Walk in the Footsteps of Tom Pearse

This 1.7-mile loop starts and ends at Finch Foundry car park, following the River Taw past the Foundry leat and Tarka Bridge before returning through Sticklepath. Some route information gives 1.3 miles, though the complete mapped circuit is about 1.7. Allow 45 minutes to an hour, with more time if you stop. Tom Pearse moved to Sticklepath in 1810 to open a serge mill; the walk follows the water channel that powered the Foundry.

A narrow path between hedges leads past the Quaker burying ground and Tom Pearse’s summer house, then through trees to the river. Follow the Taw to a footbridge, cross and climb past a five-bar gate toward Skaigh Woods. By the sluice feeding the leat, choose the higher path or lower riverside option; they rejoin before a weir and Tarka Bridge. Cross the bridge, then take the wide track and village roads back. A standing stone marks the old Staeclepath; Ladywell spring and St Mary’s Church come near the end.

Expect gates, uneven banks and modest ups and downs; riverside paths can be slippery. Finch Foundry car park is the start and finish, with toilets in the visitor welcome area. No overnight parking is allowed, and the entrance is limited to vehicles under 2.3 m high and 2 m wide. Dogs may come but must stay under close control around livestock and horse riders.