The best traffic-free bike rides around Burlescombe

There are 7 dedicated no traffic touring cycling routes around Burlescombe listed in this guide, catering to various fitness levels. These routes offer a great way to explore the quiet country lanes and picturesque landscapes of Mid Devon.

Yes, Burlescombe offers several easy, family-friendly options. The Owl Carved from Tree Stump – White House by the River loop from Holcombe Rogus is a great choice, covering 17.4 km with minimal elevation gain. Another excellent option is the Grand Western Canal Dock – Jubilee Bridge loop from Tiverton Parkway, which largely follows the flat towpath of the Grand Western Canal.

The region around Burlescombe is characterized by 'rolling hills' and 'picturesque countryside'. While many routes utilize quiet country lanes, some, especially those venturing towards the Blackdown Hills or Exmoor fringes, will feature significant elevation changes. However, routes like those along the Grand Western Canal offer mostly flat, well-paved surfaces.

Yes, many of the routes are designed as loops. For instance, the Bike loop from Burlescombe is a moderate 15.2 km circular route, perfect for exploring the local area without repeating sections. The Jubilee Bridge – Grand Western Canal Dock loop from Burlescombe offers a more challenging 53 km circular ride.

You can discover several interesting points of interest. The iconic Wellington Monument, the tallest three-sided obelisk in the world, is accessible from some routes. You might also pass by historical sites like St Mary's Church and Hemyock Castle. The Grand Western Canal itself is a significant feature, with bridges and culverts dating back to 1810.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 141 ratings. Reviewers often praise the peaceful, traffic-free nature of the routes, the stunning natural landscapes of the Blackdown Hills, and the charm of the quiet country lanes.

While Burlescombe offers direct access to the Blackdown Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, providing varied terrain and scenic views, dedicated 'no traffic' routes directly into the heart of Exmoor National Park from Burlescombe are less common due to the nature of the park's roads. However, you can access the fringes of Exmoor for more challenging rides, often requiring some navigation on quieter roads.

Yes, the Grand Western Canal is a fantastic resource for no traffic cycling. The Grand Western Canal Dock – Jubilee Bridge loop from Tiverton Parkway and the Owl Carved from Tree Stump – Grand Western Canal loop from Tiverton Parkway both utilize sections of the canal's towpath, offering a mostly flat and scenic ride.

Many routes start from villages or towns with public parking facilities. For routes beginning near the Grand Western Canal, parking is often available at canal basin access points or nearby towns like Tiverton Parkway. For specific routes, checking the tour details on komoot will provide information on recommended starting points and potential parking options.

Mid Devon, including Burlescombe, is beautiful throughout the warmer months. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, making them ideal for touring cycling. Summer can also be excellent, though routes might be busier. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.

Yes, for those seeking a challenge, the Jubilee Bridge – Grand Western Canal Dock loop from Burlescombe is classified as difficult. This 53 km route features significant elevation gain (over 600m), providing a rewarding experience for very good fitness levels while still focusing on quieter roads and paths.