SnapsbyTK

Last weekend, I finally ticked Robbers Bridge in Exmoor National Park off my list. It’s a location I’ve wanted to visit for sometime, but like many great spots, it had been sitting on the back burner thanks to busy schedules and limited free time.

The UK weather hasn’t exactly been kind lately, and last week was no different. Days of persistent rain, heavy cloud, and that familiar winter greyness had settled in. Still, with a small window of free time, I decided to take my chances, jump in the car, and head out on to Exmoor.

When I arrived, I had the place completely to myself. No other photographers, no walkers — just the sound of the river rushing beneath Robbers Bridge, rain dripping from bare branches and moss-covered trees. It was quiet, moody, and atmospheric.

All the recent rainfall had pushed the river levels up. While this added drama to the scene, it also meant I couldn’t get fully into the river to reach some of the compositions I’d planned from my research. Access was limited, and I had to adapt on the spot.

Even though the conditions weren’t ideal, the wet weather and higher water levels brought a real sense of mood to the scene. It’s a good reminder that landscape photography doesn’t always go to plan — and sometimes that’s a good thing. Not getting the shot you imagined can lead to seeing a location in a completely different way.

Robbers Bridge is definitely somewhere I’ll return to — hopefully in drier conditions next time, but perhaps with the same sense of quiet and atmosphere that made this visit memorable.

About Robbers Bridge

Robbers Bridge is a beautiful spot tucked away in Exmoor National Park, crossing the East Lyn River near Oare. Surrounded by ancient woodland, moss-covered rocks, and flowing water, the medieval stone bridge feels steeped in history and legend. It’s a popular location for walkers and landscape photographers alike. Quiet, timeless, and a little mysterious, Robbers Bridge perfectly captures the character of Exmoor.

Photography Equipment Used

OM System OM-5

Olympus 12-45mm F4 Pro Lens

Kase Filters

Peak Design Tripod

Peak Design 25ltr Outdoor Backpack

Getting There

Robbers Bridge is located approx 2.5miles off the A39 that runs between Porlock and Lynton & Lynmouth. A word of caution – the road is single track with limited passing places and extremely steep (1 in 25%) with blind corners in places.

There is a good side free car park located just a minutes walk from the bridge.