Find out what we stand for and how our work around the UK is making a difference. Unspoiled countryside, dramatic sea cliffs and the longest, continuous cycle path in the UK are waiting to be discovered. highly recommend it, wild camping & stayed at a few camp sites. The entire route is centered around the ancient market town of Barnstaple, the principle town in the North Devon region. We believe our pricing is reasonable and good value for money and often get many a comment on this from our regulars. Jack is first name and Mandanka is last name. Weather conditions may also affect path surfaces. A small car park enables easy and immediate access to the Tarka Trail. Look out for information boards along the way, with interesting facts about the former Rolle Canal. Popular shops and eateries are within walking distance and the beach is a short ten minute drive away. Maps are available to purchase from the Tourist Information Centre and the Puffing Billy. Puffing Billy to Bideford on the Tarka Trail. As you travel through this beautiful area of North Devon you may spot Deer, Rabbits, Squirrels, Otters, Kingfishers, Salmon and many other species of birds, wildlife and flowers. Explore fantastic walking and cycling routes across the UK. kcal, ascent Next page A simple, flavour filled menu in a relaxed ambience. The station dispatched trains toBidefordandBarnstaple, as well as toExeter St Davids. ifsi virtual learning. The Tarka Trail is a 180 mile, figure of eight walking and cycling trail that follows the route travelled by Tarka the Otter in the famous novel by Henry Williamson. If you walked, you can catch the 315 bus back from Bideford Quay just cross the bridge, turn right and youll find the bus stops.Puffing Billy is about 17 miles from our lodges and cottage, but if you take the bus your day out starts a mile and a half away at the Winkleigh Bus stop. Whether walking or cycling, set off passing in front of the cafe on the tarmac path that was once the railway track. from Braunton . The Tarka Trail is a wonderful route for nature lovers. The Travel Chapter Limited trading as Stay In Devon | The Travel Chapter Limited is registered in England and Wales. There are so many things to do in Devon that youll be spoilt for choice wherever you choose to base yourself during your holiday. Located in a former Victorian railway station, The Puffing Billy is right on the Tarka Trail, making it a perfect stop at either end of this section. Youll start at the Puffing Billy cafe, cross the River Torridge at Beam Weir, made famous in Henry Williamsons book Tarka the Otter (theres probably a copy in your eco lodge), before meandering along the valley, through the old railway tunnel, across another bridge and into the former station at Bideford, where theres a (summertime) cafe in an old railway carriage. Thanks Again, Hi Luke, Sorry to hear you felt the food was not upto your standard, we often get many good/great comments on our paninis, unfortunately we have had some issues with our paninis which was addressed by our supplier and will not be a issue moving forwards. Returned here for lunch for the second time in a matter of months and it was even better this time. Menu Supper Club On the 3rd Friday of every month we open in the evenings. Thanks Luke Sargeant, This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. Bridges, tunnels, cafesand its off road too. Walking and cycling routes change over time. Lovely garden area. The leasehold interest of The Puffing Billy is on sale for 65,000. The shared access section of the Tarka Trail runs for 31 miles along disused railway lines between Braunton and Meeth in north Devon, and was opened in 1997. . Puffing Billy 220mm x 110mm Black Ink on Cream Card . Situated at the centre of the North Devon Area of With car parking, cafe and facilities, Fremington Quay is an Arguably the most spectacular coastal views along the Tarka Trail, lovely walks with dogs cycle rides great views very pleasant, hi all me & a friend done the Devon coast to coast & loved it. Theres even a grassed area for kids complete with wooden pirate ship where they can let off steam! We think its the prettiest part of the trail. please ensure you check carefully before making any decisions based on the contents within this article. Please use your own judgement when using the routes based upon the weather and the ability, experience and confidence levels of those in your group. Lovely huge slabs of cake, just what we needed to get us all that way! But opting out of some of these cookies may have an effect on your browsing experience. Following the success of the inaugural Moor2Moor Challenge in May, Launceston Velo in conjunction with Firebrand Brewery, Launceston Cycles, Westgate Street Deli and Maunders are running a bigger and better event on 14th May 2023. This button displays the currently selected search type. It is right on the Tarka Trail and the restored waiting room serves as the restaurant. Inspired by the route travelled by Tarka the Otter from Henry Williamsons famous 1927 novel, the Tarka Trail is a 180 mile, figure of eight walking and cycling route that traverses unspoiled countryside, dramatic sea cliffs and beautiful beaches enabling you to explore and experience the very best North Devon has to offer. Wheelchair accessible. Its one of the country's longest continuous traffic-free walking and cycling paths and is ideal for families or less experienced cyclists. Date: January 17, 2009 Author: maggie2watson Category: car free, Cycling, Local Devon walks, Things to do Post navigation. Tree Trail (about 3km) 2. Would visit again if passing. Home Open 7 days a week & dog friendly! Views of the River Torridge - The River Torridge Circuit partir de Taddiport - niveau cyclisme sur route - Intermdiaire. Bridges, tunnels, cafesand it's off road too. Along the route you will find beautifully designed benches and shelters by Katy Hallett, Ben May, John Butler, Geoff Stainthorp and Paul Anderson. We had cycled along the Tarka trail from Bideford for afternoon tea. A few metres on the bus stop is on the corner). If you're already a supporter please login to enable embeds. This is unspoilt Devon countryside at its best. the station platform . m, descent Specialising in great food made with local ingredients, it's worth visiting for the roasts alone! If youre car-less and have young children with you we can sometimes run you down there. Highly recommended. Read our fundraising promise. The Travel Chapter Limited trading as Stay In Devon is an appointed representative of ITC Compliance Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (their registration number is 313486) and which is permitted to advise on and arrange general insurance contracts as an intermediary. Nothing fancy about it we let the ingredients speak for themselves. The Tarka Trail makes use of disused railway tracks to take you into the beautiful North Devon countryside. The most popular part of the Tarka Trail is the 31-mile section along disused railway lines between Braunton and Meeth, which breaks down conveniently into 4 separate sections. For more info on the The most popular stop along this section of the trail is Fremington Quay Cafe. PuriMental 2023 This Tuesday- Londons Biggest & Craziest Purim Fancy Dress Party! Instow has a wide selection of pubs, many of which are dog friendly. The large farmhouse table is perfect for big sociable mealtimes and the enclosed garden with patio is the perfect suntrap for those days you want to stay at home! This longer and hillier section of the Tarka Trail is slightly more challenging than the flatter parts before it, making it more suitable for older children. Free for all train ticket holders, passengers can also explore the Menzies Creek Museum - home to more than 80 railway-related exhibits. SKU: TT11 Categories: Printed greetings cards, Tarka Trail. This is the old Torrington railway station building, and is crammed full with railway memorabilia, including original signs and platform notices. Puffing Billy, ,Torrington, United Kingdom, Launceston, United Kingdom. Created from a disused railway line, this walking and cycling route is great for all ages and all abilities and as its tarmacked and relatively flat, wheelchairs, buggies and less confident cyclists will have no problem following the trail. in hospitality, hope to continue the good work of the previous owners whilst putting their own stamp on the Puffing Billy! A bit further and youll come to a wooden bench, one of 30 pieces of art comissioned for the trail as part of Sustrans Art in the Travelling Landscape project.Near hear you can detour into the woods on a permissive path that takes you to Weare Giffard, but apart from a bit of exploring I think Id stick to the trail. We even got to see the diesel shunting engine being exercised on it tiny 50m track! A museum and cafe in the town named Torrington 1646 will transport you back in time to those dark days and give you a chance to relive the battle for yourself. If thats not open, the is a pub close by and plenty of other cafes etc over Bideford Long Bridge in the town itself. 209 Puffing Billy Stock Photos, Images & Pictures Most relevant Best selling Latest uploads Within Results People Pricing License Media Properties More Safe Search first first vacuum cleaners falls creek billy teenager roller coaster Browse 209 professional puffing billy stock photos, images & pictures available royalty-free. It is temporarily operating as a cafe offering good coffee, other non-alcoholic beverages and a variety of sandwiches, pastries and other snacks during the daytime only. to Meeth . sport cycling distance 20.84 ml energy 0 kcal ascent 0 m descent 0 m Notes Ride with Steve, Sunny cool day. (Their cafe is not dog friendly :-( ). Youll soon come to the bridge at Beam Weir. Would defo recommend not having food and just have a beer in the garden. The Tarka Trail is a 180 mile, figure-eight loop inspired by the route travelled by Tarka the Otter. ml, energy Interesting building, free wifi, friendly staff, great (mostly locally sourced) food (big fan of the porridge with mixed berries), decent portions, reasonable prices, a variety of coffee and cakes for those so inclined and cask ale.Yes, staffing levels can sometimes seems bit low and it does get very busy at times but there are worse places to wait for your food (and I've never actually had to wait very long in any event).A must if enjoying this end of the Tarka Trail. Puffing Billy Cafe is #5 of all Great Torrington restaurants: online menu, 1396 visitors' reviews and 85 detailed photos. A carvery on Sunday is great way to end your Tarka Trail journey. Horse riding is also permitted on this section. Youll go through a tunnel, then down to Landcross (had enough? Find properties for sale in Lavender Cottage, Frithelstockstone, Torrington, Devon, Ex38 from the thousands of available properties on the market today. It's also flat and traffic-free, making it perfect for families. These are great places to stop off for refreshments as they have lots of cafes and restaurants. Guests are welcome to use the wetsuits, bodyboards, wellies and prawning sets which is all provided! The Puffing Billy Trading Co. occupies the Victorian railway station, full of railway memorabilia and original features. Map updates are paused. Made from an upcycled 1930s sailor's dormitory, this quirky cafe has an eco-friendly focus and champions local food. If thats not open, there is a pub close by and plenty of other cafes etc over Bideford Long Bridge in the town itself. One final river bridge is crossed before the trail arrives at the Puffing Billy caf. It's a soothing ride past the enormous lakes and meadows of the old clay quarries and mines here, and you may even spot the reserve's herd of Exmoor ponies. Attend, Share & Influence! Puffing Billy is the name of the pub here, once the station . Check out our full collection of self-catering holiday cottages. It extends for 180 miles. loved it. This century-old steam train continues to run on its original mountain track from Belgrave to Gembrook in the magnificent Dandenong Ranges 40kms east of Melbourne. Out of these cookies, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. Own or manage this property? Connecting Actively to Nature (CAN) returns to Skern Lodge for 2023! When you arrive in Barnstaple, make tracks for the Station Masters Cafe next door to the railway station. Your email address will not be published. You can even make this a car free day out, if you can get yourself to the bus stop 1.5 miles from Wheatland Farm. During the English Civil War, the town was of strategic importance and in 1646 was the location for the Battle of Torrington. Do not miss the Puffing Billy, a relaxed pub at the former Torrington railway station. Discover the best North Devon has to offer, The UK's longest, traffic-free cycle path, The Tarka Trail between Braunton and Meeth, places to stay located near to The Tarka Trail, places to eat and drink along The Tarka Trail, Aarons unicycle challenge for Childrens charity. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. We stopped for a drink on our way to Bideford. We only have one walk available for download at the moment but hope to add more over the coming months. What's not to like? Walk to the Puffing Billy cafe from home and its always great to meet for a coffee. Whether walking or cycling, set off passing in front of the pub on the tarmac path that was once the railway track. Just enjoyed a delicious and plentiful carvery at the Puffing Billy, and definitely a bargain. The Tarka Trail makes use of disused railway tracks to take you into the beautiful North Devon countryside. Puffing Billy is Australia's favourite steam train and one of the finest preserved steam railways in the world. The Puffing Billy: Great stop on the Tarka Trail - See 344 traveler reviews, 67 candid photos, and great deals for Great Torrington, UK, at Tripadvisor. The Tarka Trail is the perfect day ride. We have taken all responsible steps to ensure that these routes are safe and achievable by people with a reasonable level of fitness. Find out more place for refueling . If you are in need of refreshments, then take a look at our list of places to eat and drink along The Tarka Trail where cafes, restaurants, pubs, delis and food markets are listed. Absolutely delighted to create this fully funded programme with Active Devon and Torridge District Council this Spring at Skern Lodge. If youre looking for a fun day out in Devon that all members of your family will enjoy, wed recommend heading to the Tarka Trail. There are lots of great places to eat and drink along the way, too. A guided walk down the old railway track, hearing true tales of Torrington and surroundings. It provides an excellent place to take a break whether you are following the Tarka trail or driving through the area. Alternatively, you may use, There are newer reviews for The Puffing Billy, Second time we've stopped at Puffing Billy's trading Co while cycling the tarka trail and if we're ever passing again we'll, Luke S, Owner at The Puffing Billy, responded to this review, We're sorry, hotels cannot be booked for more than 30 days. events from St Anne's Arts & Community Centre, Introduction to Soft Pastels in Barnstaple, Spring Soap Making Workshop in Barnstaple, March Deep Rest Healing Circle in Barnstaple, Trips & Adventurous Activities in Launceston, St. Patricks Day Events & Celebrations In UK 2023, Easter Weekend Activities in Launceston 2023, West Mersea Food & Drink + Rock The Dock 2023, Female Founders Rise - An event for women business owners on International Women's Day. fine for parking in handicap spot in ohio. The Tarka Trail between Braunton and Meeth is a section of flat, tarmacked, unused railway which provides 30 miles of traffic free cycling the longest stretch in the UK. Of course, youll need somewhere just right to come back to after a busy day out. This section criss-crosses the River Torridge, combining lush greenery with river views. It was warm and sunny so we sat at one of the outside tables. Good coffee & tea. If you want to cycle youll have to go out and back again. Covers the North Devon area, including Exmoor, Ilfracombe and the North Devon coast, Exeter, Okehampton and Bude. If youre there really early and its quiet you may see an otter. Torrington Cycle Hire: Cycle trip - See 84 traveler reviews, 24 candid photos, and great deals for Great Torrington, UK, at Tripadvisor. Find out how we're improving accessibility on the Network. We stopped here for lunch on the Tarka Trail and the food was lovely. You may also like the following events from St Anne's Arts & Community Centre: Tickets for Torrington Tarka Trail Haunted History Tour can be booked here. Facebook. Take a breather at Beam Weir, made famous in Tarka the Otter, and see if you can spot otters along the riverbank! You can either leave the Tarka Trail on the line of the old tramway route and finish in the beautiful town of Great Torrington or continue on the route across the river on the railway to where the path currently ends at Meeth. The 180-mile trail forms a figure-eight around the North Devon coast and countryside, but were looking at the most popular section: the 32 miles of traffic-free, flat path between Braunton and Meeth. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. While walking or cycling you will experience many wildlife habitats including estuary mudflats and salt marshes, oak woodland, hazel coppice, hedges, ponds, streams, ditches and meadows. This trail follows the Puffing Billy steam railway through the Dandenong Ranges from Clematis/Emerald to Gembrook Whilst only 15km long, this trail offers a full range of experiences for users - hills, forests, farms, rural villages, picnic facilities, heritage railway. to Fremington Quay . Agents JD Commercial said it urges interested parties to view soon, as it finds cafe and tea room operations tend to sell. Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of writing, A selection of walks from the Old Bowling Green. The Tarka Trail is a combination of footpaths and bridleways with a large section being an old, converted railway line. To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. Subscribed to personalized events updates! Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. In the evening, bats hunt for moths along the river bank. 16 hours 23 minutes, 99.7% Traffic-free | 69.9% Asphalt, 28.0% Unsealed firm, 2.1% Unsealed loose. Out of these cookies, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. Tarka Trail Map - Tarka Trail Guide The Tarka Trail in its entirety is a 290km figure '8' shaped long-distance route centered roughly on the town of Barnstaple in North Devon. Open daily with free entry to passengers and visitors. This section of the trail from Barnstaple to Bideford is great for a family day out as there are lots of places to stop for refreshments on the way. Heres our guide to the Tarka Trail, including the best places to eat and drink, where you can hire bikes, and most importantly where to stay when you visit. Description Reviews (0) Description. Either drive or take the 315 bus from Winkleigh to the Puffing Billy stop just the far side of Great Torrington. Walking or cycling, The Tarka Trail offers the best way to experience the beauty of North Devon. A lovely clean place to eat and drink. It's one of the country's longest continuous traffic-free walking and cycling paths and is ideal for families or less experienced cyclists. Your email address will not be published. I have spoken to the kitchen in regards to the crisp portion to ensure we are consistent in our offering. cycled from Barnstaple . A great new website is now available called One Great Torrington with more information about Great Torrington and the surrounding area: This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Tarka Trail Inspired by the route travelled by Tarka the Otter from Henry Williamson's famous 1927 novel, the Tarka Trail is a 180 mile, figure of eight walking and cycling route that traverses unspoiled countryside, dramatic sea cliffs and beautiful beaches enabling you to explore and experience the very best North Devon has to offer. Puffing Billy to Bideford on the Tarka Trail This gently down-hill walk or bike ride is our favourite part of Devon's Tarka Trail to do from Wheatland Farm's eco lodges. There are times when the sun doesn't shine in Devon and the rain comes to say hello. Stopped here on a Cycle rather than Fremington Quay and massively regretted it! Boasting its own hot tub where you can relax and enjoy stunning countryside views, this is the perfect place to return to after an active day on foot or bike. more. Support Mapometer from 8 (9, $10 USD) per year well activate embedded maps in your account and youll be able to use the site Ad free. 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 at Barnstaple. We have a large selection of breakfast, brunch, lunch options, and of course home-made cakes and scones! We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. and the milk train traffic, freight trains and the occasional passenger special used the line until 1982. Built by theNorth Devon Railway, it opened on 18 July 1872, operated by theLondon and South Western Railway. Terrain varies from flat family-friendly sections to more challenging stretches. From here to Bideford is about 5 miles. Lovely setting and restoration of the former station. The Puffing Billy: Lovely stop on the Tarka trail - See 344 traveler reviews, 67 candid photos, and great deals for Great Torrington, UK, at Tripadvisor. The Tarka Trail shares some sections with The National Cycle Network. Relax in the garden after a busy days adventures, or if the weather turns bad, light the wood burner and choose something good to watch on the Sky TV.Feeling inspired to get out and explore? (view on map). Sustrans is a registered charity in England and Wales (326550) and Scotland (SC039263) and a company limited by guarantee registered in England (1797726) at 2 Cathedral Square, Bristol, BS1 5DD. Beyond the Puffing Billy the Trail yet again crosses the Torridge, this time on a high level viaduct, offering good views along the River, before heading South west towards Meeth, passing Pencleave Woods and Watergate Halt. 3 reviews of Puffing Billy "The Puffing Billy has changed owners and is currently not a Pub. These cookies do not store any personal information. From 1880 it connected with the narrow gauge freight onlyTorrington and Marland Railway. Southlands Retreat, BrauntonSleeping five, this stylish and modern home is only half a miles walk to the cycle hire centre in Braunton.Theres a surfboard rack if you fancy exploring up the coast with your boards, and two four-legged visitors are welcome, too. Offering food and drink inside the station, and outside in the garden, the venue also hosts touring art exhibitions. We enjoyed it so much that we went back for elevenses the next day on our way to Meeth. The Tarka Valley Railway in Devon, England, is a proposed heritage railway based on plans to rebuild the Barnstaple to Halwill Junction railway line. PUFFING BILLY OPERATES DAILY (except Christmas Day). Specialising in great food made with local ingredients, it's worth visiting for the roasts alone! On grouping in 1923 the Torrington to Barnstaple line became part of the, . A detour into Barnstaple town centre, where you can take in the Pannier Market and the Museum of Barnstaple and North Devon, is worthwhile. Torrington is home to Dartington Crystal, the UKs only remaining glass factory who offer a fascinating factory tour where you can watch skilled glass blowers creating some of the most beautiful glass products. youre close to the bus route again here just come off the trail and cross over the Torridge on the road bridge. Burger and chips looked okay but nothing fancy. | Registered office Travel Chapter House Gammaton Road Bideford EX39 4DF Company No. Book Puffing Billy Train tickets - kids from $30pp, adults from $58pp Make sure you book your Puffing Billy ticket online Getting There Via train: Puffing Billy's Belgrave Station is an approx 70-minute journey from Melbourne on the Belgrave line. 1. Its a lovely walk for anyone, but especially suitable for walkers with a dog that prefers a gentle pace and even terrain. Sustrans is committed to fundraising in a way which is legal, open, honest and respectful.