The Tarka Trail
From the park
- The Tarka Trail
- Next to the parkIt passes Chivenor
- Braunton to Barnstaple
- about 6 milesAlong the trail, approx.
- Car-free section
- about 30 milesBraunton to Meeth
Trail distances are approximate, from the Tarka Trail's own route information (checked 6 October 2026).
What the trail is
The Tarka Trail takes its name from Henry Williamson's 1927 book Tarka the Otter. In all it is a 180-mile figure of eight centred on Barnstaple.
The part most owners will use is the 30-mile car-free stretch from Braunton to Meeth, laid on the old railway line. It is level and mostly tarmac, so it suits walkers, cyclists and anyone who would rather avoid hills.
Braunton to Barnstaple, past Chivenor
Between Braunton and Barnstaple the trail follows the Taw estuary for about 6 miles, passing Chivenor on the way. Most of it is off-road and flat.
There are two road crossings, at Velator and at Chivenor, both with crossing places for cyclists. On the way you pass the Velator wetlands and look across the water to Fremington Quay.
Braunton and Barnstaple both have plenty of places to eat and drink, and there are a few stops on the trail itself. The estuary can be windy: the ride back can be harder than the ride out.
On foot
You do not need a bike. Walkers use the trail too, and the estuary stretch makes an easy out-and-back walk of whatever length suits you, with the water changing as the tide comes and goes.
Walkers and cyclists share the same path, so keep to one side and listen for bells. The surface stays firm, so ordinary walking shoes are usually enough.
Further along
Past Barnstaple the car-free trail carries on along the estuary to Instow and Bideford, then inland to Great Torrington and Meeth. You can do as much or as little as you like, and turn back whenever you choose.
Bringing or hiring a bike
You can bring your own bikes. If you would rather not, there are cycle hire businesses in Braunton and Barnstaple, and others further along at Instow, Bideford and Torrington. The Tarka Trail website lists them.
Through the year
Because the trail is flat and surfaced, it is usable in every month the park is open, from 1 March to 31 January. A short walk along the estuary is an easy way to start or end a day, whatever the weather on the beach.
Questions owners ask
Are there any hills?
No. The car-free stretch is on the old railway line, so it is level, and mostly tarmac.
How far is it to Braunton and Barnstaple along the trail?
Braunton to Barnstaple is about 6 miles along the trail, and Chivenor is on the way. There are road crossings at Velator and Chivenor, with crossing places for cyclists.
Do I need my own bike?
No. Cycle hire businesses in Braunton and Barnstaple are listed on the Tarka Trail website. Or simply walk: the trail is just as good on foot.
More about the area
Come and stand on the plot
Photos only go so far. Walk the lane, step inside the lodges and ask Alex anything.
Pick a day
Choose up to three dates online, or call. Viewings are free.
Alex gets in touch
Alex calls or emails to fix a time, usually the same day.
Walk round
See the lodges and the plots, check the views and ask about every cost.