Tarka Trail
It was a day of strong sunshine and a welcome coastal breeze on Saturday for our social cycle ride with Linda Spiller, Sue Murray, Geoff Floyd, John Dabbs, Colin and Louise Witchell.
A short stop to collect hire bikes for some and we were off on the trail, which soon opened out with views to the river Taw, salt marshes and mud flats. The tide was in with estuary views looking great we approach Fremington Quay. Cyclists and walkers replacing the ships and railway of different times.
After a quick natter and a swig of water we head off for Instow. We pass small tidal creeks and marsh land for grazing cattle. Along this stretch the Taw and Torridge meet before flowing out to sea. Views over to Braunton Burrows. Keeping the estuary to our right we arrive at Instow level crossing signal box. We stop opposite the yacht club with fine views over to Appledore. Keen interest was shown of the different dinghies and catamarans on the water. John’s Deli is paid a visit for pasties and sausage rolls. Although Linda managed to food shame us all with her trout quiche!
Leaving Instow behind we head for Bideford along the edge of the Torridge. The huge sheds of the Appledore Shipyard can be seen. I understand you can rent a dry dock, should you wish to paint your superyacht! We arrive at the Heritage Railway Centre but it had unfortunately closed early. We were therefore forced to the Royal Hotel for a liquid lunch in their beer garden!
Back in the saddle and we head back for Barnstaple. Obligatory ice cream stop at Fremington Quay, tentatively returning to our saddles for the last leg heading into stronger head winds.
All in all we cycled 20 miles. Hats off to Geoff and John who went hardcore on their traditional bikes, no modern ebikes for them! A great day.
Colin Witchell