Drakes Trail
A 21.3-mile trail connecting Plymouth to Tavistock, offering stunning Dartmoor scenery, historic viaducts, and tranquil woodlands.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant temps
Drakes Trail
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 21.3-mile trail connecting Plymouth to Tavistock, offering stunning Dartmoor scenery, historic viaducts, and tranquil woodlands.
"Fantastic Trail that takes in the beauty and bliss of nature between Plymouth and Tavistock."
🚲 Bike Hire Availability
Rent bikes in Plymouth, Tavistock, or Yelverton for around £15/day. :electric_plug:
🥾 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Sturdy footwear is essential for walking or cycling, especially on varied terrain. :athletic_shoe:
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.9 · 88 reviews
Type
Cycling Park
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Dartmoor National Park Views
Along the trail
Experience the wild beauty of Dartmoor, with ancient woodlands and open moorland. Keep an eye out for native wildlife!
Victorian Tunnels & Viaducts
Various points along the trail
Cycle or walk through impressive old tunnels and over historic viaducts, remnants of the railway line. A unique architectural experience.
Woodland & Riverine Sections
Plym Valley and surrounding areas
Discover hidden 'rainforests' and tranquil riverside paths, offering a peaceful escape and fantastic photo opportunities.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Full Trail or Sections
Bike Hire & Trail Etiquette
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚲 Bike Hire Availability
Rent bikes in Plymouth, Tavistock, or Yelverton for around £15/day. :electric_plug:
🥾 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Sturdy footwear is essential for walking or cycling, especially on varied terrain. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture Nature's Beauty
The trail offers stunning woodland and wildlife photo ops. Don't miss the chance to explore off-track! :camerawithflash:
🐶 Dog-Friendly Streams
Your dog will love splashing in the streams along the trail. 🐕
Tips
from all over the internet
🚲 Bike Hire Availability
Rent bikes in Plymouth, Tavistock, or Yelverton for around £15/day. :electric_plug:
🥾 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Sturdy footwear is essential for walking or cycling, especially on varied terrain. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture Nature's Beauty
The trail offers stunning woodland and wildlife photo ops. Don't miss the chance to explore off-track! :camerawithflash:
🐶 Dog-Friendly Streams
Your dog will love splashing in the streams along the trail. 🐕
🗺️ Explore Trail Sections
Don't feel pressured to do the full 21 miles; shorter sections are equally rewarding. 
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Drakes Trail's stunning natural beauty and historical charm, calling it a peaceful and tranquil escape. The trail is praised for being family-friendly and offering enjoyable cycling and walking experiences with varied scenery, including woodlands, viaducts, and Dartmoor views. While generally not overcrowded, some sections can be busy on peak days.
"It's not too busy, not too many hills an enjoyable ride with amazing scenery"
Kristofer White
"Fantastic Trail that takes in the beauty and bliss of nature between Plymouth and Tavistock. Walking this in sections or riding the entirety are both fantastic, bikes can be hired for the day (Approx. 15 pounds) from Plymouth, Tavistock and Yelverton. The 21-mile trail takes you through the Dartmoor National park, small towns, over bridges and along quiet roads. It is such a peaceful and tranquil walk. We snuck off the track occasionally to take in woodlands or investigate little creeks which provide such magnificent photographs. The trail is brimming with Fauna, we had the opportunity to see native birds, sheep, Squirrels and the famous Dartmoor horses. A squirrel even dropped ½ a bagel and himself onto one of the group, I don’t know who was more shocked!"
Andy Costin
"A fantastic family-friendly bike trail. We started our 13 mile ride from the beginning of the Plym Valley trail at Coypool Park & Ride. We tracked our way continously uphill until we joined Drake's Trail in the Dartmoor National Park. We rode through woods, over viaducts, inside long, darkened tunnels, and along roads going through Dartmoor. Uphill there - downhil on the way back."
Georgina Thomas
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Drakes Trail is accessible from Plymouth and Tavistock. You can start at Coypool Park & Ride in Plymouth or from Tavistock town. Public transport options are available to reach these starting points.
Yes, you can reach the trailheads via public transport. Plymouth and Tavistock are well-connected by bus and train services, making it accessible for day-trippers.
Parking is available at Coypool Park & Ride in Plymouth and in Tavistock. Some smaller access points may have limited parking.
Absolutely! The trail connects to the edge of Dartmoor National Park, offering a seamless transition from urban to wild landscapes.
Popular starting points include Coypool Park & Ride (Plymouth) for the Plym Valley section and Tavistock for access towards Dartmoor.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Drakes Trail is a public right of way and is free to access for walking and cycling.
The trail is open 24/7, as it's an outdoor public space. However, it's best enjoyed during daylight hours for safety and visibility.
There is no entrance fee to use Drakes Trail. Enjoy the natural beauty and historical sites without any cost.
While official guided tours might be limited, local walking and cycling groups sometimes organize events. Check local tourism boards for information.
The main restriction is to be mindful of other users and the environment. Stick to designated paths and respect wildlife.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The trail features a mix of surfaces, including gravel paths, quiet roads, and some sections through woodland. It's generally well-maintained.
There are some inclines, particularly when joining from the Plym Valley trail towards Dartmoor. The return journey is often downhill.
You might spot native birds, sheep, squirrels, and the famous Dartmoor ponies. Keep an eye out for fauna along the route!
Yes, it's a fantastic family-friendly trail, especially for cycling. Shorter sections are manageable for children.
Dogs are welcome on Drakes Trail, but should be kept under control, especially around livestock. They'll enjoy the streams!
📸 📸 Photography
Look for scenic viewpoints in Dartmoor, charming woodlands, and the impressive Victorian viaducts and tunnels.
Drone photography is possible, but be aware of any National Park regulations and respect privacy. The expansive Dartmoor views are ideal.
Early mornings or late afternoons offer beautiful golden hour light, enhancing the natural beauty of the landscapes.
The old railway viaducts and tunnels are iconic structures. Also, seek out the unique 'small rainforests' mentioned by visitors.
Yes, but always maintain a respectful distance. The diverse fauna provides excellent opportunities for wildlife photography.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit