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Traffic-
free and on the level, this section of the 180 mile "Tarka Trail"
runs betwixt the B3233 and the River Torridge on what was once the Old Bideford
to Barnstaple Railway line. We can't guarantee you have as exciting a journey
as "Tarka" but, nevertheless, this is a great opportunity to appreciate
the stunning estuary views, get out in the open air, enjoy a walk or a cycle
ride with the whole family. Bracing in autumn and winter or a chance to
cool off on a hot summer's day, this part of the Trail can be enjoyed by
all ages. If you are walking, we recommend you set out from Bideford Station
and take the opportunity to look around the Railway Museum. The Old Railway
Carriage is open for refreshments from Easter to October. There is a good
view of the port of Bideford and its ancient long bridge from the top of
the old railway bridge. If you are lucky the famous schooner , "Kathleen
& May", will be alongside Brunswick Wharf, look out for her tall
masts from the trail. Further along the track you pass under the massive
Torridge Bridge which spans the estuary. Over to the right on the hillside
you can see the tower of the 13th Century Church of St. Peter situated in
the village of Westleigh and looking upwards straight ahead you can just
about make out Tapeley Manor, home to the Christie Family. The 20 acre gardens
at Tapeley Park were created in the 19th century by Sir John Belcher. On
the opposite bank the huge metal structure is Appledore Ship Yard now thankfully
in production again after its recent closure. Where the Two Rivers meet,
two villages nestle beneath two hillsides on either side of the estuary,
the busy fishing village of Appledore and the elegant village of Instow.
The old railway platform is still at Instow but the station is now home
to the North Devon Yacht Club. The level crossing gates and the award winning
Signal Box, which is now a listed building, are kept in pristine condition.
The trail continues through the Level Crossing but rest a while in Instow
Village, you can pick up the trail again between the sand dunes at the other
end of the beach. This will give the children the opportunity to kick off
their shoes and build sand castles. The village stores have a delicious
selection of ice creams or if you have built up a real appetite there are
a variety of places to eat along Marine Parade or the promenade including
the prestigious Commodore Hotel. The Instow/Appledore Ferry runs at certain
times in the summer from Instow Quay. The trail carries on through Yelland,
Isley Marsh Nature Reserve, Fremington Quay and Barnstaple. It must have
been a great train ride!
The 180 mile Tarka Trail, inspired by Henry Williamson's
classic novel "Tarka the Otter" traces the route that the fictional
otter took. It meanders through many of the places that are vividly described
in the book and forms a figure of eight circuit with breathtaking views
of some of North Devon's most dramatic scenery, including rugged coastlines,
moorland, lush woodland and rolling countryside. We shall be featuring additional
sections of the trail at a later date. There are several cycle hire places
at different stages on the route including Bideford. For
general information about The Tarka Trail please visit Northern
Devon Coast & Countryside Service. |
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