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In 1927, novelist Henry Williamson wrote about the area in North Devon which he loved so much.

The Taw-Torridge rivers were the inspiration behind his classic book, Tarka the Otter, and the work has left a lasting legacy.

Several decades later, and the Tarka Trail is giving cyclists and walkers the chance to take in the scenery described by Williamson.

Boats on the Taw estuary

Some 30 miles of the route is available to cyclists, from Meeth at the southern end, to Braunton on the Taw-Torridge estuary at the northern tip of the trail.

The trail uses North Devon's old railway lines, so is perfect for families. The surface has been improved to make it suitable for bikes and boots.

Because the gradients are shallow when compared with the surrounding countryside, the trail is accessible for disabled visitors.

The Braunton to Torrington stretch forms part of the Devon Coast to Coast cycle route.

You may spot otters in the River Torridge

The entire trail takes you through varied landscape, with views of the estuary and the river valley.

And, if you're very lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of an otter or two.

The Torridge catchment supports one of the best otter populations in England. Not only that, but the population is growing and is of international importance.

As this is an environmentally sensitive area, people are asked to treat the Tarka Trail and its surrounding environment with care.

For more information, click onto the Tarka Trail section of the Devon County Council website - see the link on this page.