The best road cycling routes around East and West Buckland

There are over 90 road cycling routes available in the East and West Buckland area. These routes cater to various skill levels, with 10 easy, 60 moderate, and 21 difficult options, ensuring a suitable ride for almost every cyclist.

The region offers a diverse mix of terrain, characterized by rolling hills, wooded river valleys, and quiet country lanes. You'll find a variety of gradients, from challenging ascents, especially near Exmoor National Park, to enjoyable descents, all predominantly on paved surfaces. The landscape provides 'view after beautiful view' as you cycle.

Yes, experienced cyclists will find plenty of challenging routes. For instance, the Glen Lyn Gorge – Lynmouth loop from Swimbridge is a difficult 75.6 km trail with over 1350 meters of elevation gain, leading through varied terrain including sections near Exmoor National Park. Another demanding option is the South Molton Market Square – Two Moors Gallery Café loop from Chittlehampton, covering 86.8 km with over 1000 meters of climbing.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 40 reviews. Cyclists often praise the quiet country lanes, the diverse and scenic landscapes, and the mix of challenging climbs and rewarding descents that offer panoramic views.

Many of the road cycling routes around East and West Buckland are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. An example is the Bike Shed Bike Shop & Café – Barnstaple Castle loop from Cobbaton Combat Museum, a moderate 46.3 km path that offers a mix of rural lanes and passes by local landmarks.

While cycling, you can encounter several interesting points. The Chelfham Viaduct – Barnstaple Long Bridge loop from Swimbridge navigates through the scenic North Devon countryside, passing by the historic Chelfham Viaduct. Other routes might take you near the River Taw or offer views from the Wistlandpound Reservoir Bird Hide. You might also spot the Barnstaple Clock Tower on routes passing through Barnstaple.

While East and West Buckland are inland, the wider Devon region, accessible via some routes, boasts stunning coastal areas and estuary trails. Routes near the Taw and Torridge Estuary, such as the Fremington Quay Café – River Taw loop from South Molton, can offer a blend of coastal scenery and inland tracks, providing varied cycling experiences.

Yes, many routes in the East and West Buckland area pass through charming villages that feature welcoming pubs and cafes. These spots offer excellent opportunities for refreshment and to sample local produce, enhancing your cycling experience. For example, the Bike Shed Bike Shop & Café – Barnstaple Castle loop from Cobbaton Combat Museum starts near a bike shop and café, and the South Molton Market Square – Two Moors Gallery Café loop from Chittlehampton passes through South Molton, which has market square amenities.

The diverse terrain of Devon, including the East and West Buckland area, is enjoyable throughout much of the year. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for exploring the rolling hills and quiet lanes. Autumn can also be beautiful with changing foliage, though conditions might be wetter. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.

Yes, the region offers 10 easy road cycling routes, perfect for beginners or those looking for a more relaxed ride. These routes typically feature less elevation gain and cover shorter distances, allowing for a comfortable introduction to road cycling in the North Devon countryside.

Routes vary significantly. You can find shorter, easier loops, but many routes feature significant elevation gains. For example, moderate routes can be around 40-50 km with 300-600 meters of climbing, while difficult routes can extend over 75 km with more than 1000 meters of elevation gain, such as the Glen Lyn Gorge – Lynmouth loop from Swimbridge.