The best traffic-free bike rides around Tiverton

There are over 60 dedicated touring cycling routes around Tiverton, with 13 classified as easy, 27 as moderate, and 20 as difficult. Many of these routes offer traffic-free sections, particularly along the Grand Western Canal.

The Grand Western Canal is a major draw for traffic-free cycling, offering a peaceful and scenic experience. A popular option is The Grand Western Canal loop from Tiverton, which is an easy 20.5 km ride, perfect for a leisurely tour.

Yes, the Grand Western Canal towpath is largely flat and smooth, making it ideal for families and leisurely rides. Routes like Grand Western Canal Dock – Jubilee Bridge loop from Tiverton offer an easy, traffic-free experience suitable for all ages.

Yes, several circular routes are available, often utilizing the Grand Western Canal towpath in conjunction with minor road networks or disused railway lines. For example, the Grand Western Canal Dock – Grand Western Canal loop from Tiverton provides a moderate 36.3 km circular tour.

The primary traffic-free routes, such as those along the Grand Western Canal, feature largely flat and smooth towpaths. These paths offer varied scenery, transitioning between sheltered woodland and expansive views of the Blackdown Hills. Some longer routes may incorporate minor roads with gentle inclines.

Yes, the Grand Western Canal itself is a notable feature, and you can learn about its history at the visitor center. Along the routes, you might pass by historical sites such as Bickleigh Mill & The Bridge Inn or the scenic Bury Stone Bridge and Ford. The canal also offers views towards the Haddon Hill Trig Point.

Car parking is available at various points along the Grand Western Canal, particularly in nearby villages that serve as access points to the towpath. Tiverton town centre also offers parking options for starting your ride.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquility and scenic beauty of the Grand Western Canal, the flat and accessible terrain, and the opportunity to enjoy nature away from vehicle traffic.

The Grand Western Canal towpath is shared with walkers and, in some sections, a horse-drawn barge. Cyclists should be mindful of other users, dismount at bridges, and give way to the horse-drawn barge when encountered. It's a multi-use path, so courtesy is key.

Yes, refreshments are available in villages along the Grand Western Canal. Cycle hire is also offered at The Globe Inn in Sampford Peverell, providing convenient access to the canal's traffic-free sections.

Yes, the Grand Western Canal towpath forms part of the National Cycle Network Route 3. This route offers a mainly off-road experience through Devon, connecting Tiverton to wider cycling networks.

The disused railway line between Tiverton and Manley Lane offers another traffic-free cycling opportunity. It can be used to create circular routes by connecting with the Grand Western Canal and the surrounding minor road network, providing a varied cycling experience.