Home / Walking Holidays, Sailing Holidays and Blue Flag Beaches in Devon / Cycle Routes, Cycling in Exeter and Off Road Trails in Devon / West Country Way cycle route (NCN3)

West Country Way cycle route (NCN3)

Distance: 105 miles / 168km
Difficulty: Variable
End points:
- Devon/Somerset border, near Tiverton
- Devon/Cornwall border, near Holsworthy

The West Country Way (NCN Route 3) from Bristol to Padstow, crosses Devon for 105 miles/168km from the Somerset border near Tiverton to the Cornwall border near Holsworthy.

It runs alongside the tranquil Grand Western Canal, before crossing Exmoor, followed by a section through Barnstaple, Bideford and Great Torrington which it shares with the Devon Coast to Coast cycle route. It then heads west to Holsworthy, and onto Bude and Padstow in Cornwall.

The route encompasses a great variety of scenery from the commanding heights of Exmoor to the flatness of the Taw-Torridge estuary and lush river valleys, passing along quiet canal towpaths, through idyllic rural villages, all of which typify Devon's beautiful countryside.

It also offers sections that suit all cyclists. Families, even those with young children, can enjoy a half-day trip along the traffic-free sections; dedicated touring cyclists will enjoy the challenge of the majestic landscape of Exmoor and the superb views of Dartmoor between Hatherleigh and Tavistock, as part of a long-distance touring holiday.

West of Petrockstowe towards Bude in Cornwall, continual improvements are being made to increase the lengths of traffic free paths often along disused railway lines and over impressive viaducts towards the sea.

Facilities along route: The West Country Way passes through many large towns and these will have facilities such as refreshment stops and cycle shops.

Notes on route: This route continues to be developed by Devon County Council to improve the extent of the traffic free sections and the attractiveness of the on-road sections. Some short sections are interim and therefore may not be to full National Cycle Network standard, these are being continuously improved and upgraded.

Hints and tips: Please share the pleasures of this route generously with other users such as pedestrians and horse riders; and remember that your dealings with local people can help future negotiations and ensure a warm welcome for cycling visitors who come after you.

Further Information: For more information on this route visit Devon County Council website

For public transport information, please call Traveline on 0870 608 2 608 or visit their website at www.traveline.org.uk