Cycling is an activity enjoyed by guests at Forest Glade Holiday Park. With close links to Blackdown Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty you’re in a top location near to where you can explore the great outdoors on two wheels. Discover superb countryside views in the fresh open air on a selection of on-road cycling routes through a network of country lanes. The majority of cycle routes are suited to relatively experienced cyclists, and provide a variety of challenges. Here we highlight some of the best cycling routes in the Blackdown Hills. We’ve also provided links to Blackdown Hills AONB website, where you’ll find maps and more route information.
Easy Blackdown Hills cycle routes
Churchinford, Yarcombe, Stockland, Upottery >
This is a moderately challenging route with several uphill climbs. Take in Royston Water and the nature reserve of Otterhead Lakes. You’ll even go past an area that is said to have been used by Robin Hood for target practice!
Photo credit: Alison Day on Flickr (CC BY-ND 2.0)
Medium Blackdown Hills cycle routes
Hemyock, Uffculme and Culmstock >
A medium difficulty cycle route with a distance of 11 miles. Notable points of interest along the way include Coldharbour Mill Working Museum and the beacon house on Culmstock Common.
Hemyock, Blackborough, Broadhembury and Sheldon >
This 22 mile route includes shorter options and passes the 16th century village of Broadhembury and the prehistoric Devon hillfort of Hembury.
Wellington, Buckland Wood and Hemyock >
Look out for medieval castle ruins, a moat and Victorian water pump on this 17 mile circular route.
Churchinford, Upottery and Culm Valley >
A 17.5 mile medium difficulty ride which has some hills and shorter route. Check out Dunkesell Abbey, Otterhead Lakes and Upottery Airfield along the journey.
Stockland, Yarcombe, Whitestaunton and Membury >
A 17 mile route consisting of a few challenging climbs that takes in the charming Devon village of Stockland, Beckford Bridge and The Yarcombe Inn.
Photo credit: Alison Day on Flickr (CC BY-ND 2.0)
Hard Blackdown Hills cycle routes
Honiton, Luppit, and Combe Raleigh >
This route has challenging uphill and downhill parts that require good cycling experience. Rewards to look out for include Wolford Chapel. Combe Woods and St Mary’s Church.
Honiton, Stockland and Upottery >
If you’re looking for a longer more challenging route, then this one is for you. A very good exploration of the Blackdown Hills with stunning countryside views and hill forts.
Before you set off
Be prepared before you set off on your Blackdown Hills cycling adventures. Ensure your bike is fully roadworthy and carry out checks before you leave. Take refreshments, mobile phone, toolkit and puncture repair kit and pump.
Make sure you are dressed appropriately with bright/reflective clothing, lights and cycle helmet.
Last but not least always follow the Highway Code, making sure you are mindful of other road users and horse riders.
Cycle hire near Forest Glade Holiday Park
Some families that stay at Forest Glade do bring their own bikes along but if you’re looking to hire your two-wheel transport, the nearest option is in Tiverton. We have recommended Abbotshood Cycle Hire in the past which is 18 miles from our Devon holiday park and has free parking in the picturesque village of Sampford Peverell. Direct access to the Grand Western Canal makes for a lovely afternoon cycle from here.
We hope you enjoy your rides but please take extra care as your explore the beautiful area of Blackdown Hills AONB. Use the hashtag #blackdownramble to share and see what others have got up to on their walks and rides in the area.