Picturesque Exmoor - Withypool and Tarr Steps
7 people attending
18 places left
A picturesque circular route following the River Barle from Withypool to the Tarr Steps. This walk is one of the finest walks Exmoor has to offer with some lovely stretches of riverside walking. We’ll cross the uniquely elaborate clapper bridge of Tarr Steps which will be our half way point on our walk. After which we’ll return to Withypool with one of our first climbs above the valley, which is a gentle assent. We then continue over the open moorland of Withypool Hill. With a descend from the open moorland we’ll then be returning to Withypool for a well-deserved beer, or a brew.
The walk initially will follow the well wooded valley, and the river side path is narrow and rocky in places and also can be quite muddy, however the climbs in the latter part of the walk are relatively undemanding.
Photo Credits: All photos taken by Peter Lyth and permission is granted to OutdoorLads for further use.
Dogs are welcome to join under a control due to free roaming livestock and horses.
IMPORTANT! - Participation Statement
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Anyone with COVID-19 symptoms, even if they are extremely mild, or who has recently tested positive for Covid-19, is asked not to attend.
What to bring
Note that the kit list below is only a broad general guide and you will need to consider the weather forecast and specific conditions when deciding what to wear closer to the time.
Hand sanitiser and a face covering: whilst we are living with Covid-19, please bring your own to events to help keep everyone safe
Water: bring at least two litres
Medicines: if you have hay fever, diabetes, minor ailments etc.
Day rucksack: typically 20-30 litres, they are comfortable to wear and allow you to use your arms freely
Boots: waterproof and breathable and designed for hiking. If the weather has been good then you may get away with good quality trainers but walking boots/shoes are recommended.
Socks: proper walking socks will keep your feet dry and help prevent blisters
Layered clothing: lets you quickly adapt to changes in the weather and body temperature. Go for a base layer (vest or t-shirt) and a mid layer (a micro fleece or shirt) and in cooler weather add an outer layer (a windproof jacket or thick fleece)
Trousers: ideally no jeans as they become heavy and cold in the rain, breathable fabrics are more comfortable and dry and on warm days shorts are OK
Waterproof jacket: essential when hiking in all but the calmest of weather, breathable fabrics are more comfortable and dry
Gloves: Windproof, or better still, waterproof gloves are the best choice, bring a spare pair if expecting rain
Hat or cap: stay warm in winter and shaded in summer
Sunglasses: for any sunny day, even in winter
Snacks: bring biscuits, energy bars, gels, bananas, chocolate or dried fruit for example and put them somewhere easy to get hold of
Lunch: bring a packed lunch
Food & drink
Please bring a packed lunch and plenty of water.