Dulverton

As the river flows, it passes beneath the Landacre Bridge in Withypool, a late medieval stone bridge consisting of six arches. Additionally, the renowned Tarr Steps, a prehistoric clapper bridge that potentially dates back to 1000 BC, can be found along the river's course. Local legend attributes the construction of the Tarr Steps to the devil, who supposedly placed the stone slabs spanning 180 feet with 17 spans as part of a wager. Recognized by English Heritage as a grade I listed building, the Tarr Steps hold historical and architectural significance.The Barle Valley boasts extensive stretches of ancient upland Sessile Oak woodland, showcasing variations in structure and species composition due to variations in past management, geology, and topography. The river itself offers opportunities for salmon and trout fishing.Dulverton lies nestled in the deep, wooded valley of the River Barle, serving as a historic meeting point and river crossing. Similar to the river, the Barle Valley holds the distinction of being a biological Site of Special Scientific Interest. Apart from the Tarr Steps, other notable bridges crossing the Barle include the medieval Barle Bridge, featuring five spans and dual rings on the downstream side and single rings on the upstream side. The bridge underwent repairs in 1624, widening in 1819 by John Stone, and subsequent restorations in 1866 and 1952-1953 following flood damage. Another bridge, Marsh Bridge, originally constructed in the 18th century, underwent alterations in 1866, including the removal of the central pier and the insertion of an iron bridge. The parapet was reconstructed in steel in 1979 after being destroyed in 1952. Furthermore, the River Barle is crossed by the New Bridge dating from 1870 near Brushford, which leads to Pixton Park, once home to notable figures such as John Dyke Acland, Harriet Acland, Evelyn Waugh, and Auberon Waugh.In addition to the River Barle, the parish of Dulverton is also traversed by the River Exe, with notable bridges including the medieval Chilly Bridge and Hele Bridge, as well as the 18th-century Weir Bridge. Situated between the town center and the river lies a spacious recreation meadow that recently underwent renovation through the efforts of locals, including the pupils of Dulverton Middle School, with support from the Barclays Bank New Futures Scheme.South of the town lies Briggins Moor, a biological Site of Special Scientific Interest showcasing unimproved mire, a rare type of habitat primarily found in southwest England and Wales, which has significantly diminished in recent times. The moor is characterized by the prevalence of purple moor-grass (Molinia caerulea) and meadow thistle (Cirsium dissectum), while harboring a substantial population of the marsh fritillary butterfly (Eurodryas aurinia).