Hurlstone Point - Image 1
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Hurlstone Point

4.7
·108 reviews·, United Kingdom

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Late afternoon/Evening

Golden hour and sunset magic

CrowdMedium
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Hurlstone Point - Image 1

Hurlstone Point

Best Time

Late afternoon/Evening

Golden hour and sunset magic

CrowdMedium
Highlights

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.

4.7
(108 reviews)

"Incredible views West over Bossington beach, Porlock, Porlock Weir and East to Red Sands beach."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 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!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Coastal Views

Panoramic Coastal Views

Hurlstone Point

Breathtaking vistas stretching west over Bossington Beach and Porlock, and east towards Red Sands.

Sunset Spectacle

Sunset Spectacle

Hurlstone Point

Witness magical sunsets painting the sky over the Bristol Channel, a favorite for photographers.

Exmoor Pony Encounters

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

Ruins of the Old Coastguard Station

Hurlstone Point

Explore the remnants of the historic coastguard station, manned until World War II.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for the Best Views

Hurlstone Point offers stunning coastal vistas, especially during sunset. Consider visiting on a clear day to maximize visibility towards Wales. Weekends can be busier, so weekdays might offer a more peaceful experience.

Footwear and Facilities

The terrain can be stony underfoot, so sturdy trainers or walking boots are recommended. There are no facilities directly at the point, but a cafe is available opposite the Bossington National Trust car park.

Best Times

When
Late afternoon/Evening
Why
Golden hour and sunset magic
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Peaceful walks, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Clear days
Why
Maximized visibility to Wales
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Any Exmoor Pony Fans? 🐎 #poniesoftiktok #exmoorpony #pony #horselover #horsebreeds #cuteanimals #rare #equestrian #exmoor #exmoornationalpark
@discoverthehorse
1K likes • 8.1K views

👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear

The path is stony; trainers or walking boots are essential for a comfortable walk. Reddit

🌅 Chase the Sunset

Hurlstone Point is renowned for its spectacular sunset views. Don't miss it! Instagram+2

Bossington to Hurlstone Point | Exmoor
the_devonlife
29 likes • 607 views
Sunset lovers 🌅 📍Hurlstone Point, Somerset
exmoorpoodles
57 likes • 393 views

🚗 Park at Bossington

The National Trust car park in Bossington is the easiest starting point for the walk. Reddit

📸 Capture the Scenery

Bring your camera for stunning coastal landscapes and potential pony sightings. Instagram+1

📍Bossington Beach & Hurlstone Point, West Somerset . . . . #devon #nature #northdevon #southwest #countryside #loveexmoor #hiking #britain #landscape #naturephotography #sheexplores #positivevibes #hike #getoutside #hikingadventures #adventure #outdoors #nature #osmaps #landscapephotography #exmoornationalpark #exmoor #westsomerset #ukcoast #southwestcoastpath
april_rose_adventures
46 likes • 494 views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear

The path is stony; trainers or walking boots are essential for a comfortable walk. Reddit

🌅 Chase the Sunset

Hurlstone Point is renowned for its spectacular sunset views. Don't miss it! Instagram+2

🚗 Park at Bossington

The National Trust car park in Bossington is the easiest starting point for the walk. Reddit

📸 Capture the Scenery

Bring your camera for stunning coastal landscapes and potential pony sightings. Instagram+1

🥾 Consider a Circular Walk

Incorporate Hurlstone Point into a longer circular route for varied scenery. Reddit

☕ Cafe Nearby

A cafe opposite the Bossington car park offers refreshments post-walk. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(108 reviews)

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

Stunning coastal views
Spectacular sunsets
Peaceful atmosphere

What People Dislike

Stony terrain underfoot

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. Reddit

Yes, there is a National Trust car park in Bossington village, which is the primary access point for many visitors. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

🎫 🎫 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

The walk from Bossington is generally considered moderate, with some steep sections. The terrain is stony underfoot, requiring appropriate footwear. Reddit

There are no facilities directly at Hurlstone Point. However, a cafe is located opposite the Bossington National Trust car park. Reddit

On clear days, it is often possible to see across the Bristol Channel to the coast of Wales. TikTok

Absolutely! Hurlstone Point is a photographer's dream, especially for sunsets, coastal landscapes, and wildlife like Exmoor ponies. Instagram+2

📸 📸 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. Instagram+2

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. TikTokInstagram

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. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Hurlstone Point offers a wonderful outdoor adventure for families. The walk from Bossington is manageable for most, though the stony path requires sturdy shoes for little ones. The open spaces provide room for children to explore, and the chance to spot Exmoor ponies can be a huge hit. TikTokInstagram

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. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers

For solo travelers and hikers, Hurlstone Point offers a sense of peace and spectacular scenery. The well-defined paths, particularly from Bossington, make it easy to navigate. It's a perfect spot for mindfulness and quiet contemplation, with the sounds of nature and the vastness of the sea. Instagram

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. TikTokInstagram

📸 Photographers & Sunset Chasers

Hurlstone Point is a must-visit for photographers, especially those seeking stunning sunset shots. The unobstructed western views over the Bristol Channel provide a dramatic canvas for the setting sun. Instagram+2

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. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Coastal Path

Hurlstone Point is a fantastic stop along the South West Coast Path, offering a taste of the dramatic Exmoor coastline. The path itself provides varied scenery, from woodland sections to open clifftops. Visitors can choose to walk to Hurlstone Point as part of a longer trek, perhaps starting from Minehead or Porlock, or simply enjoy a shorter excursion from Bossington. The terrain can be challenging in places, so good walking shoes are a must. InstagramReddit

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. Instagram+1

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. Instagram

The Charm of Exmoor Ponies

One of the delightful surprises for visitors to Hurlstone Point is the potential to encounter Exmoor ponies. These native ponies are a protected breed and roam freely across the Exmoor National Park, often grazing on the hillsides and coastal paths. Seeing them in their natural habitat adds a special element to the visit. TikTokInstagram

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. TikTok

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. TikTokInstagram

Photography Opportunities

Hurlstone Point is a haven for photographers, offering a diverse range of subjects and stunning light conditions. The panoramic coastal views are a primary draw, with the expansive Bristol Channel providing a dramatic backdrop. On clear days, the distant coastline of Wales is visible, adding another layer to the landscape. Instagram+1

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. Instagram+2

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. TikTokInstagram

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