Horner Wood Circular
Somerset
Horner Wood is one of the largest remaining fragments of ancient oak woodland in England, clinging to the steep combes below Dunkery Beacon on Exmoor. This 6.4 km circular follows Horner Water upstream through the deep woodland before climbing out onto the open hillside above, with 450 metres of elevation gain making this a genuinely physical walk despite the moderate distance. The ancient oaks are gnarled and mossy, the understorey is rich with ferns and lichens, and the atmosphere in the deeper wood feels genuinely primeval. Red deer are regularly seen here.
This dog friendly walk is exceptional for dogs who love woodland and water. Horner Water provides constant access for drinking and paddling as the path follows the stream uphill, and the ancient woodland floor offers some of the richest scenting in the West Country. Off-lead potential is high through the forest, though leads are advisable where the route crosses open ground as livestock grazing is moderately likely on the hillside above. The steep terrain provides serious exercise, and the transition from deep woodland to open moorland keeps the walk constantly changing. A truly special walk for dogs and owners alike.
At a Glance
- Distance
- 6.4 km (4.0 miles)
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Duration
- 2 hr 30 min
- Walk Type
- Woodland, River
- Route Type
- Circular
- Off Lead Potential
- High
- Livestock Risk
- Moderate
- Facilities
- Café near Horner Wood Car Park; toilets at car park; no facilities on upper route
- Parking
- Webbers Post Car Park (TA24 8TB); free parking; alternative Horner Wood car park
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Horner Wood Circular dog friendly?
Horner Wood Circular is a fantastic choice for dogs, earning a strong 8 out of 10 for dog friendliness. The walk follows Horner Water through ancient oak woodland, giving dogs constant access to the stream for drinking and paddling, plus some of the richest scenting terrain in the West Country.
Can dogs be off lead at Horner Wood Circular?
Off-lead potential is high through the woodland sections, where the ancient forest floor makes for wonderful free-roaming. However, leads are advisable once you climb out onto the open hillside above, as livestock grazing is moderately likely up there , and with red deer regularly present throughout the walk, a reliable recall is essential before you let your dog run free.
What should I know before visiting Horner Wood Circular with my dog?
This is a genuinely physical walk , 6.4 km with 450 metres of elevation gain , so it suits dogs in good shape rather than very young, old, or less mobile ones. There's a café and toilets near Horner Wood Car Park, but no facilities once you're on the upper route, so bring water for yourself even though the stream keeps dogs well supplied. Parking is available at Webbers Post Car Park (TA24 8TB) or the alternative Horner Wood car park, both free.
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