8. Braunton to Barnstable

Day 8

Braunton to Barnstaple and on to Instow

To-day was different because I hardly saw the coast at all; this was because Barnstaple straddles the end of the long, wide estuary of the River Taw. So my walk from Braunton took me along one side of the estuary, until I reached Barnstaple, where I crossed over the river on a dramatic new, concrete bridge and then I proceeded back along the opposite side of the estuary until I reached the end of my walk at Instow.

The estuary itself was ever changing with its water, sand and mud banks. I saw terns and waders, neglected and decaying boats and small yachts with tall masts.

The path itself was extraordinary: at one time it was the railway line used by the Atlantic Coast Express. Now it has been tarmacked over and I was no longer walking on a path that is just the Coastal Path (that has temporarily left the coast). Now it is joined by the Tarka Trail and the Devon Coast to Coast cycle route. And of course it is ideal for dog walks. So I had no concerns about losing my way. I had plenty of company!

But at the very end of my walk I returned to the coast once more and found at Instow that the delightful sandy beach is dog friendly. Maisy was in her element because she could chase her beloved ball to her hearts content.

And John, Maisy and I could now return home. My challenge had been completed.

I had walked 75.8 miles (without including extras when I was lost)

I had climbed to a cumulative height of 13,366 feet

I had met walkers from all over the world – New Zealand, America, Holland, Germany and France. Just hardly anyone from England!

Maggie

#Braunton #Barnstable #SouthWestCoastalPath #Instow