SnapsbyTK

Some places quietly shape our memories long before we realise it. Allerford Packhorse Bridge is one of those places for me.

Tucked away in the small village of Allerford, on the edge of Exmoor National Park, this medieval bridge was somewhere my parents brought us — my sisters, my brother and me — for woodland walks when we were children. At the time, it was simply part of the scenery. Years later, it’s become a place I’ve wanted to return to with a camera in hand.

Photographing Allerford Packhorse Bridge

I’d wanted to capture the bridge properly for some time, but there was always one small problem — I never quite had a wide enough lens. The bridge may be narrow, but it has a presence that’s hard to fit into a single frame, especially with the river, stonework and surrounding trees all competing for attention.

After adding a 17–40mm EF lens to my Canon RP, I finally had the excuse I needed. I made the drive to Allerford with that familiar mix of anticipation and some reminiscing, hoping to do justice to a place I’d known for so long.

Standing there, camera in hand, it felt like reconnecting with a quiet piece of my own history. The bridge hasn’t changed much over the years — and that’s part of its charm.

About Allerford Packhorse Bridge

Allerford Packhorse Bridge is a narrow medieval stone bridge crossing the River Aller in the village of Allerford, Somerset. Believed to have been built in the 16th or 17th century, it once played an important role in local trade, allowing horses to carry goods between villages.

Its narrow width and single stone arch are typical of packhorse bridges from this period, built for function rather than speed.

Located close to Porlock and right on the edge of Exmoor National Park, it has become a popular stop for walkers, photographers and anyone exploring the quieter corners of Somerset.

Visiting Allerford and Exmoor National Park

Allerford is just a short drive from Porlock and is easy to reach while exploring Exmoor. There is limited parking in the village, and the bridge itself is only a short walk away.

The surrounding woodland paths and riverside walks make this a lovely place to visit. Whether you’re visiting with a camera or simply enjoying a peaceful walk, Allerford Packhorse Bridge fits naturally into the landscape — a small but enduring reminder of the area’s history.

Camera Equipment Used

Canon RP

Canon EF 17-40mm Lens

Canon EF to RF Mount