The best road cycling routes around Stockleigh English

The region around Stockleigh English is characterized by rolling hills, lush Devon lanes, and hedgerows. You'll encounter a mix of challenging ascents, often referred to as 'thigh-burners,' and exhilarating descents, providing a varied and engaging cycling experience. The routes often navigate quiet minor roads, offering a tranquil ride away from heavy traffic.

Yes, Stockleigh English and the surrounding Mid Devon area offer routes with significant climbs. For serious road cyclists, demanding ascents like Raddon Top and Bowditch Hill Road Pass are known for their steep gradients and rewarding panoramic views. Overall, 19 of the 106 routes in the area are rated as difficult.

Cyclists can enjoy classic English countryside with heavenly views, lush Devon lanes, and hedgerows. The area also provides access to the dramatic and expansive landscapes of Dartmoor and Exmoor National Parks, which feature rugged moorland, granite tors, and ancient woodlands. You'll find peaceful roads winding through magnificent countryside.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 11 reviews. Cyclists often praise the region's quiet Devon lanes, the mix of challenging and scenic terrain, and the opportunity to explore picturesque villages and rural landscapes.

Yes, many routes around Stockleigh English are circular. For example, the The Tarka Line Grill – Bickleigh Castle loop from Pennymoor is a popular 52.2-mile loop. Another option is the Eggesford Forest – The Tarka Line Grill loop from Mid Devon, a 32.7-mile circular path through scenic Mid Devon.

Many routes pass through charming villages and past historical sites. Notable attractions include Bickleigh Mill & The Bridge Inn, an 18th-century water mill, and Shobrooke Park Lake and Stone Bridge with its sweeping vistas. You might also encounter historical churches like St Swithun's Church and Holy Well or the Collegiate Church of the Holy Cross, Crediton.

While many routes feature undulating terrain, there are easier options available. The region's quiet Devon lanes and minor roads provide a safer environment for less experienced riders. Additionally, the National Cycle Network in Devon offers over 150 miles of traffic-free lanes and quiet on-road sections, which can be suitable for families.

Several routes incorporate stops at local establishments. For instance, the Ruby Red Café & Farm Shop – Outdoor Café with Palm Trees loop from Pennymoor is designed to pass by cafes. Villages along routes, such as Kennerleigh, often have local pubs or cafes where you can refuel.

Yes, for those seeking longer rides, the Dartmoor Way is a 95-mile signed circular route around Dartmoor National Park, utilizing quiet Devon lanes and minor roads with traffic-free sections. While not starting directly in Stockleigh English, it's accessible from the wider region and offers a significant challenge.

The classic English countryside is beautiful throughout much of the year. Spring and summer offer lush landscapes and generally milder weather, ideal for enjoying the 'heavenly views.' Autumn brings vibrant colors to the hedgerows and woodlands. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out, especially for potential rain.

There are over 100 road cycling routes available around Stockleigh English, offering a wide variety of distances and difficulty levels. This includes 12 easy, 75 moderate, and 19 difficult routes to choose from.

Yes, Stockleigh English's strategic location provides easy access to both Dartmoor and Exmoor National Parks. These parks are renowned for their extensive networks of quiet lanes and designated cycle routes, offering rugged moorland, granite tors, and ancient woodlands for cyclists to explore.