Plym Bridge Woods

About this route

Springtime in this wooded valley of the River Plym sees the woodland floor carpeted by wild flowers including wood anemone, wild garlic, primroses and bluebells. Several old quarries with interesting industrial archaeological remains now support an abundance of ferns, mosses and lichens. The site is home to many animals, including a herd of fallow deer, and a wide range of birds. Kingfishers and dippers can be seen along the river, and lesser-spotted woodpecker and tree pipit are found in the woods. Peregrine falcons breed on an old quarry face in the woodland. During the breeding season, there is usually a viewing station with telescopes for visitors’ use. The site supports many damselflies and butterflies, such as the speckled wood.

Getting Around

By bike: The former Tavistock Line Railway, which runs through the site, is now a part of the Drakes Trail (starting at Saltram House next to the Plym Estuary). This trail is part of the long-distance Devon Coast to Coast cycle route.

By car: Parking is available on either side of the Plym Bridge.

Facilities
Several footpaths, including a major foot and cycle path along the disused railway line.
Terrain
Footpaths and cycleways.
Accessibility
Photo of an old stone bridge, Plym Bridge
Plym Bridge Copyright Chris Downer (geograph.org.uk)

You can explore more in this area

Photo of Gem Bridge across a valley and river on the Drakes Trail
21miles/
34kms

Drake’s Trail

Drake’s Trail in West Devon is a 21-mile, multi-use route linking Tavistock with Plymouth. This important part of Devon’s recreational
Photo of Cann Viaduct from below
10miles/
16.1kms

Drakes Trail – Plymbridge Woods

Drake’s Trail in West Devon is a 21-mile, multi-use route linking Tavistock with Plymouth. This important part of Devon’s recreational
Photo of trees surrounding an old quarry at Cann

Plym Bridge Quarries

Plym Bridge is easily accessed via the Drakes Trail. This is quite a gentle route for both cyclists and walkers,
Photo of a quiet lane entering a tunnel on Drake's Trail
37miles/
59kms

West Devon Way

The West Devon Way is a 37-mile walking trail linking Okehampton with Plymouth via Tavistock. This important part of Devon’s recreational