Walking The L&B Route
Unfortunately, most of the L&BR route remains in private ownership, with no right of access. We are in negotiation with most of the land owners, and trespass by enthusiasts does cause us problems so please assist us in our endeavors and not walk on private land.
As a first step we suggest that you buy a copy of OS map OL9, EXMOOR and trace the route on the map. Alternatively, there are several useful maps in L&BR Journey which can be purchased online. You will then see where you can walk on, or be near, the old L&B trackbed.
Woody Bay to Lynton
There is no public access to the actual trackbed between Lynton and Woody Bay Station - although you can still see Caffyns Bridge from the A39 and the route from there to Dean Steep.
Read more detail of the original route from Woody Bay to Lynton, including photos and maps.
Woody Bay to Wistlandpound
From Killington Lane, a short public footpath runs along the route to Parracombe Lane. This is described in the booklet Short Walks from Killington Lane available from Woody Bay.
There is a short section near Rowley Cross off the A39 Parracombe Bypass where there is a car park and picnic area.
There is a good walk around Wistlandpound reservoir, which closely follows the old railway line.
Wistlandpound to Barnstaple
A small public lane runs along the old route between Hunnacott and Narracott, north of Bratton Fleming, and this can make for a pleasant walk.
A public footpath closely follows the old line south from Bratton Fleming Station, through Bratton woods.
Chelfham Station is well worth a visit: we own a section of the line from the station heading north through woods towards Bratton, and the next section is owned by our associate group - Exmoor Associates, through open fields. More details about this can be found if you visit Chelfham station on a Sunday or Wednesday afternoon, when our volunteers are on site.
Exmoor Associates also own Snapper Halt, and a length of the route through fields alongside the River Yeo and at Collard Bridge.
The route of the line can be traced from the old Barnstaple Town Station, to Pilton Yard, and then a short walk alongside the River Yeo on the outskirts of the town to Bridge No 6 Derby Lane close-by the Barnstaple British Legion.
Read more detail of the original route from Wistlandpound to Barnstaple including photos and maps.
Absolutely beautiful place.
From the moment we arrived, the staff were incredibly friendly and welcoming and really went out of their way to make our visit feel special.
A beautiful place to visit.
It’s a fun and beautiful place to visit for a few hours. Glad we went.
Steam train experience
Great experience, lovely staff. Good cream tea! Boy loved it. All day ticket! Kids free. Winner on the value.