Walk - Braunton to Instow

16.1 miles (25.9 km)

Braunton Instow

Easy - Much of the route follows old railway trackbeds, which now serve as an easy level route for walkers as well as cyclists.

The Coast Path follows part of the Tarka Trail along the estuary of the River Taw. This is part of North Devon’s Biosphere Reserve and much of the route follows old railway trackbeds, which now serve as an easy level route for walkers as well as cyclists. Cross the historic Long Bridge of Barnstaple and continue along the other side of the estuary past marshland and Nature Reserves rich with wildlife to the village of Instow, with its preserved level crossing and Grade 2 listed signal box.

Dogs on the coastpath

Report a problem

Safety advice

Share this page:

There are a range of wonderful places to lay your head near the Coast Path for a well-earned sleep. From large and luxurious hotels, to small and personable B&B's, as well as self-catering options and campsites. The businesses that support the Path, where you've chosen to visit, are listed here.

The Old Vicarage B&B

07549491471

The Old Vicarage B&B is an early Victorian house with spacious guest accommodation, modern en-suite facilities, free parking and free Wi-Fi, located just a short stroll from the town centre.

Show on map Visit website

Whitemoor Camping

07860180022

Whitemoor Farm is set on a picturesque small farm overlooking the village of Bishops Tawton, just a mile from the North Devon coast.

Show on map Visit website

Tarka Trail Camping

01271861011

Tarka Trail Camping is right on the South West Coast Path. There are Showers and Toilets on site with a Local Ale Brewery next door. We are an ideal spot to stop off.

Show on map Visit website

Bennings B&B

01271 814358

Friendly, family run B&B. Double and twin rooms, both en suite. No charge for Wi-Fi. Great location and generous breakfast for your next day's walk!

Show on map Visit website

Trojen Bed & Breakfast

01271 814019 / 07890885825

Relax in our B and B situated half a mile from Coastal Path in a quiet cul de sac in Braunton. Private lounge/ diner and super King ensuite with views of estuary to Appledore

Show on map Visit website

The Den

07837988120

Quirky, modern Den a few minutes walk from the centre of Braunton. Lovely bed and bathroom, microwave, toaster and kettle.

Show on map Visit website

Silver Cottage B&B

07974017663

A charming cottage with two double bedrooms, shower room, and sitting room with kitchen area. No extra charge for single occupancy, or single night stays.

Show on map Visit website

You'll be spoilt for choice for where to eat and drink along the Path. With lots of local seasonal food on offer, fresh from the farm, field and waters. Try our local ales, ciders, wines and spirits, increasing in variety by the year, as you sit in a cosy pub, fine dining restaurant or chilled café on the beach. The businesses that support the Path, where you've chosen to visit, are listed here.

Station Masters Cafe

01271 379744

Award Winning Cafe offering local produce Breakfasts and homemade cakes

Show on map Visit website

Highlights

Spotting the wide array of flora and fauna along this important part of Devon coast. For more information about the surrounding area go to northdevonbiosphere.

Views across the estuary of the River Taw.

As the path follows much of the estuary edge, you have the opportunity to see many birds enjoying their natural habitat, such as curlews, oyster catchers and egret.

Spotting the search and rescue Sea King helicopters at RMB Chivenor.

Crossing the River Taw over the historic stone Long Bridge of Barnstaple.

Fremington Quay with an award winning café housed in a renovated railway station overlooking the estuary (see below). There is also a lookout tower, which provides visitors with binoculars and information about the local birdlife.

RSPB Isley Marsh Nature Reserve - Lower Yelland. Made up of saltmarsh and intertidal mudflats, it is an important retreat for feeding and resting birds, especially wintering flocks of ducks.

Arriving at the village of Instow which has numerous listed buildings, including a preserved level crossing and the UK’s first Grade 2 listed signal box, complete with original levers. (Open to the public on Sundays and bank holidays, enquiries Tel: 01237 429072.)

Public transport

National Express coach number 502 runs from Taunton to Barnstaple and First Great Western trains run regularly from Exeter to Barnstaple. First North Devon buses 3 and 3A run very regularly between Barnstaple and Ilfracombe, stopping in Braunton. The First North Devon services 1 and 2 run every 10 or 15 minutes from Barnstaple to Instow. For details visit travelinesw or phone 0870 6082608.