Ottery Tar Barrels

The Ottery Tar Barrels is an ancient tradition and one of the most exciting things to experience while visiting the West Country. The exact origins of the event have been lost to time, but it is likely that the rolling and then carrying of flaming Tar Barrels began with the gunpowder plot of 1605. 

History of the Tar Barrels 

The West Country has long had a history of torchlit processions and burning barrels - these days, you'll only find it in a handful of places and Ottery St Mary was one of many that followed the annual tradition of rolling flaming barrels through the streets on 5th November. 

After a while, the tradition evolved so the barrels were no longer rolled but instead carried on the shoulders of the participants. Today, Ottery is the only town in the country that carries full sized lighted tar barrels through the streets. 

The Ottery Bonfire

The procession of tar barrels leads you down to the giant bonfire, which is an integral part of the event. The bonfire has had many sites throughout its history, currently, it is located at St Saviours Meadow. 

Around three weeks before the carnival, material is collected from around the community to build the fire, which usually stands around 35 feet high. Traditionally, the Guy was created by the Young family, however, in recent years, a competition has been held to create the Guy, with the winner being placed at the top of the Bonfire ready for the Tar Barrels event. 

Next tar barrels

Ottery Tar Barrels Nov 05

Every year, for reasons lost in antiquity, Flaming Tar Barrels are carried through the streets of Ottery St Mary to the delight of thousands of townsfolk and visitors. The Tar Barrels event is the most famous and unique tradition in Ottery St Mary. It usually occurs annually on Bonfire…

What you need to know for attending the Tar Barrels

Tar Barrels takes place on 5th November, unless the 5th falls on a Sunday. In that case, it will be the Saturday before the 5th of November.

The evening Tar Barrels starts at 7pm, with a Junior Tar Barrels taking place at 4pm. 
The main event is not suitable for small children or animals. As it gets very crowded, please be aware that it may become unsuitable for people using mobility aids or with limited mobility. 

The Tar Barrels event can be dangerous, so please follow all instructions from the marshals. 

  • The area near the barrels can become crowded, so give yourself plenty of time to find a space
  • There will be access routes to and from the barrel area should you need to move around
  • Be aware of the barrel movements at all times as they can change direction suddenly. 
  • If a barrel comes towards you, do not run as this can cause a crowd surge, lean away and step to the side
  • Do not touch any lit barrels
  • Toilets can be found in the carpark behind Sainsbury
  • Should you become separated from children or other family members, seek help from a marshal as soon as possible. 
  • Please bring cash as some vendors struggle to take card payment. 
  • Dress appropriately for the weather

Using Public Transport to attend the Tar Barrels 

If you use public transport, be aware that services will be disrupted and you should check with the service provider for details. 

There will be no additional late night buses. 
Taxis and buses can Drop Off and Collect from Salston Cross and there will be lighting throughout Strawberry Lane.

Car Parking for the Tar Barrels 

There will be no vehicle access to the town during the event and a limited number of car parks.

Parking will be available at Otter Garden Centre (EX11 1LZ)  and Barrack Road (EX11 1RD ).

No other car parks will be available. In bad weather, a third may be available at Finnimore Industrial Estate – please take note of the signs.

Plan your day out

Click here to explore more of East Devon

Ottery - Budleigh ButtonOttery - Honiton ButtonOttery - Seaton ButtonOttery - Sidmouth Button