The Taw Valley loop from Barnstaple

This road cycling route is approximately 67.3 kilometers (41.8 miles) long and generally takes around 3 hours and 23 minutes to complete. This duration can vary depending on your cycling pace and any stops you make along the way.

The Taw Valley loop is categorized as a moderate road ride, requiring good fitness. The surfaces are generally well-paved, suitable for road bikes. You'll encounter an elevation gain of about 700 meters (2,297 feet). While sections of the Tarka Trail are flat with tarmac or packed stone, country lanes away from the main A377 can be narrow, winding, and feature potentially steep climbs and descents.

The route typically starts from Barnstaple. For parking, Barnstaple offers several public car parks, including those managed by the local council. It's advisable to check the Barnstaple Town Council website for current parking options and fees.

You can expect beautiful and varied scenery, including rural agricultural landscapes, valleys, and woodlands. The River Taw is a constant feature, and from elevated points, you might catch long views north towards Exmoor and south towards Dartmoor. The route also passes through diverse wildlife habitats and historic elements like stone bridges and mills.

Along the route, you'll pass by interesting points such as the Castle Hill Estate and the South Molton Market Square. You might also find the Bike Shed Bike Shop & Café a convenient stop. The route also integrates with sections of the historic Tarka Trail.

The best time to cycle this route is generally during the spring, summer, and early autumn months (April to October) when the weather is milder and more predictable. This allows for more enjoyable cycling conditions and better visibility of the scenic landscapes.

Yes, the route incorporates sections of the Tarka Trail, which is a significant traffic-free, multi-use path. It also briefly intersects with the EuroVelo 1 - Atlantic Coast Route - part United Kingdom 2.

As this is primarily a road cycling route, dogs are generally not suitable to accompany cyclists on the main road sections for safety reasons. However, if you plan to cycle on integrated sections of the Tarka Trail, dogs are often permitted but must be kept on a leash and under control.

No, there are no special permits or entrance fees required to cycle The Taw Valley loop from Barnstaple. The route primarily uses public roads and trails.

Yes, the route passes through or near several settlements where you can find cafes and pubs. Notably, the Bike Shed Bike Shop & Café is a highlight on the route, offering a convenient stop for cyclists. South Molton Market Square also provides options for refreshments.

Given its 'moderate' difficulty grade and approximately 700 meters of elevation gain over 67 kilometers, this route is best suited for road cyclists with good fitness. Beginners might find the climbs challenging. For a less strenuous option, consider shorter loops that focus more on the flatter sections of the Tarka Trail.