The
Tarka Line runs for 39 miles between Exeter and Barnstaple, following the
gentle river valleys of the Yeo and Taw. From Eggesford to Barnstaple the
line forms part of the Tarka Trail, a 180 mile long distance route tracing
the journeys of 'Tarka the Otter' in Henry Williamson's classic novel.
The
history of the Tarka Line is complex. The Exeter and Crediton Railway opened
in 1851 and was extended by the North Devon Railway in 1854. The line was
taken over by the London & South Western company and was later part of
the Southern Railway, which ran the famous 'Atlantic Coast Express' services
to the north coast of Devon and Cornwall.
The scenery along the line has changed little over the years and remains predominantly
rural. The soil is rich and red, created from the red sandstone for which
this part of Devon is famous. Livestock and dairy farming are typical in this
rolling countryside, with fields divided by traditional hedges. Large settlements
are scarce, but look out for small rural villages and farms, some with thatched
roofs.
Sighting
otters from the train is very unlikely as they are secretive and largely nocturnal
creatures, but keen naturalists may spot herons stalking the river shallows,
buzzards overhead or deer near woodlands.
The
Tarka Line provides a valuable local train service and fast connections to
the main line at Exeter.
To fully enjoy your trip,
break your journey and explore the area.
Leave Your Car Behind
Leave your car behind and truly relax! Help conserve the countryside without the worries of driving and parking.
The Tarka Line is the ideal way to reach Eggesford, Barnstaple and the North Devon coast. If you are travelling south, most trains run to Exeter Central Station, just a short walk from the historic city's busy shopping centre and cathedral.
Parking
is readily available at Barnstaple, Crediton and Exeter Stations, with a few
spaces at most intermediate stations along the line.
Plenty To Do
The Tarka Line offers a wide range of things to do for all ages.
- Walking - ranging from a gentle stroll around Exeter, Barnstaple or Crediton, to the longer distance Tarka Trail, Two Moors Way and Exe Valley Way.
- Cycling - hire facilities at Barnstaple, Crediton and Exeter. Routes ideal for families offering safe, traffic free cycling. Cycle hire at Barnstaple station Easter - October (tel 01271 324202) - Discount for people arriving by train.
- Shopping, sightseeing and attractions - at Exeter, Barnstaple and Crediton.
- Visit great rural and town centre pubs on the Tarka Line Rail Ale Trail. Visit the Rail Ale Trail site for details
OS MAPS - For detailed map information, refer to Ordnance Survey Landranger 1:50 000, Sheet numbers 180, 191 and 192.
Visit Discover Devon, Devon County Council's Tourism Web Site
Find out more about Eggesford at Enjoy Eggesford
Visit Umberleigh's website
Visit North Devon's tourism website
Visit the North Devon Rail Users' Group website
