Tarka Trail
A 180-mile traffic-free path through North Devon's stunning countryside, following a historic railway line. Perfect for cycling and walking.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Blossoms and fewer crowds
Tarka Trail
Best Time
Blossoms and fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 180-mile traffic-free path through North Devon's stunning countryside, following a historic railway line. Perfect for cycling and walking.
"Unspoilt natural beauty for miles and miles. A MUST for those who love nature."
🚲 Bike Hire Options
Hire bikes in Barnstaple or Torrington; hybrid and e-bikes are often available.
☕ Pit Stop Cafes
Enjoy refreshments at charming cafes like Puffing Billy, often in old railway stations.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Estuary Views
Along the River Taw and Torridge
Enjoy breathtaking views of the estuaries, woodlands, and meadows on this scenic route.
+1
Puffing Billy Cafe
Torrington
A popular stop at an old railway station, perfect for refreshments and a break.
Historic Railway Line
Entire Trail
Cycle or walk along a disused railway line, a unique way to experience the landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Cycle Path
Plan Your Stops
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚲 Bike Hire Options
Hire bikes in Barnstaple or Torrington; hybrid and e-bikes are often available.
☕ Pit Stop Cafes
Enjoy refreshments at charming cafes like Puffing Billy, often in old railway stations.
👨👩👧👦 Family Friendly
The flat, traffic-free path is ideal for families and young children.
♿ Accessible Sections
Some areas, like Fremington Quay, offer good accessibility for scooters and wheelchairs.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚲 Bike Hire Options
Hire bikes in Barnstaple or Torrington; hybrid and e-bikes are often available.
☕ Pit Stop Cafes
Enjoy refreshments at charming cafes like Puffing Billy, often in old railway stations.
👨👩👧👦 Family Friendly
The flat, traffic-free path is ideal for families and young children.
♿ Accessible Sections
Some areas, like Fremington Quay, offer good accessibility for scooters and wheelchairs.
♻️ Trail Cleanups
Join volunteer cleanups to help preserve the trail's natural beauty.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Tarka Trail's scenic beauty, peaceful atmosphere, and accessibility for walking and cycling. Its transformation from an old railway line into a vibrant path is highly praised, offering unspoilt natural landscapes and convenient, charming cafes for breaks. Some mention the potential for dogs to get muddy, but overall, it's a highly recommended destination for nature lovers and active explorers.
"A scenic easy trail for walking and cycling. Most of the trail is paved with benches along the way. A nice lunch spot in an old railway station is a nice reward."
Fearocious
"Great place for walk, so beautiful and peaceful, nice cafes for pitstops as well good access for wheelchair and mobility scooters at the Puffing Billy cafe. Highly recommend for tea coffee and cakes or snacks good menu and fair prices"
Del Williamson
"Unspoilt natural beauty for miles and miles. With so much of our stunning land being destroyed by developers, the Tarka trail is an absolute blessing and privilege to explore. Every step of this trail offers scenes of tranquility and outstanding beauty. For those nature/bug/foraging/history enthusiasts amongst you, this trail is hard to beat. A MUST for those who love nature."
Freasa Bird
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Tarka Trail is accessible from various points, with Barnstaple and Bideford being key starting locations. You can reach Barnstaple by train, and then hire bikes nearby.
Yes, there are parking facilities at several points, including Fremington Quay, which offers free parking and drop-off points.
Barnstaple has a train station, making it a convenient starting point for the Tarka Trail.
Key access points include Barnstaple, Bideford, and Torrington. Fremington Quay is also a popular and accessible entry point.
Yes, the trail is accessible for motor scooters, offering a smooth and enjoyable experience for all.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Tarka Trail is a public path and does not require tickets for walking or cycling.
There are no entry fees to access and use the Tarka Trail.
The Tarka Trail is open 24/7 as it is a public right of way. However, any cafes or hire shops along the route will have their own operating hours.
Visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and to enjoy the scenery. Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather with fewer crowds.
Yes, dogs are welcome on the Tarka Trail, but it's advised to keep them on a lead, especially around livestock and other users.
🎫 🚴 Cycling & Walking
Absolutely! The Tarka Trail is renowned for its cycling suitability, being a long, continuous, traffic-free path ideal for all ages.
Many visitors hire bikes in Barnstaple or Torrington. The trail is mostly flat, making it an easy ride.
The Tarka Trail offers around 180 miles of paths, with the main cycle route between Barnstaple and Bideford being approximately 30km round trip.
The Tarka Trail is largely flat, as it follows a disused railway line, making it very accessible for walking and cycling.
The trail is mostly paved or well-surfaced, making it suitable for various types of bikes and comfortable for walking.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are several cafes and pubs along the trail, with the Puffing Billy Cafe at Torrington being a popular choice.
Cafes typically offer snacks, cakes, tea, coffee, and light meals. The Puffing Billy has a good menu with fair prices.
Yes, there are many scenic spots along the trail that are perfect for picnics. Benches are also available.
Towns like Barnstaple and Bideford, which the trail passes through or near, offer a wider range of dining options.
Yes, numerous cafes and small kiosks are dotted along the trail, especially near popular access points and attractions.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the stunning estuary views, the unique old railway bridges and tunnels, and the diverse wildlife along the route.
Definitely. The trail offers varied landscapes from marshland to woodland and riverbanks, providing excellent opportunities for landscape shots.
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones.
Yes, the trail is home to various birds and other wildlife, offering chances for nature photography.
The old railway bridges, tunnels, and the views from points like Bideford's old road bridge are popular photographic subjects.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+2Don't miss a stop at the Puffing Billy Cafe in Torrington for a family-friendly refreshment break. The trail's diverse scenery, from open countryside to riverside views, will keep kids entertained throughout your adventure.
♿ Visitors with Mobility Needs
Many cafes along the route, such as the Puffing Billy, also offer accessible facilities, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all visitors. The predominantly flat nature of the trail makes it easy to navigate without strenuous effort.
🐶 Dog Owners
While dogs are welcome, it's always a good idea to keep them on a lead, especially in areas with livestock or when passing other trail users, to ensure everyone's safety and enjoyment. Be prepared for potential mud and twigs, especially after wet weather!
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Cycling the Tarka Trail
+3Cyclists can expect a smooth ride, often on paved or well-maintained surfaces. The journey is punctuated by charming old railway bridges and even a tunnel, adding a touch of history to the scenic adventure. The trail meanders through picturesque Devon countryside, offering glimpses of woodlands, meadows, and the tranquil estuaries of the Rivers Taw and Torridge. It's an ideal way to explore North Devon at a relaxed pace, allowing for spontaneous stops to admire the views or enjoy a refreshment.
+1For those looking for longer cycling adventures, the Tarka Trail connects to other routes, allowing for extended exploration of the region. Planning your route in advance is recommended, especially if aiming for specific destinations or attractions along the way. Remember to check the operating hours of any bike hire shops or cafes you plan to visit.
Walking and Accessibility
Accessibility is a key feature of the Tarka Trail. Sections like Fremington Quay are particularly noted for their suitability for wheelchairs and mobility scooters, featuring dedicated drop-off points and accessible facilities, including cafes. This ensures that a wider range of visitors can enjoy the natural beauty and tranquility of the trail. Benches are strategically placed along the route, offering perfect spots to rest and take in the views.
For nature enthusiasts, the trail offers a rich experience. You can explore marshlands, woodlands, and riverbanks, spotting local wildlife and enjoying the unspoilt natural beauty. The trail is also a haven for history buffs, with remnants of its railway past and the surrounding landscape offering insights into local heritage.
Exploring the Tarka Trail with Family
+2Popular family-friendly stops include the Puffing Billy Cafe in Torrington, which offers a delightful break with good food and a unique historical setting. The trail's varied scenery, from open fields to riverside paths, keeps younger explorers engaged. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, and perhaps even a hedgehog, as spotted by some visitors!
Consider planning your route to include a visit to a charming village or a scenic picnic spot. The trail's length can be adapted to suit your family's stamina, ensuring a fun and manageable day out for everyone.
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