The best cycling routes around Axminster

There are over 35 touring cycling routes around Axminster, offering a wide range of options for exploring the diverse landscapes of the Axe Valley, the Jurassic Coast, and the surrounding Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

While many routes in Axminster feature varied terrain and some challenging climbs, there are moderate options available. The region's network includes river paths through the Axe Valley which tend to be less strenuous. For example, the Colyton Town Center – Axmouth Bridge loop from Axminster is a moderate 28.3 km ride that winds through the Axe Valley, offering scenic views without extreme difficulty.

Axminster is uniquely positioned at the gateway to three Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty: the East Devon AONB, the Blackdown Hills National Landscape, and the West Dorset AONB. This means you can expect to cycle through rolling green countryside, wooded valleys, and quiet country lanes. Routes also extend to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Jurassic Coast, offering expansive coastal views and dramatic cliffs.

Yes, Axminster is a significant crossroads for cycling. National Cycle Network (NCN) Route 2, the South Coast Cycle Route, passes through the town, connecting Dover to St Austell. NCN Route 33 also links Bristol to East Devon via Axminster. Additionally, the Stop Line Way, a long-distance cycling and walking route, connects Seaton to Weston-super-Mare and includes Axminster.

Cycling routes around Axminster offer access to several interesting sites. You can explore the dramatic coastal scenery of the Jurassic Coast, or venture inland to areas like the Blackdown Hills National Landscape with its iron-age hill forts and historic villages. Nearby attractions include the Golden Cap Summit, Pilsdon Pen Summit, and the Lyme Regis Seafront. Trinity Hill Nature Reserve and Burrow Farm Gardens are also accessible and can be incorporated into your rides.

Absolutely. The Axminster area offers several difficult routes with significant elevation gains. For instance, the Jurassic Coast loop from Axminster is a 64.2 km trail with over 1000 meters of elevation gain, featuring challenging climbs and expansive coastal views. Another demanding option is the Axmouth Bridge – Beer Beach loop from Axminster, a 44.8 km route through coastal areas with dramatic cliffs.

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes around Axminster are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the Jurassic Coast loop from Axminster and the Conegar Hill Climb – The Broadoak Box loop from Raymond's Hill. The Buzzard Route, an 80-mile circular route, also explores East Devon around Axminster.

The varied terrain of Axminster, from coastal paths to rolling hills, can be enjoyed throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, with fewer crowds. Summer provides longer daylight hours, ideal for longer rides, though coastal areas can be busier. Winter cycling is possible, but be prepared for potentially wet and windy conditions, especially on exposed coastal sections or higher ground in the Blackdown Hills.

The region around Axminster is dotted with charming villages and towns, particularly within the Axe Valley and East Devon AONB. Many of these offer pubs, cafes, and local shops where you can refuel. Axminster itself has options like The Lemon Plaice Fish & Chips, which is featured in one of the local routes. For a unique culinary experience, River Cottage, near Axminster, also offers dining events.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.0 stars from over 14 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, from the dramatic coastal views of the Jurassic Coast to the quiet country lanes of the Blackdown Hills and the picturesque Axe Valley. The variety of routes catering to different ability levels is also frequently highlighted.

Axminster is served by a railway station, providing connections that could be used to access the town and start your cycling adventures. Local bus services also operate in the area, which may offer connections to some villages and trailheads, though it's advisable to check specific routes and bike carriage policies with the operators.

Axminster town center offers various parking facilities. Many routes start directly from Axminster, making these car parks convenient. When planning your route, it's always a good idea to check for specific parking availability at your chosen starting point, especially if you're beginning from a smaller village or a more remote trailhead within the AONBs.