The best cycling routes around Plymouth

There are several touring cycling routes around Plymouth. This guide features 3 routes, with 2 rated as easy and 1 as moderate, offering options for various skill levels.

Plymouth offers a diverse cycling landscape. You can expect routes that traverse coastal paths, river valleys like the Plym Valley, extensive woodlands such as Cann Woods, and even the rugged, heather-covered moors of Dartmoor National Park. Many routes follow disused railway lines, providing traffic-free and relatively flat sections.

Along the routes, you can encounter a variety of natural features and landmarks. Highlights include the impressive Parnell Observation Tower, the scenic Kettle Moraine Drive, and the tranquil Hingham Mill Pond. You might also pass by the beautiful Sheboygan Falls and the winding LaBudde Creek. Historic viaducts like the Cann Viaduct are also prominent features.

Yes, Plymouth offers several easy touring cycling routes perfect for beginners and families. The Purple trail – Kettle Moraine Drive loop from Town of Greenbush is an easy option, as is the Sheboygan Falls – Old Plank Road Trail loop from Sheboygan Falls. These routes often follow traffic-free paths through woodlands and along river valleys, providing a safe and enjoyable experience.

Yes, several circular touring cycling routes are available. For example, the Purple trail – Kettle Moraine Drive loop from Town of Greenbush and the Old Plank Road Trail loop from Greenbush are both circular options, allowing you to start and end at the same point.

The spring and summer months (April to September) generally offer the most pleasant weather for touring cycling in Plymouth, with milder temperatures and longer daylight hours. Autumn can also be beautiful with changing foliage, especially in areas like Cann Woods and the Plym Valley. Always check the local weather forecast before heading out, as coastal weather can be unpredictable.

Many of Plymouth's outdoor spaces and trails, particularly those through woodlands and along disused railway lines, are generally dog-friendly. However, specific rules can vary, especially within nature reserves or private estates like Saltram. It's always best to keep dogs on a lead, especially near livestock or in busy areas, and to check local signage for any restrictions. The Plym Valley Trail is a popular choice for cyclists with dogs.

Parking is available at various access points for popular cycling routes. For routes like the Plym Valley Trail, parking can often be found near Plymbridge Woods. For city-based routes, public car parks are available throughout Plymouth. Always check specific route starting points for the most convenient parking options.

Plymouth has a well-connected public transport network, including buses and trains, which can provide access to various parts of the city and surrounding areas. Some bus services may accommodate bicycles, but it's advisable to check with the operator beforehand. The city's central location on National Cycle Network Routes 2 and 27 also means many routes are accessible directly from urban areas.

Yes, many touring cycling routes around Plymouth offer opportunities for refreshment stops. Routes passing through or near villages like Bickleigh and Shaugh Prior, or extending to towns like Tavistock, will have cafes and pubs. The Barbican and Royal William Yard in Plymouth also offer numerous dining options. The Saltram Estate has its own cafe, making it a convenient stop on riverside rides.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse scenery, from coastal views and historic waterfronts to tranquil river valleys and challenging moorland. The network of traffic-free paths, especially those following old railway lines, is frequently highlighted as a major advantage for enjoyable and safe cycling.