The best MTB trails around Buckland Filleigh

The area around Buckland Filleigh offers a diverse range of terrain. You'll find picturesque rural landscapes with fields and woodlands, especially along the River Torridge. For more challenging rides, you have access to the rugged terrain of Dartmoor National Park, known for its granite tors and open moorlands, and Exmoor National Park, with its steep hills, singletracks, and dramatic coastal views. The Tarka Trail provides mostly flat, traffic-free sections ideal for a relaxed ride.

Yes, there are options suitable for families and beginners. The Tarka Trail, particularly the 30-mile traffic-free section between Braunton and Meeth, is mostly flat and tarmacked, making it ideal for less experienced cyclists. An easy route in the immediate vicinity is the Wooded Path – Mosaic Otter Sculpture loop from Peters Marland, which is just over 12 miles long.

For advanced riders seeking a challenge, the nearby National Parks offer extensive options. Dartmoor National Park features rugged terrain with significant elevation changes, including routes around Princetown and Burrator Reservoir. Exmoor National Park also provides very challenging trails with steep climbs and technical descents, such as the Dunkery Beacon Loop or trails in the Doone Valley.

Many routes offer scenic views and points of interest. You can cycle past the historic Beam Aqueduct, explore the tranquil surroundings of Upper Tamar Lake, or enjoy views along the River Torridge, crossing charming River Torridge Bridges. The Tarka Trail also features diverse wildlife habitats.

Yes, many of the routes are designed as loops. For example, the Beam Aqueduct – River Torridge loop from Meeth and the River Torridge – Tarka Trail loop from Langtree are both popular circular routes that allow you to start and finish in the same location. The Upper Tamar Lake – Upper Tamar Lake loop from Milton Damerel also offers a scenic circular ride.

The green Devonshire countryside is beautiful year-round, but spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant conditions for mountain biking, with milder temperatures and vibrant scenery. Summer is also great, though trails can be busier. Winter rides are possible, but be prepared for potentially wet and muddy conditions, especially on moorland trails in Dartmoor and Exmoor.

The routes in this area are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars from over 7 reviews. Mountain bikers often praise the picturesque rural landscapes, the peaceful river valleys, and the excellent access to the varied terrain of the Tarka Trail, Dartmoor, and Exmoor National Parks, which cater to different skill levels.

Yes, the local area provides amenities for refreshments. Buckland Filleigh itself and nearby villages like Hatherleigh offer local pubs and cafes. Along the Tarka Trail, you'll find facilities like the Puffing Billy Trading Co., which are convenient stops for cyclists.

There are several mountain bike trails directly accessible from the Buckland Filleigh area, with a total of 7 routes listed in this guide. These range from easy to moderate difficulty, providing a good selection for various skill levels.

While specific parking details for every trailhead are not provided, the rural nature of the area means that many starting points for trails, especially those connecting to the Tarka Trail or leading into the National Parks, will have designated parking areas or roadside parking options. It's advisable to check specific route details on komoot for precise parking information before you set out.

Public transport options to the more remote mountain biking areas like Dartmoor and Exmoor National Parks can be limited. However, sections of the Tarka Trail are more accessible, with some villages along the route having bus services. For detailed public transport information to specific trailheads, it's best to consult local transport providers.

Beyond the popular loops, you can also explore the Forest Gravel Path – Barton Lane Leisure Barn loop from Milton Damerel. This route covers nearly 25 miles and features moderate difficulty with over 400 meters of elevation gain, offering another engaging ride through the Devonshire countryside.