Wild Swim Atlas

    Tarr Steps

    Tarr Steps Nature Reserve, Hawkridge, ExmoorRiver on River BarleSwim upstream pool

    Directions
    Getting there

    River Barle pools and shallows surround the historic Tarr Steps bridge.

    Water
    River, River Barle
    Swim hours
    Open all year
    Dogs
    Dogs allowed in the shallows
    Managed by
    Exmoor National Park

    Getting there

    Follow the signed road off the B3223 to the Tarr Steps car park; the deeper pool is about 20 minutes upstream from the bridge.

    51.0771, -3.6177

    Get directions

    Know before you go

    • Do not enter when the river is high.
    • Take care because rocks are slippery.
    • Take care because the current strengthens after rain.

    Swimming spots nearby

    All of Exmoor
    Swimming permitted13 mi

    Long Pool

    River
    Watersmeet, Lynmouth

    Questions about Tarr Steps

    Can you swim at Tarr Steps?

    Yes, swimming is described in a deeper pool upstream. The river is cold, rocky and stronger after rain.

    Are dogs allowed at Tarr Steps?

    Dogs allowed in the shallows

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