Attractions and Places To See around Oakford - Top 20

Oakford and its surroundings are rich in history. You can explore the ancient Tarr Steps clapper bridge, a Grade I-listed structure likely medieval in origin. Another significant site is the Bury Stone Bridge and Ford, a picturesque medieval packhorse bridge. Also, consider visiting All Saints Church, Dulverton, which dates back to the 15th century, and St. Peter's Church in Oakford village, known for its grand architecture.

Yes, the area boasts several natural highlights and viewpoints. Oakford is nestled near Exmoor National Park, offering vast opportunities for enjoying nature. You can find stunning views from Haddon Hill Trig Point, situated at 355 meters above sea level, which also overlooks Wimbleball Lake. Another excellent spot for panoramic views of fields and valleys is Hawkridge Ridge.

The region around Oakford is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. You can enjoy various activities within Exmoor National Park, including walking and spotting wild deer and Exmoor ponies. For fishing, the Bellbrook Valley Trout Fishery has a national reputation for fly fishing. There are also numerous routes for hiking, gravel biking, and mountain biking. You can find detailed guides for these activities, such as easy hikes around Oakford, gravel biking routes, and MTB trails.

Absolutely. Many attractions are suitable for families. The Tarr Steps clapper bridge offers easy walking routes that families can enjoy. Both All Saints Church, Dulverton and Bury Stone Bridge and Ford are listed as family-friendly sites. Additionally, the Oakford Community Field provides play equipment for children and a pétanque court for older visitors.

Oakford is a great starting point for many walks. The village itself offers numerous rural walks, with some conveniently beginning and ending at The Red Lion Hotel. For longer adventures, The Two Moors Way passes near Oakford, offering over 100 miles of countryside exploration. The Tarka Trail, a 163-mile pedestrian and cycle way, is also accessible in the wider North Devon Biosphere Reserve. You can also find several easy hikes around Oakford.

Yes, the area is very welcoming to dogs, especially on its numerous rural walks and trails within Exmoor National Park. The tips for Tarr Steps clapper bridge specifically mention that dogs particularly enjoy this walk, making it a great option for you and your canine companion.

The region around Oakford, including Exmoor National Park, is beautiful year-round. The tips for Tarr Steps clapper bridge suggest it's great all year round, whether in autumnal rain or summer sun. Spring and summer offer lush greenery and warmer weather for outdoor activities, while autumn brings vibrant colors. Winter can be peaceful, though some trails might be more challenging.

Beyond the well-known sites, Oakford offers a few unique experiences. The Oakford Community Field allows visitors to try pétanque by arrangement. For those interested in specialized sports, Stuckeridge Shoot has a national and international reputation for pheasant shooting. While not open to the public, the ancient Oakford Manor House, under the same family ownership for over 800 years, adds to the village's unique historical character.

For popular spots like Tarr Steps clapper bridge, there is an on-site car park with toilet facilities, making it convenient for visitors. For Haddon Hill Trig Point, it is easily accessible from Bury or a nearby parking area. Many rural walks also start from the village center, where parking might be available, such as near The Red Lion Hotel.

The natural landscapes around Oakford, especially within Exmoor National Park and areas like Hawkridge Ridge, are home to diverse wildlife. You can often spot wild deer and the famous Exmoor ponies. Other inhabitants include cattle and calves, sheep and lambs in summer, brown hares, buzzards, and kestrels. The River Barle valley is also worth exploring for its wildlife.

Yes, the area offers various cycling opportunities. The Tarka Trail, a 163-mile figure-of-eight route, is suitable for both pedestrians and cyclists. For those interested in off-road cycling, there are dedicated guides for gravel biking around Oakford and MTB trails, catering to different skill levels.

The bridges in the Oakford area are significant historical landmarks. Tarr Steps clapper bridge is Britain's longest clapper bridge, a unique structure made of unmortared stone slabs. The Bury Stone Bridge and Ford is a medieval packhorse bridge with four arches and high stone parapets, crossing the River Haddeo, and is a scheduled ancient monument.