Ottery St Mary Tar Barrels

One of Britain’s most extraordinary ancient traditions, the Ottery St Mary Tar Barrels sees flaming barrels carried through the packed streets of the town by local families, a tradition passed down through generations.

Children’s barrels begin from around 4pm, with the main barrels from 7pm and the final barrel close to midnight. The atmosphere is electric, part medieval ritual, part carnival, and entirely unique to Ottery.

Before you go

This is a crowded event held in close proximity to fire, and it is not suitable for young children, those with limited mobility, pushchairs or animals. If you are uneasy around fire or large crowds, this may not be the event for you.

Stewards and barrel marshals wear high-visibility jackets and are there to help, so do follow their instructions. If a barrel approaches, step back and lean away rather than running, as sudden movement can cause crowd surges.

The event is glass- and plastic-free. Reusable cups are available to buy or bring your own, and please use the bins provided. Mobile signal can be patchy throughout the town, and toilets are available at locations across Ottery, including the car park behind the high street.

Free to attend, and unmissable.