Explore the Templer Way

An 18 mile walking route, the historic Templer Way traces the route that granite once took from Haytor on Dartmoor all the way down to the coast and the docks at Teignmouth. In 1792 the son of James Templar, James II, built a canal between the River Teign and Teigngrace, known as the Stover Canal, to carry clay. Fast forward to 1820 and the son of James II, George, constructed a granite tramway from his quarries on Dartmoor to link with the canal. Use of the tramway ceased during the 1850’s but the canal continued operation until the mid 1900s. The route these days is popular among avid walkers and shows off a variety of landscape, it can be walked as a whole or split into shorter sections. Find out more about the trail and its different parts below.

Haytor to Edgemoor

This first part of the route begins at Haytor, here you will find the stunning quarry and of course the towering tor. Across the vast open moorland, some of the granite racks can still be spotted as you make your way down to Yarner Wood. Passing the edge of the wooded area, the track continues toward The Edgemoor Hotel. 

Edgemoor to Great Plantation

Skirting the town of Bovey Tracey, this part of the Templer Way makes its way through woodland and along bridleways and minor roads. For those looking to detour to Bovey Tracey, there is plenty of facilities and shops to be discovered and it is a popular destination for those interested in arts and crafts. Crossing over the Bovey Pottery Leat, the walk carries on to the outskirts of Great Plantation.

Great Plantation to Locks Bridge

This section of the tramway will lead you past a conifer plantation and other beautiful sights. It weaves through Stover Country Park alongside the stunning lake and takes you off toward the Stover Canal. There is plenty for all to enjoy at Stover Country Park, with wonderful walks and lots of wildlife to spot.  

Locks Bridge to Newton Abbot Town Quay

Following the tranquil Stover Canal, you’ll pass two historical locks, there is little water to be seen in this part, much of the area is merely woodland now and is a great location for bird watching. Follow the route around the edge of Newton Abbot, a bustling market town, to Newton Abbot Town Quay. For those looking to explore Newton Abbot, you’ll find a wealth of history in the town, lots of shops, cafés and more.

Newton Abbot Town Quay to Coombe Cellars

The next section of the Templer Way takes you on a journey alongside the River Teign towards Coombe Cellars. It can be very wet and slippery in places and must only be walked within two hours of low tide. The river offers unparalleled views and there will be lots of interesting wildlife to look out for along the way.

Coombe Cellars to Teignmouth   

Refreshments are available at The Coombe Cellars, a pub, before continuing the journey along the estuary. Much like the previous part, this section can also get very slippery and has to be enjoyed around low tide. Follow the river down toward Ringmore and onto Shaldon, a pretty village opposite Teignmouth. Once you’ve reached Shaldon, all that’s left is to make your way over to Teignmouth where the granite would have been passed on to the ships. You can do this via the bridge or using the Teignmouth to Shaldon Ferry, believed to be one of Britain’s oldest passenger ferries.

To keep up to date with all things South Devon, make sure to follow us on Twitter here and like our Facebook page here. We’ll keep you posted about new blog posts, events, competitions and plenty more!

Other Posts You Might Like