The best road cycling routes around Huish

There are over 60 road cycling routes in the Huish area, offering a variety of options for different skill levels. These routes traverse the rural landscapes of North Devon, characterized by rolling hills and river valleys.

Road cycling around Huish is defined by rolling hills, river valleys, and quiet country roads. The network offers options for various ability levels, from easier rides along river courses to more challenging routes with greater elevation gain, providing a classic English countryside cycling experience.

While road cycling routes are generally designed for speed and distance, some routes around Huish offer gentler terrain suitable for families with older children or those looking for a less strenuous ride. Look for routes with lower elevation gain and along river courses for a more relaxed experience.

The best time for road cycling around Huish is typically during the spring and summer months (April to September) when the weather is generally milder and daylight hours are longer. Autumn can also be pleasant with vibrant foliage, though conditions may be wetter. Winter cycling is possible but requires appropriate gear for colder and potentially wetter weather.

The routes in Huish range from moderate to difficult. There are 52 moderate routes and 12 difficult routes, with a few easier options. For example, the River Torridge Bridges – Hatherleigh loop from Merton is a moderate 31.3-mile route with over 600 meters of elevation gain, while the Bastard's Lane – Victoria Park, Bideford loop from Iddesleigh is also moderate but features over 700 meters of climbing.

Yes, many of the road cycling routes around Huish are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the popular River Torridge Bridges – Hatherleigh loop from Merton and the Petrockstow Station Platform – RHS Garden Rosemoor loop from Peters Marland.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars from over 5 reviews. Cyclists often praise the quiet country roads, scenic river valleys, and the varied terrain that offers both challenging climbs and enjoyable stretches through agricultural land.

Yes, several routes pass by notable points of interest. You might cycle through the historic town of Hatherleigh, or alongside the scenic River Torridge Bridges. The Petrockstow Station Platform – RHS Garden Rosemoor loop from Peters Marland also offers a mix of open countryside and passes by local landmarks.

The rural nature of the Huish area means that while routes pass through small villages, dedicated cyclist-friendly cafes or accommodation might be less frequent than in larger towns. Planning your route to include stops in villages like Merton or Hatherleigh, or checking for facilities like the Puffing Billy Trading Co., is recommended.

Route durations vary significantly based on distance and elevation. For instance, the River Torridge Bridges – Hatherleigh loop from Merton typically takes around 2 hours 28 minutes for its 31.3 miles, while the shorter River Torridge Bridges – Stone Bridge Overlooking River loop from Merton can be completed in about 1 hour 25 minutes for its 17.2 miles.

Accessing specific road cycling trailheads directly by public transport in this rural North Devon area can be challenging. While some villages may have limited bus services, bringing a road bike on public transport might require checking specific operator policies. Driving to a starting point with parking is often the most convenient option for cyclists.

No specific permits are generally required for road cycling on public roads in the Huish region. Cyclists are expected to follow standard road traffic laws and respect private land. Always be mindful of local regulations and private property when planning your ride.