Attractions and places to see around Huntshaw include a blend of historical sites, natural beauty, and nearby points of interest in the Torridge district of Devon, England. The area is characterized by ancient woodlands, the scenic River Torridge Valley, and its proximity to the Tarka Trail. Visitors can explore prehistoric barrows, historic structures, and diverse natural landscapes. Huntshaw offers varied terrain for outdoor activities, from gentle riverside strolls to more extensive woodland loops.
Last updated: July 6, 2026
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
Highlight • Cycleway
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Huntshaw.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tarka is not safe. Loose dogs thanks to NDDC. A massive accident waiting to happen. I use my bell, but the utter lack of common sense of people: Hard of hearing walker,keep over to the left then, not rocket science. The bike hire companies will even hire to peole with dogs on leads or loose next to them. There is one hire place who's dog runs loose on the trail, when it's not begging at coffee table. I live right next to the trail, its a nightmare of arrogant stupid people who don't care a damn about safety. 90% of riders have a bell, makes no difference.
1
2
Use your bell loud and clear on the TarkaTrail as some walkers like me are deaf, we can all live together but remember us please
1
2
Easy ride on the path of the old railway line with refreshments at many of the stations that now house cafés for the tourist
0
1
The Tarka Trail is England's longest traffic free cycling and walking route. It stretches for just over 30 miles from Braunton to Meeth via Barnstaple. The trail follows a disused railway line and you will find many pubs and cafes to refuel, rehydrate and rest weary legs. It is named after Tarka the Otter, from the 1927 book of the same name by Henry Williamson. Keep an eye out for sculptures along the route as it is also one of Sustrans Art Trails.
3
0
Nice route by the river with a good surface, ideal for low impact bike touring
1
0
A flat easy ride with stunning scenery and plenty of wildlife to spot along the way
0
0
Traffic free for miles! Plenty of places to grab supplies or snacks along the way.
0
1
Huntshaw is rich in history. You can visit the Grade II* Listed St Mary Magdalene Church within the village, or the Grade II listed Huntshaw Mill Bridge. For ancient history enthusiasts, explore the Prehistoric Barrows on Darracott Moor, which are part of a prehistoric cemetery dating back to the Late Neolithic to Late Bronze Age. Additionally, the Beam Aqueduct, an impressive structure completed in 1827, carries the Rolle Canal over the River Torridge.
Yes, the area boasts several natural attractions. Huntshaw Wood is known for its ancient woodlands, particularly beautiful in late spring when bluebells carpet the floor. The scenic River Torridge Valley offers numerous public footpaths. You can also visit Isley Marsh Nature Reserve, an important haven for various bird species like teal, curlew, and spoonbills, located on the Taw and Torridge estuary.
Huntshaw is close to the renowned Tarka Trail, a flat and well-surfaced traffic-free path perfect for cycling. This trail covers 180 miles (290 km) through diverse scenery. You can find various cycling routes, including mountain biking and road cycling, by exploring the Cycling around Huntshaw guide.
Absolutely. The Tarka Trail is family-friendly for cycling and walking. The Beam Aqueduct is also considered family-friendly. In the wider area, you can find attractions like Survival Laser Tag in Barnstaple, Monster Slip and Slide - North Devon for outdoor water fun, and The Big Sheep theme park in Bideford.
The area offers varied walking terrain, from gentle riverside strolls along the River Torridge Valley to more extensive woodland loops in Huntshaw Wood. The Tarka Trail provides excellent walking opportunities on a flat, well-surfaced path. For more specific routes, you can check out the Attractions and Places To See around Huntshaw guide for nearby trails.
While Huntshaw is a rural village, public transport options might be limited directly to all attractions. It's advisable to check local bus schedules for connections to nearby towns like Great Torrington or Barnstaple, from where you might access some attractions or trailheads. Many visitors find it convenient to explore the region by car.
Late spring is particularly beautiful for visiting Huntshaw Wood when bluebells carpet the forest floor. Generally, spring and summer offer pleasant weather for walking and cycling on the Tarka Trail and exploring the countryside. Autumn also brings vibrant foliage. Always check local weather forecasts before your visit.
Yes, the Tarka Trail is known for being wheelchair accessible due to its flat and well-surfaced nature. Specific sections like Tarka Trail: Instow to Fremington are also highlighted as wheelchair accessible.
The Tarka Trail, being an extensive route, has plenty of places to grab supplies or snacks along the way, especially in towns it passes through. The nearby town of Great Torrington also provides access to several pubs and cafes.
Visitors frequently appreciate the traffic-free nature of the Tarka Trail, its stunning scenery, and the opportunity to spot wildlife. The historical significance of sites like the Beam Aqueduct and the peaceful atmosphere of places like Isley Marsh Nature Reserve are also highly valued.
Many of the public footpaths and trails in the countryside around Huntshaw, including sections of the Tarka Trail, are suitable for dog walking. It's always recommended to keep dogs on a lead, especially near livestock or in nature reserves like Isley Marsh Nature Reserve, to protect wildlife.
While not widely publicized, the Prehistoric Barrows on Darracott Moor offer a unique glimpse into ancient history away from more common tourist paths. Exploring the quieter sections of Huntshaw Wood or the less-traveled public footpaths along the River Torridge Valley can also lead to peaceful discoveries.


Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions: