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Tarka the Otter Statue,
Map Location
North Devon’s Most Beloved Literary Icon
Overview
Standing proudly in Barnstaple Square, the Tarka the Otter statue is a charming tribute to one of North Devon’s most iconic literary characters. Inspired by the classic 1927 novel Tarka the Otter by Henry Williamson, the statue commemorates the wild beauty of the region and the timeless story that has enchanted generations of readers.
About the Statue
Unveiled in 2008, the statue was commissioned to celebrate the enduring popularity of Tarka the Otter and its strong connection to North Devon. It depicts Tarka mid-leap, full of life and movement, capturing the spirit of the character and the natural world described so vividly in Williamson’s book.
Created by artist Jonathan Sells, the sculpture sits on a plinth in The Square, close to the River Taw—one of the very waterways that inspired Williamson’s detailed descriptions of otter life in the wild.
Location & Setting
You’ll find the statue in Barnstaple Square, at the heart of the town where the Tarka Trail intersects with shops, cafés, and the riverside. It’s just a short walk from Barnstaple Long Bridge, the Museum of Barnstaple and North Devon, and the bustling Pannier Market.
The area around the statue often hosts markets, music, and community events, making it a popular gathering place for both locals and visitors.
About Tarka the Otter
Tarka the Otter is one of Britain’s most treasured nature books. First published in 1927, it tells the story of an otter’s life and journey through the rivers, woods, and moors of North Devon and Exmoor, highlighting the beauty—and harshness—of the natural world.
Author Henry Williamson lived in the region and based much of the story on real landscapes and wildlife around the Taw and Torridge estuaries. His vivid, poetic prose helped raise awareness about otter conservation and earned the novel global acclaim.
Today, Tarka remains a symbol of North Devon’s wild heritage, with the 180-mile Tarka Trail named in his honour, stretching from Barnstaple to Dartmoor and back again.
Why Visit the Tarka the Otter Statue?
- A charming photo spot and literary landmark in Barnstaple town centre
- Connects visitors with North Devon’s literary and ecological heritage
- Located near cafés, shops, and key local attractions
- A symbolic starting point or rest stop along the Tarka Trail
- Great for families, walkers, and lovers of British wildlife
How to Find It
- Location: The Square, Barnstaple, Devon, EX32 8LN
- Nearest Parking: Queen Street Car Park or Cattle Market Car Park
- Nearby: Tarka Trail, Museum of Barnstaple & North Devon, River Taw, Barnstaple Pannier Market
Conclusion
More than just a sculpture, the Tarka the Otter statue is a celebration of the landscapes, wildlife, and stories that define North Devon’s identity. Whether you’re retracing Tarka’s journey, cycling the Tarka Trail, or discovering Barnstaple for the first time, this beloved otter offers a memorable reminder of the wild beauty woven into the region’s past and present.
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