The best road cycling routes around Lower Tamar Lake
4.8
(15)
816
riders
61
rides
Road cycling around Lower Tamar Lake offers routes that navigate the rural landscape on the Devon-Cornwall border. The area is characterized by surrounding farmland, mature deciduous trees, and a network of roads connecting to the adjacent Upper Tamar Lake. While Lower Tamar Lake itself is primarily a nature reserve, it serves as a starting point for routes that explore the wider region, including the historic Bude Canal area.
Best road cycling routes around Lower Tamar Lake
- The most popular road…
Last updated: July 10, 2026
4
riders
49.2km
02:35
580m
580m
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.
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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.
3
riders
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 Lower Tamar Lake?
There are over 65 road cycling routes around Lower Tamar Lake, catering to various skill levels. You'll find options ranging from easy to difficult, with 7 easy routes, 44 moderate, and 17 challenging ones.
What kind of terrain can I expect when road cycling near Lower Tamar Lake?
The road cycling terrain around Lower Tamar Lake is characterized by rolling farmland and mature deciduous trees. Routes often connect to the historic Bude Canal area and the adjacent Upper Tamar Lake, offering a mix of moderate loops and more challenging rides with significant elevation gain.
Are there any family-friendly road cycling options near Lower Tamar Lake?
While Lower Tamar Lake itself has gravel tracks, the nearby Upper Tamar Lake features the 'Tamar Tootle,' a three-mile, largely flat, and firm pathway suitable for cyclists of all abilities, including families. Bike hire is available at Upper Tamar Lake, making it a great option for a relaxed family ride.
What are some notable landmarks or natural features to see while cycling in the area?
The area is rich in natural beauty and history. Lower Tamar Lake is a nature reserve, home to over 200 bird species. You can also explore the historic Bude Canal Aqueduct Trail, which starts at Lower Tamar Lake. The adjacent Upper Tamar Lake offers scenic views and is a hub for watersports.
Are there any circular road cycling routes around Lower Tamar Lake?
Yes, many routes in the area are circular. For example, the Blackberry Farm Tea Room loop from Lower Tamar CP is a popular 30.5-mile circular route. Another option is the Wimble Hill – Food on the Go loop from Lower Tamar CP, which is a moderate 27.2-mile circular path.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about cycling around Lower Tamar Lake?
The komoot community highly rates the routes around Lower Tamar Lake, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 10 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, the tranquil natural setting, and the connections to scenic areas like the Bude Canal.
Are there places to eat or stay near the cycling routes?
Yes, the area offers facilities for visitors. Upper Tamar Lake has a café overlooking the lake. For more options, you'll find pubs and accommodation in nearby villages. The Preston Gate Inn – Bude Light Monument loop from Kilkhampton route, for instance, starts near the Preston Gate Inn.
Is there parking available for road cyclists at Lower Tamar Lake?
Yes, parking is available at Lower Tamar Lake. Many routes, such as the Blackberry Farm Tea Room loop and the Wimble Hill – Food on the Go loop, start from the Lower Tamar CP (Car Park), indicating convenient access for cyclists.
What is the best time of year for road cycling around Lower Tamar Lake?
The region experiences typical British weather, so spring and summer generally offer the most pleasant conditions for road cycling, with milder temperatures and longer daylight hours. However, the rural landscape can be enjoyed in all seasons, with autumn providing beautiful foliage.
Are there any routes that explore the historic Bude Canal area?
Absolutely. The The Old Laundry – Bude Canal loop from Thurdon Cross Farm is a popular 26.1-mile route specifically designed to lead through the historic Bude Canal area, offering a blend of natural beauty and historical interest.
Are permits required for road cycling in the Lower Tamar Lake area?
Generally, no specific permits are required for road cycling on public roads in Cornwall and Devon. However, if you plan to cycle on private land or specific trails, it's always best to check local regulations. The routes listed on komoot primarily use public access roads.
Most popular routes around Lower Tamar Lake
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