Best mountain peaks around Shirwell offer opportunities to explore the region's diverse landscape. The area features 4 distinct peaks, providing various challenges and viewpoints. These mountainous areas are characterized by coastal cliffs, historical sites, and elevated summits, making them suitable for different types of outdoor activities.
Last updated: July 1, 2026
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Codden Beacon is well-placed to provide amazing views south towards Dartmoor, northeast towards Exmoor and northwest across Barnstable Bay towards Lundy Island. The hill itself is one of a series of rounded hills caused by tectonic movement. There is a Bronze Age bowl barrow to the east.
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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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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 most popular mountain peaks in the Shirwell area include Little Hangman, known for its prominent landmark status and privileged coastal views. Another highly regarded spot is Codden Beacon Viewpoint, offering extensive views towards Dartmoor, Exmoor, and Lundy Island. Visitors also appreciate Holdstone Hill Summit View for its superb coastal panoramas.
While specific 'family-friendly' categories aren't listed for all peaks, many trails around Shirwell offer varying difficulties. For easier walks, consider exploring the general area around the peaks. For dedicated hiking routes, you can find several options, including easy and moderate trails, in the Hiking around Shirwell guide.
Shirwell is rich in stunning viewpoints. Codden Beacon Viewpoint provides amazing views south towards Dartmoor, northeast towards Exmoor, and northwest across Barnstable Bay to Lundy Island. Holdstone Hill Summit View offers superb views along the coast, including Lundy Island to the west, Exmoor to the east, and the shores of Wales to the north. Little Hangman also provides a privileged view of the coastline.
Yes, Codden Beacon Viewpoint is a notable historical site. It features a Bronze Age bowl barrow to its east, adding a layer of historical interest to its already impressive views.
Yes, Codden Beacon Viewpoint is explicitly listed as dog-friendly, making it a great option for walks with your canine companion. Always ensure dogs are kept under control, especially near livestock or cliffs.
The mountain peaks around Shirwell are characterized by diverse natural features. You'll encounter coastal cliffs, elevated summits, and expansive viewpoints. Little Hangman is a prominent natural monument and a significant coastal cliff. The area's geology also includes rounded hills formed by tectonic movement, as seen at Codden Beacon.
Yes, some of the peaks around Shirwell offer challenging sections. Both Little Hangman and Codden Beacon Viewpoint are categorized as challenging, providing more strenuous options for experienced hikers.
Beyond hiking the peaks, Shirwell offers various outdoor activities. You can explore numerous cycling routes, including road cycling with options like the 'Ilfracombe & Woolacombe loop from Barnstaple' or 'The Taw Valley loop from Barnstaple' found in the Road Cycling Routes around Shirwell guide. Gravel biking is also popular, with routes like 'Barnstaple Clock Tower – Bike Shed Bike Shop & Café loop from Barnstaple' available in the Gravel biking around Shirwell guide.
Visitors particularly enjoy the diverse landscapes, from coastal cliffs to elevated summits, and the expansive views they offer. The highlights in this guide have received 79 upvotes and feature 19 photos, indicating a strong appreciation for the natural beauty and the rewarding panoramas, including sights of Lundy Island, Exmoor, Dartmoor, and even the Welsh coast.
Yes, Little Hangman has a local legend about a sheep rustler who met an unfortunate end involving a ram and a cliff, giving the peak its distinctive name. Additionally, Holdstone Hill Summit View is believed by the Aetherius Society to be a site of extraterrestrial contact, with followers holding services there to connect with 'space people'.
You can find a variety of hiking trails near the Shirwell mountain peaks. The Hiking around Shirwell guide lists several routes, including easy and moderate options like the 'Arlington Court loop from Loxhore' or the 'Arlington Court loop from Arlington'.


See even more amazing summits around Shirwell with these guides: