Tarka Trail Cycle Hire - Image 1

Tarka Trail Cycle Hire

Barnstaple, United Kingdom•4.8(216)•Country Park

Hire bikes to explore 21 miles of scenic, traffic-free cycling along the Tarka Trail through Devon's beautiful countryside and riverside routes.

Tarka Trail Cycle Hire is a bike rental center based in Barnstaple, North Devon, offering access to one of the region's most popular cycling destinations. The Tarka Trail follows a disused railway line between Braunton and Meeth, providing 21 miles of safe, level, and traffic-free riding perfect for families and cyclists of all abilities. The venue maintains an extensive fleet of over 130 cycles including bikes, trikes, and trailers, ensuring there's suitable equipment for everyone from young children to adults. All bikes are regularly replaced and continuously maintained to the highest standards. Located conveniently beside Barnstaple Railway Station with ample inexpensive parking, it serves as an ideal starting point for exploring North Devon. Visitors can experience the beautiful Taw and Torridge estuaries, charming countryside villages, and scenic landmarks associated with Henry Williamson's classic novel "Tarka the Otter." Multiple route options cater to different fitness levels and time availability, with convenient stops in Bideford and Braunton for refreshments. The venue offers flexible pricing including full and half-day rates, group discounts, and extended period offers, making it an affordable family activity.
OFFICIAL WEBSITE

Opening Hours

Monday: 09:15 – 17:00
Tuesday: 09:15 – 17:00
Wednesday: 09:15 – 17:00
Thursday: 09:15 – 17:00
Friday: 09:15 – 17:00
Saturday: 09:15 – 17:00
Sunday: 09:15 – 17:00

Venue Details

Venue Type

Outdoor

Typical visit duration

All day

Booking

Walk-in

What this place offers

ToiletsToilets
Public transportPublic transport nearby
Accessible toilets
Free WiFi
Baby changingBaby changing facilities
Food available
On-site parking
🐕Dog-friendly
Parking nearby
Pushchair friendlyPushchair friendly
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Google Reviews

4.8(216 reviews)
C
Clare Mercer

Clare Mercer

4 weeks ago

Great bikes, reasonable rates and super friendly staff. Wonderful ride along the tarka trail with plenty of ice cream and cream tea stops on the way. Great trail to ride - highly recommended. Bike hire is right next to the train station so couldn’t be more convenient

N
Natalie B

Natalie B

2 months ago

Had a great time riding part of the trail. We needed three bikes and a dog trailer and it was well priced. The staff were brilliant, so helpful and friendly. The trail is beautiful. Would definitely recommend 👍

E
Eva Boynton

Eva Boynton

2 months ago

Great staff and helpful with getting us e-bikes for the Tarka Trail. They were kind and friendly. They change out bikes to accommodate us and made sure we were comfortable. Great family friendly experience!

S
Sally Louise McCabe

Sally Louise McCabe

3 months ago

Fantastic, Rob and the crew sorted us out with bikes, got us fitted, set up and sent us off with a goal of getting to the pub! And we did indeed, we had a wonderful time, the trail is gorgeous and we throughly enjoyed ourselves. Couldn't recommend more highly, thank you 🙏 wheel changing service is also pretty good 😉

M
Molly Spessert

Molly Spessert

5 months ago

We had a fabulous time renting e-bikes and enjoying the Tarka trail. Staff were knowledgeable and took the time to talk through the trail map and made suggestions. I was impressed with the bike kit and lock that was provided for each group that included everything necessary for a roadside repair. The e-bikes were comfortable, and each one had a bell and basket on the back that made it convenient for backpacks. Helmets were included in the rental, and we were impressed by the price of £32 for a full day rental for an e-bike. The trail was really lovely, and everyone we encountered on the trail was welcoming. We found we had plenty of charge on the bikes to make it the 30 miles from Barnstaple to Great Torrington. We had about 40% left when we returned it, and had used them conservatively throughout the day, mainly using it at 1/2. The extra boost up hills and cranking it up to 4/5 on the way back was great and helpful.

Reviews last updated: 29 September 2026

Events at Tarka Trail Cycle Hire

No upcoming events scheduled

Check back soon for new events at this venue.

This venue was last updated on 29 September 2026

Frequently asked questions about Tarka Trail Cycle Hire

Is Tarka Trail Cycle Hire free to visit?

Tarka Trail Cycle Hire is a paid attraction — see the official website for current ticket prices.

Is Tarka Trail Cycle Hire dog-friendly?

Yes, dogs are welcome at Tarka Trail Cycle Hire.

Is there parking at Tarka Trail Cycle Hire?

Yes, Tarka Trail Cycle Hire has on-site parking.

Is there food at Tarka Trail Cycle Hire?

Tarka Trail Cycle Hire doesn't have food on site — bring snacks or grab something nearby.

Is Tarka Trail Cycle Hire pushchair-friendly?

Yes, Tarka Trail Cycle Hire is pushchair, pram and buggy friendly — most areas are step-free so you can navigate easily with little ones in tow.

How long should we plan to spend at Tarka Trail Cycle Hire?

Tarka Trail Cycle Hire is a full-day experience — plan accordingly.

How do I get to Tarka Trail Cycle Hire by public transport?

Tarka Trail Cycle Hire is well-served by public transport.
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