This route, part of Devon Coast to Coast NCN Route 27, takes you along the scenic former railway path that leads from the city of Plymouth to the wild expanses of Dartmoor. The path has recently been extensively resurfaced for significant stretches and as such offers a leisurely pleasurable ride in either direction.

You can start at any of the access points on the route shown on the map; such as Coypool, Bickleigh or Clearbrook. For a whole route experience, many people choose to start from Plymouth Hoe which has direct traffic free cycle links from Plymouth Railway Station.

From the historic Hoe follow the National Cycle Network signs for the Devon Coast to Coast Route 27. This takes you, much of it traffic free, around the Barbican and across Laira Bridge and through to the National Trust grounds of Saltram House (featured in the film Sense and Sensibility) then, under the A38 bridges, to Coypool.

You may want to enjoy the sights of the steam railway workings at Coypool before setting off on the former railway path towards Bickleigh and Clearbook. Being a former railway track - it was the line to Princetown decades ago - the gradient is not sharp. Although slightly uphill you are rewarded with superb viaducts and tunnels of trees and then glimpses of Dartmoor as you head northwards. In the nesting season there is a good chance of seeing the Peregrine Falcons from one of the many splendid railway viaducts that offer great views from the route alongside the River Plym.

At Bickleigh there is a short road section (initially up a steep incline for 50 metres or so) before returning to the Trail heading towards Clearbrook. It is now level again and there are more great views before reaching Shaugh Tunnel. Until recently this railway tunnel was completely unlit and cyclists and walkers entered at their own peril! Upon reaching the middle of the tunnel the curve prevents sight of daylight at either end! Recently installed ‘bat friendly’ lighting allows you to see your way in daylight hours without disturbing the colony of roosting bats. However, please note that the lights go off at dusk and do not switch on again until dawn. So, you well need some cycle lights or a torch if returning through the tunnel after dark.

On the return from Clearbrook there is slightly less need to pedal as the gradient is taking you downhill towards the sea. Your speed may increase so please remember to keep left and avoid walkers and cyclists heading towards you.

To extend your ride, continue north on NCN Route 27 along quiet minor roads from Clearbrook to the former stannary town of Tavistock. This is a little hillier but the rewards of superb moorland countryside are well worth the effort.

Route Distances:
Plymouth Coypool to Clearbrook 7 miles / 11km.
Plymouth Hoe to Plymouth Coypool 3 miles / 15km
•Devon Coast to Coast route map (DP72)
•The Ultimate Devon Coast to Coast Guide £5.95 from www.sustrans.org.uk

O.S. Maps:
•Explorer (1:25,000)
No. OL 20 South Devon
No. OL28 Dartmoor
•Landranger (1:50,000)
No. 201 Plymouth and Launceston

Places to Visit:
•National Marine Aquarium, Plymouth
•Smeaton’s Tower, Plymouth
•Barbican and Plymouth Hoe
•Saltram House (National Trust – reduced entry for those arriving by bicycle)

Facilities:
•Refreshments and shops in Plymouth; pub at Hooe Meavy, Clearbrook
•Cycle hire and shops in Plymouth Plym