The best traffic-free bike rides in Mid Devon

Mid Devon offers a wide selection of over 200 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes. These routes cater to various skill levels, ensuring there's something for everyone looking for a peaceful ride away from vehicular traffic.

Yes, Mid Devon is an excellent destination for beginners and those seeking easy rides, with 38 routes specifically rated as 'easy'. A great example is The Grand Western Canal loop from Tiverton, which offers a gentle, flat path along the water. Another accessible option is the Grand Western Canal Dock – Jubilee Bridge loop from Tiverton.

The spring and summer months (April to September) are generally ideal for touring cycling in Mid Devon, offering pleasant weather and lush landscapes. Autumn also provides beautiful scenery with changing foliage. While some routes are accessible year-round, it's always advisable to check local weather conditions, especially during winter, as paths can be wet or muddy.

Yes, many of the no-traffic routes in Mid Devon are designed as circular loops, making them convenient for starting and ending at the same point. Examples include The Grand Western Canal loop from Tiverton and the Grand Western Canal Dock – Jubilee Bridge loop from Tiverton. These allow you to explore the region's beauty without retracing your steps.

Mid Devon's no-traffic routes often traverse stunning natural landscapes. You can expect picturesque views along the Exe Valley, tranquil waterside paths along the Grand Western Canal, and rolling countryside vistas. While specific viewpoints vary by route, the region is known for its diverse scenery, from gentle river paths to the more rugged edges of Exmoor and Dartmoor National Parks.

Many routes pass by or near interesting historical and natural attractions. For example, you might encounter Bickleigh Mill & The Bridge Inn, a charming historical site. Other notable points of interest in the region include Tiverton Castle and the impressive Knightshayes Court, a Victorian country estate. The Grand Western Canal itself is a significant feature, offering a peaceful journey.

Absolutely. The emphasis on 'no traffic' makes many routes inherently family-friendly. The Grand Western Canal paths are particularly suitable for families due to their flat terrain and absence of vehicular traffic. The Tarka Trail, though not exclusively in Mid Devon, also offers extensive traffic-free sections perfect for families.

Yes, Mid Devon's cycling routes often pass through or near charming villages and towns where you can find cafes, pubs, and other amenities. Many local establishments cater to cyclists, offering a welcome break and refreshments. For instance, routes around Tiverton provide easy access to local eateries.

The komoot community highly rates the touring cycling experience in Mid Devon, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquility of the traffic-free paths, the beautiful and varied scenery, and the opportunity to explore the region's natural beauty and historical sites at a relaxed pace. The well-maintained surfaces of routes like the Grand Western Canal are frequently highlighted.

While many routes are shorter loops, Mid Devon is part of larger cycling networks. The Grand Western Canal path offers a significant stretch of traffic-free cycling, and sections of the National Cycle Network (NCN) routes, such as the West Country Way, provide longer, interconnected traffic-free paths. These can be combined to create longer touring experiences.

Public transport options, including train stations and bus services, are available in key towns like Tiverton, which can provide access points to some of the no-traffic routes. It's advisable to check specific public transport schedules and bicycle carriage policies for your chosen route and starting point. For more general information on getting around, you can visit visitmiddevon.co.uk.

Mid Devon is full of quieter, less-traveled paths that offer a sense of discovery. While specific 'hidden gems' are often found by exploring local lanes and connecting paths, the region's extensive network of country roads and canal paths means there are always new, peaceful sections to uncover away from the main thoroughfares. The Blackdown Hills, for instance, offer beautiful, quieter routes like Hemlock and Broadhembury loop, though some sections may not be entirely traffic-free.