The best road cycling routes around Buckland Brewer

There are over 160 road cycling routes around Buckland Brewer, offering a wide variety of options for different skill levels and preferences. These include 15 easy routes, 113 moderate routes, and 32 difficult routes.

Road cycling around Buckland Brewer is characterized by rolling hills and quiet country lanes. You'll find diverse scenery, from the tranquil River Torridge and Taw estuaries to areas with coastal views. The routes offer varying gradients, with some challenging climbs and more gentle sections, especially along dedicated paths like the Tarka Trail.

Yes, Buckland Brewer offers routes suitable for beginners and families. The Tarka Trail, accessible from areas close to Buckland Brewer like Bideford, is largely traffic-free and paved, making it ideal for all skill levels. While some sections can be moderate, many parts are gentle and scenic. For example, the River Torridge – Tarka Trail loop from Monkleigh is a moderate option that follows the river.

For challenging rides with significant elevation, consider routes that venture further into the North Devon countryside or towards the coast. The Tarka Trail – River Torridge loop from Abbotsham is a difficult 53.5-mile path with over 1000 meters of elevation gain. Another demanding option is the River Torridge – Roadford Lake loop from Abbotsham, which covers over 105 km and features more than 1200 meters of climbing.

Many of the road cycling routes around Buckland Brewer are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the River Torridge – Tarka Trail loop from Monkleigh and the River Taw – Fremington Quay Café loop from Abbotsham. These circular routes make planning your ride convenient.

The region offers several scenic points and landmarks. You can cycle along the beautiful River Torridge and Taw estuaries, which are particularly highlighted by the Tarka Trail. The Beam Aqueduct is a notable feature on some routes, offering a pleasant stop. While not directly on a route, the picturesque village of Clovelly is within cycling distance and offers superb views from its cliffside location.

Yes, the Tarka Trail is a significant feature of cycling in North Devon and is accessible from areas close to Buckland Brewer, such as Bideford and Great Torrington. It's a largely traffic-free, paved path that runs for 32 miles, offering stunning views across the River Taw and Torridge estuaries. Routes like the Bideford Bridge – Tarka Trail at Fremington loop from Alwington incorporate sections of this popular trail.

The best time for road cycling in Buckland Brewer is generally during the spring, summer, and early autumn months (April to October). During these periods, the weather is typically milder, and the countryside is at its most vibrant. While cycling is possible year-round, winter conditions can bring colder temperatures and potentially wet roads.

Many road cycling routes in the Buckland Brewer area start from towns or villages like Monkleigh or Abbotsham, where public parking is often available. It's advisable to check specific starting points for parking facilities. The rural nature of the area also means that quiet roadside parking might be an option in some locations, but always ensure you park safely and legally.

The road cycling routes around Buckland Brewer are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 30 reviews. Cyclists often praise the quiet country lanes, the beautiful rural landscapes, and the diverse options available, from gentle riverside paths to more challenging hilly rides. Over 3,000 road cyclists have used komoot to explore this varied terrain.

Yes, many routes pass through or near villages and towns where you can find cafes and pubs. For instance, the River Taw – Fremington Quay Café loop from Abbotsham specifically mentions a cafe, indicating opportunities for refreshment. The Tarka Trail also has various stops along its length, including cafes, especially in towns like Bideford and Barnstaple.

The road cycling routes around Buckland Brewer vary significantly in length. You can find shorter loops, such as the River Torridge – Tarka Trail loop from Monkleigh which is about 25 km (15.6 miles) and takes around 1 hour 16 minutes. Longer, more challenging routes like the River Torridge – Roadford Lake loop from Abbotsham can be over 105 km (65.4 miles) and take more than 5 hours to complete.

While Buckland Brewer itself is inland, the stunning North Devon coastline is within easy reach. You can find routes that incorporate coastal views, though these often involve more challenging ascents and descents due to the coastal topography. The broader Devon Coast to Coast route (National Cycle Network Route 27) also offers coastal sections, with parts overlapping with the Tarka Trail.

Winter road cycling in Buckland Brewer can be challenging due to colder temperatures, shorter daylight hours, and potentially wet or icy road conditions, especially on less-trafficked country lanes. While the scenery remains beautiful, cyclists should be prepared for variable weather, carry appropriate gear, and check local forecasts before heading out. Some routes, particularly the Tarka Trail, may be more sheltered and manageable in winter.