Withypool

Withypool is a quiet unspoilt village situated in a shallow part of the Barle valley in the heart of the Exmoor National Park.

The village has a remote, upland character and is surrounded by open moorland, much of which is common land. Most of the village lies on the north side of the river and follows the narrow roads along the valley contours.

The traditional buildings in the settlement generally consist of lime washed rendered stonewalls with slate roofs. It is these buildings and their setting that help contribute to Withypool's character.

Along the banks of the River Barle grow the withies or willow trees that give Withypool its name and, crossing the river is the characteristic six arched Withypool Bridge. This was built around a hundred years ago to replace an old packhorse bridge that stood further up the river.

Within Withypool, there are the local General Stores/Post Office, Olden World petrol pumps and Tearooms. The local pub is noted for good ale and bar/restaurant food. Also available are good B & B's and holiday cottages.

To the south is Withypool Hill (1306 feet), With Superb views on the summit. On the south side of the hill is a Bronze Age stone circle.