The 'Atlantic Trail' name is based on Bude's history as the western terminus of the Atlantic Coast Express train that ran from London's Waterloo station in the 1900s.   The name also links with the established naming of the A39 as 'The Atlantic Highway' as it passes down this stretch of the Cornish Atlantic coastline.

    Part of the off-road multi-use trail linking Bude into the National Cycle
    Network runs along the trackline of the original railway and over the
    old railway bridge across the river.
    ( for more information visit www.atlantic-coast-express.co.uk )

Bude is also on the route for many cyclists taking the scenic route for the 'End-to-End' (Lands End to John o'Groats - or vice versa).

For the less intrepid, there are a multitude of quiet country lane circular rides to be enjoyed from Bude and there are off-road cycle tracks either existing or being developed - for example at Stowe Woods, Cookworthy Forest and Tamar Lakes.

As an established holiday location, Bude has a huge infastructure of visitor accommodation and attractions - including the historic Bude Canal, the South West Coast Path and, of course, its beautiful beaches.   Those who bring their bikes to Bude will be well looked after and will find plenty of beauty and interest to cycle to.   The South West Coast Path and an impressive network of footpaths and bridleways will also satisfy the aspirations of those using other forms of sustainable transport.

This website is being developed to promote all the cycling opportunities in the 'Atlantic Trail' area and will provide maps and route details, information on cycleway developments, plus links to information on accommodation and the range of services that cyclists (and their families) visiting the area might require.

Promotional events
A walk / ride was held in October 2011 to open the new 'underpass' route under the A39.   A linked series of further event, suitable for walkers, cyclists and horse riders, is being planned for Spring 2012.