A Braunton to Instow cycle on the Tarka Trail is a relaxed, family-friendly ride with estuary views almost all the way. From Waterside Bike Hire, allow around 1 hour to 1 hour 20 minutes each way at an easy pace. The route follows the traffic-free shared-use trail, is well surfaced and is flat apart from the bridge approach.
The most important local tip is simple: take the first, tall bridge rather than continuing underneath it towards Barnstaple. Below, Dan explains exactly where to turn, where to stop and which bikes work best.
Braunton to Instow route at a glance
- Start: Waterside Bike Hire, near Braunton
- Destination: Instow
- Typical riding time: about 1 hour to 1 hour 20 minutes each way
- Terrain: traffic-free, well-tarmacked shared-use trail
- Main incline: the approach onto the tall bridge
- Best family stop: Fremington Quay
- Recommended bikes: hybrid bikes or e-bikes
- Useful extras: child seats, trailers, tagalongs and dog trailers
How to join the Tarka Trail from Waterside
From Waterside Bike Hire, head to the right of the Waterside Café. It is only about 200 metres through the estate before you join the Tarka Trail. From there, turn towards the estuary and settle into the ride: the trail hugs the water for much of the journey, so the scenery begins almost immediately.
Just past Heanton Court, look out for a bench on the right-hand side. It is one of our favourite early stops because it gives you a lovely view across the estuary without adding any distance to the route.
The bridge turn you should not miss
As you approach the first, tall bridge, look for a small path just before it. The turn is signposted National Cycle Route 27 towards Bideford. Follow that path up and onto the bridge.
If you ride underneath the bridge, the trail takes you into Barnstaple, where it is much harder to find your way back to the opposite side. We therefore always recommend the newer, tall bridge. The short climb is the only notable hill on this ride, and the view from the top makes it worthwhile.
The wider route is part of National Cycle Route 27. On this Waterside-to-Instow section, you can stay on the shared-use trail throughout, without needing to mix with normal road traffic.
How long does it take to cycle from Braunton to Instow?
From our base near Braunton, most riders take roughly 1 hour to 1 hour 20 minutes to reach Instow. The return takes about the same amount of riding time, so plan on 2 hours to 2 hours 40 minutes in the saddle overall.
That does not include stops. We would leave plenty of extra time for Fremington Quay, the viewpoints and any wildlife you spot. Families with younger children, trailers or tagalongs may naturally take longer—and that is absolutely fine. This is a ride to enjoy rather than rush.
Fremington Quay is the perfect halfway decision point
Fremington Quay is an ideal stop on the way to Instow. The café serves coffee, ice cream, lunch and the famously large cakes our customers often talk about. There is also a children’s pirate-ship play park, so younger riders have something to look forward to.
From Fremington, Instow is around another 20 minutes by bike for many riders. That makes the quay a useful decision point: enjoy your break, see how everyone feels, then either turn back or continue to Instow.
If Fremington sounds like enough for your group, our separate guide to family cycling from Braunton to Fremington Quay covers that shorter outing in more detail.
What to look out for along the estuary
The scenery changes with the tide, which is part of what makes the route special. At low tide, the mudflats attract feeding birds and reveal more of the estuary landscape. At high tide, the water gives the trail a completely different feel. Both are beautiful, so there is no need to plan your ride around a particular tide.
Bring binoculars if you have them, slow down at the viewpoints and take time to watch the wildlife. If the children need extra motivation, there are also two geocaches on our side of the estuary to search for along the way.
Is the Braunton to Instow ride suitable for children?
Yes. The route is flat apart from the bridge approach, well surfaced and traffic-free, making it a realistic family ride. The trail can become busy, especially in good weather, so ride considerately and keep younger riders close.
We fit all Waterside bikes with bells. Use them early and politely when approaching walkers or slower riders, reduce your speed around busy sections and allow other trail users plenty of room. Agree meeting points before setting off if your group is likely to spread out.
Which bike is best for the ride?
Our hybrid bikes and electric bikes are the best all-round choices for this journey. A hybrid is comfortable and efficient on the smooth surface. An e-bike is ideal for anyone returning to cycling, managing a mixed-ability group or simply wanting an easier day.
For children, we can provide child seats, trailers, tagalongs and children’s bikes, subject to availability. Dog trailers are also a realistic option for this trail. Tell us about your group when booking and we will help you choose a sensible setup.
What about wind, weather and the tide?
Weather, tides and wind do not usually prevent this ride, but conditions can change how it feels. The open estuary can be breezy and it is always nice to have the wind behind you in one direction. Check the forecast, bring a light layer and remember that a helpful tailwind on the outward leg may become a headwind on the return.
Do not worry if your visit falls at low tide rather than high tide. The wildlife and views are different, but equally worthwhile.
Before you set off
- Allow at least 2 hours to 2 hours 40 minutes of riding for the return journey.
- Add generous time for Fremington Quay and scenery stops.
- Take the small path up to the first tall bridge, following Route 27 towards Bideford.
- Bring water, an extra layer and binoculars if you have them.
- Use your bell politely and slow down on busy sections.
- Book child or dog-carrying accessories ahead, particularly at weekends and during school holidays.
Book your Tarka Trail bikes from Braunton
We are based directly beside the trail, so you can collect your bikes, receive a quick fitting and route explanation, then be riding beside the estuary within minutes. Check availability and book online, or use our Tarka Trail map to plan the rest of your day.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the Braunton to Instow cycle?
From Waterside Bike Hire near Braunton, allow about 1 hour to 1 hour 20 minutes each way at a comfortable pace. Add time for Fremington Quay and scenic stops.
Is the route traffic-free?
Yes. This ride follows the shared-use Tarka Trail throughout. The surface is well tarmacked and there are no normal road sections on the Waterside-to-Instow route described here.
Where should families stop?
Fremington Quay is the best family stop. It has a café, ice cream, large cakes and a children’s play park. From there, Instow is roughly another 20 minutes by bike for many riders.
Can we hire an e-bike for the ride?
Yes. E-bikes and hybrids are our recommended choices. We also offer children’s and dog-carrying accessories subject to availability.