An 87-Mile Journey of Discovery
The Tamara Coast to Coast Way is a new extraordinary 87-mile journey along the Devon and Cornwall border. Starting in the historic city of Plymouth and winding all the way to the source of the River Tamar right past our cottages, this seven-day walking route offers an immersive exploration of diverse landscapes, rich heritage, and unspoiled natural beauty.
Your adventure begins where the river meets the sea, in Plymouth. There is plenty to do here, including the historic Barbican and Mayflower Steps. Journeying northwards, as you follow the Tamar’s winding course the bustling urban landscape gradually gives way to serene countryside. Leave behind the hustle and bustle and embrace the tranquillity of nature.
As you travel up the Tamar Valley, you’ll be able to explore its rich history and heritage. You’ll encounter remnants of the region’s mining past, charming villages, and ancient landmarks. Passing by the iconic Brunel-designed Royal Albert Bridge, an engineering marvel connecting Devon and Cornwall, is sure to be a highlight especially for train lovers. Along the way, centuries-old churches, quaint cottages, and traditional inns invite you to pause, catch your breath, and immerse yourself in the local culture.
The beauty of the Tamara Way lies in its scenic splendour and the variety of landscapes you’ll encounter. Following the gentle flow of the River Tamar, you’ll find yourself framed by lush green meadows and graceful trees, witnessing the transformation from a wide estuary to a babbling stream. You’ll be able to climb gentle slopes and reach vantage points that offer breathtaking panoramic views, rewarding your efforts with vistas that stretch as far as the eye can see.
About halfway along the route in Stage 5, you’ll find us, Tamar Valley Cottages in North Tamerton, a perfect stop for walkers seeking to break their journey in luxury self-catering surroundings. Nestled approximately a quarter of a mile from the Tamar, the walking route literally passes by the end of our lane, offering a convenient and comfortable haven for rest and relaxation.
Further up the valley, as you approach the source of the River Tamar, the surroundings become increasingly untamed. The landscape changes to ancient woodlands, rugged hillsides, and heather-covered moors.. Finally, at the culmination of your journey, you’ll reach the source of the River Tamar, just a few miles from the Atlantic.
In our view, the Tamara Coast to Coast Way is a testament to the wonders of the Tamar Valley, inviting you to explore the rich nature and history of this unique part of the Westcountry.
The South West Coast Path follows the entire Cornish coast, and by linking Marsland Mouth and the Tamar Estuary, the Tamara Coast to Coast Way offers the opportunity to walk the complete circuit of Cornwall – Kylgh Kernow.
For detailed descriptions and directions, you can visit the Tamara Way website or even purchase the official guidebook. It also includes information about the Tamar Valley Discovery Trail, link routes, and alternative paths. Additionally, download the free Ordnance Survey OS Maps app for detailed mapping, available on the Apple or Google app stores. The premium version allows you to view and download up-to-date maps of the whole country, ensuring you stay on track even offline.
The Tamara Coast to Coast route is divided into several stages, making it easy to plan your journey:
- Stage 1: Cremyll to Tamar Bridge (12.5 miles)
- Stage 2: Tamar Bridge to Bere Ferrers (9.8 miles)
- Stage 3a: Bere Ferrers to Bere Alston station (7.5 miles)
- Stage 3b: Calstock station to Gunnislake (4.3 miles)
- Stage 4: Gunnislake to Lifton (13.5 miles)
- Stage 5: Lifton to Bridgerule (17 miles) ( This is our stretch!)
- Stage 6: Bridgerule to Upper Tamar Lakes (13.7 miles)
- Stage 7: Upper Tamar Lakes to Morwenstow (11.6 miles)
The route is full of fascinating scenery and historical landmarks, so picking our favourites is a challenge… but here goes!
- Brunel Bridge – an impressive feat of engineering in Plymouth
- Cotehele – a stunning medieval manor house
- Calstock – a beautiful village on the banks of the Tamar with a spectacular viaduct
- Horsebridge – The Royal Inn is a welcoming dog-friendly pub close to an ancient bridge
- Tamar Valley Cottages – of course! Boutique self-catering cottages set in 2 acres of the Tamar Valley’s unspoilt countryside
- Tamar Lakes – a reservoir that supplies the water to the area, home to waterfowl and watersports!
- Morwenstow – the glorious end to the walk on the rugged Cornish coast. Check out the local church and the Rectory tea-rooms!
So, lace up your boots, embark on this extraordinary adventure, and let the Tamar Valley unveil its secrets, one step at a time!