{"id":938,"date":"2018-05-27T15:27:49","date_gmt":"2018-05-27T15:27:49","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.thebestofexmoor.co.uk\/blog\/?p=938"},"modified":"2026-05-30T09:46:46","modified_gmt":"2026-05-30T09:46:46","slug":"tarr-steps","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.thebestofexmoor.co.uk\/blog\/tarr-steps\/","title":{"rendered":"Tarr Steps | Ancient Bridge & Nature Reserve Walk"},"content":{"rendered":"

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Beautiful, iconic, and ancient\u2014Tarr Steps is one of Exmoor\u2019s most fascinating landmarks. This historic “clapper bridge” is the longest and oldest of its kind in Britain, possibly dating back thousands of years. If you\u2019re visiting Exmoor National Park, this is a must-see spot, offering stunning walks, rich wildlife, and a welcoming country pub to finish your adventure.<\/p>\n

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\"Tarr<\/span><\/p>\n

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What is a clapper bridge?<\/h2>\n

A ‘clapper bridge’ is formed by arranging huge slabs over stacks of stones. No mortar, cement or effort in design is required (although effort in finding and moving the slabs would certainly have been no mean feat, with slabs weighing up to several tons!) This technique has allowed people to form bridges over shallow streams and fords long before stone arches or cementing methods were understood.<\/p>\n

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History and legend of the Tarr Steps<\/h2>\n

There is no definite date of origin to the Tarr Steps, with various theories to support different ages. Some date it back as far as 1000 BCE of the Bronze Age. The official listing is to the medieval period.<\/p>\n

One rationale for the suggestion of a prehistoric date includes evidence that a number of prehistoric tracks coverage here, although the presence of a bridge as a result of this remains debatable. Secondly, dating it by the place-name association of “Tarr.” The Celtic “Tochar” or “Toher” means “causeway” (across water).<\/p>\n

According to folklore,\u00a0local legend has it that the Steps were first laid by the devil. Obviously, the locals of the time weren’t too happy to have the devil in their midst, particularly as he wouldn’t allow anyone to cross here. Witnesses observed a black cat attempt the crossing, only to disappear in a puff of smoke midway. The Vicar somewhat bravely decided to try his luck. Following a mid-bridge confrontation, with much gesticulating and intimidation, the devil backed down. It was subsequently agreed that anyone could cross unharmed. He did, however, request the right to sunbathe on the stones should he fancy it.<\/p>\n

If you\u2019re exploring more of Exmoor\u2019s villages, Porlock is a must \u2014 see our visitor\u2019s guide<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Tarr Steps Facts<\/h2>\n