Attractions and Places To See around Brushford - Top 20

Brushford is ideally located on the southern edge of Exmoor National Park, offering numerous natural highlights. A must-see is Tarr Steps clapper bridge, an ancient bridge made of unmortared stone slabs, surrounded by the beautiful Tarr Steps Woodland National Nature Reserve. The area also features the scenic River Barle and River Exe, and you can find epic vistas from Winsford Hill Summit Monument or Haddon Hill Trig Point.

Brushford and its surroundings are rich in history. The village itself is home to the Church of St. Nicholas, a Grade I listed building with parts dating back to the 13th century, featuring a medieval screen and a very old parish chest. Nearby, you can visit Tarr Steps clapper bridge, believed to be medieval in origin, and the characteristic Withypool Stone Bridge, which replaced an older packhorse bridge.

Yes, several attractions around Brushford are suitable for families. Tarr Steps clapper bridge offers easy walking routes in its surrounding woodland, perfect for a family stroll. The village of Withypool with its stone bridge is also a pleasant spot. Additionally, the All Saints Church, Dulverton, is a historical site that can be interesting for older children.

Being on the edge of Exmoor National Park, Brushford is a fantastic base for outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking, cycling, and horse riding across the moorland, woodland, and coastline. The River Barle and River Exe offer scenic routes. For specific trails, explore the hiking routes around Brushford, or if you prefer two wheels, check out the MTB trails or gravel biking routes.

Withypool is a quiet, delightful Exmoor village in the Barle valley. Its main feature is the characteristic six-arch Withypool Stone Bridge, built about 100 years ago. The village also has a shop/post office/museum, a tea room, and a good pub, making it a great stop during a walk or bike ride.

Yes, Exmoor National Park is generally very dog-friendly. For dining, The Royal Oak Inn in Withypool welcomes dogs both in its restaurant and for overnight stays. Many of the walking trails, such as those around Tarr Steps, are also suitable for dogs, allowing you to explore the beautiful natural scenery together.

For dining, The Royal Oak Inn in Withypool is an 18th-century pub offering food and accommodation. While Bridge Cottage Tea Room in Winsford was a popular spot for cream teas, it has unfortunately closed. Dulverton, a nearby town, also offers various amenities, shops, and restaurants.

Exmoor National Park is beautiful year-round. Spring brings blooming wildflowers and newborn wildlife, while summer offers longer days for hiking and exploring. Autumn is particularly stunning with vibrant foliage, and winter provides a tranquil, dramatic landscape, often with fewer visitors. The Tarr Steps area, for example, is described as great all year round.

Absolutely. The area around Tarr Steps clapper bridge offers nice easy walking on circular routes, with an on-site car park and toilet facilities for convenience. You can also find easy hiking routes like the 'New Bridge (River Barle) – The Bridge Inn loop from Brushford' or 'Small Waterfall on the River – River Exe Bridge loop from Brushford' within the hiking guide for Brushford.

For those seeking more challenging routes, Exmoor National Park provides ample opportunities. The 'View of Dulverton – The Bridge Inn loop from Brushford' is listed as a difficult hike in the hiking guide for Brushford. Additionally, the climb to Winsford Hill Summit Monument offers epic vistas and a challenging ascent.

The terrain around Brushford is excellent for both mountain biking and gravel biking. You can find a variety of trails, from moderate to difficult. Explore the MTB Trails around Brushford, which include loops like 'Barle Bridge – Hollam Wood Path' or 'Tarr Steps clapper bridge – Withypool Stone Bridge'. For gravel biking, check out the Gravel biking around Brushford guide for routes such as 'Wimbleball Dam – Bury Stone Bridge and Ford loop'.

Visitors frequently praise the natural beauty and tranquility of the area, especially the wooded valley of the River Barle around Tarr Steps. The historical significance of sites like the All Saints Church, Dulverton, and the charm of villages like Withypool are also highly appreciated. Many enjoy the diverse outdoor activities and the welcoming, dog-friendly atmosphere of local establishments.