Cycling on Exmoor

Cycling on Exmoor

Cycling remains to be one of the most helpful ways in order for a person to have a healthy lifestyle while having fun. Exmoor offers a lot of cycling routes for you to try out as more and more people are becoming interesting on cycling not just mountain biking. Even though Exmoor is a hilly part of the country, it continues to be very popular with cyclists. For road cyclists, exciting activities can be experienced in the Exmoor National Park You can bring your own bike and have fun with the absence of traffic in Exmoor as you travel around its winding roads through the countryside. If you do not like the idea of bringing a bike with you, there are several local stores that let you hire one. You may be the type of person who loves to view a wide area or simply someone who loves to feel the breeze of the cool air. Whatever cyclist you may be. cycling on Exmoor is perfect not only for your enjoyment but also for your health as it offers so many varied routes experienced cyclists. Available from many information centres and visitor centers are leaflets that can show you selected cycle routes. Apart from bridleways and public paths, you can take the common roads and quite lanes. There are also companies that offer a transportation service; you can be taken up onto Exmoor so that you can cycle back. They also offer a special service giving you a break in cycling called The Exmoor Rover. It can be used if you want to be transferred from or to any place on Exmoor including luggage that can also be transported.

Take into consideration when choosing a comfortable starting line from where you can begin your exploration as you plan for the next attraction along the way.
There is so much of Exmoor to explore, is a vast scope of area that offering breathtaking scenery. Whether you regularly join cycling events or not. it is your chance enjoy yourself as you wander around Exmoor.
Using a bicycle is a great way to explore Exmoor, with its numerous quiet lanes, and for the mountain biker, a good range of bridleways and tracks to take you away from the road.

If wheels are your thing Exmoor has some of the most varied cycle trails in the country, cyclists will enjoy the challenge of the steep climbs and heart stopping downhill's, set amid the most spectacular scenery.
For a challenging route follow the Exmoor Cycle Route, a 56 mile Tour of Britain circuit, or the Culbone Way, Regional Route 51, a popular trail from Minehead over Exmoor to llfracombe. For pleasure and a little more genteel exercise then take to the Tarka Trail along the estuary from Barnstaple to Braunton or Bideford.

The SUSTRANS Millennium Cycle Route is planned to go through Exmoor, using the quiet lanes up from Dulverton across Molland and Anstey to Mole's Chamber. This is a lovely route for touring cyclists and on the SUSTRANS trailblazing ride last summer it was heralded as one of the most memorable days in their ride from Belfast to Plymouth. There are many other touring routes you could take across Exmoor, or on short loops, and our Visitor Centres will be pleased to help you plan them.

Cycling is one of the park's popular activities and there are both mountain and road biking routes available. The park also showcases organized events like the Exmoor Explorer Mountain Bike Marathon and, for road cyclists; available trails include the West country Way and the Exmoor Cycling Route. Park authorities have also developed a comprehensive cycling code of conduct to make the park cycling experience something that all can enjoy.

The majestic, rolling hills and stunning coastline of Exmoor provide cyclists of all abilities the opportunity for a great ride. With a good mixture of terrain including woodland, paths along rivers and moor land you will be sure to find the ride best suited for you. Some parts are tougher than others and the moors can be a dangerous place so research into the local weather forecast and routes are needed. The stunning scenery completes the package with views to the sea and Wales as well as vast expanses of countryside and wildlife.

For a light ride with try the Crown estate woods in Dunster (close to Minehead) near the beautiful Dunster forest home to the countries tallest tree. With a bit of pre planning using an ordnance survey map you can pick your route to suit the group or yourself. Many picturesque picnic spots are on the any route you may decide to choose. The rides through Dunster forest are great with fantastic old Trees, Red Deer and Chain saw carved sculptures throughout the forest.

Another great ride that is a bit more challenging is the route from Tarr steps through to Exford, Dunkery Beacon, Porlock and finishing in Minehead. The Tarr steps are a beautiful prehistoric clapper bridge surrounded by a nature park. The next stop Exford an iron and copper mining village recorded as far back as 1086 in the Domesday Book. Dunkery Beacon is the highest elevated point of Exmoor and Somerset, the panoramic views are stunning and the ride down is equally as fun. Riding down the exceptionally steep Porlock hill is sure to get the heart going (make sure to check your breaks before hand). Finishing in the coastal village of Minehead which is delightful with its stunning views and lovely coastline.

Longer routes along the moor are available for the hardened riders out there. The Exmoor beast charity cycling challenge happens annually starting and finishing in Minehead. The Exmoor cycle route takes riders from Somerset into Devon then back across the border again. The route is 60 miles long and part of the active Exmoor programme encouraging sport activities on the moors. The route starts in Minehead then visits Porlock, Lynmouth, Exford and Raleighs cross then down to Washford to join the A39 back to Minehead.

Combe Sydenham Country Park is the place to go for those with a taste for downhill cycling. With routes varying for riders of all levels in the countries only National downhill cycling course. With a descent of around 700 feet it is the venue for various competitions. Routes are clearly labelled when you are out on the trails. To get to Combe Sydenham head for the Somerset side of Exmoor on the B3188 to Monksilver.

Whether an all year round cycle enthusiast or a beginner Exmoor has a route to suit your riding skills. The surroundings are fantastic and epic at points. It should be remembered that the weather can drastically change with the blink of an eye so helmets, waterproofs and a map are advised. Enjoy the trails.

Many cyclists these days also own mountain bikes, and for those of you wanting to venture off road, we can offer some ideas. A Bike-It leaflet was published for Dunster Woods. This describes several trails, which are also waymarked on the ground, suitable for beginners, intermediate and advanced cyclists. The routes use mainly firm forest tracks through the conifer woods. For the more experienced mountain biker, the OS Outdoor Leisure Map shows bridleways and RUPPS (Roads Used as Public Paths) - remember bikes are not allowed on public footpaths or across open moorland. Follow the Exmoor Code of conduct : announce your presence when approaching horses or walkers from the rear & close gates behind you.

Cycling is becoming increasingly popular on Exmoor and if you do not want to bring your own, there are cycle-hire shops in Minehead and Porlock. Enthusiasts and keen cyclists are only just realising the challenge offered by the varied and often hilly terrain, but for those who prefer a more leisurely ride or have families to consider, there are level areas that still offer great cycling. If you are really seeking a challenge, you should try the Exmoor Cycle Route, a demanding 56 mile ride following the 2007 Tour of Britain route across the region.

Cycling over Dunkery Beacon

Take the Tarka Trail or the West Country Way, or follow the Sustrans route touring country lanes and moorland, but watch out for Porlock Hill!

Contrary to first appearances, Exmoor and North Devon offer plenty of opportunity for everyone including families and disabled people to go cycling.

Cycling is a growing sport on Exmoor and enthusiasts are only just realising its full potential, the quiet leafy lanes are an excellent place to gain your confidence if you've not balanced on two wheels for a while. The varied and often hilly terrain may provide a challenge for keen cyclists, but there are flatter areas that provide great cycling for families and more leisurely cyclists. Exmoor's quiet roads are an excellent way to explore the countryside.

Alternatively those of you with more experience who enjoy a gruelling challenge could maybe try the Exmoor Cycle Route, a 56 mile demanding circular route following the 2007 Tour of Britain route through the region.

Bike hire is available in Porlock and Minehead so it is not always necessary to bring your own

Cycling on Exmoor

Much of Exmoor may be discovered on bicycle. Quiet country lanes leading to tiny hamlets and villages and a network of bridleways or special trails offer differing experiences for the cyclist and mountain biker. Attend a Bike Hike over moorland or through the Valley of Rocks with a National Park Ranger.

Although Exmoor is hilly, it is easy to plan cycle routes along roads and lanes without taking in too many hills

The Exmoor National Park produce 3 leaflets, each featuring a number of different grade routes at a specific location: Dunster, Wimbleball Lake and Holnicote Estate North Hill. These are available from the Information Centre in Dulverton - 01398 Exmoor National Park Authority841 telephone credit card payment accepted.

There is a a family cycle route along the hill top between North Hill and Bossington Hill above Minehead. The views are superb.

The County Council has published the Somerset Cycle Guide which contains both high quality mapping of the whole county and all the information you need for planning a trip.

The long distance 'West Country Way' cycle route (Bristol to Padstow) passes through some beautiful parts of Somerset. To purchase a copy of the route, contact Sustrans. Tel: 0117 9268893.

There are also four published cycle routes available from Somerset Tourism or from most Tourist Information Centres, who also have contact addresses for cycle hire companies.

The Tarka Trail is a 30 mile flat stretch of 'reclaimed' railway track bed ideal for cycling, which connects Braunton, Barnstaple, Bideford, Great Torrington and Meeth via the Torridge and Taw valleys. The trail is named after Henry Williamson's 'Tarka the Otter' which was based on many locations along the Trail.

If you are staying on or near Exmoor, a day cycling on the Tarka Trail or on one of Biketrails' Exmoor routes is very rewarding and great fun for all the family.

Combe Sydenham Country Park - Mountain Bikes are welcome. Courses to challenge the best riders.

Route 3 of the National Cycle Network now passes through North Devon joining the Tarka Trail at Petrockstowe and continues through Barnstaple onto Exmoor and runs along the edge of the moor before descending into Dulverton. The whole area offers a series of quiet country lanes ideal
for exploring the local countryside.

West Country Way Route 3 of the National Cycle Network (Lands End to Bristol) passes through Somerset.
It enters the south west of the county from Tiverton (in Devon) heading east over Exmoor. Continues along canal towpaths and quiet lanes to Taunton and theSomerset Levels' to Glastonbury before the climb onto the Mendip Hills. The route then continues to Bristol. The guide "The West Country Way" is available from Tourist Information Centres and Sustrans, 35 King Street, Bristol. BS1 4DZ. Telephone 0117 929 0888 www.sustrans.org.uk

Pedal Around Porlock

This is a family cycle route in the Vale of Porlock. Details can be obtained from the Porlock Vistor Centre.

See also:

There is a wide range of graded cycle routes in Tarka Country, with something to suit everyone, from the rather wobbly to the most experienced road or mountain biker. Off road routes away from busy traffic will appeal to families with young children, while there are longer on-road routes along quiet lanes which wind their way through peaceful countryside and historic villages. The Tarka Trail can be accessed only 7 miles from Country Ways at The Puffing Billy Pub just the other side of Torrington.

Map of cycle routes in Tarka Country

Mid Torridge Cycle Link:
This linking route connects the Tarka Trail Cycle/walkway at Petrockstowe, with the Sticklepath Cycle Route as it passes through Hatherleigh on its way towards Dartmoor. Combined these routes provide a complete south-north route from Dartmoor to the North Devon Coast. This attractive route takes in the villages of Petrockstowe and Sheepwash with their traditional cob walled, thatched cottages.

Sticklepath Cycle Route:
This signposted circular route starts and finishes at the National Trust's Finch Foundry at Sticklepath near Okehampton. It follows quiet country lanes, taking in delightful villages and passing many places of historic interest, all set against a backdrop of spectacular panoramic views of Dartmoor.

Tarka Trail:(Shown in yellow)
Thirty two miles of the Tarka Trail are a cycle/walkway, following the old railway line from Braunton on the coast, to Petrockstow deep in the heart of Tarka Country. This part of the Trail offers easy, flat, traffic-free cycling suitable for all the family around the wide expanse of the Taw/Torridge Estuary, before following the River Torridge inland.

Holsworthy-Black Torrington Cycle Route:
This ride passes through quiet hamlets connected by deep lanes with fascinating churches dating back to the 13th century.

Eggesford Forest:
The waymarked cycle route follows bridleways and forest tracks for an exhilarating off-road ride through Forestry Commission plantations. The route is not suitable for very young children or novice cyclists.

National Cycle Network No.3:
The National Cycle Network is a linked series of traffic-free paths and traffic-calmed roads being developed right across the United Kingdom. Route No.3 runs 250 miles from Bristol to Padstow. In Tarka Country, the route descends from Exmoor to follow the Tarka Trail Cycle/walkway from Barnstaple to Petrockstowe, and then rejoins lanes along the sections of the Mid Torridge Cycle Link and the Holsworthy-Black Torrington Cycle Route. on its way to Cornwall.

More Information:
Details of these routes can be found in a pack called `Cycling in Tarka Country' and a map of the National Cycle Network No.3. Both can be ordered from the Tarka Country Trust.

CYCLE HIRE

Bikarooni Cycle Hire - Pick up your bikes on the Tarka Trail or have them delivered to your holiday accommodation. 0845 456 1500 www.bikarooni.co.uk

Bideford Cycle Hire - Bideford Open all year. Direct access to the Tarka Trail from our depot. Tandems, trailors, and trikes for all the family Tel 01237 424123

Tarka Trail Cycle Hire at the railway station Barnstaple Cycle miles of beautiful traffic free cycle ways. The trail passes next to rivers, beaches, estuary and through outstanding countryside. Open 7 days a week Easter - October Tel 01271 324202

Otter Cycle Hire- Braunton Only 20 yards from the Tarka Trail Open March - November 9.00-5.00 Tel 01271 813339 Bikes

Torrington Cycle Hire at station yard Torrington Bikes for all the family. Booking strongly recommended. Tel 01805 622633

Crediton Cycle Hire - Crediton Tel 01363 774773

BIKETRAIL Tarka Trail 01271 861 424
Free Parking. Traffic Free. Situated directly on the Tarka Trail between Barnstaple and Instow. Bike and Bus link. Bike and Boat link to Appledore. Guided nature/birdspotting bike rides. Special needs bikes. Generous group discounts. Hire a bike for 2 days and get the third day free.

BIKETRAIL Lynton (Exmoor) 01598 753 987
Situated in the picturesque old village, near 2 car parks and the Museum. Collection and delivery service to our unique Exmoor bike routes. Guided bike safaris. Electric bikes. Special needs welcome. Spares, repairs, accessories. Top quality new bikes for sale.

always cycling

Tel: 01598 763589
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Web: www.alwaysexmoor.co.uk

Cycling holidays and trail rides on Exmoor.

Saddle Skedaddle Biking and Cycling Holidays

Ouseburn Building, East Quayside, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE6 1LL
Tel: 0191 265 1110
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Web: www.skedaddle.co.uk

Mountain Biking Weekends in Southern England, including Exmoor

Cycle Hire

Exmoor Bike

Tel: 01598) 763 263
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Collection and delivery service on Exmoor. Car boot rack hire to explore own routes, with detailed maps of Exmoor provided free of charge. For more information please contact, Sally and Peirs Chapman-Walker.

Kings Cycles

7 Corn Hill, Wellington, Somerset, TA21 8LU
Tel: 01823 662260
Web: www.kingscycles.co.uk

Cycle shop. Please contact the shop for cycle hire information.

Pompys Cycles

Mart Road, Minehead, Somerset, TA24 5BJ
Tel: 01643 704077
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Web: www.pompyscycles.co.uk

Cycle sales, parts, repairs and CYCLE HIRE.

Exmoor Explorer

The Race Secretary, Highland Heights, Middlecombe, Minehead, Somerset, TA24 8SN
Tel: 01643 709342 Fax: 01984 640233
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Web: www.exmoorexplorer.com

A long distance off-road reliability trial across Exmoor's challenging terrain, Sunday 6th August 2006.

Exmoor and Quantock MTB

Manor Cottage, Woolston, Williton, Somerset, TA4 4LN
Tel: 01984 632445
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Web: www.exqumtb.co.uk

Exmoor and Quantock MTB provide Self-guided route plans and GPS routes, individually designed for ability and stamina. Drop off at start points and emergency pick-ups.
Access to wash down and a fully equipped workshop. Suspension mountain bikes for hire.
Weekend or longer holidays with Self-catering accommodation available. Outdoor heated swimming pool.

Saddle Skedaddle Biking and Cycling Holidays

Mountain Biking Weekends in Southern England, including Exmoor.

OFF THE BEATEN TRACK - Mountain bike hire situated near Tarka Trail & NCR's 3 + 27. Pick up/drop off and bike hire. www.off-the-beaten-track.co.uk

RIDE-ON SOUTHWEST CYCLE HIRE High quality bike hire and repairs. FREE delivery and collections. Extensive range of quality bikes. www.rideonsouthwest.co.uk

The Tour of Britain cycle race first came through Exmoor in 2007 and ever since cyclists have been arriving to follow in the professionals' tracks. Many club cyclists follow the Exmoor Cycle Route, a 56 mile circular trail which traces the original Tour of Britain route; the undulating nature of Exmoor means that every climb is rewarded with a great view and our network of quiet country lanes provides something for all levels. Please check your bike over to make sure it's in good working order before going on any ride - on or off road. Bikes can be hired from a variety of places, call into your nearest National Park Centre for details. You don't have to be an expert to enjoy off-road cycling on Exmoor and many families like to bring their bikes to do some exploring and there are plenty of places where families and beginners can find a route. At Nutcombe Bottom, near Dunster there are three way-marked routes provided by The Crown Estate and one is especially for families to use. Exmoor is recognised as one of the best and most challenging off-road cycling destinations in the UK. The combination of a beautiful and varied landscape and a good network of bridleways, lanes and other permitted tracks provide ample opportunity for cyclists to plan some fantastic rides. To help with route planning the National Park Authority has produced a colour coded off-road cycle map that uses the Cycle Touring Club's nationally recognised grading system, with routes ranging from green (easy) to black (very challenging). This and a number of route guides that will help you find a ride that matches your levels of fitness and skill are available from National Park Centres or our on-line shop at www.exmoor-nationalpark.gov.uk

Contributed by: Tim Holden, Susan Evans, Tim Harbury. Gill Pauling

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Cycling on Exmoor

Cycling on Exmoor