The best gravel rides around Tawstock

Gravel biking around Tawstock offers a diverse landscape typical of North Devon, featuring rolling hills, scenic river valleys, and sections of former railway lines that have been converted into trails. You'll encounter a mix of compacted gravel paths, quiet country lanes, and some unpaved tracks, with moderate elevation changes suitable for gravel cycling.

Yes, for those looking for a longer ride, the Puffing Billy Trading Co. – Mosaic Otter Sculpture loop from Great Torrington is a great option. This trail spans 25.2 miles (40.5 km) and follows a former railway line, offering a sustained gravel experience.

While all routes in this guide are rated moderate, the trails often incorporate sections of the Tarka Trail, which is generally well-maintained and suitable for families with some cycling experience. The Barnstaple Clock Tower – Bike Shed Bike Shop & Café loop from Barnstaple, for example, explores parts of this popular path.

For coastal views, consider the View of Woolacombe Bay – View of Saunton loop from Braunton. This 17.5-mile (28.1 km) trail leads through coastal areas, offering picturesque vistas of Woolacombe Bay and Saunton.

Many routes in the area utilize sections of the famous Tarka Trail, a former railway line. You might also pass by historical sites such as the Beam Aqueduct or the charming Velator Quay, depending on your chosen route.

Yes, all the routes highlighted in this guide are convenient loop trails. For instance, the Puffing Billy Trading Co. – Mosaic Otter Sculpture loop from Great Torrington and the Steep Overgrown Woodland Path – Technical MTB Descent loop from Braunton are both excellent circular options.

North Devon's climate means gravel biking is enjoyable for much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, while summer provides longer daylight hours. Even in winter, many of the compacted gravel paths and former railway lines remain rideable, though conditions can be wetter.

The trails generally consist of compacted gravel paths, quiet country lanes, and some unpaved tracks. While mostly well-maintained, conditions can vary with weather, especially after rain, when some unpaved sections might become muddier. The former railway lines, like parts of the Tarka Trail, tend to be more consistently smooth.

Many routes in North Devon pass through or near charming villages and towns, offering opportunities for pub stops. While specific pubs aren't listed for each route, planning your ride to pass through Barnstaple or Great Torrington, for example, will provide options for refreshments and local hospitality.

The gravel biking network around Tawstock primarily focuses on moderate routes. These trails feature rolling hills and moderate elevation changes, making them suitable for riders with some experience looking for an engaging but not overly strenuous ride.

There are several highly-rated gravel bike trails available around Tawstock, with this guide featuring three distinct routes that showcase the best of the region's landscape and varied terrain.