The best cycling routes around Okehampton

Yes, Okehampton offers routes suitable for various fitness levels. The Okehampton and Hatherleigh loop is a moderate option, and the region includes sections of former railway lines like the Granite Way, which are largely traffic-free and have a low gradient, making them accessible for families and less experienced cyclists. The Granite Way itself is an 11-mile multi-use trail known for its accessibility.

For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, the Lydford, Princetown & Chagford loop from Okehampton is a difficult 47.9-mile path traversing varied Dartmoor landscapes with significant elevation changes. Another demanding option is the Okement Hill & Northern Dartmoor loop from Okehampton, a 20.1-mile trail through remote moorland views within Dartmoor National Park.

Yes, bike hire is available in Okehampton. The Granite Way Cycle Hub in Okehampton provides bike rentals, including electric bikes, making it convenient to explore the local routes even if you don't bring your own equipment.

Absolutely. Many touring cycling routes around Okehampton are designed as loops. Examples include the Lydford & Peter Tavey — Granite Way loop from Okehampton, the Granite Way Lydford Loop, and the challenging Lydford, Princetown & Chagford loop. The Dartmoor Way is also a comprehensive circular route around Dartmoor National Park.

The routes offer stunning natural beauty. You can encounter dramatic granite tors like Yes Tor summit and High Willhays summit, vast moorland, and river valleys. The iconic Meldon Viaduct and Reservoir are prominent features along the Granite Way, offering spectacular views.

Yes, Okehampton and its surroundings are rich in history. You can visit Okehampton Castle, the largest medieval castle ruin in Devon, or explore the Museum of Dartmoor Life. Along the routes, you might also spot ancient stone circles or historical bridges like the Meldon Viaduct.

The best time for touring cycling in Okehampton is generally from spring through autumn when the weather is milder and more predictable. Summer offers the longest daylight hours, while spring and autumn provide beautiful scenery with fewer crowds. Dartmoor's weather can be changeable, so it's always wise to be prepared for various conditions.

Okehampton is well-connected for cyclists using public transport. The reopening of Okehampton train station has significantly improved accessibility, with provisions for bikes on trains. This makes it easier to reach the area and explore North and Mid Devon for cycle touring and bikepacking.

Parking is available at various points around Okehampton, especially near popular trailheads. For routes utilizing the Granite Way, there is often parking available near the Okehampton end of the trail, such as at the Granite Way Cycle Hub, which also offers facilities like a café.

The touring cycling routes in Okehampton are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.1 stars from over 90 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, from rugged granite tors to tranquil river valleys, and the well-maintained trails, particularly the traffic-free sections of former railway lines like the Granite Way.

While not directly on all cycling routes, the dramatic Lydford Gorge, a short drive from Okehampton, features woodland trails and impressive waterfalls, including the famous Devil's Cauldron. Within Okehampton itself, Simmons Park also boasts charming waterfalls as part of its natural landscape.

The Granite Way is a prominent 11-mile (18 km) multi-use trail that runs between Okehampton and Lydford. It follows a former Victorian railway line, offering a largely traffic-free, low-gradient path suitable for all abilities. It's a key feature for touring cyclists in Okehampton, providing access to dramatic granite landscapes, iconic bridges like the Meldon Viaduct, and scenic views of Dartmoor.