Ottery St Mary Tar Barrels

23rd October 2021

We are very much looking forward to attending the Ottery St Mary Tar Barrels on 5th November.

The Tar Barrels are a tradition with it’s origins lost in history. Initially barrels were rolled through the streets, but this then turned into them being carried and Ottery is now the only town to carry full sized tar barrels through the streets.

It is always an amazing spectacle to witness and you can’t help but become part of the event when there, enjoying the atmosphere and cheering on the Tar Barrel rollers, whilst avoiding running in to them!

Additionally, there is a bonfire and fireworks display to round off the event. Children in the town take part in a Guy building competition with the winner’s Guy placed on the bonfire.

For full details of the event, it’s history and all safety information you will need for the day, see the Ottery Tar Barrels website here