The best cycling routes around Plymouth

Komoot features a variety of touring cycling routes in the Plymouth area, catering to different preferences. While specific routes are constantly being added by the community, you can find options ranging from easy, flat paths to more moderate routes with some elevation through river valleys and recreational areas.

Plymouth offers diverse terrain for touring cyclists. You'll find coastal paths with stunning views of the English Channel, serene river valleys like the Plym and Tamar, and routes through ancient woodlands. For more challenging rides, the rugged expanses of Dartmoor National Park are on Plymouth's doorstep, offering significant climbs and moorland views.

Yes, Plymouth has several excellent options for family-friendly cycling. The Plym Valley Trail, part of National Cycle Network Route 27, is a traffic-free path popular with families. Similarly, the Plymbridge Woods Cycle Trail follows an old railway track through scenic woodlands, perfect for a gentle ride.

Many routes around Plymouth boast impressive sights. The Plymouth Hoe provides breathtaking vistas of Plymouth Sound. The Drake's Trail connects Plymouth with Tavistock, passing through Plymbridge Woods and offering views across Devon's south coast. Along this trail, you can see the National Trust's Saltram Estate, Cann Viaduct, and Gem Bridge. The Burrator Reservoir also offers picturesque views and is a popular cycling destination.

Many cycling routes in and around Plymouth are accessible via public transport. The city is well-connected, and some routes, like sections of the National Cycle Network, are designed with public transport links in mind. It's advisable to check local bus or train services for specific access points to trails like the Plym Valley Trail or Drake's Trail.

Yes, Plymouth offers several circular touring cycling routes. For instance, the Rame Peninsula & Seaton loop provides a scenic circular option exploring Cornwall's coastal beauty. The Burrator Reservoir is also often incorporated into longer circular loops from Plymouth.

The best time for touring cycling in Plymouth is generally from spring through autumn (April to October) when the weather is milder and daylight hours are longer. Summer offers the warmest conditions, but spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures and often fewer crowds. Coastal routes can be exposed to winds, so checking the forecast is always recommended.

Many outdoor areas and trails around Plymouth are dog-friendly, but specific rules can vary by route or land ownership. For example, trails within Dartmoor National Park generally welcome dogs, often requiring them to be on a lead to protect livestock and wildlife. Always check local signage or specific route guidelines for places like Plymbridge Woods or the Saltram Estate.

Parking is available at various access points for touring cycling routes around Plymouth. For routes like the Plym Valley Trail or Drake's Trail, designated car parks are often located near trailheads. For urban routes, city car parks are an option. Always check for specific parking information for your chosen starting point, especially for popular areas like Burrator Reservoir or Plymbridge Woods.

Plymouth is strategically located on National Cycle Network routes 27 and 2, providing connections for long-distance touring cyclists. These routes offer opportunities to explore beyond the immediate Plymouth area, linking to other regions and even international cycling connections.

Amenities vary by route. Along urban sections, such as Sutton Harbour and the Barbican, you'll find numerous cafes, pubs, and restaurants. Routes like Drake's Trail and the Plym Valley Trail may have facilities at key points or in nearby villages. For more remote areas, such as Dartmoor, amenities will be scarcer, so planning ahead for refreshments is advisable.

Yes, Plymouth offers several easy touring cycling routes ideal for beginners. The Plym Valley Trail is known for its gentle, traffic-free path. The Hoe Seafront Path also provides a relatively flat and scenic ride along the waterfront, perfect for those new to touring cycling.