Clapper bridge at Postbridge

This photograph of the clapper bridge at Postbridge was taken in 1913. Clapper bridges are numerous on Dartmoor and are formed using large slabs of granite. They appear to be unique to Dartmoor. At Postbridge the clapper is formed of two stone piers allowing for 3 openings for the river. The centre opening is narrower than the side openings. Fords and stepping stones preceded bridges and the stepping stones still remain 150 yds above the clapper bridge. The bridge is probably post medieval, not earlier than 1400. They were not intended for wheeled vehicles but for pedestrians and packhorses. The bridge was repaired in 1880 at the instance of the Duchy authorities after one of the central stones had been thrown off in about 1824.The bridge also shows the later road bridge behind it.