Best mountain peaks around Martinhoe are characterized by dramatic high cliffs where the land meets the Bristol Channel. The area offers impressive elevated natural features and viewpoints, providing extensive vistas. This region is part of Exmoor National Park, known for its rugged beauty and diverse terrain. Visitors can experience varied landscapes, from deep wooded valleys to expansive meadows, all while enjoying panoramic sea views.
Last updated: July 1, 2026
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From the Butter Hill trigpoint you are afforded expansive views over the Bristol Channel with deep, wooded valleys stretching down to Lynmouth and the dramatic Exmoor coast meeting the sea.
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With an elevation of 318 metres and a cliff face of 244 metres, it is the tallest sea cliff in England and the highest point along the South West Coast Path, which passes through this area. The easiest way to reach here is from Combe Martin.
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Little Hangman is one of the main cliffs in Combe Martin, and from this point, you will enjoy a privileged view of the coastline.
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Little Hangman is one of the main prominent landmarks in the area, along with its 'big brother' The Great Hangman. One way to explain its name is likely the local legend that tells of a sheep rustler. This rustler once took a ram tied with a rope, when suddenly, the ram escaped, falling off a cliff and taking the rustler with it. As they fell, the rope snagged onto a rock, and the next morning, it is said that a sailor passed by and saw the man hanging from the rope.
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Moderate trail with amazing views and high elevation , good footwear required
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Butter Hill is one of the highest cliffs in England, reaching 1,000 feet (302 m). It's also the highest point of the South West Coast Path. To the west are beautiful views of Lynton and Lynmouth. If you have come from that direction it gives you a true sense of how far you have climbed.
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Great Hangman, at 1,043 feet (318 m), is one of the highest points on the Devon coastline. From this point, you are afforded spectacular views over the cliffs and beyond. In summer, let the heady aroma of wildflowers and sea air reinvigorate the senses.
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You are rewarded with superb views along the coast from the cairn on Holdstone Hill. To the west is Lundy Island, Exmoor lies to the east and the shores of Wales are north. You might just get more than lovely views, though. According to the religious beliefs of the Aertherius Society, Holdstone Down is a very special place. Aertherians believe that Jesus appeared to their founder Dr George King — in a spaceship, no less — on Holdstone Down on July 23,1958. His followers hold a service to connect with space people on Holdstone Down as it is believed to be the site of contacts with extraterrestrial beings or alien peoples.
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Around Martinhoe, you'll find dramatic high cliffs and impressive elevated natural features rather than traditional mountain peaks. Notable spots include Little Hangman, a prominent landmark offering privileged coastline views, and Butter Hill Summit, one of England's highest cliffs with stunning views of Lynton and Lynmouth.
For superb panoramic views, visit Holdstone Hill Summit View. From here, you can see along the coast, Lundy Island, Exmoor, and even the shores of Wales. Another excellent viewpoint is Butter Hill Summit, which provides extensive vistas over Lynton and Lynmouth.
Yes, Little Hangman is a natural monument and a prominent landmark with a local legend about its name. Additionally, near Chains Barrow Trig Point, you can find a Bronze Age bowl barrow, adding a historical dimension to your visit.
The area offers several challenging routes. For mountain biking, consider the 'Valley of Rocks – View over Lynmouth Beach loop from Martinhoe' which is a difficult 44.7 km trail. For running, the 'Heddon Valley & Woody Bay loop from the Hunter's Inn' is a difficult 9.8 km route. You can find more challenging options on the Hiking around Martinhoe guide.
Yes, for easier walks, the 'Heddon's Mouth Circular Walk' is an easy 3.5 km hike, and the 'Heddon Valley Butterfly Walk' is another easy 5.3 km option. These are great for enjoying the natural beauty without extreme difficulty. You can explore more options in the Hiking around Martinhoe guide.
The region is known for its diverse natural scenery. In the nearby Valley of Rocks, you have a good chance of spotting feral goats that inhabit the precipitous rocks. The varied terrain, from wooded valleys to expansive meadows, also supports a range of other local wildlife.
Butter Hill Summit is significant as it's one of the highest cliffs in England, reaching 302 meters, and also marks the highest point of the South West Coast Path. It provides a true sense of elevation and offers beautiful views towards Lynton and Lynmouth.
Absolutely. Martinhoe is a great base for various outdoor activities. For mountain biking, check out the MTB Trails around Martinhoe guide. If you're interested in running, the Running Trails around Martinhoe guide offers options like the 'Heddon Valley & Woody Bay loop'.
The Exmoor coast, with its breathtaking cliff paths and varied terrain, is generally rewarding for hikers throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant landscapes, while summer provides longer daylight hours. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
The area is characterized by dramatic high cliffs where the land meets the Bristol Channel. The Valley of Rocks, located east of Martinhoe, is particularly notable for its unique rock formations and steep cliffs, offering spectacular sea views and a distinctive geological landscape.
Visitors highly appreciate the extensive vistas and the rugged beauty of the Exmoor coast. The dramatic drops, panoramic sea views, and the sense of accomplishment from reaching viewpoints like Butter Hill Summit are frequently mentioned. The unique geological formations and the opportunity for diverse outdoor activities also contribute to a memorable experience.
Chains Barrow Trig Point offers impressive views, including Hartland Point and Lundy Island in the far distance. Although its hilltop is less distinctive than Dunkery Beacon, it's only 32 meters lower in elevation and is enclosed within a fenced-off area, making it a unique spot to visit.


See even more amazing summits around Martinhoe with these guides: