4.3
(73)
293
riders
42
rides
Mountain biking around Buckfastleigh offers access to the varied terrain of Dartmoor National Park, characterized by rolling hills, river valleys, and extensive woodlands. The region provides a mix of challenging ascents and flowing descents suitable for different skill levels. Trails often navigate through open moorland and along historic bridleways, showcasing the natural landscape. This area is known for its diverse paths, from gravel tracks to more technical singletrack sections.
Last updated: May 4, 2026
4.6
(5)
18
riders
22.3km
01:50
510m
510m
Embark on a moderate mountain biking adventure through Dartmoor National Park with the South Brent & Avon Dam loop. This 13.9 miles (22.3 km) route, with an elevation gain of…
4.5
(2)
9
riders
20.5km
01:41
480m
480m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

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3.3
(4)
14
riders
20.8km
01:39
390m
390m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.4
(5)
5
riders
18.7km
01:27
350m
350m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
7
riders
30.5km
02:25
620m
620m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Beautiful Dartmoor roads up to Hound Tor. If coming from Trendlebere, the climbing gets much easier from here.
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Always good to stop and see why you are on your bike rather than among the rat race.
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Kitty Jay is said to have been a servant girl at one of the nearby farms. Her lover betrayed her, distancing himself from her when they found out that she was pregnant, rather than taking responsibility and marrying Kitty. In despair, she hanged herself in a barn. In those bygone days suicide victims weren't buried in the churchyard, instead they were buried at the edge of the parish. So here lies Kitty Jay, and you'll notice that there are normally fresh flowers and often gifts left on her grave. No one knows who replaces the flowers so regularly.
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Look out for the Clipper Tea van here on more popular, good weather days!
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This traffic-free road is a really scenic way to get up onto the moors from Shipley Bridge near South Brent. It's technically a bridleway, through the vehicle-wide paved road makes for an easy, gentle climb. Look out though, as the uneven road is starting to crumble in some place. It's a really beautiful pedal as you ride alongside the gushing waterfalls of the River Avon and between bracken, crossing the water a few times as you head up towards the Avon Dam and reservoir.
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The Avon Dam was built in 1957 to supply water to the coastal towns of South Devon. You can ride up the access road to the base of the dam but will have to leave your bike or push up to see the reservoir.
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If you want to know more and like folk music, listen to Seth Lakeman's song, 'Kitty Jay'
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There are over 40 mountain bike trails around Buckfastleigh listed on komoot, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels. The area is known for its diverse paths within Dartmoor National Park.
The majority of mountain bike trails around Buckfastleigh are rated as moderate, with 37 moderate routes available. There are also 2 easy trails and 3 difficult trails for those seeking less or more challenge.
Yes, there are a few easy mountain bike trails around Buckfastleigh that are suitable for beginners or families. While most routes are moderate, the region's network includes paths that are less demanding, often on historic bridleways or gravel tracks. Always check individual route details for suitability.
For more challenging mountain bike routes, Buckfastleigh offers 3 trails rated as difficult. These routes often feature more technical singletrack sections and significant ascents within the varied terrain of Dartmoor National Park.
Yes, many of the mountain bike routes around Buckfastleigh are circular, allowing you to start and end in the same location. For example, the South Brent & Avon Dam loop from Buckfastleigh and the Avon Dam Reservoir – Shipley Bridge loop from Buckfastleigh are popular circular options.
Mountain bike trails in Buckfastleigh offer diverse scenery, ranging from open moorland and river valleys to extensive woodlands. You can expect views of Dartmoor's characteristic tors and natural features. Routes like the Avon Dam Reservoir – Shipley Bridge loop provide scenic views of the reservoir and surrounding moorland.
While specific trails may vary, the Buckfastleigh area, being part of Dartmoor National Park, is rich in natural features. You might find routes that pass near highlights such as Lydia Bridge Waterfall or offer views of prominent tors like Haytor Rocks and Combestone Tor. Checking individual route maps is recommended.
Many trails in Dartmoor National Park are dog-friendly, but it's crucial to keep dogs under close control, especially near livestock or ground-nesting birds. Always check specific signage on trails and adhere to the Dartmoor National Park Authority's guidance for responsible dog walking.
The mountain bike trails around Buckfastleigh are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 70 reviews. Nearly 300 mountain bikers have used komoot to explore the area, often praising the varied terrain and the natural beauty of Dartmoor.
The best time for mountain biking in Buckfastleigh is generally from spring through autumn when the weather is milder and trails are drier. Dartmoor can be exposed, so checking local weather forecasts is always advisable, especially during wetter months when some trails may become muddy.
Buckfastleigh has some public transport links, but direct access to trailheads can be limited. It's best to research local bus services to see if they serve specific starting points for routes. Many visitors opt to drive and park near trail access points.
Yes, some routes combine natural beauty with historical interest. For instance, the St Gudula's Cross and Well – View of Ashburton loop from Ashburton leads through historical sites and provides views towards the nearby town of Ashburton.


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