Bossington, Hurlstone Point and Porlock Marsh
Sea, marsh, high headland and village — one of Exmoor's most complete coastal walks
Bossington, Exmoor, Somerset · Exmoor
Quick summary
A brilliant Exmoor coastal circuit from Bossington taking in the shingle ridge of Porlock Marsh, the high viewpoint at Hurlstone Point and a return through the village. Around 10,000–11,500 steps with sea, marsh and height in one walk.
Why this walk works for 10,000 steps
Combining flat marsh walking with the Hurlstone Point ascent gives a varied step count that builds naturally across the route. The shingle ridge section adds distance the map doesn't always suggest.
Route summary
- 1From Bossington car park, take the path east across Porlock Marsh to the shingle ridge.
- 2Walk the ridge toward Porlock Weir with the Bristol Channel to your left.
- 3Return inland and head west toward Hurlstone Point — the prominent rocky headland above the coast.
- 4Descend south from Hurlstone Point back through Bossington village.
- 5Return to the car park.
Terrain and difficulty
Shingle ridge walking is slow and tiring underfoot — steps add up fast. The Hurlstone Point ascent is steep and exposed in wind. Marsh paths can be wet in winter. Boots recommended.
Best time to walk
Any season. Winter storms make the shingle ridge dramatic. Spring for migrating birds on the marsh.
Facilities nearby
Café and pub at Porlock Weir (1.5 miles). Anchor Hotel at Porlock Weir. Nothing on the route itself.
Safety & access
Hurlstone Point has steep clifftop edges — keep children and dogs well back. Shingle walking is hard on ankles — take your time. Tidal flooding can occasionally affect the lowest marsh paths.
Distances and step counts are approximate and vary by stride length, terrain and device. Moorland and coastal routes can feel harder than the numbers suggest. Always check weather, daylight and access conditions before setting out.