Routes

Planner

Features

Updates

App

Login or Signup

Get the App

Login or Signup

Routes
Places to see
Natural Monuments
United Kingdom
England
South West England
Devon
North Devon

Molland

Top 6 Natural Monuments around Molland

Best natural monuments around Molland are found within the unspoiled natural beauty and ancient landscapes of this small village and civil parish in Devon, England. Molland is nestled in the foothills of Exmoor National Park, a protected area known for its diverse landscapes including moorland, woodland, and river valleys. Geographical features such as Molland Common, Molland Moor, and the River Yeo contribute to the area's wild character and scenic countryside. The region offers opportunities for appreciating the natural environment of…

Last updated: June 30, 2026

Tarr Steps clapper bridge

Highlight • Bridge

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.

Tip by

See hikes here

Send to Phone

Save

Coin Tree in Exmoor National Park

Highlight • Structure

Quite a strange custom. A story I was once told: if you want to get rid of an illness, you symbolically give it to a dead tree with a coin. …

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

Sign up now to discover places like this

Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.

Sign up for free

Ridge Road View of Exmoor National Park

Highlight (Segment) • Viewpoint

Look across to Dartmoor on a clear day. Tough going if there's a prevailing headwind!

Tip by

Save

View of Cow Castle

Highlight • Natural Monument

This spot offers privileged views of Cow Castle, a univallate hillfort from the Iron Age that occupies an isolated knoll in the valley of the River Barle, dominating it.

Tip by

Save

Winsford Hill Summit Monument

Highlight • Natural Monument

Epic vistas across Exmoor from up here and a decent climb to boot from pretty much any direction. If you're heading North get off the main road and reward yourself …

Tip by

Save

Sign up for free to discover even more natural monuments around Molland.

Sign up for free

Already have an account?

Start today with a free account

Your next adventure awaits.

Login or Signup

Popular around Molland

MTB Trails around Molland

Road Cycling Routes around Molland

Cycling around Molland

Running Trails around Molland

Hiking around Molland

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

1

0

There is a couple of these money stumps alot this route I had never seen them before until today

1

0

I'm surprised no one has plundered the trees yet.

Translated by Google

1

1

FARID L
January 13, 2024, View of Cow Castle

Moderate trail for everyone to explore and enjoy

1

1

Moderate trail for everyone to explore and enjoy

1

2

Whether you are an experienced walker or someone who prefers a short stroll, Tarr Steps is a great place to go when looking to explore Exmoor National Park. You can head straight there, utilising the on site car park and toilet facilities, with just a gentle walk down to the ancient clapper bridge. The beautiful wooded valley of the River Barle is also worth exploring for its wildlife, as is the heathland of Winsford Hill and its wild ponies in the surrounding countryside. For a short circular walk from the bridge just follow the orange way marks.

2

1

Quite a strange custom. A story I was once told: if you want to get rid of an illness, you symbolically give it to a dead tree with a coin. It doesn't matter to the tree (it's already dead) But if someone else pulls out a coin and pockets it, the tree will pass this disease back to the "puller." Nasty, right? 🤷

Translated by Google

4

0

Tarr Steps is the longest clapper bridge in all of Britain. Although the first recorded mention of this bridge dates back to the Tudor times, it may be much older. Due to river sedimentation over the years, when the river level rises significantly, it can sometimes flow over the stones.

0

0

Frequently Asked Questions

What unique natural monuments can I discover around Molland?

Beyond the well-known spots, you can find the intriguing Coin Tree in Exmoor National Park. This unique natural monument features coins embedded in a dead tree, a local custom with a fascinating story. It's a distinctive sight found along various routes in the park.

Are there any natural monuments suitable for families with children?

Yes, Tarr Steps clapper bridge is an excellent choice for families. It offers nice easy walking on a circular route, and there's a pub at the start/finish. The beautiful wooded valley of the River Barle is also great for exploring wildlife.

What kind of historical natural monuments are there near Molland?

Molland is rich in historical natural monuments. The Tarr Steps clapper bridge is a Grade I-listed, 17-span bridge, likely medieval in origin. Additionally, the View of Cow Castle offers a glimpse of an Iron Age univallate hillfort, dominating the valley of the River Barle.

What are the best viewpoints to experience the natural beauty of the Molland area?

For breathtaking vistas, visit Winsford Hill Summit Monument, which offers epic views across Exmoor. Another excellent spot is the View of the Devil's Punch Bowl, perfect for enjoying incredible views of this unique glacial cirque basin.

What outdoor activities can I do near these natural monuments?

The area around Molland, being part of Exmoor National Park, offers diverse outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for cycling, gravel biking, and running. For example, there are challenging cycling routes like the 'All Saints Church, Dulverton – Barle Bridge loop' and moderate running trails such as the 'View of North Molton – The Poltimore Inn loop'. You can explore more options on the cycling, gravel biking, and running guides for Molland.

Are there any easy walking trails around the natural monuments?

Yes, for an easier walk, the circular route around Tarr Steps clapper bridge is recommended. It's a gentle walk down to the ancient bridge, suitable for those who prefer a short stroll. The surrounding wooded valley of the River Barle also offers pleasant, less strenuous paths.

What is the best time of year to visit the natural monuments around Molland?

The natural monuments around Molland, particularly within Exmoor National Park, can be enjoyed year-round. The area is beautiful in the autumnal rain and summer sun. Spring brings new life and wildflowers, while autumn offers vibrant colors. Even in winter, the moorland has a wild, remote charm, though some trails might be more challenging.

Are the natural monuments around Molland dog-friendly?

Many natural areas and trails within Exmoor National Park are dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept under control, especially around livestock and wildlife. For instance, the walk around Tarr Steps clapper bridge is particularly enjoyed by dogs, according to visitor tips.

What are the geological features that make the Molland area unique?

The Molland area, situated within Exmoor National Park, is characterized by diverse geological features. The Devil's Punch Bowl, for example, is a small glacial cirque basin. The wider landscape includes moorland, woodland, and river valleys like the River Yeo, all shaped by ancient geological processes and contributing to the area's wild character.

How long should I plan for a visit to the natural monuments around Molland?

The duration of your visit depends on how many natural monuments you wish to explore and the activities you plan. A short visit to a single site like Tarr Steps clapper bridge might take a couple of hours, including a walk. To experience several highlights and enjoy some of the longer walking or cycling routes, you could easily spend a full day or even a weekend exploring the region.

Where can I find parking when visiting natural monuments like Tarr Steps?

For popular sites like Tarr Steps clapper bridge, there is an on-site car park available, along with toilet facilities, making access convenient for visitors.

Most popular routes around Molland

MTB Trails around Molland

Most popular attractions around Molland

Places to see

Store rating

Get inspired with the komoot mobile app

With a free komoot account, you can easily find, customize, and navigate endless outdoor adventures.

or

Join komoot Now

Store rating

Explore more

Extend your search for the best caves by checking out these guides of the top ones around Molland:

ParracombeMartinhoeLynton and LynmouthChallacombeBrauntonBerrynarborTrentishoeBrendon And CountisburyIlfracombeWest DownCombe MartinKentisburyBittadonMortehoeGeorgehamMarwoodBratton FlemingEast DownNorth MoltonArlingtonBrayfordWest AnsteyTwitchenLoxhoreFremingtonHeanton PunchardonEast AnsteyShirwellWestleighInstowHorwood, Lovacott And Newton TraceyStoke RiversEast and West BucklandSwimbridgeGoodleigh

Nearby adventure guides

Things to Do around West Anstey

background

Get ready to conquer new peaks

Sign up for Free

Explore
RoutesRoute plannerFeaturesHikesMTB TrailsRoad cycling routesBikepackingSitemap
Download the app
Follow Us on Socials

© komoot GmbH

Privacy Policy