Fingle Bridge and Teign Gorge
Discover Fingle Bridge and the River Teign gorge: ancient woodlands, a picturesque stone bridge, and a charming riverside pub. Perfect for walks and w...
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful walks
Fingle Bridge and Teign Gorge
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful walks
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Fingle Bridge and the River Teign gorge: ancient woodlands, a picturesque stone bridge, and a charming riverside pub. Perfect for walks and wild swimming.
"One of the most stunning and beautiful places in the whole of the South West."
🚗 Narrow Road Alert!
The road to Fingle Bridge is narrow. Drive cautiously, especially in high season.
🥾 Sturdy Shoes Essential
Paths can be uneven. Wear good walking shoes for the river gorge trails.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Fingle Bridge
River Teign
Iconic ancient stone bridge offering stunning river views and a gateway to gorge walks.
River Teign Gorge Walk
Fingle Woods
Explore ancient woodlands and follow the spectacular river gorge, with options for shorter or longer circular routes.
Fingle Bridge Inn
Beside Fingle Bridge
A charming pub perfect for a post-walk pint with waterside seating and great views.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Parking & Access
Best Footwear & Wild Swimming
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Narrow Road Alert!
The road to Fingle Bridge is narrow. Drive cautiously, especially in high season.
🥾 Sturdy Shoes Essential
Paths can be uneven. Wear good walking shoes for the river gorge trails.
🏊 Wild Swimming Spot
Fingle Bridge is a popular spot for wild water swimming. Bring your swimsuit!
🅿️ Parking Can Be Tricky
Parking is limited. Arrive early or late, or be prepared to wait.
Nice Cafes Near Exeter
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Narrow Road Alert!
The road to Fingle Bridge is narrow. Drive cautiously, especially in high season.
🥾 Sturdy Shoes Essential
Paths can be uneven. Wear good walking shoes for the river gorge trails.
🏊 Wild Swimming Spot
Fingle Bridge is a popular spot for wild water swimming. Bring your swimsuit!
🅿️ Parking Can Be Tricky
Parking is limited. Arrive early or late, or be prepared to wait.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Walks
Great spot for dog walks, with plenty of space for them to explore off-leash.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning natural beauty of Fingle Bridge and the River Teign gorge, highlighting the picturesque ancient bridge and the immersive woodland walks. The Fingle Bridge Inn is frequently praised for its lovely waterside setting and good food, making it a perfect post-walk destination. While parking can be limited and the access road narrow, the overall experience is considered delightful and highly recommended for its scenic charm and peaceful atmosphere.
"Lovely walk along the river Teign, there is a circular walk where you can also extend to Castle Drogo.
There are serval places for wild water swimming.
Plenty of free parking and Fingle Bridge Inn worth a visit after the walk."
Matt Bryant
"Beautiful Dartmoor river gorge setting, walks to Clifford bridge and castle drogo, and ancient hill fort, within ancient woodland. Great pub at Fingle Bridge."
Alison Hayes
"Spectacular river walk and a great old bridge. Parking limited. Nearby pub good for food coffee and waterside view"
Matthew W
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Fingle Bridge is located in Dartmoor National Park. The road leading down to the bridge and pub is narrow and can be busy, especially during peak times. Many visitors drive, but be prepared for limited parking.
Yes, there is parking available at Fingle Bridge, but it is often limited and can fill up quickly. Arriving early in the morning or later in the afternoon is recommended.
Public transport options to Fingle Bridge are very limited. It's best accessed by car. Consider local taxi services if you are not driving.
The road is narrow and winding, typical of rural Dartmoor. Drive with caution and be mindful of oncoming traffic and cyclists.
There are no formal disabled parking bays, but there is usually space available. The pub is easily accessible from the parking area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Fingle Bridge and the surrounding gorge walks are free to access. You only pay for food and drinks at the Fingle Bridge Inn.
Fingle Bridge and the surrounding woodland are accessible at all times. The Fingle Bridge Inn has its own opening hours, typically serving food and drinks during the day and early evening.
The walks along the River Teign and through Fingle Woods are free to enter. Enjoy the natural beauty without any admission charges.
While Fingle Bridge itself is not a National Trust property, the surrounding area is managed in partnership with them. Some National Trust members have reported free visits to National Trust properties in autumn, which might extend to areas like this.
Yes, Fingle Bridge and the walking trails are open year-round. However, access may be affected by severe weather conditions.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The most popular walk is the circular route along the River Teign gorge, which takes about an hour. You can also extend this to Castle Drogo for a longer hike.
Yes, it's a great spot for families. The river walks are engaging, and the pub offers a relaxed atmosphere. Ensure children are supervised near the water.
Absolutely! Fingle Bridge is a well-known spot for wild water swimming. Be aware of currents and water depth.
Yes, dogs are welcome at Fingle Bridge and are often seen off-leash on the walks.
You might spot roe deer, red foxes, badgers, and various bird species in the ancient woodlands.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the Fingle Bridge Inn is located right by the bridge and river. It's a popular spot for food, coffee, and drinks with lovely waterside seating.
The pub typically serves classic pub fare, including meals, snacks, coffee, and drinks. It's a great place to refuel after a walk.
While there are no designated picnic areas, you can find spots along the riverbanks to enjoy a picnic. The pub also offers a great alternative for refreshments.
Yes, the Fingle Bridge Inn is generally dog-friendly, especially in its outdoor seating areas.
Fingle Bridge Inn is the primary food and drink option directly at the bridge. For more variety, you would need to drive to nearby villages or towns.
📸 📸 Photography
The bridge itself, the winding river, and the ancient woodland offer numerous picturesque scenes. The Fingle Bridge Inn's waterside seating also provides great photo opportunities.
Early morning or late afternoon light (golden hour) offers the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photography.
Drone usage is subject to local regulations and landowner permission. It's advisable to check with Dartmoor National Park authorities before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive gorge and bridge. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting.
The area around the Fingle Bridge Inn offers excellent vantage points. Walking along the river path will reveal many natural viewpoints.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key recommendations for families:
* Wear sturdy, waterproof shoes: Paths can be uneven and wet.
* Supervise children closely: Especially near the river.
* Pack snacks and drinks: While the pub is great, having extras is always wise for little ones.
* Consider the shorter walk: The hour-long loop is perfect for younger attention spans.
🐶 Dog Owners
Tips for dog owners:
* Bring water for your dog: Especially on warmer days.
* Be mindful of wildlife: Keep dogs under control in areas where sensitive wildlife might be present.
* Check pub policies: While generally dog-friendly, it's always good to confirm their specific rules for indoor seating.
💧 Wild Swimmers
Important considerations for swimmers:
* Assess water conditions: Be aware of currents, depth, and water temperature.
* Swim with a buddy: Never swim alone.
* Know your limits: Only swim if you are a confident swimmer.
* Bring a tow float: For visibility and safety.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Fingle Woods and the River Teign Gorge
For those seeking a more extended adventure, the walk can be easily combined with a visit to Castle Drogo, a National Trust property located a few miles upstream. This offers a longer, more challenging hike, rewarding you with historical insights and further scenic views. The ancient woodland itself is a haven for wildlife, with trail cameras capturing glimpses of roe deer, red foxes, and badgers, making it a fascinating destination for nature enthusiasts.
Remember to wear appropriate footwear, as the paths can be uneven and sometimes muddy, especially after rain. The natural beauty of the gorge, with its mature trees and the flowing river, makes it a photographer's delight, particularly during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset.
The Charm of Fingle Bridge Inn and Waterside Relaxation
The pub's waterside seating is a major draw, providing spectacular views of the river and the surrounding woodland. It's an ideal place to unwind after a walk, enjoy a coffee, or savor a pint while watching the water flow by and listening to the birdsong. The relaxed ambiance makes it a favorite stop for both locals and tourists exploring Dartmoor.
While the pub is a highlight, it's worth noting that parking directly at Fingle Bridge can be limited. However, the pub's proximity to the river and bridge makes it easily accessible for those who manage to find a parking spot. It’s a place where you can truly appreciate the natural beauty of the area in comfort.

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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit