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Twitchen

Attractions and Places To See around Twitchen - Top 20

Best attractions and places to see around Twitchen include a range of historical sites and natural landscapes within the Exmoor National Park area. This small civil parish in Devon is historically significant, mentioned in the Domesday Book. The region offers access to river valleys, ancient bridges, and challenging climbs, providing diverse outdoor experiences.

Best attractions and places to see around Twitchen

  • The most popular attractions is Tarr Steps clapper bridge, a bridge that is the longest clapper bridge in…

Last updated: June 22, 2026

Tarr Steps clapper bridge

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Tarr Steps is the longest clapper bridge (a bridge made of unmortared stone slabs) in Britain. The Grade I-listed, 17-span bridge was first mentioned in Tudor times but is probably medieval in origin.

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Withypool Stone Bridge

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Withypool is a quiet village in the Barle valley with a distinct upland character. Along the banks of the River Barle grow the willow trees that give Withypool its name. …

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Exmoor Forest Road Climb

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The most magnificent road through Exmoor. Quiet, foggy and rainy at times, steep out of Lynnouth, this is simply too gorgeous to leave out.

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Wheal Eliza mine ruins

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Between 1845 and 1857, there was a mine here, next to the River Barle, that initially produced copper and later switched to iron production. Now, only a few remnants remain, such as some stones from the worker's cottages.

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The Royal Oak Inn, Withypool

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This 18th-century pub is a great place to find some food if you're hiking in the area. It has rooms too, if you're looking for overnight accommodation and welcomes dogs both in the restaurant and overnight.

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Tips from the Community

Amanda And Arron Williams
February 23, 2025, Tarr Steps Clapper Bridge

If walking the route I've suggested I would wear good waterproof boots and if your unsteady on your feet take poles to help balance great walk to suit all abilities

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January 15, 2024, Withypool Stone Bridge

A great little village with an excellent pub, a couple of welcoming cafés and a shop. It's a great pit stop on a run. The six-arch stone bridge which spans the river Barle is about 100 years old.

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Moderate trail for everyone to explore and enjoy

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Moderate trail for everyone to explore and enjoy

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Moderate trail for everyone to explore and enjoy

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Moderate trail for everyone to explore and enjoy

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Wheal Eliza is situated 1.5 kilometres south east of Simonsbath in the Barle Valley, on the Two Moors Way. It contains the remains of a copper (and iron) mine dating from the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. The complex comprises the ruins of buildings associated with the mine, shafts and spoil heaps, a wheel pit, leat, and tail race/tailings pond. Principal significance Wheal Eliza is an important part of the mining history of the former Royal Forest of Exmoor. The complex is generally well preserved and complete. It is also associated with traumatic episodes in Exmoor’s social history, being the site where the body of Anna Maria Burgess was concealed in 1858.

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A 14th century inn with a homely, country feel. The Royal Oak Inn Luxborough has been at the heart of the pretty village for over 600 years and still to this day retains some of the building's original features. Inside you’ll find the original flagstone and cobblestone flooring, coupled with rugged stone walls and open beams – giving the inn unrivalled character and charm

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Frequently Asked Questions

What historical sites can I visit around Twitchen?

Twitchen and its surroundings are rich in history. You can explore the ancient Tarr Steps clapper bridge, a Grade I-listed structure likely medieval in origin. Another historical point of interest is the Withypool Stone Bridge, a characteristic six-arch bridge in the quiet village of Withypool. For a glimpse into Exmoor's industrial past, visit the Wheal Eliza mine ruins, remnants of a 19th-century copper and iron mine.

Are there family-friendly attractions near Twitchen?

Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. Both Tarr Steps clapper bridge and Withypool Stone Bridge offer pleasant, easy walks in scenic river valleys, perfect for all ages. The wider Exmoor National Park area, where Twitchen is located, provides numerous opportunities for outdoor exploration that families can enjoy together.

What natural features and viewpoints can I find in the area?

The Twitchen area, nestled within Exmoor National Park, offers stunning natural beauty. You can enjoy the wooded valley of the River Barle near Tarr Steps clapper bridge, known for its wildlife. For magnificent panoramic views over Exmoor, consider the Exmoor Forest Road Climb, which takes you from sea level to the top of Hoar Tor, often above the tree line.

What outdoor activities, like hiking and cycling, are available?

The region around Twitchen is excellent for outdoor enthusiasts. You'll find a variety of trails for hiking, road cycling, and mountain biking. For easy walks, explore routes like the 'River in Exmoor National Park – Tarr Steps clapper bridge loop'. Cyclists can tackle challenging routes such as the 'Exmoor Forest Road Climb' or explore the Barle valley. You can find more detailed routes and guides for easy hikes, road cycling, and MTB trails around Twitchen.

Are there dog-friendly places to visit or walks around Twitchen?

Yes, the area is generally very welcoming to dogs, especially for walks. The circular route around Tarr Steps clapper bridge is particularly enjoyed by dogs. Additionally, The Royal Oak Inn, Withypool, an 18th-century pub, welcomes dogs both in its restaurant and for overnight stays, making it a great stop after a walk.

What is the best time of year to visit Twitchen for outdoor activities?

The Twitchen area, particularly attractions like Tarr Steps clapper bridge, is enjoyable all year round. While summer offers warmer weather, autumn brings beautiful colors to the wooded valleys. Be prepared for potentially foggy and rainy conditions, especially on higher elevations like the Exmoor Forest Road Climb, even on bright days, as the wind can be biting.

Where can I find food or accommodation near the attractions?

In the village of Withypool, near the Withypool Stone Bridge, you'll find The Royal Oak Inn, an 18th-century pub offering food and accommodation. There's also a tea room and a shop/post office/museum in Withypool. Near Tarr Steps clapper bridge, there's a pub at the start/finish of the circular route.

Are there any challenging trails for experienced hikers or cyclists?

Yes, for those seeking a challenge, the Exmoor Forest Road Climb offers significant elevation gain from sea level to Hoar Tor with steep sections out of Lynmouth. The wider Exmoor National Park also features numerous challenging trails for both cycling and hiking, including those with difficult grades in the road cycling and MTB guides.

What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Twitchen?

Visitors particularly appreciate the blend of historical significance and natural beauty. The easy, scenic walks around Tarr Steps clapper bridge are highly rated, especially for their year-round appeal and the presence of a welcoming pub. The quiet atmosphere of villages like Withypool and the magnificent views from high points like the Exmoor Forest Road Climb are also frequently highlighted.

Is there public transport or parking available for these attractions?

While specific public transport details for each attraction are limited, many popular sites like Tarr Steps clapper bridge have on-site car parks and toilet facilities. For villages like Withypool, parking spaces can be almost non-existent, suggesting it might be better to hike in rather than start from there. Always check local information for the most current parking and transport options.

Can I spot wildlife in the Twitchen area?

Yes, the natural surroundings of Twitchen, especially within Exmoor National Park, offer opportunities for wildlife spotting. The beautiful wooded valley of the River Barle near Tarr Steps clapper bridge is known for its wildlife. You might also encounter wild ponies on the heathland of Winsford Hill and sheep on higher-elevation routes like the Exmoor Forest Road Climb.

What is the significance of Twitchen village itself?

The village of Twitchen is a small civil parish in Devon, England, with historical roots. It was mentioned in the Domesday Book, indicating its long-standing presence in the region. While specific cultural sites within the village are limited, it is home to St Peter's Church and serves as a gateway to the wider attractions of Exmoor National Park.

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