Opened in 1940, the building was the range observation post for the top secret Gunnery Research Unit, based at RAF Exeter.

Here at Stantyway Farm, the renowned Professor Sir Bennett Melvill Jones perfected a revolutionary aircraft gunnery sight, which helped ensure allied air superiority on D-Day

The Observation Post has always been an important landmark and a popular rest stop for walkers on the South West Coast Path, which runs past the front of the building. In recent years this iconic building was becoming derelict and in danger of being lost.

Isaac Kenyon

August 10, 2023

Running

There is also a water tap where you can fill your water bottle up here, very useful for hikers and runners alike!

Somerset_gone_wild

February 15, 2025

Hiking

Perfect stopping point come rain or shine for lunch or a snack

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Best Hikes to Brandy Head Observation Post

4.8

(61)

371

hikers

1. Otterton Ledge – Otter Estuary Nature Reserve loop from Littleham

28.2km

07:49

470m

Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Hard

4.7

(25)

178

hikers

2. Otterton Ledge – Otter Estuary Nature Reserve loop from Budleigh Salterton

20.5km

05:53

430m

Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Hard

4.8

(22)

148

hikers

3. Otterton Ledge – Otter Estuary Nature Reserve loop from Sidmouth

23.2km

06:35

450m

Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Hard

Details

Informations

Elevation 30 m

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Location: Otterton, East Devon, Devon, South West England, England, United Kingdom

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Brandy Head Observation Post

1. Otterton Ledge – Otter Estuary Nature Reserve loop from Littleham

2. Otterton Ledge – Otter Estuary Nature Reserve loop from Budleigh Salterton

3. Otterton Ledge – Otter Estuary Nature Reserve loop from Sidmouth

Other Popular Places to Check Out

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