4.4
(380)
5,414
riders
135
rides
Touring cycling routes around Yarnscombe offer access to diverse landscapes in North Devon, characterized by ancient woodlands, river valleys, and proximity to the Tarka Trail. The region features a mix of flat, well-surfaced paths, particularly along disused railway lines, and routes that traverse rolling hills. Natural features include the River Torridge and areas with varied habitats, providing a scenic backdrop for cycling.
Last updated: June 27, 2026
4.7
(65)
846
riders
54.4km
03:10
220m
220m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(4)
144
riders
24.4km
01:33
250m
250m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.0
(1)
27
riders
45.5km
02:52
500m
500m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
29
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
riders
30.9km
01:58
370m
370m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Note for bikepackers: you can also camp here! A very beautiful place and the world's best scones!
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Excellent cafe next to Route 27, and provides charging facilities for phones and E-bikes.
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Great cafe in a good cycling area, with loads of outside space for big groups.
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Fremington Quay, located along the Tarka Trail, offers stunning panoramic views of the River Taw. Once a bustling port handling goods from across the globe, it is now a perfect spot to begin your journey or take a well-deserved rest. The old railway line, originally built for transporting goods, now forms part of the scenic Tarka Trail.
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Large flocks of starlings can be seen in late summer after riding under the bridge. The bridge offers great views along Bideford Quay and on the Torridge Bridge.
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Tarka is not safe. Loose dogs thanks to NDDC. A massive accident waiting to happen. I use my bell, but the utter lack of common sense of people: Hard of hearing walker,keep over to the left then, not rocket science. The bike hire companies will even hire to peole with dogs on leads or loose next to them. There is one hire place who's dog runs loose on the trail, when it's not begging at coffee table. I live right next to the trail, its a nightmare of arrogant stupid people who don't care a damn about safety. 90% of riders have a bell, makes no difference.
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There are nearly 150 touring cycling routes around Yarnscombe, offering a wide range of options for different abilities and preferences. The komoot community has explored over 5,000 of these routes.
Yes, Yarnscombe offers several easy and beginner-friendly touring cycling routes. Many of these utilize sections of the Tarka Trail, which is known for its flat, well-surfaced, traffic-free paths, often following disused railway lines. There are 20 easy routes available, perfect for those new to touring cycling or looking for a relaxed ride.
The terrain around Yarnscombe is quite varied. You'll find flat, well-surfaced paths, especially along the Tarka Trail, which is ideal for touring bikes. Other routes may traverse rolling hills and ancient woodlands, offering a mix of gentle gradients and more challenging climbs. The region's diverse landscapes include river valleys and open countryside.
Yes, many touring cycling routes around Yarnscombe are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For example, the Puffing Billy Trading Co. – Mosaic Otter Sculpture loop from Great Torrington is a moderate 15.7-mile circular route that explores the local area.
Many of the traffic-free paths, such as sections of the Tarka Trail, are suitable for cycling with dogs, provided they are well-behaved and kept on a lead where necessary. Always check local signage and be mindful of other users, especially in shared-use areas or nature reserves like Isley Marsh Nature Reserve, where wildlife is abundant.
Absolutely. The Tarka Trail, with its flat and traffic-free sections, is particularly well-suited for families with children. These routes provide a safe and enjoyable environment for cyclists of all ages to explore the scenic North Devon countryside. Look for routes designated as 'easy' for the most family-friendly experiences.
While cycling around Yarnscombe, you can explore a rich tapestry of natural beauty and historical landmarks. You'll encounter ancient woodlands, river valleys, and diverse habitats. Notable features include the Beam Aqueduct, and various sections of the Tarka Trail like Tarka Trail: Fremington to Barnstaple and Tarka Trail: Instow to Fremington. The region is also close to the North Devon Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, offering stunning coastal and estuary scenery.
Yes, Yarnscombe serves as an excellent base for accessing the renowned Tarka Trail. This extensive 180-mile traffic-free path offers numerous sections suitable for touring cycling, including segments that follow disused railway lines. You can easily reach parts of the trail that weave through varied landscapes, from riverbanks to coastal areas.
Many popular starting points for touring cycling routes, especially those accessing the Tarka Trail or near towns like Great Torrington, offer designated parking facilities. It's advisable to check specific route descriptions on komoot for details on parking availability at the trailhead or nearby villages.
The spring and summer months (April to September) generally offer the most pleasant weather for touring cycling in Yarnscombe, with milder temperatures and longer daylight hours. However, the region's natural beauty, including ancient woodlands and river valleys, can be enjoyed in the autumn with its vibrant foliage. Always check the local weather forecast before heading out.
Yes, many touring cycling routes in the Yarnscombe area, particularly those along the Tarka Trail or passing through villages, offer opportunities to stop at pubs and cafes. These provide convenient spots to refuel and enjoy local hospitality during your ride. For example, the Bideford Bridge – Puffing Billy Trading Co. loop from Great Torrington passes by the Puffing Billy Trading Co., a popular stop.
The touring cycling routes around Yarnscombe are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 300 reviews. Cyclists often praise the region's diverse landscapes, the accessibility of the Tarka Trail's traffic-free paths, and the scenic beauty of the ancient woodlands and river valleys. The variety of routes, from easy to difficult, is also frequently highlighted.


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