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.

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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

01271 328504

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.

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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!

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Marsdens Devon Cottages

01271 813777

One of Devon’s leading agencies with over 450 cottages in popular locations including Croyde, Woolacombe, Braunton and Lynmouth. Book online today!

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Silver Cottage B&B

07974017663

A charming two double bedroom B&B, private sitting room, kitchenette, terrace and shower room. A warm welcome for walkers. No extra charge for single night stays or single occupancy

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North Cottage

01271 812703

Close to the Coast Path, village centre with restaurants & pubs, beach and golf course. Double, single & twin rooms, available Wifi.

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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.

The Quay Cafe

01271 268180

Located right on the famous SW Coast Path our dog-friendly, fully licensed café offers organic coffee, great food, delicious cream teas.....

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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.