The best road cycling routes in Blackdown Hills Aonb

There are over 90 road cycling routes available in the Blackdown Hills National Landscape. These routes offer a diverse range of experiences, from moderate rides to more challenging excursions, catering to various fitness levels.

The Blackdown Hills are characterized by predominantly quiet country lanes, offering a mix of challenging hill climbs and exhilarating downhill stretches. You'll encounter steep valleys, extensive forests, and open plateau landscapes, providing varied topography and superb views across Somerset and Devon.

While many routes feature significant elevation, there are options for less experienced cyclists. The region offers 15 easy routes, typically shorter with minimal elevation gain, ideal for a more relaxed ride. For specific family-friendly routes, it's best to check individual route details for suitability.

Many routes pass by significant historical and natural attractions. You might cycle past the iconic Wellington Monument, the world's tallest three-sided obelisk, or the ancient Castle Neroche Iron Age Hill Fort. Other points of interest include the remains of Hemyock Castle and the tranquil Otterhead Lakes.

Yes, many of the road cycling routes in the Blackdown Hills are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. An example is the Wellington Monument – View South Over Hemyock loop from Buckland St Mary, which offers scenic countryside views.

Spring and summer are generally ideal for road cycling in the Blackdown Hills, when the steep banks come alive with wildflowers and the weather is more predictable. Late summer also offers stunning views when the heather blooms on commons like Blackdown and Sampford. The quiet country lanes are enjoyable year-round, but be prepared for varied weather conditions.

The Blackdown Hills are dotted with charming villages, many of which feature local pubs and cafes. While specific amenities vary by route, you can often find places to refuel. For example, the Culmstock All Saints Church – Café May Day Store loop from Hemyock includes a café stop.

For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, routes like The Taunton Flyer Dakota route — Blackdown Hills offer significant elevation gain over nearly 100 km, requiring very good fitness. These routes are rewarded with wonderful views after the demanding climbs.

The Blackdown Hills National Landscape is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars. Cyclists frequently praise the region's quiet country lanes, the challenging yet rewarding hill climbs, and the dramatic, unspoiled landscapes that offer superb views across Somerset and Devon.

While the Blackdown Hills are a rural area, some public transport options may serve the larger villages on the fringes of the National Landscape. However, for direct access to many route starting points, personal transport is often more convenient. It's advisable to check local bus schedules for specific villages if planning to use public transport.

Parking is generally available in or near the villages that serve as starting points for many routes. Look for designated car parks in towns like Wellington or Hemyock, or smaller village parking areas. Always check local signage for restrictions and fees.

Absolutely. The Blackdown Hills are renowned for their panoramic vistas. The Culmstock Beacon Viewpoint, for instance, offers incredible countryside views. Many routes traverse open plateau landscapes and dramatic wooded scarps, providing numerous opportunities to stop and enjoy the scenery, sometimes even as far as Wales on a clear day.