The Tarka Trail is a spectacular 46 mile reclaimed railway line that has been developed for cyclists and walkers and has now been in open for recreational use for 20 years. The trail first came to my attention approximately one year ago whilst watching James May's "Toy Stories" where he successfully reconnected the railway line between Barnstaple and Bidaford with a model railway stretching around 11 miles.
I rode the trail over two days due to only arriving at the trail head late one afternoon. It would easily be ridden by moderately fit cyclists in a day, there is barely and incline over its duration.
Early on day two I stumbled across the Yarde Orchard. Stumbled across probably isn't the correct wording as I had been advised to look out for it but I had no idea what to expect.
The Yarde Orchard is a unique cafe and accommodation business located on the trail. I was lucky enough to meet David the owner, and whilst I had a coffee and a very tasty slice he gratefully answered a bunch of my questions.
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| Isle of Skye |
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| Isle of Skye |
Leaving Bude on a relatively fine day, I crisscrossed the countryside leaving the fabulous Cornwall behind me and reentering Devon for about the third and final time for this trip. The plan was a leisurely 45 mile ride to the head of the Tarka Trail and from there I would cycle north and look for a suitable camping spot. Around 40 miles into my ride I rounded a corner and ran in two sensational people in John and Mary who were cycling old Raleigh bicycles to a vintage machinery and vehicle show. John's bike dated back to the early 50's if I remember correctly and was complete with rod operated brakes. He said it weighed about the same as a Ford Festiva, looking at the bikes build, I believe him.
After chatting beside the road for what could have been 20 or more minutes, John and Mary gave me directions to the show and an open invitation to join them in the beer tent if I was to attend. Well, I didn't need any further encouragement and after bidding farewell I shot off to find the start of the trail, whilst my new found friends in cycling took a locals shortcut direct to the show.
