The Tarka Line

The Tarka Line runs for 39 miles (60 minutes) between the city of Exeter and the ancient market town of Barnstaple.

The line follows the gentle river valleys of the Taw and Yeo, home to the author Henry Williamson, whose classic tale 'Tarka the Otter' gives the railway line its name.

Linking North and South Devon, the Tarka Line travels through the famous green and rolling Devon landscape. On the way you can visit Crediton, a thriving market town with a variety of interesting shops or alight at Eggesford and walk from the station into the magnificent Forestry Commission woodlands.

Then arrive at Barnstaple, a bustling shopping and commercial centre, with the historic Pannier Market and Butchers' Row. If you are feeling fit, why not cycle the Tarka Trail? Starting from Barnstaple Station, the trail is part of the countries longest continuous traffic-free cycle paths, and forms part of the Devon Coast to Coast Cycle Route. The route starts with a flat, off-road route, suitable for families, so why not take the train to cycle the Tarka Trail?