The best walks and hikes around Hemyock
4.5
(251)
1,788
hikers
45
hikes
Hikes around Hemyock explore the Blackdown Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The region is characterized by rolling hills, sections of woodland, and paths that follow the River Culm. The network of public footpaths provides a mix of gentle riverside walks and more moderate ascents to viewpoints.
Best hiking trails around Hemyock
- The most popular hiking route is Blackdown Common Pond & Culmstock Beacon loop — Blackdown Hills, a 3.2 mile (5.1 km) trail that takes around 1 hour 25 minutes to complete. This easy route features a gradual ascent to the historic Culmstock Beacon.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is Hemyock to Culmstock Beacon — Blackdown Hills, a moderate 9.5 mile (15.2 km) path. This longer Hemyock circular walk involves more elevation gain as it travels through the surrounding countryside.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Hemyock & Dunkeswell Abbey loop — Blackdown Hills, a 5.2 mile (8.4 km) trail leading through fields and woodland, often completed in about 2 hours 20 minutes.
- Hiking around Hemyock is defined by rolling hills, quiet river valleys, and open commons. The trail network offers accessible routes for most ability levels, from short loops to more demanding hikes.
- The routes in Hemyock are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from more than 80 reviews. More than 600 hikers have used komoot to explore Hemyock's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 23, 2026
4.7
(22)
143
hikers
5.11km
01:25
90m
90m
Embark on the Blackdown Common Pond & Culmstock Beacon loop, an easy 3.2-mile (5.1 km) hike with 282 feet (86 metres) of elevation gain, typically completed in 1 hour and 24 minutes. This route guides you through the varied landscapes of the Blackdown Hills, featuring broadleaved and coniferous woodland, heathland, and marshy grasslands. You will pass by Blackdown Common Pond before ascending to Culmstock Beacon, where you can enjoy spectacular, far-reaching views across the Culm Valley and potentially as far as Exeter on a clear day. In late summer, the heathland is particularly vibrant with purple-pink heather.
This trail is generally considered easy and suitable for most fitness levels, offering easily accessible paths for all skill levels. While the route is mostly flat, some sections can be short and steep, and paths may become muddy even after dry spells. Therefore, wearing appropriate footwear is highly recommended to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience on your hike.
The highlight of this loop is the historic Culmstock Beacon, a beehive-shaped flint structure rebuilt in 1870. This monument was once part of an Elizabethan early warning system, used to signal threats like the Spanish Armada by lighting fires. You can enter the beacon and look up to where these fires would have burned. The surrounding Blackdown Common is also a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), rich in flora and fauna, offering chances to spot wildlife such as songbirds, deer, and even wild ponies.
4.6
(27)
62
hikers
7.51km
02:04
120m
120m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.6
(12)
35
hikers
7.60km
02:06
130m
130m
Hike the moderate 4.7-mile Wellington Monument Circular Walk through woodlands and heathland, with views of the Blackdown Hills.
4.0
(1)
16
hikers
15.2km
04:15
300m
300m
Hike the moderate 9.5-mile Hemyock to Culmstock Beacon trail in Blackdown Hills for varied terrain and panoramic views.
5.0
(3)
15
hikers
8.41km
02:21
160m
160m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Great walks there is many ways to get to the Beacon, it's very cold up there and the ground was rocky wet and very muddy, good boots needed, you can see Dartmoor Exmoor and Somerset on a clear day.
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A good few tracks and paths up here to explore, it never gets old
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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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Moderate trail for everyone to explore and enjoy
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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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Culmstock Beacon provides a stunning viewpoint south to the River Culm valley and the historic village of Culmstock. The Beacon is on Black Down
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are the hiking trails around Hemyock suitable for dogs?
Yes, many trails in the Blackdown Hills are great for walking with dogs. However, you will likely cross fields with livestock, so it's important to keep your dog on a lead in these areas. The trails around Castle Neroche are particularly popular with dog walkers.
What is the terrain like on the walks around Hemyock?
The terrain is quite varied. You can expect a mix of well-defined public footpaths, woodland tracks, and open fields. Many routes follow the gentle braids of the River Culm, which can be muddy after rain, so waterproof footwear is recommended. Some hikes also involve gradual ascents onto the rolling hills for rewarding views.
Are there any easy, family-friendly walks in the area?
Absolutely. The region offers many gentle options perfect for a family outing. For a shorter, accessible walk with fantastic views, consider the Blackdown Common Pond & Culmstock Beacon loop. It's just over 3 miles (5 km) and features a gradual climb to the historic beacon, making it manageable for most abilities.
Where can I find a more challenging hike near Hemyock?
For a more strenuous day out, the Hemyock to Culmstock Beacon circular route offers a good challenge. At 9.5 miles (15.2 km), it involves more significant elevation gain as it takes you on a wider tour of the beautiful surrounding countryside.
Are there any circular walks that finish at a pub?
Yes, planning a walk that ends with a refreshment is a popular choice here. Hemyock village has the Catherine Wheel pub, which can be a starting or ending point for several local loops. You can easily plan a circular route that brings you back into the village for a well-earned rest.
What historical landmarks can I see while hiking?
The area is rich in history. Many trails lead to or pass by significant sites. The Culmstock Beacon, an Elizabethan-era warning beacon, is a highlight of many walks and offers panoramic views. You can also explore routes that take you near the ruins of Dunkeswell Abbey, such as the Hemyock & Dunkeswell Abbey loop.
Where is a good place to park for a walk?
For walks starting in Hemyock village, there is a public car park with toilets available. For routes starting further afield, such as those exploring the Wellington Monument, there is dedicated parking available near the monument itself. Always check local signage for any restrictions.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails around Hemyock?
The trails around Hemyock are highly regarded by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the tranquility of the River Culm valley, the stunning panoramic views from the hilltops, and the rich mix of woodland and open countryside within the Blackdown Hills National Landscape.
How many hiking trails are there to choose from near Hemyock?
There are over 45 designated hiking routes in and around Hemyock. This network includes everything from short, easy village trails to more demanding all-day circular hikes, ensuring there's a walk to suit every fitness level and interest.
Are there any walks that feature the Wellington Monument?
Yes, while a short drive from Hemyock, the area around the Wellington Monument has its own excellent network of trails. The Wellington Monument & woodland loop is a popular moderate walk that allows you to see the impressive obelisk up close and explore the surrounding woods.
What is the best time of year to hike in Hemyock?
Hemyock offers great hiking year-round. Spring brings wildflowers and bluebells in the woodlands. Summer is perfect for long days and enjoying the open commons. Autumn provides stunning colours across the hills, while crisp winter days can offer wonderfully clear views from landmarks like Culmstock Beacon. Just be prepared for muddier paths in the wetter months.
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