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Postbridge clapper bridge

Postbridge, United Kingdom

History

A medieval clapper bridge of huge granite slabs across the East Dart, right beside the B3212. The national park car park and information point next to it make this an easy stop on the road across the moor.

The Postbridge clapper bridge crosses the East Dart in the heart of Dartmoor and is regarded as the finest of its kind in Devon. Two granite piers, each made of seven flat slabs, carry three large granite slabs, with steps leading up to the abutments. It is a scheduled monument and Grade II* listed. The bridge type is medieval and it is often dated to the 13th century, but Historic England considers it likely that much of the surviving fabric dates from after 1670. It probably allowed packhorses to carry tin to Tavistock. One slab fell into the river in the 19th century and was replaced in 1879.

The bridge lies on the B3212 between Princetown and Moretonhampstead. The newer road bridge beside it has no pavement and the road is busy, so it is better to view the clapper bridge from the riverbanks. Postbridge has a large car park and a national park visitor centre. It is busiest at weekends between May and October.

Nearest town
Postbridge, United Kingdom
Category
History & culture
GPS
50.5942, -3.9095

Hours, fees and access change. Confirm with the operator or park before you go.

Good to know

Best time to go

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec

The most pleasant months are usually June–July. Still fine, with some compromises, in May and August–October. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)

Getting there

  • United Kingdom: Tolls on some roads, bridges or tunnels. Drive on the left. Some bridges and tunnels charge tolls.

Sources

Featured in these trip guides

Nearby

Campsites nearby

  • Woodland Springs Adults only Touring ParkMotorhome stopover
    13 km from Postbridge clapper bridge
    TentsMotorhomesElectricityDrinking waterToiletsWaste disposal
  • Summerhill FarmCampsite
    13 km from Postbridge clapper bridge
    TentsCaravansShowersToilets
  • Langstone Manor ParkCampsite
    14 km from Postbridge clapper bridge
    TentsCaravansShowersToilets
  • Harford Bridge Holiday ParkCampsite
    15 km from Postbridge clapper bridge
    TentsCaravansElectricityDrinking waterShowersToiletsWaste disposal
  • Three Hares CampsiteCampsite
    15 km from Postbridge clapper bridge
    TentsElectricityDrinking waterShowersToiletsNo dogs
  • Teign Valley Barley MeadowCampsite
    16 km from Postbridge clapper bridge · 60 pitches
    ElectricityWaste disposalWi-Fi

All campsites in United Kingdom · Campsite data: © OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL 1.0 · Updated October 3, 2026

FAQs

Where is Postbridge clapper bridge?

Postbridge clapper bridge is in Postbridge, United Kingdom, at GPS 50.5942, -3.9095. It is about 7 km from Widecombe-in-the-Moor.

Can you camp near Postbridge clapper bridge?

Yes. The nearest campsite listed in OpenStreetMap is Runnage Farm Campsite, about 2 km away; within 25 km there are 75 campsites and motorhome stopovers.

Which road trips pass Postbridge clapper bridge?

Postbridge clapper bridge is a stop on these CampingSpirit trip guides: Dartmoor: granite tors and clapper bridges.

What is there to see near Postbridge clapper bridge?

Places worth a stop nearby: Dartmeet (6 km), Hound Tor (9 km), Haytor Rocks (11 km) and Clovelly (57 km).

When is the best time to visit Postbridge clapper bridge?

The most pleasant months are usually June–July. Still fine, with some compromises, in May and August–October. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)

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