Hembury Fort & Woods
16 miles from Exeter • 3-6km woodland and hillfort trails
Hembury Woods is ancient woodland with a spectacular Iron Age hillfort at its summit. Owned by Devon Archaeological Society since 2022. One of Devon's best bluebell woods in spring. Great for dog walkers and picnickers - circular walk around plateau with far-reaching views to the coast on clear days.
© Derek Harper, CC BY-SA 2.0 via Geograph
Moderate
3-6km woodland and hillfort trails
Yes
Free
Overview
Hembury Woods is ancient woodland with a spectacular Iron Age hillfort at its summit. Owned by Devon Archaeological Society since 2022. One of Devon's best bluebell woods in spring. Great for dog walkers and picnickers - circular walk around plateau with far-reaching views to the coast on clear days.
What to Expect
Climb through stunning ancient woodland to a dramatic Iron Age hillfort with views across the Otter Valley reaching to the coast. In spring, woods are covered with a blanket of bluebells. Archaeological history from Neolithic to Roman times. Atmospheric and uncrowded.
Best For
- ✓Bluebells (late April/early May)
- ✓Ancient woodland
- ✓Iron Age and Neolithic history
- ✓Quiet walks
- ✓Far-reaching views
- ✓Dog walking
Not Ideal For
- ⚠Flat walks
- ⚠Accessibility needs
- ⚠Those wanting facilities
Things to Be Aware Of
- ⚠Steep climb to fort
- ⚠Can be muddy
- ⚠Limited parking
- ⚠Traffic fast on A373 - cross with care
- ⚠Respect the Scheduled Monument
Local Tips from Evie
Time your visit for bluebell season - the display is spectacular! Two Hembury sites in Devon - this is near Buckfastleigh (there's another near Honiton in the Blackdown Hills). The circular walk around the plateau offers stunning views on clear days.
Frequently Asked Questions
When are the bluebells at Hembury?
Usually late April to early May. One of Devon's most spectacular bluebell displays.
Who owns Hembury Fort?
Devon Archaeological Society has owned it since September 2022, managing it to preserve the archaeology and biodiversity.
Is there another Hembury Fort?
Yes! There's another Hembury hillfort near Honiton in the Blackdown Hills. This one is near Buckfastleigh on Dartmoor.
Practical Information
Hembury Woods, Buckfastleigh
TQ11 0LR
Several parking spots along the road passing Hembury Woods. Most popular for dog walkers is the first one, just before Hembury Castle. Small basic car park also off A373 at crest of Hembury Hill (cross road carefully - traffic fast with limited visibility).
Great for dog walkers. Please respect the Scheduled Monument - dogs welcome but keep under control.
Need a Dog Walker?
I walk dogs at Hembury Fort & Woods regularly. Get in touch if you need help.
Contact Me
