Our Exmoor Village
Allerford is a small, historic Exmoor Village, tucked just outside of Minehead and surrounded by beautiful countryside. With its cosy cottages, gentle river and timeless feel, its the kind of place that invites you to slow down and take a look around..
The Packhorse Bridge
One of Allerford’s best known features is its medieval packhorse bridge, which spans the River Aller. Believed to have been built in the 14th/15th century, it was designed to carry packhorses and carts across the river, vital for trade before modern day roads. Built from local red stone, it features narrow, single-horse width arches and low walls to accommodate panniers (saddle bags). A much loved Exmoor landmark for visitors, it is a lovely spot to pause, have a photo and watch the water flow beneath your feet.
The Working Forge
Home to West Country Blacksmiths, Allerford Forge is a fascinating glimpse in to rural life, both past and present. With their work travelling across the globe to as far as Australia, and featured on the TV programme Grand Designs, traditional blacksmithing skills are very much still alive here.
The West Somerset Rural Life Museum
Allerford Museum is housed in the village’s former Victorian school and has been a part of Allerford life for generations. Today, it tells the story of the village and the surrounding Exmoor area, offering an insight into the Victorian school, rural life, local trades and everyday history.
Run by dedicated local volunteers, the museum features a variety of displays, photographs and artefacts and is definitely a worthwhile stop whilst exploring the village.
Allerford Village Shop, Tea Room & Gardens
Allerford Tea Room is set within what was once the village post office. Whilst its role may have changed, it is still a place where people come together - now over cups of tea, cake and good conversation.
Today the tea room is a family-run space offering a relaxed welcome to locals and visitors alike, continuing the buildings tradition as a hub at the heart of the village.
Allerford Orchards
Allerford has two orchards and are a well loved area just a short walk from the centre of the village.
Home to a variety of traditional apple trees, the apples are pressed annually by villagers, and visitors can sample the apple juice by purchasing a glass here at the tea room.
Each year the orchards host the Allerford Wassail, a traditional West Country celebration linked to apple orchards and cider harvest. Taking place in winter months, locals gather to sing to the apple trees and give thanks, with the belief that this will encourage a bounty crop in the year ahead. Everyone is welcome to join in, bringing along pots and pans to make lots of noise, believed to ward off bad spirits who may have taken refuge in the orchards whilst it has been dormant during the winter months
Walking & Exploring
Allerford is a wonderful starting point for walks of all lengths, whether you’re after a gentle village wander or something more adventurous. From the village, you can enjoy riverside walks and quiet lanes, footpaths leading you to the South West Coast Path or longer walks linking you to nearby villages and countryside.
Walking maps are available to purchase at the village shop.
Accommodation
Set beside Allerford’s historic Packhorse Bridge, Packhorse Bridge Self-Catering Accommodation offers a peaceful place to stay in the heart of the village. With the river close by and the countryside on the doorstep, it’s an ideal base for exploring Allerford and the wider Exmoor area.
Village Hall & Play Park
The village hall is a familiar and well-used part of Allerford life, providing a space where the community comes together for events, activities and celebrations throughout the year. It is available to hire, with a fully equipped kitchen and outside space.
Nearby, the play park offers a welcome spot for families, with ample space for children to run and play, whilst adults enjoy a moment to relax.
Parking is allowed here when exploring the village, but a small donation is asked to help with the maintenance costs.
