Tarka Trail Cycling: Your Ultimate Guide

Embarking on a cycling adventure in the UK offers a unique perspective on its diverse landscapes, and few routes capture the essence of natural beauty and historical significance quite like the Tarka Trail in North Devon. Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or a family looking for a leisurely day out, this iconic trail, inspired by Henry Williamson’s famous novel 'Tarka the Otter', provides an unparalleled experience. Beyond its scenic charm, the Tarka Trail is supported by dedicated local businesses, including its pioneering cycle hire services, making it remarkably accessible for everyone.

This comprehensive guide will delve into everything you need to know about cycling the Tarka Trail, from understanding its unique figure-of-eight layout to finding the perfect bike hire, navigating the route, and discovering the hidden gems along the way. Get ready to explore the very best of North Devon on two wheels.

Tarka Trail Cycle Hire: A Legacy on Two Wheels

When planning a cycling trip, one of the first considerations is often acquiring the right equipment. For the Tarka Trail, you're in luck, as the route is perfectly serviced by a long-standing, reputable business: Tarka Trail Cycle Hire. Their story is deeply intertwined with the trail itself, embodying the spirit of local enterprise and sustainable tourism.

Tarka Trail Cycle Hire was founded in 1989 by John & Margaret Kempson. Their venture began shortly after the disused Barnstaple to Bideford railway line was transformed into the recreational Tarka Trail. This timing was no coincidence; John and Margaret were the very first cycle hire business to set up shop on the trail, a move that was warmly welcomed by local authorities and tourism professionals. They saw the potential for tourism activities to sustainably boost the local economy, and indeed, Tarka Trail Cycle Hire played a crucial role in that vision.

In the early 1990s, Tarka Trail Cycle Hire stood out as one of only a handful of bespoke cycle hire companies in the UK. Their success and innovative approach to utilising disused railway lines for recreation served as an inspiration for the multitude of bicycle trail centres that have since sprung up across the country, often on former railway or mining tracks. Today, Tarka Trail Cycle Hire remains a cherished family-owned and run business, steadfastly committed to offering what they proudly describe as 'first-class cycle hire'.

Choosing a local hire service like this isn't just about convenience; it's about supporting a business with deep roots in the community and unparalleled knowledge of the trail. They offer a range of bike types suitable for adults and children, including the increasingly popular electric bikes, ensuring that every member of the family, regardless of fitness level, can enjoy the beauty of the Tarka Trail.

Unravelling the Tarka Trail: Your Guide to North Devon's Cycling Gem

The Tarka Trail is far more than just a path; it's an immersive journey through North Devon's soul. Spanning an impressive 180 miles, this unique figure-of-eight walking and cycling route draws its inspiration directly from the epic journey of Tarka the Otter in Henry Williamson’s 1927 classic novel. As you traverse its varied terrain, you'll encounter everything from tranquil, unspoiled countryside to dramatic sea cliffs and beautiful beaches, showcasing the very best of what North Devon has to offer.

A Brief Overview of the Route

The Tarka Trail's full 180-mile loop is an ambitious undertaking, perfect for multi-day explorations. It intricately weaves together existing public footpaths, bridleways, sections of the South West Coast Path, The Two Moors Way, and routes 3 and 27 of the National Cycle Network.

The official starting point for the entire 180-mile figure-eight loop is The Square in Barnstaple, conveniently located just outside the Barnstaple Museum of North Devon and the Albert Clock, at the north end of the old bridge. From here, you can choose to embark on either the North or South Loop.

• The North Loop: Heading east from Barnstaple town centre, keeping the River Taw on your right as you pass through Rock Park, this loop takes you inland. It rises through charming villages with traditional cob and thatched cottages, passes remote farms, and follows rocky, deep-cut lanes and wooded valley paths. Eventually, it reaches the high plateaus of Exmoor. At Lynmouth, the Tarka Trail joins the South West Coast Path, leading you along breathtaking cliff tops, through coastal towns and villages, and across beaches before looping back along the Taw estuary to Barnstaple.
• The South Loop: This section is particularly renowned for cyclists. Accessible from the south end of the old bridge in Barnstaple, it's signposted and initially skirts the perimeter of a retail park before dipping under the new bridge and connecting to Barnstaple railway station. The southern loop boasts one of the country’s longest, continuous traffic-free walking and cycling paths, built along what was once a bustling railway line. This makes it an ideal choice for families and those seeking easy, flat rides alongside the expansive saltmarsh, mudflats, and sandbanks of the Taw/Torridge Estuary, an area teeming with diverse wildlife and offering wonderful, expansive views.

While the full 180-mile loop would take several days to complete, the beauty of the Tarka Trail lies in its flexibility. Numerous shorter sections and circular walks are available all along the trail, perfect for day trips. The Tarka Trail is also featured across several OS Explorer maps, including 139, 126, 127, 113, and OL 9, making navigation straightforward.

Navigating the Tarka Trail by Bike: The Practicalities

For most cyclists, the highlight of the Tarka Trail is its dedicated, traffic-free cycling section. This segment offers a smooth, enjoyable ride through some of North Devon's most picturesque scenery.

The Prime Cycling Section: Braunton to Meeth

If your primary goal is to cycle the Tarka Trail, the most popular and accessible section runs from Braunton to Meeth. This stretch, just over 30 miles long, is largely flat and entirely traffic-free, making it exceptionally well-suited for cyclists of all ages and abilities, from young children to older adults.

• Distance: Approximately 30 miles.
• Terrain: Predominantly a disused railway path, offering a smooth surface of tarmac and finely packed stone.
• Accessibility: The path is incredibly accessible, with numerous points to join. Car parks are available at both ends of this cycling section: Caen Car Park in Braunton and Meeth Halt at Meeth. Additionally, there are convenient parking and access points at Barnstaple, Fremington Quay, Instow, Bideford, and Torrington. Most access points are equipped with gates or posts that are typically just over a metre wide, allowing ample room for child carriers or trikes.
• National Cycle Network: This section incorporates National Routes 3 and 27, forming a crucial part of the Devon Coast to Coast Cycle Route.

Key Access Points and Parking for Cyclists

Etiquette on the Trail: Sharing the Path Responsibly

The section of the Tarka Trail between Braunton and Meeth is a shared-use path, welcoming both pedestrians and cyclists. To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone, a simple code of conduct is in place:

• Pedestrian Priority: Pedestrians always have priority on the trail.
• Slow Down: Cyclists are kindly asked to slow down significantly when approaching or passing pedestrians.
• Single File: Ride in single file when navigating around pedestrians, especially in busier sections.
• Give Warning: Use a bell or an audible warning to alert pedestrians of your approach, particularly when coming from behind. This is crucial, especially for dog walkers, who will need time to get their pets under control. The safest way to ensure everyone's safety is for cyclists to make their presence known well in advance.
• No Motor Vehicles: For the safety and enjoyment of all, motor vehicles are strictly prohibited from the Tarka Trail.

A Journey Through Nature and Heritage

Cycling the Tarka Trail is an immersive experience that goes beyond just covering distance. The route, which follows the contours of the region's two main rivers – the River Taw (flowing through Barnstaple and Braunton into the Crow Point estuary) and the River Torridge (twisting through Torrington and Bideford before reaching the estuary) – offers wonderful, close-up views of both waterways.

As you pedal, you'll pass through a rich tapestry of wildlife habitats, including expansive estuary mud flats and salt marshes, ancient oak woodlands, hazel coppices, vibrant hedges, serene ponds, winding streams, and lush meadows. The trail also takes you under picturesque old stone bridges and across impressive iron bridges, remnants of the original railway line, adding a touch of historical charm to your journey.

Adding to the trail's unique character are numerous sculptures and works of art, created by talented local artists, dotted along the route. These pieces, part of the Sustrans Art Trails, include beautifully designed benches and shelters by artists such as Katy Hallett, Ben May, John Butler, Geoff Stainthorp, and Paul Anderson, offering perfect spots for a rest and reflection.

Highlights and Refreshment Stops Along the Way

• Braunton: The starting point for many, this pretty village is easy to navigate from, and its car park provides a convenient beginning.
• Barnstaple: Your journey will continue along the banks of the River Taw, passing through Chivenor and crossing the tributary River Yeo on the new swing bridge into Barnstaple. A worthwhile detour into Barnstaple town centre allows you to explore the historic Pannier Market and the Museum of Barnstaple and North Devon.
• Instow & Bideford: Further along the Torridge Estuary, you'll pass through charming Instow and the bustling town of Bideford. Both offer excellent opportunities to stop off for refreshments, with a variety of cafes and restaurants catering to all tastes.
• Torrington: A must-visit stop is the 'Puffing Billy' in Torrington. This relaxed pub is situated at the former Torrington railway station, right on the Tarka Trail. Its restored waiting room serves as a delightful restaurant, and you can even see a goods brake van, coal truck, and buffet carriage on a restored stretch of track, offering a glimpse into the area's railway heritage.
• Meeth: The path currently ends at Meeth, though you can also choose to leave the Tarka Trail earlier via the old tramway route and finish in the beautiful town of Great Torrington.

Throughout the route, you'll find several cafes and pubs, ensuring you're never too far from a well-deserved break and a bite to eat.

Beyond the Main Trail: Expanding Your Cycling Horizons

While the Braunton to Meeth section of the Tarka Trail is undeniably the star for cyclists, the wider National Cycle Network and the surrounding North Devon landscape offer opportunities to extend your ride and explore more challenging terrain.

National Cycle Network Extensions

As mentioned, sections of the Tarka Trail integrate seamlessly with National Cycle Network Routes 3 and 27. For those looking to extend their cycle ride beyond the Tarka Trail's dedicated shared-use path, it is certainly possible. For instance, you could cycle from Braunton north towards Woolacombe and Ilfracombe. However, it's important to note that these extensions venture onto bridlepaths, encounter hilly terrain, and include sections of road cycling, which may present a greater challenge for some riders compared to the flat, traffic-free Tarka Trail.

Mountain Biking Routes in North Devon

If you're an avid mountain biker seeking a more challenging off-road experience, North Devon doesn't disappoint. Several routes around Braunton, Barnstaple, and Torrington are accessible from the Tarka Trail and will take you along rugged bridlepaths, through dense woods, and up and down exhilarating hills. These routes offer a fantastic way to test your skills and explore the wilder side of the region's natural beauty.

The 'Unofficial' Extension: Ilfracombe to Woolacombe via Slade Reservoir

The Tarka Trail's shared-use path is built on old railway lines. One such track once ran from Barnstaple through to Ilfracombe. While parts of this original track are still visible around Braunton, where both the current path and the old line effectively end, the track reappears further north near Woolacombe. Here, a flat, tarmacked path runs through the picturesque Slade Valley, alongside the Slade Reservoir, and continues north into Ilfracombe.

It's crucial to clarify that this section, despite often being referred to as part of the Tarka Trail, is not officially connected to it. Currently, the only way to access the cycle path between Woolacombe and Ilfracombe from the Tarka Trail is via road. Plans are indeed underway to connect the tarmacked paths at Woolacombe with Braunton, which would create a continuous route. However, this ambitious project requires significant work and negotiation with private landowners, meaning it could be some time off, if it happens at all. For now, if you wish to start your journey in Ilfracombe, there are several car parks in the town, or you can use the car park at Lee Bridge, which offers direct access onto the Slade Valley path.

Why the Tarka Trail is a Must-Cycle Destination

The Tarka Trail stands out as a premier cycling destination in the UK for numerous reasons. Its traffic-free nature makes it exceptionally safe and enjoyable for families with young children, providing peace of mind as they pedal through stunning landscapes. The largely flat terrain ensures that it's accessible to cyclists of all fitness levels, allowing everyone to soak in the beauty of North Devon at their own pace.

Beyond the practicalities, the trail offers an immersive journey through a diverse array of environments – from serene estuaries brimming with wildlife to ancient woodlands and charming villages. The integration of local art, historical railway features, and convenient refreshment stops transforms a simple bike ride into a rich cultural and natural exploration.

Moreover, the availability of dedicated, local cycle hire services like Tarka Trail Cycle Hire significantly enhances the experience. Their expertise, range of bikes, and convenient locations along the trail mean you don't need to worry about transporting your own equipment, making a spontaneous day trip or a longer cycling holiday effortlessly achievable. It's an ideal choice for a memorable day out or a longer cycling holiday, promising stunning scenery, fresh air, and a dose of quintessentially British charm.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cycling the Tarka Trail

Is the Tarka Trail suitable for beginners or children?

Absolutely! The section between Braunton and Meeth, which is the primary cycling route, is largely flat, traffic-free, and has a smooth tarmac or finely packed stone surface. This makes it ideal for beginners, families with young children, and those looking for a leisurely ride. The absence of motor vehicles provides a safe and enjoyable environment.

Can I bring my own bike to the Tarka Trail?

Yes, you are very welcome to bring your own bike. The larger towns and villages along the trail, such as Braunton, Barnstaple, and Bideford, also have a selection of bike shops if you require any additional items or repairs during your visit.

Where can I park when cycling the Tarka Trail?

There are several convenient car parks along the shared-use path. The main car parks are at Braunton (Caen Car Park) and Meeth (Meeth Halt). Additionally, you'll find parking and access points in Barnstaple, Fremington Quay, Instow, Bideford, and Torrington. These numerous access points offer flexibility for starting and ending your ride.

Are there places to eat and drink along the Tarka Trail?

Yes, definitely! The Tarka Trail is well-serviced with cafes, pubs, and restaurants in the towns and villages it passes through. Instow, Bideford, and Torrington (with its famous 'Puffing Billy' pub at the old railway station) are particularly good for refreshments. You'll find plenty of opportunities for a break and a bite to eat along the route.

How long does it take to cycle the Tarka Trail?

The main cycling section from Braunton to Meeth is about 30 miles long. For an average cyclist, this can take anywhere from 3 to 5 hours, depending on your pace and how often you stop for breaks, sightseeing, or refreshments. Many people choose to cycle shorter sections for day trips, such as Braunton to Barnstaple, or Bideford to Torrington, which can be completed in a couple of hours.

The Tarka Trail truly offers a cycling experience for everyone, blending natural beauty, historical intrigue, and convenient amenities. Whether you opt for a leisurely pedal through the traffic-free sections or seek more challenging adventures on the surrounding trails, North Devon’s Tarka Trail awaits, promising unforgettable memories on two wheels.

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