Bike Hire in North Devon
Explore the beautiful 34-mile Tarka Trail cycle route
Our bike hire is a perfectly located in Bideford on the banks of the river with direct access to the Tarka Trail. It is in easy reach of all local bus routes and has onsite parking if arriving by car. Situated in the middle of the cycle trail, you can choose to cycle south towards Torrington and Meeth, or north to Barnstaple then onto Braunton, taking in the wonderful countryside views Devon is so famed for.
Enjoy some of the great local produce from one of the many pubs or cafes along the route. We also have a shop for refreshments and repair services, selling bicycle spares, accessories, cold drinks and ice creams to enjoy before or after your cycle.
Bike Hire in Bideford
Explore North Devon with bike hire from Skern Adventure, with direct access to the Tarka Trail — one of the UK’s most popular traffic-free cycling routes.
With a fleet of over 100 bikes, we cater for individuals, families, and groups, as well as larger bookings for schools, corporate groups, and stag and hen parties. Free parking and private trail access give you immediate access to over 34 miles of safe, scenic cycling.
Our hybrid bikes, including Dawes, Land Rover, and Claud Butler models, combine the comfort of a touring bike with mountain bike gearing. Each comes with mudguards and a rear rack, ideal for longer rides and carrying essentials.
We also offer child trailers for one or two children, plus adult trikes for added stability — complete with large rear baskets for bags, picnics, or small dogs.
Bookings
We offer half-day (morning) and full-day bike hire (9am–5pm). Please refer to our price guide and bike hire rates for full details.
To check availability, use the booking system below. If you need extras such as a tag-a-long, trailer, or child seat — or if your preferred date is unavailable — please contact us using the enquiry form.
When getting in touch, include your arrival time and bike requirements. You can also call us directly using the number provided.
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Bikes for children
We offer a wide range of children’s bikes and accessories to suit all ages and abilities, making family cycling on the Tarka Trail easy and enjoyable.
For older children, we have standard two-wheel bikes, while younger riders can use tag-a-longs, trikes, trailers, and child seats. Tag-a-longs attach to adult bikes and are ideal for children aged 4–8, especially those still building confidence or who may tire on longer rides.
Child seats can also be fitted to our hybrid bikes and are suitable for children up to 22kg. Each seat includes a secure three-point harness, and children must be able to sit upright unaided.
The Tarka Trail
180 miles of discovery
Following the old railway line safe from the dangers of traffic, through tranquil Tarka country, the trail is a level and traffic free cycle way cutting through Devon’s beautiful countryside. The route north follows the Torridge estuary, soon coming to the village of Instow. Stop here for lunch or laze on the beach and gaze across to the historic fishing port of Appledore. Take a picnic or visit one of the many cafes or pubs on route to enjoy the local produce.
The trail continues on towards Barnstaple, following the Taw estuary past fields, marsh and a wild life reserve, a bird watcher’s paradise. The trail south is totally different as at first it follows the valley of the river Torridge, from side to side through the woods and a tunnel, crossing the weir, until reaching Torrington station.Onwards from here the trail climbs gently through the sheltering woods to East Yarde. For the cycling enthusiast with lots of energy remaining you can carry on to Meeth Holt.
Bike Repair services
We offer a full range of bike repairs and servicing, from minor adjustments to complete overhauls. Our team will assess your bike, explain the options, and provide a clear cost and timeframe before any work begins.
Our Basic Bike Health Check starts from £30 and includes:
• Full safety check
• Wheel & tyre check
• Brake & gear check and adjustment
• Drive train checked & lubricated
• Recommendations for future work
Parts are charged separately. To book your bike in, get in touch using the details below — we’ll have you back on the saddle as quickly as possible.
Want to make an enquiry?
We're open 7 days a week through Summer & School Holidays, Wednesday - Sunday all other times.
9.00am to 5.00pm
During this time our phone lines are open and our team are here to help you with bike hire and further enquiries.
Torrington Street
Bideford,
Devon
EX39 4DR