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Magpie Bridge

Wild Swimming Spot

Terrain:

Activities

Best Time To Visit

Woodland, Riverside

Swimming, Picnicking

Spring to Autumn

David Smith / CC BY-SA 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons

Magpie Bridge is a local name for Bedford Bridge, which carries a road over the wooded River Walkham in west Dartmoor, between Grenofen and Horrabridge. The nickname comes from the Magpie tea rooms that once stood on the corner here. The river below runs clear and peaty over boulders under the trees...

10

Parking nearby

3

Food Spots nearby

0

Staycations nearby

Parking:

Food:

Staycations:

9 day, 1 overnight

The Market Inn – Tavistock, The Bedford Hotel Bar – Tavistock, The Cornish Arms – Tavistock

Nearest Hidden Gem 1

Nearest Hidden Gem 2

Nearest Hidden Gem 3

FAQ's/Things to Know

Where is Magpie Bridge?
Devon contains this beautiful riverside spot near Tavistock. Walkers cross the historic stone arches when exploring the local valley woodlands.

What type of place is Magpie Bridge?
Magpie Bridge is a family-friendly wild swimming spot on the River Walkham in Devon.

When is the best time to visit Magpie Bridge?
Spring through to autumn offers the finest weather for enjoying a quick dip in the clear currents. Summer mornings provide beautiful sunlight filtering through the trees before crowds arrive.

What can you do at Magpie Bridge?
Families usually pack a large picnic blanket to spend the afternoon relaxing on the soft grass banks. Children love wading into the shallow riverbed and looking for small fish in the translucent pools.

How long should I spend at Magpie Bridge?
Allocating roughly two hours ensures enough time for a refreshing swim and a relaxed lunch. People often stay longer on warm July days to fully enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

Where do I park at Magpie Bridge?
Roadside bays provide ten spaces close by, split into nine day slots and a single overnight spot. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I eat near Magpie Bridge?
The Market Inn – Tavistock, The Bedford Hotel Bar – Tavistock, and The Cornish Arms – Tavistock offer three establishments for food nearby. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I stay near Magpie Bridge?
There are no staycation spots recorded immediately near Magpie Bridge, check the UK Hidden Gems app for the nearest options.

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Last Updated:

02 July 2026

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