
Hurlstone Point
A dramatic headland on the Exmoor coast offering breathtaking panoramic views, especially at sunset, with a chance to see native ponies.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour and sunset magic

Hurlstone Point
Best Time
Golden hour and sunset magic

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A dramatic headland on the Exmoor coast offering breathtaking panoramic views, especially at sunset, with a chance to see native ponies.
"Incredible views West over Bossington beach, Porlock, Porlock Weir and East to Red Sands beach."

👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The path is stony; trainers or walking boots are essential for a comfortable walk.
🌅 Chase the Sunset
Hurlstone Point is renowned for its spectacular sunset views. Don't miss it!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Coastal Views
Hurlstone Point
Breathtaking vistas stretching west over Bossington Beach and Porlock, and east towards Red Sands.

Sunset Spectacle
Hurlstone Point
Witness magical sunsets painting the sky over the Bristol Channel, a favorite for photographers.

Exmoor Pony Encounters
Near Hurlstone Point
Keep an eye out for the iconic Exmoor ponies grazing in the surrounding National Park.

Ruins of the Old Coastguard Station
Hurlstone Point
Explore the remnants of the historic coastguard station, manned until World War II.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Views
Footwear and Facilities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The path is stony; trainers or walking boots are essential for a comfortable walk.
🌅 Chase the Sunset
Hurlstone Point is renowned for its spectacular sunset views. Don't miss it!
🚗 Park at Bossington
The National Trust car park in Bossington is the easiest starting point for the walk.
📸 Capture the Scenery
Bring your camera for stunning coastal landscapes and potential pony sightings.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The path is stony; trainers or walking boots are essential for a comfortable walk.
🌅 Chase the Sunset
Hurlstone Point is renowned for its spectacular sunset views. Don't miss it!
🚗 Park at Bossington
The National Trust car park in Bossington is the easiest starting point for the walk.
📸 Capture the Scenery
Bring your camera for stunning coastal landscapes and potential pony sightings.
🥾 Consider a Circular Walk
Incorporate Hurlstone Point into a longer circular route for varied scenery.
☕ Cafe Nearby
A cafe opposite the Bossington car park offers refreshments post-walk.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the incredible, expansive views from Hurlstone Point, particularly the breathtaking sunsets over the Bristol Channel. The peaceful atmosphere and the chance to see Exmoor ponies are frequently highlighted as major draws. While the walk is generally enjoyable, some note the stony terrain requires appropriate footwear.
"There are incredible views West over Bossington beach, Porlock, Porlock Weir and East to Red Sands beach. The old coastguard station at the point is now just a ruin. The easiest route to the top is from the NT car park in Bossington."
Chris Kinnersley
"This was a really lovely walk through woods. From the National Trust car park we took the path to the right to do the hard bit first - we would recommend doing it that way round. Lovely views throughout; love the bit through the woods with the gorgeous trees and the first glimpses of the coast provided excellent views of the countryside. The point itself is pretty but the views along the trail are more satisfying."
H P
"The remains of the old coastguard station. Manned until WW2. Fav views out to sea, to Porlock and back to Minehead - when there's no mist. Great walks. I came along the coast path from Minehead but there's parking nearby too."
Sarah Louise
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most convenient access is via the National Trust car park in Bossington. From there, a well-trodden path leads up to Hurlstone Point. Some visitors also walk along the coast path from Minehead.
Yes, there is a National Trust car park in Bossington village, which is the primary access point for many visitors.
While direct public transport to the point is limited, you can take a bus to Minehead or Porlock and then arrange local transport or enjoy a longer walk to the area. Check local bus schedules for routes serving Bossington or nearby villages.
The easiest route is generally from the Bossington National Trust car park, following the path upwards. Some recommend doing the steeper section first.
The path can be stony and uneven, especially the ascent to the point. It may not be suitable for all wheelchairs or pushchairs. Sturdy footwear is recommended.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no entry fee to visit Hurlstone Point itself. However, parking at the National Trust car park in Bossington may incur charges.
Hurlstone Point is an open natural area and is accessible at all times. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and enjoyment of the views.
No, there are no booking requirements to visit Hurlstone Point. It's a natural landmark accessible to all.
Yes, the National Trust car park at Bossington typically has a parking fee. Members of the National Trust can usually park for free.
While technically accessible, visiting at night is not recommended due to the lack of lighting and potentially hazardous terrain. Sunset visits are popular, but ensure you descend before it gets too dark.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You'll find incredible panoramic views west over Bossington beach and Porlock, and east towards Red Sands. The remains of an old coastguard station are also present.
The walk from Bossington is generally considered moderate, with some steep sections. The terrain is stony underfoot, requiring appropriate footwear.
There are no facilities directly at Hurlstone Point. However, a cafe is located opposite the Bossington National Trust car park.
On clear days, it is often possible to see across the Bristol Channel to the coast of Wales.
Absolutely! Hurlstone Point is a photographer's dream, especially for sunsets, coastal landscapes, and wildlife like Exmoor ponies.
📸 📸 Photography
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic light for photography. Clear days provide excellent visibility for capturing the expansive coastal views.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the sweeping landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife, like the Exmoor ponies. A tripod is highly recommended for sunset shots.
The summit of Hurlstone Point itself offers the primary viewpoint. The path leading up also provides excellent vantage points for capturing the coastline and the beach below.
Focus on the dramatic coastal scenery, the Bristol Channel, the distant Welsh coast (on clear days), the ruins of the coastguard station, and the local Exmoor ponies.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check the latest guidelines for Exmoor National Park and local bylaws before flying a drone. Some videos show drone footage, suggesting it's possible in certain areas.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack a picnic to enjoy with the stunning views, and consider a shorter, more manageable loop if younger children tire easily. The nearby cafe at Bossington is a good spot for a treat after your exploration. Remember to keep a close eye on children near cliff edges.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers
You can easily incorporate Hurlstone Point into longer hikes along the South West Coast Path or enjoy it as a standalone, rewarding walk. The opportunity to see wildlife, like the Exmoor ponies, adds to the experience.
📸 Photographers & Sunset Chasers
Bring your best camera gear, including wide-angle lenses for landscapes and a tripod for low-light conditions. The ruins of the coastguard station also offer interesting foreground elements. Don't forget to capture the coastal vistas and any wildlife encounters.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Coastal Path
Many visitors enjoy the circular walks that incorporate Hurlstone Point. These routes often lead through charming woodlands, offering glimpses of the sea through the trees before opening up to the expansive coastal views. The experience is often described as peaceful and invigorating, with the sound of the waves and the fresh sea air contributing to the overall enjoyment.
Remember to check tide times if you plan to explore the beach areas near Hurlstone Point, as access can be affected. The combination of woodland, coastal path, and stunning viewpoints makes this area a highlight for many hikers exploring Exmoor National Park.
The Charm of Exmoor Ponies
These hardy animals are an integral part of the Exmoor landscape, and spotting them grazing peacefully against the backdrop of the sea is a memorable experience. Visitors are reminded to observe them from a respectful distance and not to feed them, ensuring their welfare and natural behavior are maintained.
While not guaranteed on every visit, the presence of Exmoor ponies is a frequent highlight mentioned by those exploring the area around Hurlstone Point, adding to the wild and natural beauty of the location.
Photography Opportunities
The sunset at Hurlstone Point is particularly renowned, with many visitors and content creators highlighting it as a favorite spot for capturing breathtaking evening skies. The interplay of light and color over the sea creates magical moments, perfect for both amateur and professional photographers.
Beyond the grand vistas, photographers can also focus on the ruins of the old coastguard station, adding a historical element to their shots. The natural beauty of the surrounding woodlands and the chance to photograph Exmoor ponies further enhance the photographic appeal of Hurlstone Point.



![The Caratacus Stone, sometimes known as the Caractacus Stone, is an inscribed stone on Exmoor in Somerset, England. It is thought to date from the 6th century,[2] and it has been a scheduled monument since 1925.](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fmedia-cdn.tripadvisor.com%2Fmedia%2Fphoto-w%2F29%2F7a%2Ff9%2F07%2Fthe-caratacus-stone-sometimes.jpg&w=3840&q=75)

Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit