Tarr Steps River Loop
A quieter Exmoor river walk that goes well beyond the famous bridge.
3moors Verified
This route has been reviewed and prepared by 3moors using mapping, terrain analysis, local knowledge and editorial review.
About this walk
Tarr Steps draws visitors for the clapper bridge, but the real hidden-gem experience begins once you carry on into the wooded Barle valley.
Who this walk is for
Who this walk is for
- ✔Walkers
The Experience
• Ancient bridge • Woodland river • Quieter beyond the hotspot
Elevation Profile
Illustrative profileRoute Summary
• Start at Tarr Steps • Cross the bridge • Follow the river loop • Return on the opposite bank
Landscape & History
Folklore famously credits the Devil with building the bridge, while the wider valley keeps the route feeling older and greener than a quick tourist stop.
Safety & Conditions
Weather
Check the forecast before setting out. Wind, rain or low cloud can quickly change route character.
Navigation
Straightforward in good visibility on most routes, but open moor, coast or downland sections need attention.
Livestock & Wildlife
Livestock may be present on some paths and in adjoining fields; keep dogs under close control.
Footwear
Wear sturdy footwear with grip, especially where paths are muddy, rocky, chalky or rooty.
Variations
Keep it short around the bridge or follow the full riverside loop for the best experience.
Access & Parking
Public paths and tracks vary in surface quality. Take extra care after rain and expect some uneven ground.
3moors Community
Recent conditions or questions about this walk?
Join the 3moors Community to ask about path conditions, parking, wildlife sightings and local tips.
Join the 3moors CommunityDiscussion takes place in our Facebook community.
Join the 3moors Community for path conditions & local tips.
JoinWildlife you might see
Common sightings along this route — based on habitat and recent reports
Peak seasonRed Deer
mammal
Season approachingCommon Sandpiper
marine-life
Peak seasonCommon Buzzard
bird
Season approachingBilberry
plant
Peak seasonMoorland Fungi
fungi
Recent sightings on this walk
Real sightings submitted by walkers on this route
No sightings reported for this walk yet — be the first to add one.
History along the route
Stay nearby
Browse all →Accommodation close to this walk
Featured and Promoted listings are paid placements. Organic results are ordered by proximity.
Walk information is based on direct experience and local knowledge. Conditions on the moor can change — always use your own judgement.
More walks to explore
All walks
Buckfast Abbey Riverside Walk
A gentle riverside walk from Buckfast Abbey along the River Dart with woodland, wildlife and peaceful views.
White Horse Trail at Cherhill
Short, steep walk to the Cherhill White Horse with sweeping Wiltshire views.
Langford Lakes Waterside Walk
Peaceful lakeside walk with rich wildlife and easy paths.