Days out on Exmoor - Tarr Steps

Tarr Steps is always one of the most popular days out when guests book Woodleigh Cottage. It's not only a significant Ancient Monument in its own right, but it's also great fun. After a drive across beautiful Exmoor and down the deep valley, you can cross the river via the giant 'steps'. Enjoy a walk along the riverbanks and even think about a wild swim if the weather is kind. Afterward, you can have a picnic, book a delicious meal at the Tarr Farm Inn, or just join the regulars for a Somerset cider and a snack in the bar.

Tarr Steps - Myths and Legends

The exact origins of Tarr Steps are unknown. This famous bridge could date from the Bronze Age, and there are remains nearby of forts from that period. The term ‘Tarr’ is thought to derive from the Celtic word ‘tochar’, meaning ‘causeway’.

Since no one really knows who built it, when, and how, a number of myths have developed about its creation. Local folklore suggests it was built by the Devil himself. According to the tale, only after a local parson challenged him did he allow people to cross it, except on occasions when he chose to sunbathe there.

Getting Closer to Nature

The woods around Tarr Steps are of national importance for conservation. They are home to rare lichens that thrive in the moist, clean air of the valley. A walk by the river gives you a chance to see birds at the water’s edge, such as Dippers, Yellow Wagtails, and, if you are very fortunate, a Kingfisher. In summer, swifts and swallows swoop across the river’s pools, catching mayflies. In the early morning or evening, you may see woodland bats on the wing.

Above and behind you, in the wood, you’ll hear and maybe see green and lesser spotted Woodpeckers, Nuthatches, and Tree Creepers as they feed on insects on the tree trunks amid the lichen. The area is known for sightings of Dormice and even Otters. Early morning, late afternoon, and early evening can be the most rewarding times to get close to Exmoor’s wildlife.

It's a great place to visit with the family and a fascinating spot for adults and children alike, keen to get closer to nature. I first experienced it at the age of nine. For someone more used to the noise of London traffic, the constant sound of the rushing river was a revelation. We were encouraged to ‘go off and enjoy ourselves’—which meant climbing down from the bridge onto the island below it and making camps.

Jane and I still visit Tarr Steps regularly. Seeing young people discover and enjoy Tarr Steps for the first time brings back many happy memories!

Tarr Steps - History and Construction

If bridge history is your thing, visiting Tarr Steps is a must. This is a ‘Clapper Bridge’, from the Latin ‘Claperius’, meaning ‘pile of stones’. It is formed of 17 ‘spans’, built from giant paving stones mounted on piers laid on the riverbed. These piers are composed of uprights and horizontals arranged to resist the pressure of the river’s flow.

The bridge is 59 yards (54m) long, and some stones are over 7 feet long and weigh as much as two tonnes. This makes it the longest of 40 such surviving bridges in Britain.

Visiting Tarr Steps

Getting to Tarr Steps by car takes just 15 minutes from Dulverton via Winsford Hill. After taking a left turn, you will arrive at Tarr Steps. To create a car-free experience at Tarr Steps itself, there’s a ‘pay and display’ car park from where you can walk down to the bridge through a field. Ignore the Sat Nav if it suggests you can drive across the river. The crossing is best made on horseback or in a 4x4 with high ground clearance, and then, only when the river level is low!

If you’d prefer to stretch your legs, walking there will take you over some of the most stunning scenery across Winsford Hill and down the River Barle valley. A return trip will take about 4-5 hours, so make sure you are prepared.

Alternatively, you can walk there, enjoy Tarr Steps, and book a meal at Tarr Farm Inn. It’s probably best to book a taxi in advance for your return journey!

Along the riverbanks, there are also quiet, calm areas where you can enjoy a picnic. If you are feeling adventurous, you can even try some wild swimming in the warmer months.

Tarr Steps and Tarr Woods - Conservation

The Steps face the full force of winter weather and are often submerged as the river’s level rises. On more than one occasion, debris hurtling downstream has dislodged the stones and washed the bridge away, requiring it to be re-assembled. Today, each of the largest stones is numbered, making this process easier.

You can learn more from Exmoor National Park about visiting Tarr Steps. Please note that as of February 2026, it is not possible to do a circular walk, as one of the more modern bridges upstream is damaged. However, you can still enjoy a great walk on either or both sides of the river.

Visiting Tarr Steps with Woodlands Holidays

Woodleigh Cottage in Dulverton is ideally situated to explore and enjoy Exmoor. You can visit beautiful sites like Tarr Steps and the Barle Valley. We look forward to welcoming you and helping you enjoy your stay throughout the year. Experience Exmoor ponies in the wild, walk through the beautiful woodlands, and enjoy the ancient pubs and superb local food on offer in this very special National Park.

https://www.woodlandsholidays.com/booking

Photo of Scene around Tarr Steps - credit: Neville Stanikk