A little history of Allerford

Allerford, Somerset

Allerford, a picturesque village in Somerset, England, is renowned for its 15th-century packhorse bridge spanning the Aller Brook. This Grade II listed structure, constructed from local red sandstone, features two segmented arches and a central pillar, exemplifying medieval engineering designed for pack animal crossings.

The village's history traces back to the Domesday Book of 1086, where it was recorded as "Alresford," indicating a ford near alder trees. In the 19th century, Allerford's thatched village school, established in 1821, was a focal point for education until 1981. It now houses the West Somerset Rural Life Museum, showcasing artifacts from the early 1800s to the late 1950s, reflecting the area's rich rural heritage.

The village's economy historically centered on agriculture, with traditional industries such as thatching, blacksmithing, and cider-making. Today, Allerford remains a charming example of Exmoor's rural life, offering visitors a glimpse into its storied past through well-preserved architecture and cultural landmarks.