West Country Way review
 

I’ve just completed the Sustrans “The West Country Way” 252 mile cycle route through Cornwall, Devon, Somerset and points east. For those interested in the course, I have a few observations, comments and suggestions.

First off, check the wind speed and direction for the time of year you will be taking the trip. In late March and early April I observed that although it would be hard to say that the predominant wind was out of the west, it appeared that the wind was stronger when out of the west and it was rarely out of the east. The route I believe should be taken from west to east.

The Camel Trail section from Padstow, Wadebridge, Bodmin to Blisland was truly suburb. Bucolic, pastoral, everything a rail trail should be and often isn’t.

The holes in the Sustrans National Cycle Route #3 start to show when you get to Blisland. Follow the directions on the map carefully Be certain you pass the Blisland Inn. Not only is it on the route, but it was CAMRA (campaign for Real Ale) Pub of the Year a while back.
As the admonition on your side view mirror states; “objects in mirror may be closer than they appear” is understated so are the Sustran map warnings: “Steep hill take care.” on the map should actually read “This hill is so steep, you will even prefer to walk DOWN it, or perhaps lower your bike on a rope first.” This is a great time to talk about the “Route Profile” on the bottom of each panel of the Sustrans map. Also what’s with those chevrons marking hills? The single chevron hills were often longer and steeper than the double chevron ones.

Also those taking the tour, should be prepared for the signage, which can be; on the road, on the sign posts, on dedicated sign posts, confusing, non existent or excellent. Keep in mind that vandals or others who would prefer cyclists not to go down their country roads may have removed some signs. The tractors are really large in Britain and I could imagine a farmer might not want to deal with a bunch of cyclists competing for space on his 2 metre wide road.

The route near Millook (mile 196 to 194) offers some of the most dramatic views of the entire trip, but be prepared for very steep and narrow roads. The road from Wanson to Bude is heavily travelled by motorized vehicles including lorries and caravans (trucks and motor homes) and might not be very enjoyable in the tourist months.

The Tarka Trail from Petrockestow to Barnstable has a great deal of variable surfaces, but it is a great relief to be off road. Watch for public art. Obviously those responsible are committed to the trail.

Beware of Exemoor off season or on shoulders. It will turn on you like a cat in heat. While climbing the moor I was down to my shorts and shirt in bright sun. Once up and heading into the wind (70-90 kph) I had to make an emergency clothing change. Hold on to everything unless you want to lose it.
Once up on the moor there are great runs and I was lucky to be able to join a number of cyclists doing day trips up on the moor

From Tiverton to Bridgwater, the route follows the Grand Western Canal with some diversions. As usual, watch the Sustrans markings carefully and follow the map as best you can. I got so lost around Bridgewater that I ended up doubling back on myself. It wasn’t until I was back on the canal and saying “Oy, this looks familiar!” did I realise my mistake. Use a compass and don’t rely on locals for directions. I asked someone how to get to Tiverton. “Go up to the corner and take the #37 bus.” they answered.

Glastonbury was both a highlight and a disappointment. Locals are either Monty Python “cheap laughs” or new age extremists. I went with the latter and found myself in a B&B in a renovated 19th century barn offering vegetarian meals and provencal views. Climb the Tor no matter what excuses others may offer.

This was the short tour. If you have questions, I’d LOVE to answer them.