Highlight • Restaurant
Westleigh Inn
Cycling
5.0
(2)
The Westleigh Inn is a historic Grade II listed pub and restaurant nestled in the charming coastal village of Westleigh, Bideford, North Devon, United Kingdom. Situated at an elevation of approximately 32 metres, this welcoming establishment offers picturesque views overlooking the expansive Taw & Torridge Estuary, making it a notable landmark in the area. It serves as a popular stop for those exploring the beautiful North Devon countryside.
Visitors consistently praise the Westleigh Inn for its outstanding food choices, attentive staff, and warm, inviting atmosphere. Many hikers and cyclists find it an ideal spot to take a well-deserved break, especially after exploring nearby trails. The traditional English pub charm, combined with its idyllic setting and superb estuary views, creates a relaxing experience that draws people back time and again for a memorable pub lunch or dinner.
Before visiting the Westleigh Inn, it's helpful to know that it offers ample parking, making it convenient for those arriving by car. The inn is known for being family-friendly, featuring an outdoor play area for children, and is also dog-friendly, welcoming four-legged companions both inside and in its outdoor spaces. The menu caters to various dietary needs, including gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegetarian options, with a dedicated vegan menu available upon advance request, ensuring there's something for everyone.
The Westleigh Inn is a fantastic destination year-round, offering a cosy retreat with a fireplace during cooler months and pleasant outdoor seating with views during warmer weather. It's a perfect spot to combine with outdoor activities, as many walking trails and cycling routes are accessible nearby. Hikers often enjoy making it a destination or a mid-route stop, especially those exploring the scenic paths around Westleigh, Bideford, and the Taw & Torridge Estuary.
A popular way to reach the Westleigh Inn is by taking a short detour off the Tarka Trail, a well-known walking and cycling path that winds through North Devon. This allows for a refreshing break with great views before continuing your journey along the trail. The inn's location makes it a natural hub for exploring the surrounding natural landmarks and viewpoints.
Many visitors highlight the joy of enjoying freshly cooked, chef-created food, from hearty pub classics like steak and local ale pie to fish and chips, all while soaking in the tranquil views. The welcoming ambiance, often enhanced by local events or live music, adds to the charm, making it more than just a meal stop but a true experience of local culture in North Devon.
Whether you're looking for easy hiking trails, a family-friendly outing, or simply a place to enjoy a meal with a view, the Westleigh Inn offers a superb base. You can explore a variety of walking routes and cycling paths in the area, and komoot provides numerous options to plan your visit, ensuring you make the most of the beautiful Westleigh Bideford surroundings.
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April 20, 2024
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Westleigh Inn
2
riders
19.1km
01:18
290m
290m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
riders
14.8km
01:00
210m
210m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
2
riders
34.1km
02:16
480m
480m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 30 m
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Friday 10 July
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Max wind speed: 27.0 km/h
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of walking trails are available near the Westleigh Inn?
The Westleigh Inn is ideally situated for accessing a variety of walking trails. You can easily connect to the famous Tarka Trail, which offers flat, accessible paths suitable for all ages and abilities, perfect for a leisurely stroll or cycling. For those seeking more natural terrain, there are numerous footpaths and bridleways winding through the surrounding countryside and along the Taw & Torridge Estuary, offering diverse landscapes and scenic views.
Are there any easy, family-friendly hiking routes directly accessible from the Westleigh Inn?
Yes, the Westleigh Inn is a great starting point for easy, family-friendly walks. Its proximity to the Tarka Trail means you can enjoy flat, traffic-free paths that are suitable for pushchairs and younger children. Additionally, local village paths offer gentle loops through the charming Westleigh area. The inn itself has an outdoor play area, making it a perfect base for families.
How far is the Westleigh Inn from the coast or major natural landmarks?
The Westleigh Inn is conveniently located near several natural attractions. It's approximately 1.4 miles from the sandy beach at Instow, offering a pleasant walk or short drive. The inn also boasts an elevated position with beautiful views overlooking the Taw & Torridge Estuary, which is a significant natural feature in itself, providing opportunities for birdwatching and scenic walks.
What are the public transport options for reaching the Westleigh Inn?
While the Westleigh Inn is nestled in a village setting, local bus services connect Westleigh to nearby towns like Bideford and Barnstaple. It's advisable to check current bus schedules for specific routes and timings, especially if planning to combine your visit with a walk or cycle along the Tarka Trail, which has several access points along its route.
Is the Westleigh Inn accessible for visitors with mobility challenges or wheelchairs?
The Westleigh Inn strives to be welcoming to all guests. While the historic nature of the building might present some challenges, it's best to contact the inn directly to inquire about specific accessibility features, such as ramp access or accessible restrooms. For walks, the nearby Tarka Trail offers flat, paved surfaces that are generally suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs.
Are there specific viewpoints or natural features to look out for on walks near the Westleigh Inn?
Absolutely! The Westleigh Inn itself offers fantastic views of the Taw & Torridge Estuary from its elevated position. On walks, you'll encounter various scenic spots along the estuary, offering panoramic vistas of the water and surrounding countryside. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, especially birds, along the Tarka Trail and the riverbanks.
What are the best times of day or week to visit the Westleigh Inn to avoid crowds?
To enjoy a quieter experience at the Westleigh Inn, consider visiting during off-peak hours or weekdays. Weekends, especially during lunchtime and dinner service, tend to be busier, particularly in the summer months. Arriving earlier for lunch or later in the afternoon for a drink might offer a more relaxed atmosphere.
Does the Westleigh Inn offer accommodation, or are there options nearby?
The Westleigh Inn primarily operates as a pub and restaurant and does not offer overnight accommodation on-site. However, there are various accommodation options available in the nearby towns of Bideford (approximately 2.5 miles away) and Instow, ranging from guesthouses and B&Bs to hotels, catering to different preferences and budgets.
Can I find circular walking routes that start and end at the Westleigh Inn?
Yes, you can certainly plan circular routes that incorporate the Westleigh Inn as a starting or mid-point. Many local footpaths connect to the Tarka Trail, allowing you to create loops of varying lengths. For instance, you could walk along the Tarka Trail towards Instow, explore the village, and then take a different path back towards Westleigh, enjoying a well-deserved meal at the inn.
Are there any permits required for walking or parking in the Westleigh area?
Generally, no specific permits are required for walking on public footpaths or the Tarka Trail in the Westleigh area. The Westleigh Inn provides its own parking facilities for patrons. For other public car parks in nearby towns like Bideford or Instow, standard parking charges may apply, but walking trails themselves are typically free to access.
What kind of terrain and elevation changes can I expect on trails around Westleigh Inn?
The terrain around Westleigh Inn offers a mix. The Tarka Trail, being a disused railway line, is largely flat and well-surfaced. However, venturing onto local footpaths and bridleways in the surrounding countryside will introduce more varied terrain, including gentle slopes and some moderate elevation changes, especially as you explore areas with estuary views. The inn itself is at an elevation of approximately 32 meters.