Grand Western Canal Cycle Route

Distance: 8 miles
Difficulty: Easy
End points: Tiverton (Grid Ref SS 955 124)
Willand (Grid Ref ST 039 115).

This is a lovely peaceful cycle route, often along the towpath, beside this tranquil stretch of water way through the heart of Devon between Tiverton and the Somerset border. The Grand Western Canal forms part of the West Country Way (NCN3) Cycle Route which runs from Padstow in Cornwall to Bristol. This is a flat, easy, mainly off-road route, and ideal for families with children. There are open views of superb landscape on the way, varying between sheltered woodland and sweeping views of the Blackdown Hills.

Since cycling has been permitted on the towpath, there have been a number of safety concerns and near misses. Cyclists are urged to give due care and consideration for other users and to make sure pedestrians are aware of their presence before passing. It is essential that cyclists dismount and walk under bridges as in most cases it is not possible to see what is coming the other way.

Relevant maps/guides: Explorer (1:25,000) No. 114 Exeter and the Exe Valley, No. 128 Taunton, Blackdown Hills; Landranger (1:50,000) No. 181 Minehead and the Brendon Hills, No. 192 Exeter, Sidmouth.

Facilities along route: Car parking and refreshments are available in Willand, Tiverton Parkway station, Sampford Peverell, Halberton and Tiverton. Cycle hire is available at Abbotshood Cycle Hire beside Greenway Bridge in Halberton (Tel. 01884 820728) and the owner is happy to deliver or collect cycles to any point along the canal with prior notice.

Route Length: Tiverton Parkway to Tiverton return = 12.5 miles + 1 mile to reach Tiverton town centre (one way) and + 3 miles to reach Willand (one-way).

Route passes near to Knightshayes Court (National Trust - reduced entry for those arriving by bicycle) and Tiverton Castle. This is a flat, easy, mainly off-road route, and ideal for families with children.

Theme: Country, Heritage, Nature, Bird Watching,
Style of route: Traffic Free, Off Road,
Area: Mid Devon.