The Royal Oak Inn, Withypool

West Somerset District

Withypool and Hawkridge

The Royal Oak Inn, Withypool

Highlight • Restaurant

The Royal Oak Inn, Withypool

Hiking

5.0

(18)

Mountain biking

5.0

(1)

This Highlight is in a protected area

Please check local regulations for:

Exmoor National Park

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Location: Withypool and Hawkridge, West Somerset District, Somerset, South West England, England, United Kingdom

Tips

April 29, 2022

Hiking

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.

Galax

April 18, 2021

Hiking

Nice beer garden and friendly service. Fish and chips perfect!

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Christine🔹

October 7, 2023

Hiking

Really great village pub, not that touristy (yet?), but with an extremely down-to-earth menu and everything we had was of the best quality. Food is available all day long.
Children and dogs (!) have their own menu, fun.
Important: as incorrectly stated in another comment, this is NOT the pub of the same name in Luxborough, which is about 12 miles further east!

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Nearby routes

Best routes near The Royal Oak Inn, Withypool

4.7

(91)

431

hikers

#1.

Tarr Steps & Withypool loop — Exmoor National Park

11.9km

03:21

240m

230m

The Tarr Steps & Withypool loop in Exmoor National Park offers a moderate hiking experience, covering 7.4 miles (11.9 km) with an elevation gain of 778 feet (237 metres), typically taking 3 hours and 20 minutes to complete. You will follow the tranquil River Barle through ancient woodlands, where bluebells carpet the ground in spring, before ascending to open moorland for panoramic views of the Exmoor countryside. The path varies from smooth tracks to rocky, uneven, and potentially boggy sections, especially after rain, requiring sure-footedness as you navigate over tree roots and through fields.

This circular route is generally accessible, though parking areas like Tarr Steps and Withypool can become busy on sunny days. While the trail primarily uses paths and tracks, be prepared for some sections on quiet roads. The varied terrain, including potentially boggy riverside areas and a notable challenging uphill section, means good fitness is recommended. Consider starting early to avoid crowds and allow ample time to enjoy the diverse landscapes.

A highlight of the loop is Tarr Steps, Britain's longest ancient clapper bridge, made of unmortared stone slabs and dating back to medieval times. Local legend even claims the Devil placed its five-tonne slabs. You will also pass through Withypool village, a charming spot offering refreshments at The Royal Oak Inn and a seasonal tea room, along with its characteristic six-arch stone bridge. The River Barle, a designated nature reserve, is home to wildlife such as salmon, otters, and elusive dormice, providing opportunities for quiet observation. This route can also connect you to longer trails like the Exe Valley Way and the Two Moors Way.

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