The best MTB trails in Blackdown Hills Aonb

The Blackdown Hills AONB offers a wide selection of mountain bike trails, with over 70 routes recorded on komoot. These include 14 easy routes, 60 moderate routes, and 3 difficult routes, catering to various skill levels.

You can expect a diverse and dynamic riding experience. The landscape features steep ridges, dense woodlands, ancient hedgerows, and open commons. Trails often include varied surfaces, from quiet country lanes to unpaved segments, with challenging uphill and downhill sections. Some trails can be wet and muddy, especially outside of dry summer spells, while others offer fast singletrack.

Yes, there are 14 easy mountain bike routes in the Blackdown Hills AONB. An example of a more leisurely option is the Broadhembury Village – Heron's Way Woodland Track loop from Broadhembury, which covers about 16.9 km with moderate elevation gain.

For those seeking a challenge, there are 3 difficult mountain bike routes available. The region is known for its 'steep, heart racing routes' and 'challenging uphill and downhill parts that require good cycling experience.' These trails often feature significant elevation changes across the varied terrain.

Many of the mountain bike trails in the Blackdown Hills AONB are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For instance, the popular Mutters Moor – The Byes Riverside Walk loop from Honiton is a 46.1 km moderate circular route.

The Blackdown Hills AONB is rich in natural beauty and historical sites. Along your rides, you might encounter ancient woodlands, flower-rich grasslands, and tranquil waterways like the Otterhead Lakes (Otterhead Lakes). High points such as the Culmstock Beacon Viewpoint offer stunning panoramic views across the Devon and Somerset countryside.

Yes, the region is dotted with historical sites. You can ride past Iron Age hill forts like Castle Neroche Iron Age Hill Fort, or visit the prominent Wellington Monument. The Wellington Monument – Staple Hill Trail loop from Corfe is a great route that incorporates this landmark.

The Blackdown Hills AONB is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 40 reviews. Mountain bikers often praise the diverse terrain, the scenic beauty of the unspoiled rural landscape, and the variety of trails that cater to different skill levels, from leisurely rides through quiet country lanes to challenging climbs in dense woodlands.

The Blackdown Hills AONB can be enjoyed year-round, but conditions vary. While some trails can be wet and muddy outside of dry summer spells, the varied topography means there are always options. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, while summer provides drier trails. Winter rides can be challenging but rewarding, especially on trails with good drainage.

The Blackdown Hills is a National Landscape (formerly AONB), which means it's a protected area. While there are no specific permits required for mountain biking on public rights of way, it's essential to respect the countryside code, stay on marked trails, and be mindful of other users and wildlife. Always check local signage for any specific restrictions or guidance.

Absolutely. High points within the Blackdown Hills AONB, such as Culmstock Beacon, are renowned for their panoramic views. These spots offer expansive vistas across the Devon and Somerset countryside, including the Vale of Taunton, Quantock Hills, and Exmoor, and on clear days, even Glastonbury Tor.