Best mountain peaks around Trentishoe are found within the Exmoor National Park, an area characterized by its dramatic coastal landscape and "humpback hills." The region offers challenging walks with significant ascents and descents. These routes provide expansive views and access to a natural and historical landscape. The terrain includes moorland, heathland, and woodland, with prominent elevations contributing to the area's distinct profile.
Last updated: May 1, 2026
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With an elevation of 318 metres and a cliff face of 244 metres, it is the tallest sea cliff in England and the highest point along the South West Coast Path, which passes through this area. The easiest way to reach here is from Combe Martin.
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Little Hangman is one of the main cliffs in Combe Martin, and from this point, you will enjoy a privileged view of the coastline.
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Little Hangman is one of the main prominent landmarks in the area, along with its 'big brother' The Great Hangman. One way to explain its name is likely the local legend that tells of a sheep rustler. This rustler once took a ram tied with a rope, when suddenly, the ram escaped, falling off a cliff and taking the rustler with it. As they fell, the rope snagged onto a rock, and the next morning, it is said that a sailor passed by and saw the man hanging from the rope.
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Moderate trail with amazing views and high elevation , good footwear required
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Butter Hill is one of the highest cliffs in England, reaching 1,000 feet (302 m). It's also the highest point of the South West Coast Path. To the west are beautiful views of Lynton and Lynmouth. If you have come from that direction it gives you a true sense of how far you have climbed.
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Great Hangman, at 1,043 feet (318 m), is one of the highest points on the Devon coastline. From this point, you are afforded spectacular views over the cliffs and beyond. In summer, let the heady aroma of wildflowers and sea air reinvigorate the senses.
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You are rewarded with superb views along the coast from the cairn on Holdstone Hill. To the west is Lundy Island, Exmoor lies to the east and the shores of Wales are north. You might just get more than lovely views, though. According to the religious beliefs of the Aertherius Society, Holdstone Down is a very special place. Aertherians believe that Jesus appeared to their founder Dr George King — in a spaceship, no less — on Holdstone Down on July 23,1958. His followers hold a service to connect with space people on Holdstone Down as it is believed to be the site of contacts with extraterrestrial beings or alien peoples.
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The Trentishoe area, part of Exmoor National Park, features dramatic coastal landscapes and 'humpback hills' rather than towering mountains. Key prominent points include Great Hangman, which is England's tallest sea cliff and the highest point along the South West Coast Path, and its 'little brother' Little Hangman, offering privileged coastline views. Other notable spots are Butter Hill Summit, another of England's highest cliffs, and Holdstone Hill Summit View, known for superb coastal vistas.
The terrain around Trentishoe is characterized by challenging walks with significant ascents and descents. You'll encounter diverse landscapes including moorland, heathland, and woodland. Elevations range, with Trentishoe Down at 324 meters (1,063 feet) and Holdstone Down reaching 394 meters (1,293 feet). The area also boasts England's highest sea cliffs, formed by Hangman Grits, contributing to the dramatic coastal profile.
Yes, some areas are suitable for families. For instance, Great Hangman is considered family-friendly, offering spectacular views over the cliffs. While many routes involve challenging ascents, shorter, less strenuous options can be found within the diverse landscapes of moorland and woodland.
The area offers stunning coastal views of the Bristol Channel, diverse landscapes of moorland, heathland, and woodland, and rivers like the Heddon. In summer, gorse and heather color the landscape vividly, and you can enjoy the aroma of wildflowers. Wildlife includes buzzards, ravens, and grazing Exmoor ponies, often seen on the moorland.
The Trentishoe area is rich in history. You can find prehistoric remains such as hut circles, barrows, cairns, and standing stones, particularly around Trentishoe Barrows. The region also has ancient field systems and former silver mines. Local legends include tales of smugglers hiding contraband in church towers, and the story behind Little Hangman's name involves a sheep rustler. Holdstone Down is also known for its unique connection to the Aetherius Society's beliefs about extraterrestrial contact.
Summer is an excellent time to visit, as the gorse and heather are vivid, and wildflowers fill the air with their aroma, especially around Great Hangman. The exposed heights provide a sense of wildness, and clear days offer expansive views, sometimes even across to Pembrokeshire from Holdstone Down.
Yes, the area is excellent for hiking. You can find numerous trails, including challenging walks with significant elevation gains. For a variety of options, explore the Hiking around Trentishoe guide, which features routes like 'The Heddon Valley & Woody Bay loop' and 'Elwill Bay Coastal Path loop'.
Beyond hiking, the diverse terrain around Trentishoe is suitable for other outdoor pursuits. You can find MTB Trails around Trentishoe, with routes like the 'Valley of Rocks – View over Lynmouth Beach loop'. There are also Running Trails around Trentishoe, including challenging options such as the 'Heddon Valley & Woody Bay loop'.
Visitors frequently appreciate the stunning coastal views, especially from viewpoints like Little Hangman and Butter Hill Summit. The challenging yet rewarding walks through diverse landscapes of moorland, heathland, and woodland are also a major draw. The rich history, from ancient remains to local legends, adds another layer of interest to the natural beauty.
The Trentishoe area is home to some of the highest points along the South West Coast Path. Great Hangman, with an elevation of 318 meters, is the highest point along the path in this region and features England's tallest sea cliff. Butter Hill Summit, reaching over 300 meters, is also noted as one of the highest cliffs and points on the South West Coast Path.
Yes, the area offers various circular walking opportunities. For example, routes can encompass Trentishoe Down as part of a 2.4-mile (3.9 km) or extended 7.3-mile (11.7 km) loop to include Trentishoe Barrows. More challenging options like the Trentishoe to Combe Martin Loop (22 km with an 800-meter elevation gain) also provide a comprehensive experience of the region's peaks and coastal paths.


See even more amazing summits around Trentishoe with these guides: