The best gravel rides in Blackdown Hills Aonb

The Blackdown Hills AONB offers a range of gravel biking experiences. You'll find a mix of moderate routes, which make up the majority with 13 options, and more challenging trails, with 6 routes classified as difficult. There are also 2 easier routes available, ensuring options for various skill levels.

Yes, while many routes involve rolling hills, there are options suitable for families. The region features varied terrain, including unpaved tracks and forest roads that can be enjoyed by those looking for a less strenuous ride. For a moderate option, consider the Broadhembury Village – St Andrew's Church loop from Broadhembury, which covers 12.7 miles through village and rural landscapes.

Gravel biking in Blackdown Hills AONB is characterized by rolling hills, wooded valleys, and a network of country lanes. Riders will encounter a diverse mix of unpaved tracks, forest roads, and some paved sections that connect the various routes. This varied terrain provides an engaging experience for gravel cyclists.

Yes, many of the gravel routes in Blackdown Hills AONB are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For example, the Staple Hill Trail – Forest Dirt Path loop from Thurlbear Wood is a moderate 14.6-mile circular route that guides you through forest paths.

The Blackdown Hills AONB offers several points of interest. You can pass by the historic Wellington Monument, or enjoy panoramic vistas from Culmstock Beacon Viewpoint. Other natural highlights include Otterhead Lakes and various spots offering a View of the Blackdown Hills. For historical sites, consider exploring Castle Neroche Iron Age Hill Fort.

Ride durations vary depending on the route's length and difficulty. For instance, the moderate Forest Dirt Path – Staple Hill Trail loop from Staple Hill Car Park, at 12.3 miles, typically takes around 2 hours. Longer, more challenging routes like the Woodbury common loop from Honiton (30.8 miles) can take closer to 3 hours 40 minutes.

The Blackdown Hills AONB is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 10 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse landscape of rolling hills and wooded valleys, as well as the mix of challenging ascents and scenic, undulating paths. The varied terrain, including unpaved tracks and forest roads, is frequently highlighted as a key enjoyable feature.

Yes, advanced riders looking for a longer challenge can explore routes such as the Woodbury common loop from Honiton — Pebblebed Heaths in East Devon. This difficult route spans 30.8 miles (49.6 km) and features significant elevation gain, exploring the unique Pebblebed Heaths.

Many routes in the Blackdown Hills AONB start from locations with designated parking. For example, the Forest Dirt Path – Staple Hill Trail loop begins from Staple Hill Car Park, offering convenient access. Other routes may start from villages or trailheads with local parking facilities.

The Blackdown Hills AONB can be enjoyed year-round, but spring and autumn often offer the most pleasant conditions with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer provides longer daylight hours, while winter rides can be invigorating, though some unpaved sections might be muddier. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.

Yes, you can find routes that incorporate sections of the Bridgwater and Taunton Canal. The King's Cliff Woods – Bridgwater and Taunton Canal loop from Taunton is a moderate 20.5-mile route that offers a mix of woodland and canal-side riding.