The Tarka Trail is a 163-mile (262 km) long-distance footpath and cycle route that explores the beautiful countryside of North Devon, England. The trail takes its name from Henry Williamson's novel "Tarka the Otter" and follows the route taken by the fictional otter. It passes through a diverse range of landscapes, including wooded valleys, rolling hills, and rugged coastline, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The trail is marked by a distinctive otter logo and is suitable for walkers, cyclists, and horse riders, with some sections suitable for wheelchair users. Along the route, visitors can discover picturesque villages, historic landmarks, and a wide range of wildlife, including otters, birds, and butterflies.
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.
A level and tarmac trail takes you along a very scenic route with numerous places to admire the scenery, rest and get refreshments.
Such a great idea to make an old railway line into a walking & cycling route. So many historic things to see. The Puffing Billy Cafe is a good place to stop & eat. Very easy peddling as it's reasonably flat. Lot's of bridges and a tunnel to look out for. Highly recommended
Hard to believe this is a mixed use track; the majority of cyclists had no regard for pedestrians using the trail. As a regular cyclist when i approach walkers from behind I use a bell, slow down and shout "passing on your right" and always thank people for standing aside. Obviously there's a lack of etiquette on the Tarka!
Good fun with the family. Some nice views along the way and a couple of places to stop for lunch. We did a round trip of 12 miles which was enough for a family with the youngest being 7 years old. The route is flat which definitely helped! Would recommend to spend 3-4 hours of your day.
What a fabulous bike ride we had :) beautiful views :) nice and level all the way along the route ;) the staff were very professional and helpful 10/10
Wheelchair-accessible car park
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Good for kids
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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.
A level and tarmac trail takes you along a very scenic route with numerous places to admire the scenery, rest and get refreshments.
Such a great idea to make an old railway line into a walking & cycling route. So many historic things to see. The Puffing Billy Cafe is a good place to stop & eat. Very easy peddling as it's reasonably flat. Lot's of bridges and a tunnel to look out for. Highly recommended
Hard to believe this is a mixed use track; the majority of cyclists had no regard for pedestrians using the trail. As a regular cyclist when i approach walkers from behind I use a bell, slow down and shout "passing on your right" and always thank people for standing aside. Obviously there's a lack of etiquette on the Tarka!
Good fun with the family. Some nice views along the way and a couple of places to stop for lunch. We did a round trip of 12 miles which was enough for a family with the youngest being 7 years old. The route is flat which definitely helped! Would recommend to spend 3-4 hours of your day.
What a fabulous bike ride we had :) beautiful views :) nice and level all the way along the route ;) the staff were very professional and helpful 10/10
