Tarka Line train north of Portsmouth Arms

Tarka Line

Exeter - Barnstaple

The scenic Tarka Line runs from Exeter to Barnstaple, following the gentle river valleys of the Yeo and Taw.

Fares Train times

The scenic Tarka Line runs from Exeter to Barnstaple, following the gentle river valleys of the Yeo and Taw.

The Tarka Line is an ideal and picturesque way to visit Barnstaple, capital of North Devon or to reach the great cathedral city of Exeter. The line has linked North and South Devon since 1854.

Stop off to explore the historic market town of Crediton and rural Eggesford, where the first state forest was planted in 1919.

Once in Barnstaple, enjoy a top locally-sourced cooked breakfast right at the station courtesy of the Stationmaster’s Cafe. The station also has its own bike hire. Explore the famous Tarka Trail, starting right from the station, or visit the beautiful North Devon coast by onward bus from outside the station.

The line is great walking territory. The book Tarka Line Walks has 60 walks from stations to explore. The line also has its own voluntary organisation, The Tarka Rail Association, to support and further the interests of rail users.

Dogs are welcome on the train.

Train at Eggesford on Tarka Line
Eggesford Church with Tarka Line train behind

Eggesford, midway along the Tarka Line

Walk at Umberleigh

Umberleigh

Walking the Tarka Trail

The Tarka Trail, which you can join from Barnstaple station. Photo: Stephen Ring.

Barnstaple - photo by Stephen Ring

Barnstaple. Photo: Stephen Ring.

£14.00
Exeter - BarnstapleOff-Peak Day Return
i
When & where
to buy tickets

Tarka Line

Featured Destinations

Barnstaple

It's a must!

Tarka Line

Line Highlights

The Tarka Trail

Barnstaple station is the starting point for the Tarka Trail which offers up to 21 miles of scenic, level, traffic-free cycling.

 

Hire a bike from right next to Barnstaple station, and then cycle from Barnstaple along the estuary to Instow, Bideford, Torrington or beyond from 12 miles to 40 miles.

MORE HIGHLIGHTS

The North Devon coast

The beautiful South West Coast Path is within easy reach of Barnstaple station. Information boards offer walks from the station which vary in difficulty and length, depending on how energetic you are feeling!

There are also plenty of buses to take you out to the coast. Stagecoach buses 21 and 21a, for example, link Barnstaple with Ilfracombe and Westward Ho!. Look up times.

Ilfracombe

Ilfracombe is a traditional seaside town dating mostly from the 19th century. The town centre is full of old fashioned charm, a variety of independent shops and a number of beaches accessible from the town centre, the most famous being Tunnels Beaches.

 

 

Buying Tickets

Exeter to Barnstaple

£

14.00

Off-Peak Day Return. Valid after the morning peak and anytime weekends or Bank Holidays.
If you can, please buy your ticket online on the GWR app or website. Download it to your mobile device or smart ticket where possible.

Great fares from further afield

EXMOUTH TO
BARNSTAPLE

£

14.10

Adult Off-Peak Day Return

Fares explained

2hr 10min

Approximate journey time

PLYMOUTH TO
BARNSTAPLE

£

14.10

Adult Off-Peak Day Return

Fares explained

2hr 30min

Approximate journey time

Fares Times