Haddon Hill
Haddon Hill offers breathtaking moorland vistas, vibrant heather blooms, and the chance to see iconic Exmoor ponies in their natural habitat.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Heather in full bloom
Haddon Hill
Best Time
Heather in full bloom
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Haddon Hill offers breathtaking moorland vistas, vibrant heather blooms, and the chance to see iconic Exmoor ponies in their natural habitat.
"Beautiful scenery and outstanding views from the top of the hill."
Donate for Upkeep
A small donation box is available to help maintain this beautiful area. Your contribution is appreciated! :heart:
Dog Walking Paradise
Perfect for dog owners! Keep your furry friends on a lead to respect wildlife, especially the ponies. :dog:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Vibrant Heather Fields
Across the moorland
Witness a breathtaking carpet of purple heather, especially stunning in late summer. A photographer's dream!
Wandering Exmoor Ponies
Moorland and hillsides
Encounter the iconic, free-roaming Exmoor ponies in their natural habitat. A truly special sight.
Panoramic Views of Wimbleball Lake
Southern slopes
Enjoy sweeping vistas of the expansive Wimbleball Lake, a picturesque centerpiece of the landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Heather Blooms
Pony Etiquette and Safety
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Donate for Upkeep
A small donation box is available to help maintain this beautiful area. Your contribution is appreciated! :heart:
Dog Walking Paradise
Perfect for dog owners! Keep your furry friends on a lead to respect wildlife, especially the ponies. :dog:
Capture the Heather
Bring your camera! The vibrant heather and sweeping views offer incredible photo opportunities. :camera:
Pony Spotting Tips
Look for Exmoor ponies grazing on the moors. They are often seen in herds, especially in autumn. :horse:
Tips
from all over the internet
Donate for Upkeep
A small donation box is available to help maintain this beautiful area. Your contribution is appreciated! :heart:
Dog Walking Paradise
Perfect for dog owners! Keep your furry friends on a lead to respect wildlife, especially the ponies. :dog:
Capture the Heather
Bring your camera! The vibrant heather and sweeping views offer incredible photo opportunities. :camera:
Pony Spotting Tips
Look for Exmoor ponies grazing on the moors. They are often seen in herds, especially in autumn. :horse:
Start Point for Walks
Haddon Hill is an excellent starting point for various walks, including routes to Wimbleball Lake and dam. :hiking_boot:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning scenery and outstanding views from Haddon Hill, particularly the beautiful heather blooms and the delightful presence of wandering Exmoor ponies. Many appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and the easy walking trails, especially those leading down to Wimbleball Lake. The donation box for upkeep is also a well-received aspect.
"Beautiful scenery and outstanding views from the top of the hill. The ponies wandering around are delightful, especially the young foals. There's a magnificent view of Wimbeball Lake which we walked down to. The dam is worth seeing just on its own without walking right around the lake."
Steve E
"Only did the short loop but views were stunning. A really peacful easy walk from the car park. Honesty box to donate to keeping this lovely area looking great."
Donna Stevens
"Perfect starting point for walking
Get there just before sunrise and on a clear day, the rising sun and views east and south to Dartmoor are just spectacular
Provides a starting point down to wimbleball dam, with some short or medium walks across moor or through woods where deer are not uncommon.
Small donation box for the upkeep"
Alex Jones
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Haddon Hill is accessible by car, with a dedicated car park. It's located within Exmoor National Park. For navigation, the postcode can be helpful, or look for signs directing to Haddon Hill and Wimbleball Lake.
Yes, there is a car park available at Haddon Hill, often with a donation box for upkeep. It's a convenient starting point for exploring the area.
While public transport options might be limited directly to Haddon Hill, it's part of Exmoor National Park, which has some bus routes connecting to nearby villages. Check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information.
Haddon Hill serves as a fantastic starting point for numerous walks. You can easily access trails leading down to Wimbleball Lake, across the moorland, or through nearby woodlands.
While a postcode is useful, the area is well-signposted. For GPS, searching for 'Haddon Hill Car Park' or 'Wimbleball Lake' will guide you effectively.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Haddon Hill itself is generally free to access. However, there is often a donation box for visitors to contribute to the upkeep of the area.
As an open moorland area within Exmoor National Park, Haddon Hill does not have set opening or closing hours. It's accessible at any time, though visiting during daylight is recommended for safety and enjoyment.
No, tickets are not required for Haddon Hill. It's a natural landscape open for public access.
The main restrictions involve respecting the wildlife, particularly the free-roaming Exmoor ponies. Keep dogs on leads and do not feed the animals.
Absolutely! Haddon Hill is perfect for a day trip, offering beautiful scenery, walking opportunities, and a chance to see local wildlife.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Haddon Hill offers various trails, from short loops with stunning views of Wimbleball Lake to longer routes across the moorland and through woodlands. Some trails lead to Light Spout.
Yes, Haddon Hill is a prime location for spotting Exmoor ponies in their natural habitat. They are often seen grazing on the moorland. 
Nearby attractions include Wimbleball Lake, the dam, and the picturesque village of Tarr Steps. The surrounding Exmoor National Park offers further exploration.
Haddon Hill is a photographer's delight, especially when the heather is in bloom. The panoramic views, wildlife, and dramatic landscapes offer endless opportunities.
Facilities are generally limited at Haddon Hill itself, being a natural moorland area. You'll find a car park and often a donation box. Nearby Wimbleball Lake visitor centre may have facilities.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hours, around sunrise and sunset, offer the most dramatic light for photography. Late summer when the heather is in bloom is also spectacular.
Popular subjects include the vibrant heather fields, the free-roaming Exmoor ponies, panoramic views of Wimbleball Lake, and the expansive moorland landscapes.
The summit of Haddon Hill provides excellent panoramic views. Look for elevated spots along the walking trails that offer clear sightlines to Wimbleball Lake and the surrounding countryside.
Drone usage in national parks can be subject to regulations. It's advisable to check the Exmoor National Park guidelines and local bylaws before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes and heather fields. A telephoto lens is useful for photographing the Exmoor ponies from a safe distance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 Pack a picnic to enjoy amidst the stunning scenery, and let the kids explore the open moorland. Remember to keep them supervised and close by, especially near the lake. Consider visiting when the heather is in bloom for an extra burst of color that will captivate young imaginations.
The relatively gentle slopes make it accessible for families with younger children, and the donation box is a good way to teach kids about contributing to the preservation of natural spaces. 🚶♀️ Solo Hikers & Dog Walkers
+1 It's an ideal spot for a refreshing walk, with the option to extend your hike around Wimbleball Lake or explore further into the national park. Dog owners will find Haddon Hill to be a paradise, with ample space for your canine companions to explore. Remember to keep dogs on a lead at all times to protect the wildlife, especially the ponies and any young foals.
The donation box is a small way to give back to the area that provides such a fantastic walking experience. 📸 Photographers & Nature Enthusiasts
+1 Capture the iconic Exmoor ponies in their natural habitat, the sweeping vistas of Wimbleball Lake, and the ever-changing light across the moorland. +2Early mornings and late evenings provide the best light for capturing the mood and beauty of the area.
The peaceful atmosphere allows for immersive nature observation and creative exploration. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Exmoor Ponies
+2It's important to note that the ponies are managed by various groups, including the Exmoor Pony Society, to ensure their welfare and the health of the moorland ecosystem. Events like the 'pony inspection day' happen annually, where herds are brought in for health checks and to monitor breeding.
This highlights the ongoing efforts to conserve this unique breed and its habitat. When visiting, always keep dogs on a lead to prevent any disturbance to the ponies or other wildlife. For photographers, capturing the Exmoor ponies against the backdrop of the heather-covered hills or the vast moorland offers a quintessential Exmoor experience. The best light for photographing them is often during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset, when the landscape is bathed in warm, soft light.
Walking and Hiking Trails
For those seeking a more specific destination, the walk to Light Spout is also a notable option, providing a rewarding experience with stunning scenery along the way.
The trails are generally well-maintained, but as with any moorland walk, sturdy footwear is recommended, especially after rain, as the ground can become muddy. The donation box at the car park helps fund the upkeep of these paths, ensuring they remain accessible and enjoyable for future visitors. When planning your hike, consider the weather, as conditions on the moor can change rapidly. Always carry water and snacks, and inform someone of your route and expected return time, especially if embarking on longer or more remote trails. The diverse terrain ensures that whether you're looking for a gentle stroll or a more challenging hike, Haddon Hill offers a memorable outdoor experience.
The Scenic Beauty of Heather Blooms
+1 The best time to witness this phenomenon is typically from August through September, when the heather is in full bloom, creating a stunning visual spectacle. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the heather plays a crucial role in the Exmoor ecosystem. It provides vital habitat and food for various insects, birds, and small mammals. The presence of the heather also supports the grazing of the Exmoor ponies, contributing to the unique character of the moorland.
The sight of the ponies against the purple backdrop is particularly iconic and a highlight for many visitors. For photographers, the heather fields offer endless opportunities for capturing dramatic landscapes. The golden hours around sunrise and sunset are particularly magical, casting a warm glow over the hills and highlighting the textures of the heather.
+1 Even on a cloudy day, the sheer expanse of color provides a striking visual, making Haddon Hill a must-visit for anyone appreciating natural beauty. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit