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Tarr Steps is a clapper bridge crossing the River Barle in Exmoor, Somerset, constructed from large flat slabs of stone laid across supports to form a ford. The bridge consists of seventeen spans created from local slate, supported on stone piers, and represents one of the finest examples of medieval clapper bridge construction in England. While traditionally attributed to medieval origins, recent scholarly assessment suggests it may date from the sixteenth or seventeenth century, though some of its component stonework may incorporate earlier material. The bridge remains a striking example of vernacular engineering designed to enable crossing of the river whilst allowing flood waters to pass over the structure.
Tarr Steps is a scheduled monument protected by Historic England under reference 1021325. View the official record →
Tarr Steps is a clapper bridge crossing the River Barle in Exmoor, Somerset, constructed from large flat slabs of stone laid across supports to form a ford. It is designated a Scheduled Ancient Monument by Historic England (NHLE) under reference 1021325.
Tarr Steps is a Scheduled Ancient Monument, legally protected by Historic England (NHLE) — the body responsible for designating and safeguarding heritage sites in England. The official designation reference is 1021325.
Several scheduled monuments lie within 10 km, including Old Barrow on Old Barrow Down (2.7 km), Brewer's Castle (2.8 km), Mounsey Castle and an associated outwork 100m to the north (3 km).
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Research the area around Tarr Steps