Cosdon Hill Cawsand Beacon
Ascend Cosdon Hill for breathtaking Dartmoor panoramas, ancient stone rows, and a rewarding climb.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best visibility for stunning views
Cosdon Hill Cawsand Beacon
Best Time
Best visibility for stunning views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ascend Cosdon Hill for breathtaking Dartmoor panoramas, ancient stone rows, and a rewarding climb.
"Amazing views after a long climb, flanked by ancient history."
👟 Sturdy Footwear Essential
The path can be boggy and uneven, especially after rain. Waterproof boots are highly recommended!
🌬️ Windproof Layers
The summit is exposed and can be very windy. Bring layers to stay comfortable.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Cosdon Hill Summit Cairn
Summit
A massive cairn marks the highest point, offering breathtaking 360-degree views of Dartmoor.
Ancient Stone Row
Flanks of Cosdon Hill
Explore a fascinating triple stone row, a testament to the area's ancient past.
Panoramic Dartmoor Vistas
Summit
On a clear day, the views stretch for miles, showcasing the rugged beauty of Dartmoor National Park.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Elements
Summit Views & Ancient Sites
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Sturdy Footwear Essential
The path can be boggy and uneven, especially after rain. Waterproof boots are highly recommended!
🌬️ Windproof Layers
The summit is exposed and can be very windy. Bring layers to stay comfortable.
🗺️ Navigation Tools
While the main path is clear, a map and compass or GPS are useful for exploring surrounding areas.
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
There are no facilities on the hill, so carry enough water for your hike.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Footwear Essential
The path can be boggy and uneven, especially after rain. Waterproof boots are highly recommended!
🌬️ Windproof Layers
The summit is exposed and can be very windy. Bring layers to stay comfortable.
🗺️ Navigation Tools
While the main path is clear, a map and compass or GPS are useful for exploring surrounding areas.
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
There are no facilities on the hill, so carry enough water for your hike.
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic vistas are incredible on a clear day. Don't forget your camera!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the 'amazing views' after the 'great climb' to Cosdon Hill's summit. The historical significance of the ancient settlement and stone row adds to the appeal. However, be prepared for potentially 'windy and boggy' conditions, especially after rainfall, which can make the trek more challenging.
"amazing views after a long climb"
Joe W
"A great climb flanked by an ancient settlement and a triple stone row all topped off by a huge cairn at the summit. Also worth looking at White Moor Down Stone Circle to the south."
Matt Jackson
"Windy and boggy after some rainfall, but lovely views."
Robert Wu
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Cosdon Hill is accessible from various points in Dartmoor National Park. A popular starting point is near Okehampton, with routes leading through Belstone and South Zeal. You can also access it from Princetown. Consider parking at Belstone village or near the old railway track from Princetown.
Parking is available in nearby villages like Belstone. Some routes also start from areas with roadside parking, but these can be limited.
While direct public transport to the summit is limited, you can take buses to Okehampton or Princetown and then begin your hike.
Many hikers enjoy a circular route from Okehampton, incorporating Belstone and South Zeal, or a shorter walk from Princetown. The Reddit community often discusses specific trail feasibility.
While some old railway tracks can be cycled, the terrain around Cosdon Hill itself is generally better suited for hiking due to its rocky and boggy nature.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Cosdon Hill is part of Dartmoor National Park and is freely accessible to the public. There are no admission fees.
Cosdon Hill is open year-round, 24 hours a day. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment.
While official guided tours might be infrequent, local walking groups or independent guides may offer excursions. Check local Dartmoor tourism resources.
Dartmoor National Park does not have an entrance fee. You can explore its vast landscapes freely.
Wild camping is permitted in certain areas of Dartmoor under specific guidelines, but always check the latest regulations and be respectful of the environment.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The terrain includes grassy slopes, rocky outcrops, and can be boggy underfoot, especially after rain. The summit is marked by a large cairn.
There are no facilities directly on Cosdon Hill. You'll find amenities in nearby villages like Okehampton, Belstone, or South Zeal.
Dartmoor is home to various wildlife, including ponies, sheep, and diverse birdlife. Keep an eye out during your visit.
The climb can be challenging for very young children due to the terrain and potential for boggy conditions. A carrier might be necessary for toddlers.
The summit offers the most expansive views. The ancient stone row and the surrounding Dartmoor landscape also provide excellent photographic opportunities.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for landscape photography, with golden hues enhancing the scenery. Clear days provide the widest vistas.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. Consider a polarizing filter to enhance skies and reduce glare.
Focus on the dramatic summit cairn, the ancient stone row, the vast Dartmoor landscape, and any wildlife you encounter. The changing weather can also create dramatic photographic moments.
Include a person or a recognizable landmark in your shot to give a sense of scale. Experiment with different foreground elements to add depth.
The weather can change rapidly, leading to challenging lighting conditions. The boggy terrain requires careful footing.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look for routes that are not overly strenuous, or be prepared to turn back if the little ones get tired. The historical elements, like the stone row, can also spark curiosity. Remember to check the weather forecast and dress everyone in appropriate layers to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable outing.
🚶♀️ Solo Hikers & Backpackers
For those interested in wild camping, Dartmoor offers opportunities, though it's crucial to understand and adhere to the park's guidelines. The sense of solitude and the vast, open landscapes make Cosdon Hill a perfect spot for a reflective solo journey. Be prepared for changing weather and ensure you have adequate supplies.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Dartmoor's Ancient Past
At the summit, the large cairn is another prominent historical marker. While its exact purpose may be debated, cairns often served as burial mounds or navigational aids. Standing atop Cosdon Hill, surrounded by the vastness of Dartmoor, one can't help but feel a sense of awe at the enduring presence of these ancient monuments.
Beyond the immediate vicinity of Cosdon Hill, Dartmoor National Park is dotted with numerous other historical sites, including Bronze Age settlements, Iron Age hill forts, and medieval crosses. Exploring these sites provides a deeper understanding of the region's rich and layered past.
Navigating Cosdon Hill: Trails and Terrain
Popular routes often start from villages like Okehampton or Belstone, or from areas near Princetown. These trails can vary in length and difficulty, with some offering a more direct ascent while others provide a more scenic, circuitous journey. It's advisable to consult detailed walking maps or online resources for specific route planning.
Given the exposed nature of the summit, appropriate footwear is crucial. Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots are highly recommended to navigate the uneven and potentially wet ground. Carrying layers of clothing is also essential, as the weather on Dartmoor can change rapidly, and the summit can be significantly cooler and windier than the surrounding areas.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit