But the trails are more than just a tour of 16 th century history. West Devon is a unique gateway to the Tamar Valley World Heritage Site and also Dartmoor National Park, and has a local history that stretches back to the 12 th century, features internationally prominent personalities throughout the ages and significant industrial landmarks.
With so much to see in the area the walking and cycling trails are designed to offer options for all ages and abilities. Click on each of the routes to find out more about the distances, gradients and surfaces that you will encounter…
Cyclists and walkers are already well catered for with the Sustrans National Cycle Network Route 27 (The Devon coast-to-coast) and the West Devon Way meandering through the borough. The Drake’s Trail project will add interest to these well used and popular attractions as well as offering new routes to provide an insight into the colourful life of Sir Francis Drake.
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Sustrans route 27 will become known as Drake’s Trail between Tavistock and Plymouth, where it then becomes the Plym Valley Trail. The trail then travels into Plymouth, the scene of Drake’s finest hour as he set forth to battle the Spanish Armada from Plymouth Sound. There are references to Drake everywhere you look in Plymouth; look out for Drake’s Island, Drake’s Reservoir and even Drake’s Circus (not actually a circus, unless you go for the Christmas sales)… click here for a map of Plymouth showing sites of Drake interest.
Smaller, circular routes from Yelverton (link to Yelverton map) and Tavistock (Tavi map) provide walking and cycling options for all. These routes include access to Drake’s reputed birthplace (Crowndale spur route), his former home (Buckland Abbey), an impressive engineering (and business) accomplishment (drake’s leat) and even where he used to go fishing (Lopwell Dam)!
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