The Tarka Trail is named after the book called Tarka the Otter, written by Henry Williamson in 1927. It encompasses 163 miles in a sort of figure of eight, taking in towns such as Lynmouth, Ilfracombe, Braunton, Barnstaple, Bideford, Torrington and Okehampton.The 31 mile section between Braunton and Meeth is along the old railway line and has earlier industrial relics than that still to offer!The Rolle Canal Company, under the lead of Lord Rolle, created a tidal lock, an inclined plane and a canal system, including the Beam Aqueduct, on a portion of the route even before the railways came along! There are several limekilns to see dotted along the way, as well as a well-preserved signal box at Instow and the bustle of Fremington Quay.I suggest parking at Fremington Quay and cycling towards Instow (get an ice cream) and on towards Puffing Billy Station and Yarde if you have sturdy legs!The whole area is part of the North Devon Biosphere and more details can be found - HERE!
