In Postbridge, a remarkable bridge and a range of themes for an outing in Bellever Forest come together. The Clapper Bridge spans the East Dart River in the hamlet; it is only a short walk from the National Park Visitor Centre. This means you can consider the history of the structure and the landscape as separate but easy-to-plan highlights, without turning the described paths into a single route.
The Clapper Bridge and its history
The Clapper Bridge is designated a Scheduled Monument. Two granite piers support three large granite slabs that span the river. Its bridge type dates to the Middle Ages. At the same time, much of the surviving structure probably dates from after 1670. The type and the surviving components therefore represent two different historical layers: classifying it as a medieval bridge type does not mean that all the parts present today date from that period.
A closer look at the bridge reveals more than a single architectural detail: the simple construction can be seen directly in the piers and slabs, while its historical dating raises a second question – how old is the type, and when does the surviving structure date from? This distinction makes the Clapper Bridge a tangible starting point for exploring local history.
Visitor Centre: information and exhibitions
The Postbridge Visitor Centre is just off the B3212 between Moretonhampstead and Two Bridges. The centre has books and leaflets for exploring the surrounding area, including the “Walks around Postbridge” leaflet. One exhibition focuses on Bronze Age finds from the Whitehorse Hill excavation and also includes replicas of jewellery found there. In Bellever Forest, the symbols on the History Hunters Trail also feature the Bronze Age and show 4,000 years of history. The exhibition and trail offer different ways to explore historical themes.
Electric vehicle charging points with designated parking spaces are available at the Visitor Centre. Availability and prices may change, so check the latest information before travelling. Hire of a Tramper for a route through Bellever Forest is also offered there. Check its availability before you arrive.
Paths through Bellever Forest and the moorland
The paths described differ in their landscapes and themes. The River and Forest Trail starts at the Postbridge car park and passes through woodland, moorland and wildflower meadows on its way to the River Dart. The Bellever Tor Trail focuses on hut circles, grazing ponies and the climb that follows to Bellever Tor. Walking routes also lead from Postbridge into Bellever Forest; more experienced walkers can cross the northern moor from there.
The Miles Without Stiles Bellever Forest route starts at the car park at the Postbridge National Park Visitor Centre. It runs through the forest around Lakehead Hill and crosses open heathland alongside an old stone row. The name alone does not tell you what conditions to expect on the route; use its specific route features as your guide. This route therefore offers a different focus from the path to the River Dart or the description of the Bellever Tor Trail.
When choosing an outing, it helps to decide first which theme you are interested in: the River and Forest Trail focuses on the river and changing landscapes, while the Bellever Tor Trail features hut circles and ponies. Around Lakehead Hill, you can also find the old stone row and woodland scenery; the History Hunters Trail has its own emphasis on the Bronze Age. This makes it easy to choose the nature and history themes you want to focus on during your stay in Postbridge.
Discover more destinations: Exeter, Axminster, Torrington, Coffinswell, Exbourne, Honiton, South Brent, Lamerton.
For the main travel overview: Devon.
