Tarr Steps Circular
Somerset
Tarr Steps is a prehistoric clapper bridge across the River Barle on Exmoor, a line of massive stone slabs laid across the river that has been in use for at least 3,000 years and possibly longer. This 3.9km circuit follows the river upstream through ancient sessile oak woodland before crossing the valley and returning along the opposite bank. The woodland is dense, atmospheric and designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest, with twisted oaks growing from mossy boulders above the clear, brown river. The bridge itself, at 55 metres long, is one of the finest examples in Britain. With just 85 metres of climbing, the terrain is gentle and the paths well maintained.
This is a delightful dog friendly walk with high off-lead potential through the woodland where the enclosed riverside environment provides natural boundaries. The River Barle is clean, shallow and accessible, with numerous entry points for paddling and swimming along the route. Livestock risk is low within the wooded valley. The ancient oak woodland carries rich, complex scent from moss, leaf litter and the damp stone of the river corridor. The bridge is spectacular when the river is flowing after rain. Tarr Steps car park provides access, and the Tarr Farm Inn nearby welcomes dogs and serves excellent food. A walk that combines one of Britain's oldest structures with some of Exmoor's finest riverside woodland.
At a Glance
- Distance
- 3.9 km (2.4 miles)
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Duration
- 1 hr 15 min
- Walk Type
- River, Woodland, Historic
- Route Type
- Circular
- Off Lead Potential
- High
- Livestock Risk
- Low
- Facilities
- Tarr Farm Inn (dog-friendly restaurant with rooms); toilets at car park
- Parking
- Tarr Steps car park (TA22 9PY); pay and display; limited spaces
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Tarr Steps Circular dog friendly?
Tarr Steps Circular is a fantastic choice for dogs, earning a 9/10 dog-friendly rating. The River Barle runs alongside much of the route and offers plenty of spots for paddling and swimming, while the Tarr Farm Inn near the car park welcomes dogs and serves excellent food , a lovely way to round off the walk.
Can dogs be off lead at Tarr Steps Circular?
Off-lead potential is high for much of this walk. The enclosed riverside woodland provides natural boundaries, and livestock risk within the wooded valley is low, making it well suited to dogs who enjoy roaming freely. As always, use your judgement around the bridge and any busier sections of the path.
What should I know before visiting Tarr Steps Circular with my dog?
The walk is 3.9km with only 85 metres of climbing, so it's an easy, accessible route for most dogs. Parking is at Tarr Steps car park (TA22 9PY), which is pay and display with limited spaces, so it's worth arriving early during busy periods. The river can be particularly impressive after rain, and toilets are available at the car park.
What’s Nearby?
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