top of page

Tarr Steps

Hidden Gem

Terrain:

Activities

Best Time To Visit

Woodland, Riverside, Valley

Walking, Photography

Spring to Autumn

Photo: norman griffin via Geograph.org.uk

Tarr Steps is an ancient clapper bridge crossing the River Barle in a wooded valley on Exmoor, in Somerset, the longest bridge of its kind in Britain. Great flat slabs of stone, each weighing a ton or more, are laid across low stone piers to make a flat causeway some fifty-five metres long, with no ...

6

Parking nearby

1

Food Spots nearby

1

Staycations nearby

Parking:

Food:

Staycations:

1 day, 5 overnight

Withypool Tea Room​

Dulverton Hostel

Nearest Hidden Gem 1

Nearest Hidden Gem 2

Nearest Hidden Gem 3

FAQ's/Things to Know

Where is Tarr Steps?
Somerset contains this ancient crossing within the heavily wooded valley of Exmoor National Park. Hikers usually approach the site on foot by following the riverside trails.

What type of place is Tarr Steps?
Tarr Steps is a prehistoric clapper bridge in the Exmoor National Park in Somerset.

When is the best time to visit Tarr Steps?
Spring through to autumn offers the most pleasant conditions for walking along the River Barle. Crisp morning light during these months helps showcase the rich colours of the surrounding ancient oak woodland.

What can you do at Tarr Steps?
Walking across the massive flat gritstone slabs gives you a real sense of ancient human ingenuity. People also enjoy photographing the stone structure and exploring the surrounding nature reserve.

How long should I spend at Tarr Steps?
Allocating around an hour or two gives ample time to cross the bridge and explore the immediate paths. A longer stay suits anyone wanting to tackle a full circular hike through the valley.

Where do I park at Tarr Steps?
Motorists can use the six available spaces nearby, which provide one day and five overnight spots. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I eat near Tarr Steps?
Withypool Tea Room provides one great spot to grab some refreshments nearby. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I stay near Tarr Steps?
Dulverton Hostel offers one comfortable place to spend the night in the area. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Free UK Travel Guides

Planning a UK adventure? Download our free itinerary guides and hidden gem collections, completely free.

Last Updated:

02 July 2026

Logo RGB_White_Stacked.png

Download the app

Subscribe to our weekly newsletter to get all the latest updates regarding hidden gems and staycations plus much more!

Thanks for subscribing!

Cookie Policy

Connect with us

  • Instagram
  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • Youtube
  • TikTok
bottom of page
UK Hidden Gems
UK Hidden GemsUncover the UK's best secrets on our app