Dunkery Beacon from Dunkery Gate

Dunkery Beacon is the highest point on Exmoor at 519 metres, and this 8 km out-and-back from Dunkery Gate follows a broad moorland track across open heather to the summit cairn. The 136 m of climbing from the gate is gentle and steady, with the terrain crossing deep heather moorland where the views open progressively as you gain height. From the beacon the panorama takes in the Bristol Channel, the Welsh coast, the Quantock Hills and the full sweep of Exmoor's central moor. The paths are well worn and easy to follow, and the open, exposed character of the walk is immediate from the start. The return retraces the outward route, though alternative loops via Stoke Pero or Horner Wood can extend the day.

This is a dog friendly walk with excellent off-lead potential across the open moorland where the heather provides rich, textured ground for dogs to work through. The constant wind carries scent from all directions, and dogs are visibly more alert and engaged on this kind of exposed terrain. Livestock graze parts of the moor, so leads should be carried and used where ponies, sheep or cattle are visible. The heather can be deep and tiring for smaller dogs, and there is limited water access on the open moor, so carrying water is important. The exposed summit is harsh in poor weather, but on clear days the sense of space and elevation is genuinely rewarding. Best suited to dogs who enjoy open ground, wind and sustained walking across natural terrain.