The UK’s ‘oldest bridge’ that’s 3,025 years old – built with huge stone slabs | UK | News
Deep in the countryside of Exmoor National Park lies a remarkable causeway, often described as the oldest bridge in the United Kingdom, built of enormous slabs of stone more than three thousand years ago. Known as the Tarr Steps, it spans the River Barle in Somerset and is one of the best-known examples of a “clapper bridge”, a simple design made by laying flat stone slabs on top of piles of rocks without mortar.
Some historians say that the history of the bridge dates back to B.C. He believes it may date back to the year 1000, meaning it could be around 3,000 years old, but the exact construction date remains unclear. The bridge spans approximately 55 meters (180 ft) and consists of 17 spans; The slabs rest on vertical groups of stones placed in the river bed. The massive slabs can weigh up to two tonnes each, making the structure both simple and surprisingly durable.
Sometimes referred to as “the devil’s sunbathing place,” the legend says that Satan himself built the bridge and still retains the right to sunbathe on its stones.
A local legend claims that Satan used the stones to bask before being chased by a local cleric.
Despite its ancient design, the Tarr Steps have survived for centuries and remain one of Britain’s largest clasp bridges.
Experts say the bridge’s origins are still debated. Official heritage lists classify the current structure as medieval, although some theories suggest it may date back to the Bronze Age; This means that parts of the pass may have been rebuilt over time.
Over the centuries, the bridge was repeatedly damaged by powerful floods in the Barle River, with many of the huge slabs being washed downwards during periods of heavy rainfall.
Despite this, the structure has always been restored using the same traditional design, with the stones carefully lifted into place.
The Tarr Steps are now one of Exmoor National Park’s most popular historic landmarks, attracting walkers, cyclists and tourists exploring the forested Barle Valley.
The surrounding area forms part of the Tarr Steps National Nature Reserve, known for its ancient oak forests and wildlife.
Visitors can still walk directly over the stone slabs today, as travelers and traders are believed to have done for centuries.
