GALLERY

Barnstaple Downstream Bridge Opens

The Barnstaple Downstream Bridge (and associated western by-pass) is now open and provides an alternative route across the Taw.  The bridge has a shared use cycle path and footpath on the pavement to one side of the road.  The design of the bridge means that there is a climb up to the crown of the bridge and therefore it is downhill again after the crown.  Bear in mind that foot and cycle traffic travels in both directions on the same pavement so don't go barrelling down the hill.

The Downstream bridge adds a third alternative to your choice of how to cross the Taw, after the Barnstaple Longbridge and the Rock Park bridge.  The Downstream bridge is the perfect choice if you are travelling past Barnstaple, say from Bideford to Braunton, as it cuts a significant distance off your ride and avoids the town centre.  Of course, if you come off the bridge at the link to the Braunton path turning it's only a short distance back into the town.  Take care in high winds however, you're going to be high up and exposed to crosswinds on the bridge and there's no barrier between you and the traffic. 

New Arrival in Barnstaple

New Bridge, New Tunnels.

Standing Stone

Up 'N' Over

New View of the Town

Tawside

This is how you now arrive in Barnstaple, although I guess the scene will soon be greener. Follow the curving track around and up to the new bridge, or turn right through the underpass to get to the station and the town.

Purpose built underpasses keep pedestrians and cyclists safe from crossing the traffic on the new roads

The ceremonial stone listing the people of civic standing (see what I did there?!) who opened the bridge. I'm not going to mention the other standing stones on the roundabout nearby because I want to avoid using swear words on the site.

Looking across the bridge towards the Pottington side. The shared use Pedestrian and Cycle way, in both directions, is on the near side of the bridge.

Looking back at the Civic Centre and the riverfront beyond, where you'll ind the Strand Promenade.

Looking down on the river at low tide, this bank continues on towards Fremington. Somewhere down there, in that geenery along the bank, is the cycle track.

.

New Arrival in Barnstaple

This is how you now arrive in Barnstaple, although I guess the scene will soon be greener. Follow the curving track around and up to the new bridge, or turn right through the underpass to get to the station and the town.

To the Gallery Map

To the Barnstaple Map