West Ashford

Settlement in Devon North Devon

England

West Ashford

Cutting on dismantled railway at Penhill The old railway line along the edge of the Taw estuary now carries the South West Coast Path and the Tarka Trail. It is also very popular as a cycle path. — Cutting on dismantled railway at Penhill Credit: Tony Atkin

West Ashford is a small village located in the county of Devon, in the southwest of England. Situated on the edge of Dartmoor National Park, it is surrounded by stunning natural beauty and offers a peaceful and picturesque setting for residents and visitors alike.

The village is home to a close-knit community, with a population of around 500 people. Its origins can be traced back to medieval times, as evidenced by the historic St. Mary's Church, which dates back to the 13th century. The church's striking architecture and beautiful stained glass windows are a testament to the village's rich history.

Despite its small size, West Ashford boasts several amenities to cater to the needs of its residents. These include a village hall, a primary school, a local pub, and a post office. The village also benefits from regular bus services, connecting it to nearby towns and cities.

Nature enthusiasts are drawn to West Ashford due to its proximity to Dartmoor National Park. The park offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, cycling, and horseback riding, allowing visitors to explore its rugged landscapes, ancient woodlands, and stunning wildlife. The village itself is surrounded by rolling green fields and offers plenty of opportunities for walks and countryside strolls.

Overall, West Ashford offers a charming rural retreat, combining history, natural beauty, and a sense of community. It is an idyllic destination for those seeking a peaceful escape or a base to explore the stunning Devon countryside.

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West Ashford Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 51.098405/-4.106416 or Grid Reference SS5235. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Cutting on dismantled railway at Penhill

The old railway line along the edge of the Taw estuary now carries the South West Coast Path and the Tarka Trail. It is also very popular as a cycle path.

Tony Atkin

Near Barnstaple, North Devon

A view looking south west from Bradiford over the estuary of the River Taw.

Ron Strutt

Anchored on the Taw

The River Taw, taken from the Tarka Trail cycle path near Heanton Court.

Ron Strutt

Tarka Trail cycle path near Barnstaple

The Tarka Trail cycle path looking towards Barnstaple from near Strand House. The cycle path uses the course of the old Ilfracombe to Barnstaple railway, which here also forms the sea wall.

Ron Strutt

Cyclists on the Tarka Trail

This photograph is a bit of a cheat. I wanted a picture of a big group of cyclists but the lady in the front came along well ahead of her friends. So I took two pictures and assembled them together. Unfortunately my cut and paste missed part of the shadow of the front bike wheel!

Ron Strutt

Path to Pippacot Wood

John Phillips

Farmland near Springfield Cross

Looking towards Shirwell Cross.

Grant Sherman

Bradiford Water Bird Reserve, Barnstaple

Water meadows, scrapes and ponds just before confluence of Bradiford Water and River Taw. Situated at west end of Pottington Industrial Estate, Barnstaple. Image taken from the Tarka Trail (old trackbed of the Barnstaple to Ilfracombe Railway) looking east with Roborough (iron age fort) in far background.

Maurice Clements

Cycle Path past RAF Chivenor

This path is a part of both the South West Coast Path and the Tarka Trail. It is built on the course of an old railway line.

Tony Atkin

A Path for Everybody

For most of its length around the Taw estuary, the path which constitutes part of the Southwest Coast Path and the Tarka Trail is built along disused railway lines and surfaced as a cycle track making it suitable for anyone to use.

Tony Atkin