The best traffic-free bike rides around Okehampton

There are 16 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes around Okehampton, offering a variety of distances and difficulties for exploration.

While many routes in the area are rated moderate to difficult due to Dartmoor's terrain, the Okehampton and Hatherleigh loop is a moderate option that includes sections of quieter roads. The Granite Way, a key part of many routes, is largely traffic-free and low-gradient, making it suitable for all abilities, though some loops incorporating it might extend into more challenging sections.

Yes, several routes offer circular options. For example, the Lydford & Peter Tavey — Granite Way loop from Okehampton and the Okement Hill & Northern Dartmoor loop from Okehampton are both circular routes that allow you to start and finish in the same location.

The terrain varies significantly. The Granite Way, a popular traffic-free path, follows a former railway line, offering mostly surfaced, low-gradient sections. However, routes extending into Dartmoor National Park, such as the Granite Way Lydford Loop, will feature more rugged moorland, potentially unsurfaced military tracks, and significant elevation changes, characteristic of Dartmoor's granite landscape.

Many routes offer stunning views and access to natural features. You can encounter majestic granite tors like Yes Tor summit and High Willhays summit, expansive moorland, and picturesque river valleys. The Meldon Reservoir and Viaduct (Meldon Reservoir) are prominent features along the Granite Way, offering remarkable views. Okehampton Castle is also a notable historical landmark often passed or near these routes.

While not directly on the traffic-free cycling routes themselves, Lydford Gorge, a short drive from Okehampton, features impressive waterfalls like the Devil's Cauldron and White Lady Waterfall. Within Okehampton, Simmons Park also boasts charming waterfalls as part of its natural landscape, which can be visited before or after your ride.

Okehampton offers various parking options. The Adventure Okehampton center, located at Okehampton Station, is a convenient starting point for the Granite Way and provides bike hire. Parking is generally available in and around Okehampton town center, with specific car parks often signposted for access to the Granite Way and other trails.

Yes, the reopening of Okehampton train station has significantly enhanced accessibility. Trains reportedly have space for bikes, making it easier to reach the start of routes like the Granite Way. Local bus services may also connect to various points around the National Park, though bike carriage can be more restricted.

Spring and summer generally offer the most pleasant conditions with warmer weather and longer daylight hours, ideal for exploring Dartmoor's open moorland and the Granite Way. Autumn also provides beautiful scenery with changing foliage. Winter cycling is possible, but conditions can be challenging with colder temperatures, potential for ice, and shorter days, especially on exposed moorland sections.

Yes, refreshment options are available, particularly along the popular Granite Way. Okehampton town itself has cafes and pubs. Along the Granite Way, you'll find refreshment stops and cycle hire facilities. For example, the Granite Way and Roadford Lake loop would likely pass near such amenities.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.15 stars. Reviewers often praise the dramatic granite landscape of Dartmoor, the well-maintained traffic-free sections like the Granite Way, and the stunning views from structures such as the Meldon Viaduct.

Yes, Dartmoor National Park is rich in wildlife. On the moorland sections, you might spot Dartmoor ponies, sheep, and various bird species. Old Town Park Nature Reserve, near Okehampton, offers diverse habitats including woodlands, wetlands, and meadows, home to a wide range of wildflowers, insects, and birds. For more information, you can visit the Old Town Park Nature Reserve website.