Bude Canal, Holsworth and Roadford Lake Dam loop

This is a challenging route, categorized as a 'hard bike ride' due to its length (around 80.5 km or 50 miles) and significant elevation gain (approximately 890 meters or 2,920 feet). It requires very good fitness, with numerous steady climbs and descents, and occasional steep ascents. Some segments may even require you to push your bike.

The route primarily features mostly paved surfaces, making it suitable for touring bicycles. However, be prepared for some unpaved sections, particularly around Roadford Lake, which can include narrow single-track, twists, turns, climbs, and descents through woodland. The Bude Canal towpath section is generally flat and tarmac.

You'll experience diverse landscapes. The historic Bude Canal offers tranquil waters and wildlife. Around Holsworthy, you'll find stunning countryside. Roadford Lake, the largest body of water in the South West, provides fantastic vistas across the lake and through wooded sections, with the dramatic tors of Dartmoor in the background. Don't miss the views from the Roadford Lake Valve Tower.

Parking is available at various points along the route. For instance, you can find parking near the Bude Canal to start your ride there, or at Roadford Lake, which has visitor centers and facilities. Specific parking details can often be found on local council or visitor information websites.

While parts of the route, especially the Bude Canal towpath, are generally dog-friendly, the overall loop is a long and challenging cycling route. If cycling with a dog, ensure it is well-trained, able to keep pace, and that you adhere to leash rules, especially around livestock and wildlife. Always check local signage for specific restrictions.

The best time to cycle this loop is typically during the spring, summer, and early autumn months (April to October). During these periods, the weather is generally milder, and daylight hours are longer, making the challenging distance more manageable. Always check the weather forecast before you go, as conditions can change rapidly.

No, you do not need any special permits or pay entrance fees to cycle the Bude Canal, Holsworth and Roadford Lake Dam loop. It uses public roads and paths. However, some facilities like parking at visitor centers may have charges.

Yes, you'll find opportunities for refreshments. There are cafes and visitor centers at Roadford Lake. Additionally, passing through areas like Holsworthy and near Bude, you can find various cafes and pubs to refuel during your ride.

Yes, sections of this route intersect with or run alongside parts of the UK's National Cycle Network (NCN). Specifically, it includes segments of the NCN3, which is a significant long-distance cycle route in the South West of England.

The diverse habitats along the route offer chances to spot various wildlife. Along the Bude Canal, you might see swans, ducks, and herons. Around Roadford Lake, which is surrounded by Culm Grasslands, woodlands, and orchards, you can expect to see a wide array of flora and fauna.

Given the mix of predominantly paved surfaces and some potentially unpaved sections, a touring bicycle or a gravel bike would be ideal. These bikes offer a good balance of speed on roads and comfort/durability for varied terrain, making them well-suited for the challenging and diverse nature of this loop.