Exmoor Walks: Hopcott - Minehead to Dunster
Exploring the countryside is one of the greatest joys of walking. You can revisit a place you know intimately and yet find a footpath that leads you into a part of it you've never experienced before — suddenly revealing breathtaking views you never knew existed. Another enchanting aspect of walking is discovering unexpected connections: a familiar town or village approached from a completely new direction, allowing you to see it with fresh eyes. 🌲🏙
A Magical Walk Around Minehead 🏜️
Recently, I embarked on such an adventure with my daughter and her boyfriend. Our walk took us out of Minehead, across the hills that lie to the south of this beautiful seaside town. Minehead is surrounded by steep ridges: to the west lies North Hill, a favourite for walkers as it hosts the start of the South West Coast Path.
However, the ridge to the south offers equally spectacular hiking with views over both the coastline and the dramatic Avill Valley, stretching towards Dunkery Beacon, the highest point on Exmoor.
Cher: A Quirky Starting Point 🎤
We started our walk from Minehead town centre, heading up to a location called Cher. The name may make you think of the famous singer, but it has nothing to do with her! Cher is an ancient place, rich in history, where the Minehead Hobby Horse has performed its May Day rituals for centuries. It’s a strange spectacle, and I remember watching it years ago, wondering how long it would endure in the face of modern sensibilities.
From Cher, we crossed the main road and headed up the steep lane that leads to Hopcott Common. The climb soon takes you into the woods, and after a while, the road gives way to a car park where various tracks lead upwards. To reach our goal, we took the righthand paths, which brought us through an ancient beech hedge, eventually opening up onto the heaths of Hopcott Ridge.
Panoramic Views Over West Somerset 🗻
Up on Hopcott Ridge, we were rewarded with magnificent views of Minehead below, as well as the entire vale of West Somerset, which stretches towards the distant Quantock Hills. Turning left, we continued along the ridge, where more and more of the vale revealed itself. On our right, we caught glimpses of the Avill Valley and the rising hills of Vinegar Hill and Gallox Hill, crowned by ancient fort ruins.
The wide ridge track eventually led us to Grabbist, the famous hill that inspired Mrs. Cecil Frances Alexander to write the hymn "All Things Bright and Beautiful." Nearing Dunster, we found a steep path cutting down through the trees on Grabbist's southern slope — a challenging but rewarding descent that brought us to the outskirts of the village.
Exploring Dunster: A Historic Village 🏭
Once at the foot of Grabbist, we headed towards Gallox Bridge, where my daughter had parked her car. This area offers many options to continue exploring: you can visit the ancient clapper bridge, walk along the River Avill beneath Dunster Castle, or head to the village’s main car parks. From there, you can choose between taking a bus or the West Somerset Railway back to Minehead — or extend your adventure by walking along the West Somerset Coast Path back to Minehead seafront.
No matter which option you choose, this walk offers a unique and rewarding experience, showcasing unusual and dramatic views of some of the best-known spots in West Somerset.
Fact File ✉️
Route: Minehead over Hopcott Common to Dunster, returning by bus, steam train, or the West Somerset Coast Path
Distance: One-way walk of 4 miles; 6+ miles if returning via the coast
Difficulty: Easy going on well-maintained tracks, with a steep initial climb to Hopcott 👌
Beyond the Woods, the Foresters
At the base of Grabbist Hill, you’ll find the Forester Arms — a cozy local pub in Dunster with great food and drinks. Forester Arms Dunster
Liking the Luttrell 🏰
In the heart of Dunster lies the famous Luttrell Arms, a historic inn offering delicious meals in a charming setting. Luttrell Arms
All Ashore for the Ship Aground 🚢
If you prefer to dine back in Minehead, the Old Ship Aground near the quay is a fantastic option for lunch or a snack. The Old Ship Aground
Embark on this lovely walk and discover a new perspective of West Somerset — it’s an adventure that’s sure to leave you with lasting memories. 😍🌿
