Attractions and Places To See around Petrockstowe - Top 17

Visitors frequently enjoy the historical significance of Beam Aqueduct, an impressive structure carrying the Rolle Canal over the River Torridge. Another popular spot is Puffing Billy Trading Co., a cafe located in an old station along the NCN27, known for its cycling-friendly atmosphere. The scenic River Torridge Bridges, which are part of the Tarka Trail, also draw many visitors.

Petrockstowe is rich in history. The central landmark is the Church of St Petroc, with parts dating back to the 11th century, featuring a 15th-century tower and a Norman font. You can also see traditional cob and thatch houses clustered around the church, offering a glimpse into the village's past. The platform of the old Petrockstowe Railway Station, now part of the Tarka Trail, is another historical point of interest.

Yes, Petrockstowe is situated on a hillside, providing good views of the surrounding countryside. The Tarka Trail, which runs nearby, offers views over to Dartmoor from higher points. The parish's southern boundary lies on the River Torridge, and the trail follows the river, showcasing many quaint bridges. You can also find the legendary St. Petroc's Springs, where pure water is said to still flow into an ancient stone basin.

Visitors particularly appreciate the tranquil and relaxing atmosphere, especially at places like Beam Aqueduct, where the sound of rushing water is noted as evocative. The scenic beauty of the River Torridge Bridges and the cycling-friendly environment of the Puffing Billy Trading Co. are also highly rated. The area's mix of historical landmarks and natural landscapes is a key draw.

The area around Petrockstowe is excellent for outdoor activities. You can enjoy cycling on routes like the 'Tarka Trail – River Taw loop' or 'Mosaic Otter Sculpture – Puffing Billy Trading Co. loop'. Mountain biking is also popular, with trails such as 'Beam Aqueduct – River Torridge loop'. For hikers, there are easy routes like 'Great Cafe – Hatherleigh loop' and 'Meeth Quarry Nature Reserve – Glebe Pit Lake loop'. You can find more details on these activities in the cycling, MTB, and hiking guides for Petrockstowe.

Yes, there are several easy walking trails. The Tarka Trail, which passes near Petrockstowe, offers accessible sections. For specific easy hikes, consider routes like the 'Great Cafe – Hatherleigh loop' (5.4 km) or the 'Meeth Quarry Nature Reserve – Glebe Pit Lake loop' (4.7 km). These trails are generally well-suited for a relaxed stroll through the countryside. You can explore more options in the easy hikes guide for Petrockstowe.

Absolutely! Petrockstowe is a great base for cycling, especially with the Tarka Trail running nearby. This popular path follows disused railway lines, offering traffic-free routes. You can find various cycling tours, including the 'Tarka Trail – River Taw loop' (87.8 km) or shorter options like the 'Pathway to Kinsale – Puffing Billy Trading Co. loop' (10.3 km). For more cycling routes, check out the cycling guide for Petrockstowe.

Yes, the Tarka Trail runs within about a mile of Petrockstowe village center, passing the old Petrockstowe station. This trail is a popular walking and cycling path, following disused railway lines. The section from Torrington to Meeth, which is nearby, passes through woodlands and moorland and is also open to horse-riders.

Many attractions around Petrockstowe are suitable for families. Beam Aqueduct and the River Torridge Bridges offer interesting sights along the Tarka Trail, which is great for family walks or bike rides. The Puffing Billy Trading Co. cafe is also family-friendly, with plenty of outside space. The nearby village of Hatherleigh provides local amenities and is a good base for exploring the wider area.

Yes, the Petrockstowe area offers several dog-friendly options. The Tarka Trail is generally welcoming to dogs, providing long stretches for walks. Additionally, the Pathway to Kinsale is specifically noted as dog-friendly, offering pleasant walks through fields and lanes with views towards Dartmoor. Always ensure dogs are kept under control, especially near livestock.

Yes, the area boasts significant nature reserves. Ash Moor Nature Reserve, interlinked with Meeth Quarry, is managed by the Devon Wildlife Trust and features shallow scrapes and ponds that attract diverse wildlife, including dragonflies, birds, and butterflies. Meeth Quarry Nature Reserve itself offers wetland, open water, and woodland habitats, supporting numerous species of national importance.

The spring and summer months (April to September) generally offer the most favorable weather for outdoor activities like cycling and hiking around Petrockstowe. During these times, the Tarka Trail and other paths are typically dry, and the countryside is vibrant. However, the area can be enjoyed year-round, with winter walks offering a different, often quieter, perspective of the landscape.