The best road cycling routes around Upper Tamar Lake
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551
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54
rides
Road cycling around Upper Tamar Lake offers routes through scenic landscapes and diverse natural features, situated on the border of Cornwall and Devon. The region features tranquil blue waters surrounded by lush greenery, with surrounding habitats including reed beds, grassland, ponds, and woodlands. While the immediate lakeside path is largely flat, the wider area provides mostly paved surfaces with varying elevation gains across the British countryside.
Best road cycling routes around Upper Tamar Lake
- The most popular road cycling route…
Last updated: July 10, 2026
5.0
(1)
19
riders
42.1km
02:30
510m
510m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4
riders
49.2km
02:35
580m
580m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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3
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
2
riders
43.7km
02:16
540m
540m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
2
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
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Tips from the Community
Sit inside or there are picnic tables outside and railings to secure your bike to. Traditional British cafe fair at reasonable prices. They do a lovely latte coffee and my favourite bacon & egg bap.
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Fabulous views from garden, great food and drinks
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Now we have to turn back the same way. Maybe you'll be lucky and get a seat in the restaurant before the steep climb back down
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And there is nothing more here. The beach is not suitable for swimming. So it goes up steeply again 😜
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What3words - overused.deferring.overlaid Direction - South to North. Surface - Hard packed dirt. Mud through the woods. Notes - Dirt track to windmill then narrows through the woods. Stream and ford then dirt track to road. Also suitable for a gravel bike.
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The work of art reminds of this technology for oil and gas lanterns - invented by Goldsworthy Gurney in 1839 in this place and until the invention of electric light the brightest artificial light source - and of the "big boom" of the sun and planets on May 17th, 2000. Created by Carole Vincent and Antony Fanshawe.
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The Old Laundry gives a glimpse into the canal's industrial past. Now self-catering holiday accommodation it was originally a saw mill, used to produce timber for the canal boats. As the use of canals decreased, the saw mill was repurposed as a laundry for the developing holiday trade. The grade II listed building was converted into four houses in the 1980s.
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Bude Canal was built in 1823 to allow the transportation of mineral rich sand from Bude and the surrounding area inland to fertilize agricultural land. This revolutionised farming in the area and also allowed slate and granite to be transported to the sea. The canal was abandoned in 1891 and restoration is in progress.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available around Upper Tamar Lake?
There are over 50 road cycling routes around Upper Tamar Lake, catering to various skill levels. You'll find a mix of easy, moderate, and challenging options to explore the scenic landscapes of the Cornwall and Devon border.
What kind of terrain can I expect on road cycling routes near Upper Tamar Lake?
The immediate circular path around Upper Tamar Lake is largely flat with slight gradients, offering a smooth, fully surfaced ride. For longer routes in the wider area, you can expect mostly paved surfaces with varying elevation gains, from rolling countryside to more challenging climbs.
Are there any easy or family-friendly road cycling routes around Upper Tamar Lake?
Yes, the approximately three-mile (4.5 km) circular path around Upper Tamar Lake is largely flat and fully surfaced, making it ideal for families and beginners. It's a multi-user path, perfect for a relaxed ride with picturesque lakeside views. For slightly longer, easy routes, komoot offers 5 options.
What are some popular moderate road cycling routes in the area?
Many cyclists enjoy the moderate routes around Upper Tamar Lake. A popular choice is The Old Laundry – Bude Canal loop from Thurdon Cross Farm, a 26.2-mile route with over 1,686 feet of elevation gain. Another favorite is the Blackberry Farm Tea Room loop from Lower Tamar CP, which is 30.5 miles long with over 1,909 feet of ascent.
Are there challenging road cycling routes for experienced riders?
Yes, for more experienced road cyclists, the Upper Tamar Lake area offers 16 challenging routes with significant elevation gains. These routes explore the wider British countryside and can extend over 17 miles, providing a good test for your fitness.
What natural features and landmarks can I see while cycling around Upper Tamar Lake?
The region is known for its tranquil blue waters, lush greenery, and diverse flora and fauna. You'll cycle past reed beds, grassland, ponds, and woodlands. The unique border location between Devon and Cornwall cuts through the lake itself. You might also spot various bird species, especially near Lower Tamar Lake, which is a designated Nature Reserve.
Are there circular road cycling routes available?
Yes, many of the road cycling routes around Upper Tamar Lake are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. The most accessible circular route is the path directly around Upper Tamar Lake. Longer loops, such as the Wimble Hill – Food on the Go loop from Lower Tamar CP, also offer a full circuit of the surrounding countryside.
What amenities are available at Upper Tamar Lake for cyclists?
Upper Tamar Lake offers several convenient amenities. You'll find an on-site café for refreshments, ample parking, and public toilets. There's also a children's play area if you're cycling with family.
Is there parking available for road cyclists at Upper Tamar Lake?
Yes, there are on-site parking facilities available at Upper Tamar Lake, making it convenient to start your cycling adventure directly from the lake.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Upper Tamar Lake?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquil lake views, the variety of routes from easy lakeside loops to challenging countryside tours, and the peaceful ambiance of the natural surroundings.
Can I find accommodation or places to eat near the cycling routes?
The region around Upper Tamar Lake and nearby villages offers various options for accommodation and places to eat. While there's an on-site café at the lake, exploring routes like the Preston Gate Inn – Bude Light Monument loop from Kilkhampton can lead you to local pubs and eateries in the surrounding areas.
When is the best time of year for road cycling around Upper Tamar Lake?
The best time for road cycling around Upper Tamar Lake is generally during the spring, summer, and early autumn months when the weather is milder and more predictable. The scenic beauty is particularly vibrant during these seasons, offering pleasant conditions for exploring the routes.
Most popular routes around Upper Tamar Lake
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