Dulverton

This exceptional opportunity grants stewardship over a truly enchanting 2727 yards of fishing rights and river bed on the River Barle. Lying between the much-loved Tarr Steps and the tranquil waters of Hinds Pit, this beat lies in the middle of Exmoor National Park in the Tarr Steps Woodland National Natural Reserve (SSSI). Long admired by anglers, this magical reach carries a rich heritage; for many years these fishing rights formed part of the renowned Horlock Estate at Hawkridge, an estate long associated with fine countryside, careful custodianship and some of the most picturesque landscapes on Exmoor."

The River Barle rises some 450 metres above sea level, within an area known as “The Chains” on the north west plateau of Exmoor. In the 1800s the Barle was damned at its source (Pinkery Pond) by the industrialist John Knight, to create a reservoir. The river flows south and then east to Simonsbath and Withypool collecting additional flow from the lesser known “Barle Water”, “White Water”, “Sherdon Water” and “Pennycombe Water” tributaries. From Withypool the river flows south east to Dulverton, passing through the fishing rights to the historically renowned Tarr Steps (with its ancient stone “Clapper Bridge”) and picks up further flow along the way from “West Water”, “Little River” and “Danes Brook”. Ultimately the river then passes through and shortly after joins the River Exe at Exebridge.

The Barle’s sporting legacy is well documented, with catch records dating back to the 1970s once kept at the former Tarr Steps Hotel. These records chart generations of returning salmon and brown trout, a testament to the river’s enduring quality and its timeless natural rhythm.

The stretch now offered for sale is often regarded as one of the most captivating and productive on the entire river. Deep, shadow veiled pools and slow, shimmering glides provide perfect holding water for salmon and trout. It is a reach alive with movement and the quiet pulse of Exmoor’s wild heart. Ancient woodland frames the river on both sides, its moss softened banks, twisting roots and towering canopy forming a natural sanctuary for red deer, otters, kingfishers and a wealth of native wildlife. Throughout the seasons the landscape shifts and breathes, offering a tapestry of colour, tranquillity and pure, unspoilt beauty.

Ownership includes not only the fishing rights but also the riverbed itself, granting full stewardship of this remarkable environment. It is a rare chance to secure a very special piece of river, combining premier fishing with the privilege of caring for a truly timeless corner of the Barle Valley.

METHOD OF SALE
For sale via private treaty (reserving the right to offer the same for sale by informal tender if necessary).

PLANS
Identification only and not to scale.

TENURE & POSSESSION
The rights include exclusive fishing and taking of fish, along with the ability to trim bankside trees and bushes, cut weeds and form pools as required to maintain the fishery.