The best cycling routes around Buckerell

There are over 190 touring cycling routes around Buckerell. These routes cater to various skill levels, with approximately 25 easy routes, over 100 moderate routes, and around 60 more challenging options for experienced cyclists.

The terrain around Buckerell is diverse, featuring rolling hills, picturesque river valleys, and sections that follow disused railway lines. You'll cycle through the East Devon countryside, nestled between the Blackdown Hills and the Otter Valley, offering a mix of gentle gradients and more undulating sections.

Yes, there are several family-friendly options. Many routes utilize disused railway lines, which are typically flat and traffic-free, making them ideal for families. The Byes Riverside Walk, part of the National Cycle Network, also offers a pleasant and usually quiet route following the River Sid, suitable for all ages.

Many of the countryside paths and trails around Buckerell are suitable for cycling with a dog, provided they are well-behaved and kept under control, especially near livestock. Areas like Harpford Woods and paths along the River Otter offer pleasant environments for you and your canine companion.

You can explore several interesting sights. Consider visiting Harpford Woods with its vibrant ferns and tall trees, or the historic Dunkeswell Abbey. The Redbridge Over the River Otter offers a quiet spot for wildlife observation. The renowned Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is also just eight miles away, offering dramatic cliffs and geological significance.

Yes, many routes in the area are designed as loops. For example, the River Otter Bike Path – Budleigh Salterton Beach loop from Feniton is a popular moderate route that takes you towards the coast and back. Another option is the Gittisham Church – The Otter Inn loop from Gittisham, offering a shorter countryside ride.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 50 reviews. Reviewers often praise the varied terrain, from rolling hills to tranquil river valleys, and the well-maintained paths, including those that follow disused railway lines, offering a pleasant and scenic cycling experience.

Spring and autumn are generally considered the best times for touring cycling in Buckerell. The weather is typically milder, and the natural scenery is particularly beautiful, with spring blossoms or autumn foliage. Summer can also be pleasant, though routes may be busier, and winter rides are possible but require appropriate gear for colder, potentially wetter conditions.

Absolutely. While Buckerell offers many moderate routes, its strategic location allows access to wider regional networks like sections of the Devon Coast to Coast route. Routes such as the Killerton Parkland Bridleway – River Otter at Ottery St Mary loop from Feniton offer longer distances and more elevation gain, providing a greater challenge for advanced cyclists.

Parking is generally available in and around the villages that serve as starting points for many routes. For example, Feniton, Gittisham, and Ottery St Mary often have public parking facilities. It's advisable to check local signage for specific parking regulations and availability before your ride.

Yes, many routes pass through or near villages that offer opportunities for refreshments. For instance, the River Otter at Ottery St Mary – Talaton Pub loop from Feniton specifically mentions passing through local villages, likely with pubs or cafes. The region is known for its charming village pubs, perfect for a mid-ride stop.

While Buckerell itself is a small village, nearby towns like Honiton have train stations with connections to the wider rail network. From these towns, you can often cycle to the starting points of various routes. Local bus services also connect some villages, though checking their schedules and bike carriage policies in advance is recommended.

For beginners, routes that follow disused railway lines are excellent choices due to their flat and often traffic-free nature. While specific beginner routes aren't highlighted by name, look for routes described as 'easy' in the komoot guide, or those that stick to river valleys like the River Otter, which tend to have gentler gradients.