Devon’s Answer to Bonfire Night
Crazy and dangerous are two words you might use to describe the Tar Barrels of Ottery St Mary. We’re more inclined to say ‘unique’ and ‘historic’ and here’s why we love this great tradition and why we will once again be supporting this fantastic Devon event.
Centuries of History
It is not entirely clear how the custom of carrying blazing barrels of tar through the streets of Ottery St Mary began but it has evolved over the centuries to become a one of a kind spectacle. Visit Devon suggests it started as a celebration of the defeat of the gunpowder plot of 1605. Others think its roots lie in a practice of fumigating cottages or perhaps it was first used as a warning of the approach of the Spanish Armada. The only thing that can be agreed upon is that it has developed over the years to become an unparalleled extravaganza. Whilst many West Country villages have a history of winter torchlight processions and quite a few have incorporated burning barrels which are rolled in the streets, Ottery is the only place in the country where locals run through the streets carrying full sized blazing tar barrels on their shoulders.
What Happens on the Night
Tar Barrels usually takes place on 5th November and it really is a sight to behold. In the run up to the night, barrels are soaked in tar and the first one is lit at 7pm. Around a dozen are ignited throughout the evening culminating in the largest barrel at midnight in the town square. They are carried by locals, whose only protection is several layers of thick clothing and gloves. There are also smaller barrels, carried earlier in the evening, by local children. The flaming barrels are paraded throughout the town with the onlookers in hot pursuit, moving between pubs and sites of old pubs. They are occasionally topped up with more tar and are borne on the “Ottregians” shoulders through the crowd until they eventually disintegrate.
Feel the Heat of History
Visitors can get very close to the action, feeling the heat of the flames and occasionally being sprinkled with ash. It is a hugely popular event with people travelling from miles around and there is a real fun, carnival atmosphere throughout the night, with food stalls and bars dotted around the town. The roads are closed from about 4pm and there is very limited parking so it is wise to plan ahead and get there early. It can get very crowded, but it is a thrill to be part of the hustle and bustle and there are lots of experienced stewards to help keep everyone safe.
Why We Love It
We think it is a magic piece of Devon Folklore that we hope will continue for many centuries to come. It is so important for communities to celebrate together, particularly in the dark winter months, and keeping traditions like this alive helps to unite local people and engender pride in their village. The Tar Barrels night is of real cultural importance to Ottery and a testament to the county’s rich heritage. With people visiting from across the globe, it puts a small Devon town on the world map and we are keen to keep it that way. Every year we like to get involved and this time, as well as our cider being available from bars around the village, we’re also sponsoring a barrel.
Be Part of the Crowd
So if you are looking for something very different to do this Bonfire Night, come along and be part of a true Devon spectacle at the extraordinary Tar Barrels of Ottery St Mary. It is not for the fainthearted but we guarantee an unforgettable experience that every bold Devonian should witness at least once in their life. For full details and to help you plan your night, head to their website.
