The best cycling routes around Chawleigh
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(5)
55
riders
29
rides
Best bike trails Chawleigh Devon are found amidst the picturesque landscapes of Mid Devon, characterized by the Little Dart Valley and views of Dartmoor's prominent tors. The area features the Little Dart River and River Taw, contributing to a diverse natural environment. Touring cyclists can explore anciently enclosed areas, open moorland, and the nearby Eggesford Forest, offering varied terrain for cycling. The region provides a network of paths and quiet lanes suitable for exploration.
Best touring cycling routes around Chawleigh
- The most popular touring cycling route is Chulmleigh to Barnstaple loop, a 52.9 miles (85.2 km) trail that takes 5 hours 50 minutes to complete. This route offers varied terrain and connections to wider cycling networks.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Chulmleigh to Exeter loop, a difficult 63.4 miles (102.0 km) path. This trail traverses diverse landscapes, including sections with views towards Dartmoor.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Great Torrington from Chulmleigh loop, a 42.5 miles (68.4 km) trail leading through the Mid Devon countryside, often completed in about 4 hours 43 minutes.
- Touring cycling around Chawleigh is defined by the Little Dart Valley, distant Dartmoor vistas, and the presence of Eggesford Forest. The network offers options for various ability levels, from easy paths to more challenging routes.
- The routes in Chawleigh are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 3.7 stars from over 4 reviews. More than 60 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Chawleigh's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 2, 2026
85.2km
05:51
1,080m
1,070m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
102km
06:55
1,550m
1,550m
Cycle the difficult 63.4-mile Chulmleigh to Exeter loop, gaining 5075 feet through Devon's rolling hills and scenic river valleys.
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2
riders
68.4km
04:43
780m
780m
Cycle the difficult 42.5-mile Great Torrington and Tarka Trail Loop, gaining 2560 feet with diverse North Devon scenery.
101km
06:55
1,650m
1,650m
Tackle the difficult 62.9-mile Exmoor loop from Chulmleigh, a touring cycling route with 5421 feet of elevation gain and stunning views.
82.4km
05:39
1,270m
1,270m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Chawleigh
Tips from the Community
There's a few disabled parking spaces right on the Quay and the walks are all wheelchair user friendly, there's bus routes and train station all within a mile of the quay. If like me on your walk you like to re-stall your batteries and have a hot or cold drink there's lots of great pubs restaurants and little cafes on the Quay and they all welcome dogs, if you check out what's on in Exeter you might be lucky to see one of the many events they hold like morse dancing, the boat racing, mental health walk, the food festivals and many more, enjoy the ruins and history walks also.
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Car park and numerous food outlets alongside the river perfect to spend a time to relax
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Exeter Quay, also known as Exeter Quayside, is a district of Exeter on the River Exe and the Exeter Ship Canal. It was used as a port since prehistoric times, when a sandstone outcrop was used to unload the ships of overseas traders.[1] However, in 1381, the Countess Weir closed the river to shipping. In 1566, a canal was completed to allow ships access. Over time, the number of ships using the quay increased, and so the quay was extended in the late 17th century. Further extension took place in 1830 when a new canal basin was dug. However, in 1840, the railway reached Exeter, and shipping began to decline. The quay is no longer used for shipping, but mainly for recreational purposes.
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lots to do along the Quay, saw ducks, swans great places to eat and drink, there are many different routes you can stay on a path or walk through mud path. wheelchair friendly the Quay got lots of history and gift shops
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Great cafe in a good cycling area, with loads of outside space for big groups.
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Great place for beer, as well as other drinks, very friendly staff and a pizza van outside that does lovely fresh pizzas. Definitely recommend.
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You can have a nice rest here. There is also a second-hand shop.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Chawleigh?
There are over 30 touring cycling routes mapped around Chawleigh, offering a variety of options for exploring the Mid Devon landscape.
Are there any easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families in Chawleigh?
While many routes in the area are rated as difficult, there is at least one easy touring cycling route available. The region's network of quiet lanes and paths, particularly those connecting to the Tarka Trail, can offer more gentle sections suitable for families or those new to touring cycling.
What are the typical durations for touring cycling routes near Chawleigh?
The duration of touring cycling routes around Chawleigh varies significantly based on distance and difficulty. For example, the Great Torrington from Chulmleigh loop typically takes about 4 hours 43 minutes, while longer routes like the Chulmleigh to Exeter loop can take around 6 hours 50 minutes.
What kind of landscapes can I expect to see while touring cycling around Chawleigh?
Chawleigh offers a diverse landscape for touring cyclists. You'll experience the tranquil
Little Dart Valley
, anciently enclosed areas with woods and farmsteads, and more open moorland. Many routes also provide stunning vistas of Dartmoor, including prominent tors like Cawsand Hill and High Willhayes. The nearby Eggesford Forest and the Little Dart and River Taw valleys add to the natural beauty.Are there any notable attractions or points of interest along the touring cycling routes?
Yes, the area around Chawleigh is rich with points of interest. You might encounter historical sites like Heywood Castle Motte and Bailey or All Saints Church, Eggesford. Natural attractions include the expansive Eggesford Forest and the scenic Tuckingmill Bridge over the River Yeo. In May, the
Chenson Woods Bluebells
offer a spectacular natural display.What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Chawleigh?
The spring and summer months are generally ideal for touring cycling in Chawleigh, offering pleasant weather and the chance to see the landscape in full bloom, such as the bluebells in Chenson Woods in May. Autumn can also be beautiful with changing foliage, though weather can be more unpredictable.
Are there opportunities for wildlife spotting along the cycling trails?
The diverse natural environment around Chawleigh, including the Little Dart and River Taw valleys, Eggesford Forest, and surrounding woodlands, provides excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting. Keep an eye out for local birds, small mammals, and various flora as you cycle through the picturesque countryside.
What do other touring cyclists say about the routes in Chawleigh?
The touring cycling routes around Chawleigh are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.7 stars. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, the stunning views of Dartmoor, and the connections to wider cycling networks like the Tarka Trail.
Are there any long-distance touring cycling options that connect to other regions?
Yes, Chawleigh is well-connected to wider cycling networks. The area links to both the
Two Moors Way
and the renownedTarka Trail
, which is a 32-mile entirely traffic-free route. Routes like the Exmoor loop from Chulmleigh can take you towards Exmoor National Park, offering extensive touring possibilities.Is there public transport access to the cycling routes in the Chawleigh area?
The
Little Dart Ridge and Valley Walk
, which passes through Chawleigh, connects to the Tarka Trail at Eggesford Train Station. This suggests that Eggesford could serve as a public transport access point for cyclists looking to explore routes in the vicinity of Chawleigh.Where can I find parking for touring cycling routes near Chawleigh?
While specific parking areas for each route are not detailed, Chawleigh Parish itself offers a series of local walks, implying that there are likely local parking options within or near the village that could serve as starting points for touring cyclists. It's advisable to check local amenities upon arrival.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes available?
Many of the touring cycling routes in the area are designed as loops, offering circular journeys. Examples include the Chulmleigh to Okehampton loop, which allows you to start and finish in the same general area, providing a convenient touring experience.
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