Best mountain peaks around Marwood offer diverse natural features and panoramic views across North Devon. This region is characterized by its dramatic coastline, rounded hills, and historical significance, including Bronze Age sites. Visitors can explore prominent cliffs and elevated viewpoints that provide extensive vistas towards Dartmoor, Exmoor, and Lundy Island. The area's varied terrain makes it a compelling destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
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 Marwood area in North Devon features several notable peaks. Among the most popular are Little Hangman, a significant natural monument offering privileged coastal views, and Holdstone Hill Summit View, known for its superb panoramic vistas. Another must-see is Codden Beacon Viewpoint, which is also a historical site.
The Marwood region is characterized by its dramatic coastline, rounded hills, and prominent cliffs. From the elevated viewpoints, you can enjoy extensive vistas towards Dartmoor, Exmoor, and Lundy Island. The area's varied terrain, including natural monuments like Little Hangman, offers diverse natural beauty.
Yes, Codden Beacon Viewpoint is a notable historical site. It features a Bronze Age bowl barrow to its east and is one of a series of rounded hills formed by tectonic movement.
The mountain peaks around Marwood offer breathtaking panoramic views. From Codden Beacon Viewpoint, you can see south towards Dartmoor, northeast towards Exmoor, and northwest across Barnstable Bay towards Lundy Island. Holdstone Hill Summit View provides superb coastal views extending to Lundy Island, Exmoor, and the shores of Wales.
Yes, some mountain peaks and trails in the Marwood area are dog-friendly. For example, Codden Beacon Viewpoint is specifically noted as being dog-friendly, allowing you to enjoy the views with your canine companion.
Beyond exploring the peaks themselves, the Marwood area offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous options for hiking, cycling, and mountain biking. For detailed routes, check out the guides for easy hikes around Marwood, cycling around Marwood, and MTB trails around Marwood.
Yes, there are easy hiking trails available near Marwood. For example, the guide for easy hikes around Marwood lists routes like the Barnstaple Long Bridge – Barnstaple Clock Tower loop, which is approximately 3.8 km and rated as easy.
You can find various cycling routes in the vicinity of Marwood's peaks. The cycling around Marwood guide includes options like the River Taw – Fremington Quay loop, which offers an easy 15 km ride from Barnstaple.
While specific seasonal recommendations aren't provided, the North Devon region generally offers pleasant conditions for hiking during spring, summer, and early autumn. These seasons typically provide milder weather and clearer views, making for a more enjoyable experience on the peaks.
Visitors frequently praise the diverse experiences offered by the peaks, from stunning coastal vistas to historical exploration. The komoot community has shown appreciation with over 70 upvotes and 10 photos shared, highlighting the area's natural beauty and rewarding views from spots like Little Hangman and Holdstone Hill Summit View.
Yes, mountain biking enthusiasts will find trails near Marwood. The MTB Trails around Marwood guide offers routes such as the Barnstaple Castle – Lankham Brake Bridleway loop, a moderate 47 km ride, and easier options like the Barnstaple Clock Tower – Barnstaple Long Bridge loop.
While specific circular walks directly encompassing the peaks aren't detailed, many hiking routes in the broader Marwood area are designed as loops. You can explore options within the easy hikes around Marwood guide, which features several circular routes starting from Barnstaple.


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