Dunkery Beacon Winter Solstice Sunrise Walk

Sunday 21st December 7.30am. Dunkery Beacon Winter Solstice Sunrise Walk
A beautiful walk to celebrate the winter solstice from the highest peak on Exmoor enjoying spectacular moorland, countryside and coastal views, watching the sun rise (weather/ cloud/ mist permitting!) to the east (will this be our lucky year that we finally get to see one?!!). Starting at Dunkery Gate car park and climbing to reach the trig point and watch the sun rise. Then descending via a track to the road (option here to return to the car park along the road for the shorter route). For the longer route continuing along the Macmillan Way West to descend to Brockwell, then taking the Coldridge Way to Spangate before returning to the car park.

Image credit – Shaun Davey

Please bring warm drinks and snacks and wear warm clothing.
Please bring a headtorch as the ascent to the beacon will be in darkness/ dawn twilight.
Meet at Dunkery Gate car park at 7.30am.
Start/ Finish: Dunkery Gate car park TA24 7EE what3words ref ///fine.gossiped.mammals
Distance: 5.7 miles (9.3km) longer route 2.6 miles (4.2km) shorter route
Route type: Circular
Grade: Moderate (shorter route) Challenging (longer route)
Terrain: Footpaths and moorland trails. Can be muddy/ boggy in wet weather. Rocky uneven footpaths. Some steep ascent/ descent. Ascent to Dunkery Beacon before sunrise will be in poor light visibility conditions.
Toilets: None.
Parking: Dunkery Gate car park (free) – limited spaces so please car share where possible.

Please wear weather/ ground conditions appropriate clothing/ footwear and bring snacks/ drinks.

Anyone attending this informal walk does so as a solo identity and has full responsibility for their own wellbeing, which includes health wellbeing and personal welfare.