How to Tour Porlock Hill Steep Drive

Porlock Hill Steep Drive, located in the heart of Exmoor National Park in Somerset, England, is one of the most iconic and challenging road experiences in the United Kingdom. Known for its dramatic gradient, sweeping hairpin bends, and breathtaking coastal views, this 1.2-mile stretch of road has drawn drivers, motorcyclists, cyclists, and tourists for generations. While often described as a thrill ride, touring Porlock Hill safely and respectfully requires more than just courageit demands preparation, awareness, and a deep appreciation for the landscape and local heritage. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every essential aspect of touring Porlock Hill Steep Drive, from planning your route to understanding its history and mastering its curves. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor to Exmoor, this tutorial will equip you with the knowledge to experience Porlock Hill not just as a drive, but as a journey.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Understand the Route and Geography

Porlock Hill connects the coastal village of Porlock to the inland town of Lynmouth, climbing approximately 600 feet (183 meters) over a distance of just over a mile. The roads average gradient is 1 in 4 (25%), with sections reaching as steep as 1 in 3 (33%), making it one of the steepest paved public roads in England. The route begins at the eastern edge of Porlock, near the historic Porlock Weir harbor, and ascends through a narrow, winding path flanked by stone walls and ancient hedgerows. The summit offers panoramic views of the Bristol Channel and the Lundy Island skyline, while the descent into Lynmouth reveals the dramatic valley carved by the River Lyn.

Before setting out, study a detailed topographic map or use a GPS-enabled navigation app that supports offline maps. Google Maps and Komoot are reliable options, but ensure you download the route in advancemobile reception is inconsistent along the climb. Note that the road is single-lane in most sections, with passing places marked by white painted circles on the road surface. These are critical for safe overtaking and should never be ignored.

Step 2: Choose the Right Time of Day and Season

The experience of touring Porlock Hill is profoundly affected by timing. The best conditions occur between late spring and early autumn (May to September), when daylight hours are longest and weather patterns are most stable. Early morning (79 AM) or late afternoon (46 PM) are ideal for avoiding traffic congestion and enjoying softer lighting for photography. Midday can be busy with tour buses and recreational vehicles, especially on weekends and during school holidays.

Winter travel is not recommended unless you are experienced in mountain driving. Ice, fog, and landslides are common between November and March. Even in summer, sudden coastal mist can roll in without warning, reducing visibility to near zero. Always check the Met Office forecast for Exmoor before departure and be prepared for rapid weather changes.

Step 3: Prepare Your Vehicle

Not all vehicles are suited for Porlock Hill. High ground clearance is not necessary, but engine power, braking performance, and tire condition are critical. Vehicles with weak brakes or worn brake pads risk overheating on the descent. Diesel engines and automatic transmissions with manual override or hill descent control are preferable. Motorcycles and scooters should have adequate torque and well-maintained tires.

Before starting your journey:

• Check tire pressure and tread depth (minimum 3mm recommended).
• Ensure brake fluid is at optimal level and brake pads are not worn below 2mm.
• Top up engine oil and coolantengine stress increases significantly on steep climbs.
• Carry a spare tire and tools; the nearest service station is over 5 miles away.
• Avoid towing trailers or caravans; the road is not designed for heavy loads.

For electric vehicles, confirm your battery charge level exceeds 70% before beginning. Regenerative braking can assist on descent, but range anxiety is real on this route due to elevation gain and potential wind resistance.

Step 4: Ascend with Control

When climbing Porlock Hill, maintain a steady, low gear. For manual transmissions, use second or third gear depending on your vehicles power. Avoid gear huntingthis causes unnecessary strain on the transmission and can lead to loss of momentum. Keep your speed between 2030 mph on the steepest sections. Use engine braking to reduce reliance on the foot brake, which can overheat.

Watch for oncoming traffic. The passing places are spaced approximately every 150200 yards. If you encounter another vehicle, pull into the nearest passing place and stop completely. Do not attempt to squeeze past. It is courteousand legally expectedto yield to descending traffic, as they have less control on the steep slope.

Keep both hands on the wheel. The road is narrow and uneven, with loose gravel and occasional potholes. Avoid sudden steering movements. If you feel your vehicle losing traction, ease off the accelerator and allow momentum to stabilizedo not slam the brakes.

Step 5: Descend with Caution

Descending Porlock Hill is where most accidents occur. The temptation to use the brakes continuously is strong, but this leads to brake fadea dangerous condition where brake pads overheat and lose stopping power.

Instead, use engine braking:

• Shift into a lower gear before beginning the descent (third or second gear for most cars).
• Allow the engine to control your speedthis reduces brake usage by up to 70%.
• Apply the foot brake intermittently and lightly, not continuously.
• Do not coast in neutral. You lose steering control and braking efficiency.

Be extra cautious at the hairpin bends, particularly the Devils Elbow near the midpoint. These corners are blind and require slow, precise entry. Use the slow in, fast out technique: reduce speed before the turn, then gently accelerate as you exit. Always stay to the right side of the road unless passing in a designated area.

Step 6: Respect the Environment and Local Culture

Porlock Hill runs through protected land within Exmoor National Park. Littering, off-road driving, and noise pollution are strictly prohibited. Do not stop on the road to take photosuse designated viewpoints such as the Porlock Hill Car Park at the summit or the Lynmouth Cliff Railway station.

Local residents rely on this road for daily access. Avoid lingering, blocking passing places, or revving engines unnecessarily. Many homes and farms border the route; keep noise to a minimum, especially early in the morning.

Support local businesses. Stop in Porlock or Lynmouth for refreshments. The village cafs and independent shops contribute to the preservation of the area and offer insight into its history and ecology.

Step 7: Complete the Journey with Reflection

Upon reaching Lynmouth, take a moment to appreciate the engineering and natural beauty youve just experienced. The Lynmouth Cliff Railway, a water-balanced funicular built in 1890, connects the village to the cliff-top, offering an alternative perspective of the valley. Walk the East Lyn River trail or visit the Exmoor National Park Visitor Centre to learn more about the geology and conservation efforts that protect this landscape.

If youre continuing your journey, the A39 leads to Minehead and the North Devon coast. Alternatively, return via the A39 and A37 to avoid re-climbing Porlock Hill. Many travelers choose to make this a loop, experiencing both the ascent and descent on different days.

Best Practices

Practice Defensive Driving

Defensive driving is not optional on Porlock Hill. Assume every driver ahead of you may brake unexpectedly. Assume every blind corner conceals a slow-moving vehicle, cyclist, or animal. Always leave a buffer zoneminimum two car lengths on climbs, three on descents. Never tailgate, even if the vehicle ahead seems to be moving slowly.

Adopt the Look Ahead, Plan Ahead Mentality

Experienced drivers on Porlock Hill scan the road 100200 yards ahead at all times. Look for signs of oncoming traffic, debris, or livestock. Watch for warning signs indicating sharp bends, reduced speed limits, or falling rocks. These signs are not suggestionsthey are life-saving instructions.

Travel Light and Pack Smart

Carry only essentials: water, snacks, a first-aid kit, a flashlight, a warm jacket (even in summer), and a fully charged mobile phone with offline maps. Do not overload your vehicle with luggage. Extra weight increases braking distance and strain on suspension systems.

Use Your Lights Wisely

Turn on your headlights during daylight hours, especially in mist or shadowed sections. This increases your visibility to other drivers. Do not use high beams unless the road is completely clearblinding oncoming traffic is dangerous and illegal.

Respect Cyclists and Walkers

Porlock Hill is a popular route for cyclists and hikers. Cyclists often ride single-file and may be struggling on the ascent. Give them at least 1.5 meters of clearance when passing, and only pass where there is a designated passing place. Never honkstartling a cyclist on a steep incline can cause a fall.

Do Not Attempt to Race or Show Off

Speeding, drifting, or aggressive driving on Porlock Hill is not only recklessit is irresponsible. The road is narrow, unforgiving, and lined with cliffs. There are no safety barriers in many sections. A moment of thrill can end in tragedyfor you, for others, and for the natural environment. Touring Porlock Hill is about appreciation, not adrenaline.

Know Your Limits

If you feel anxious, fatigued, or unsure, stop. Use a passing place, take deep breaths, and reassess. There is no shame in waiting for conditions to improve or turning back. The mountain will still be there tomorrow.

Tools and Resources

Navigation Apps

While GPS apps are essential, not all are created equal for mountain roads. Use these recommended tools:

• Komoot Offers detailed elevation profiles and user reviews for Porlock Hill. Ideal for cyclists and hikers.
• Google Maps (Offline Mode) Download the route in advance. Enable Avoid Tolls and Avoid Ferries for accuracy.
• Windy.com Monitors real-time wind, fog, and precipitation over Exmoor. Crucial for planning.
• Exmoor National Park App Provides alerts on road closures, weather warnings, and trail conditions.

Vehicle Diagnostic Tools

Modern vehicles benefit from onboard diagnostics. Consider carrying:

• A portable OBD2 scanner to check for brake or engine warning codes before departure.
• A tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) for real-time alerts.
• A digital thermometer to monitor brake disc temperature if youre making multiple runs.

Books and Educational Materials

Deepen your understanding of the area with these resources:

• Exmoor: The Landscape and Its People by John R. L. Anderson A historical and ecological overview of the region.
• The Steep Roads of Britain by David S. Smith Includes detailed analysis of Porlock Hills engineering and safety evolution.
• Exmoor National Park Authority Publications Free downloadable guides on sustainable tourism and local wildlife.

Community Forums and Groups

Engage with local enthusiasts for real-time advice:

• Exmoor Drivers Forum (Facebook) Active community sharing weather updates, road conditions, and photo reports.
• Porlock Hill Cycling Club Offers guided rides and safety workshops for newcomers.
• UK Mountain Road Enthusiasts (Reddit) Discussions on vehicle setups and driving techniques.

Emergency Contacts and Local Support

In case of breakdown or medical emergency:

• Call 999 and ask for Police, Fire, or Ambulance as needed.
• Provide your location using the nearest landmark: Porlock Hill, between the second and third passing place, facing Lynmouth.
• The nearest major hospital is in Minehead (12 miles away).
• Exmoor National Park Rangers patrol the area and can assist with non-emergency issues.

Real Examples

Example 1: The Photographers Journey

Emma, a landscape photographer from Bristol, planned a sunrise shoot at the summit of Porlock Hill. She left at 5:30 AM, ensuring her car had a full charge and her camera gear was securely packed. She used Komoot to confirm the route and checked Windy.com for fog predictions. As she ascended, she encountered a local farmer driving a tractor. She pulled into the first passing place and waited patiently. At the summit, the mist had just lifted, revealing a golden sunrise over the Bristol Channel. She captured images that later won national acclaim. Her key lesson: Patience isnt just politeits the key to the best shots.

Example 2: The First-Time Motorcyclist

James, a 28-year-old motorcyclist, had never ridden a steep hill before. He rented a 600cc sport-touring bike and planned to ride Porlock Hill on a weekend. He ignored advice to check his brakes and started the climb at 40 mph. Halfway up, he lost traction on a patch of gravel and nearly veered off the road. He stopped at the summit, shaken, and called a local motorcycle shop. They helped him adjust his tire pressure and explained engine braking. On his second attempt, he descended slowly, using second gear and light brake taps. He returned home with respect, not fear. His reflection: The hill doesnt care how fast you think you are. It only cares if youre prepared.

Example 3: The Family Road Trip

The Patel family from London drove their hybrid SUV to Exmoor for a summer holiday. Their children were excited but nervous about the steep climb. Before departure, they watched a 5-minute video on Porlock Hill safety from the Exmoor National Park website. They played a spot the passing place game during the ascent, turning the drive into an educational experience. At the top, they enjoyed a picnic and learned about the history of the road from an interpretive sign. Their 7-year-old daughter later drew a picture of the road titled, The Road That Goes Up Like a Mountain. The family returned the next yearthis time, they cycled the descent.

Example 4: The Winter Challenge

In January, a group of four experienced drivers attempted Porlock Hill during a snowstorm. Despite having winter tires and four-wheel drive, they underestimated the wind and ice buildup in the bends. One vehicle slid into a ditch. Emergency services arrived within 20 minutes, but the road was closed for three days. The group later wrote a detailed account for the Exmoor Drivers Forum, warning others: Snow on Porlock Hill is not picturesqueits deadly. If you cant see the road markings, dont go.

FAQs

Is Porlock Hill safe for beginners?

Yes, but only with preparation. Beginners should travel during daylight hours, avoid rush times, and drive slowly. Consider riding as a passenger first to observe the roads behavior. Never attempt it alone if youre unfamiliar with steep gradients.

Can I drive a caravan up Porlock Hill?

No. Caravans and trailers are strongly discouraged and often prohibited by local signage. The gradient and narrowness make it unsafe and impractical. Use alternative routes such as the A39 via Lynton and Lynmouth.

How long does it take to drive Porlock Hill?

Typically 510 minutes to ascend, 712 minutes to descend, depending on traffic and conditions. Allow extra time for stops, photos, and yielding to other vehicles.

Are there any restrictions for electric vehicles?

No formal restrictions, but ensure your battery has sufficient charge for the elevation gain and return journey. Regenerative braking helps on descent, but range loss can be up to 25% on a single climb.

Is there public transport along Porlock Hill?

There is no direct public bus service on the hill itself. However, the Exmoor Explorer bus route connects Lynmouth and Porlock via the A39, bypassing the steep section. It runs seasonally and is ideal for non-drivers.

Why is Porlock Hill so steep?

The road follows an ancient drovers route used for centuries to move livestock between coastal pastures and inland farms. The steepness is a result of following natural contours rather than cutting through the hill. It was paved in the 19th century to accommodate horse-drawn carts and later motor vehicles.

Can I walk Porlock Hill?

Yes. A public footpath runs parallel to the road for much of its length, offering stunning views and a quieter experience. Wear sturdy footwearthe path is uneven and can be muddy. Allow 1.52 hours to walk uphill.

What should I do if I break down on Porlock Hill?

Move your vehicle into the nearest passing place if possible. Turn on hazard lights. Stay inside the vehicle unless its unsafe. Call 999 and provide your location using landmarks. Do not attempt to push the vehicleits dangerous and illegal.

Are there speed cameras on Porlock Hill?

Yes. Fixed and mobile speed cameras are installed at key points, especially near the hairpin bends. The speed limit is 30 mph in most sections. Fines are strictly enforced.

Can I take photos while driving?

No. Using a handheld device while driving is illegal. Use a dash cam or mount your camera securely. Stop at designated viewpoints for photography.

Conclusion

Touring Porlock Hill Steep Drive is not merely a driveit is an immersion into the wild beauty, engineering heritage, and quiet resilience of the English countryside. It is a route that demands respect, rewards patience, and leaves a lasting impression on all who traverse it with care. Whether you arrive in a luxury sedan, a vintage motorcycle, or on foot, the essence of Porlock Hill remains the same: a narrow ribbon of asphalt clinging to the edge of the moor, offering a fleeting glimpse of natures grandeur.

This guide has provided you with the tools, techniques, and mindset to experience Porlock Hill safely and meaningfully. But knowledge alone is not enough. True understanding comes from slowing down, listening to the wind, watching the clouds roll over the hills, and recognizing that you are a guest in a landscape shaped by centuries of weather, wildlife, and human perseverance.

So when you next find yourself at the base of Porlock Hill, dont just look up. Breathe. Prepare. And begin your journeynot as a tourist chasing a thrill, but as a traveler honoring a path that has carried generations before you.

Drive well. Respect the road. And let the mountain speak.