4.5
(28)
127
riders
21
rides
Gravel biking around Clyst St. Mary offers diverse terrain, from gently rolling agricultural lands to dense forests and river valleys. The region is characterized by the Clyst Valley and its river, leading towards the Exe Estuary, providing a network of varied routes. Cyclists can explore floodplain meadows, woodland paths, and sections of the Exe Estuary Trail, which is largely off-road. The landscape provides options for both leisurely rides and more challenging adventures through areas like Ashclyst Forest.
Last updated: July 3, 2026
4.8
(10)
27
riders
55.0km
04:46
1,000m
1,000m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
4.8
(5)
12
riders
30.1km
02:32
340m
340m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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2
riders
84.3km
06:31
990m
990m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
4
riders
68.7km
05:14
610m
610m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
5.0
(1)
3
riders
68.2km
05:17
890m
890m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
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Look out for an entrance onto a footpath on your right, which follows beside the railway tracks on your left, and the exe estuary on your right. The path is too narrow for cycling but great for walking and running.
1
0
There's a few disabled parking spaces right on the Quay and the walks are all wheelchair user friendly, there's bus routes and train station all within a mile of the quay. If like me on your walk you like to re-stall your batteries and have a hot or cold drink there's lots of great pubs restaurants and little cafes on the Quay and they all welcome dogs, if you check out what's on in Exeter you might be lucky to see one of the many events they hold like morse dancing, the boat racing, mental health walk, the food festivals and many more, enjoy the ruins and history walks also.
0
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Car park and numerous food outlets alongside the river perfect to spend a time to relax
1
0
Exeter Quay, also known as Exeter Quayside, is a district of Exeter on the River Exe and the Exeter Ship Canal. It was used as a port since prehistoric times, when a sandstone outcrop was used to unload the ships of overseas traders.[1] However, in 1381, the Countess Weir closed the river to shipping. In 1566, a canal was completed to allow ships access. Over time, the number of ships using the quay increased, and so the quay was extended in the late 17th century. Further extension took place in 1830 when a new canal basin was dug. However, in 1840, the railway reached Exeter, and shipping began to decline. The quay is no longer used for shipping, but mainly for recreational purposes.
2
0
lots to do along the Quay, saw ducks, swans great places to eat and drink, there are many different routes you can stay on a path or walk through mud path. wheelchair friendly the Quay got lots of history and gift shops
6
0
Top bit technical, then gets faster and flowing. a great down hill
0
0
Nice flat cycle path. But gets VERY busy with 2 wheeled, 2 legged and 4 legged visitors in the summer months. Watch how you go.
1
1
There are over 20 gravel bike routes available around Clyst St. Mary. These routes offer a diverse range of experiences, from easy, flat rides to more challenging, hilly adventures.
Yes, Clyst St. Mary offers several easy gravel routes perfect for beginners. The area's gently rolling terrain and river valleys provide accessible options. The Topsham to Woodbury Common — Exeter gravel routes is a moderate option that can be adapted for a less strenuous ride, traversing varied terrain.
For experienced riders seeking a challenge, Clyst St. Mary is an excellent base. Routes like Killerton, Ashclyst and East Hill — Exeter gravel routes take you through the woodlands of Ashclyst Forest and the Killerton estate, featuring significant elevation changes. Another demanding option is Haldon, Mamhead and Dawlish — Exeter gravel routes, which leads through Haldon Moor with coastal views.
While specific family-designated routes aren't listed, the predominantly flat sections of the Exe Estuary Trail, easily accessible from Clyst St. Mary, are ideal for families. This largely off-road trail offers a safe and scenic environment for all ages.
Gravel rides around Clyst St. Mary offer a rich tapestry of landscapes. You'll encounter floodplain meadows along the Clyst Valley, dense woodlands in areas like Ashclyst Forest, and open moorland with superb views over the Teign Estuary on routes through Haldon Moor. The region also provides access to the scenic Exe Estuary Trail.
Yes, the area is rich in points of interest. You can cycle past the historic medieval Clyst St. Mary Bridge or explore the Clyst Valley Regional Park. The Exe Estuary Trail itself is a major natural attraction, offering fantastic views and opportunities for wildlife spotting. The Otter Estuary Nature Reserve is also easily accessible for birdwatching.
The spring and autumn months generally offer the most pleasant conditions for gravel biking in Clyst St. Mary, with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can also be great, but be prepared for potentially warmer weather. While winter riding is possible, some trails might be muddier, especially in woodland areas or after heavy rain.
The gravel routes in Clyst St. Mary are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 20 reviews. Reviewers often praise the varied terrain, the quiet woodlands, and the scenic river valleys that make for engaging rides.
Absolutely. For those looking for longer tours, routes like Killerton, Ashclyst and East Hill — Exeter gravel routes cover over 50 miles (84 km), exploring extensive woodlands and estates. Another long option is Haldon Belvedere and the Estuary — Exeter gravel routes, offering a substantial ride with varied landscapes.
Yes, the Exe Estuary Trail, which is easily accessible from Clyst St. Mary, is largely off-road and forms part of the National Cycle Network Route 2, providing excellent traffic-free sections. The developing Clyst Valley Trail also aims to offer traffic-free paths and boardwalks across floodplains.
Clyst St. Mary is an excellent base for combining gravel biking with other outdoor pursuits. You can enjoy birdwatching at the Otter Estuary Nature Reserve, explore the extensive grounds of the Killerton estate, or visit Wildwood Devon for a different kind of wildlife experience. The Clyst Valley Regional Park also offers various walking routes.
Many routes offer scenic viewpoints. The Haldon, Mamhead and Dawlish — Exeter gravel routes, for instance, leads through Haldon Moor and provides superb views over the Teign Estuary and towards the coast. The Exe Estuary Trail also offers continuous picturesque views along the River Exe.


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