock?
The Wellington Monument is an impressive 175-foot-tall, three-sided obelisk commemorating the Duke of Wellington's victory at the Battle of Waterloo. It's a significant historical site and offers great views from its location within the Blackdown Hills. You can even climb over 200 steps to a lookout point at the top by booking online.
Are there any unique natural features to see around Culmstock?
One unique feature is Nynehead Hollow, a scenic road that has been roughly carved through solid rock, creating high walls with trees growing above. It's an impressive sight and forms part of NCN 3. Additionally, Little Breach Reserve is a butterfly conservation area with two small meadows located between heathland common and adjoining forestry.
Are there family-friendly attractions in Culmstock?
Many of the outdoor activities, such as easy walks in the Blackdown Hills, are suitable for families. For a more relaxed stop, Braziers Coffee Roasters is a family-friendly cafe where you can enjoy quality coffee, cakes, and food. Exploring the historical sites like All Saints Church and Culmstock Bridge can also be an engaging activity for families.
Where can I find a good coffee or a place to eat in Culmstock?
For excellent coffee and delicious food, visit Braziers Coffee Roasters, which also sells quality coffee beans. In the village itself, the Culm Valley Inn is a local pub that frequently hosts music events and offers a place to eat and relax.
What is the best time to visit Culmstock for outdoor activities?
The area around Culmstock is particularly beautiful in late summer when the bell-heather is in bloom, making it an ideal time for walks and enjoying the landscape. Spring and early autumn also offer pleasant weather for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling, with milder temperatures and vibrant scenery.
What is the history behind All Saints Church in Culmstock?
All Saints Church is a listed medieval building with parts dating back to the 1200s. It is particularly notable for a unique 200-year-old yew tree that grows out from the top of its tower. The church features eight bells and beautiful stained-glass windows, and information about its history is available in a church guide.
Are there any literary connections to Culmstock?
Yes, the renowned author R.D. Blackmore, famous for *Lorna Doone*, lived in Culmstock for six years. His lesser-known novel, *Perlycross*, is actually based on Culmstock and the surrounding Culm Valley, offering a literary insight into the area's past.
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