4.8
(26)
1,229
riders
102
rides
Road cycling around Timberscombe offers diverse landscapes within Exmoor National Park. The area features a mix of challenging ascents, such as those leading towards Dunkery Beacon and Selworthy Beacon, and quieter country lanes through wooded valleys like the River Avill. Terrain varies from open moorland to sheltered, forested paths, providing a range of experiences for road cyclists. This region is characterized by significant elevation changes and panoramic views across the Bristol Channel.
Last updated: October 13, 2026
3
riders
111km
07:01
2,430m
2,430m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
9
riders
21.8km
01:03
260m
260m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

6
riders
31.7km
01:42
450m
450m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5
riders
26.7km
01:25
420m
420m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
3
riders
125km
06:23
1,960m
1,960m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
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Lynmouth Hill from Lynmouth is a brutally steep Exmoor ascent, averaging 13% with savage ramps up to 25%. The narrow, twisting road climbs sharply through thick woodland, with smooth tarmac but little let-up in gradient. Start in your easiest gear and stay seated to maintain traction—there’s no warm-up, and the climb hits hard from the first pedal stroke. Watch for sharp bends and limited visibility if traffic is around. It’s a short, intense effort that will leave your legs burning and your heart pounding. Launching straight out of Lynmouth harbour eastwards on the A39, prepare for an immediate and ferocious battle with gravity up Lynmouth Hill. There's no gentle introduction; the road kicks skywards instantly and relentlessly, averaging a punishing 12-13% for the entire ascent. Experience the sustained, intense effort required right from the first pedal stroke, engaging your lowest gears as you fight your way up through the wooded lower slopes. You'll wrestle the bike around tight hairpin bends where the gradient peaks at a formidable 25%, especially on the inside lines. Feel the village shrink rapidly below as, you glimpse the stunning coastal views opening up over the bay. Be mindful of other traffic likely sharing your struggle on this notoriously steep Exmoor A-road. The intense effort only truly relents as you finally reach the slightly gentler ground near Countisbury at the top.
3
0
Tackling Porlock Hill westwards from the village on the A39, prepare for an immediate, brutal ascent. The climb bites hard almost instantly, throwing its infamous 25% ramps at you very early, particularly around the tight hairpins. Experience the intense effort required in your lowest gears, feeling the steepness challenge every pedal stroke. As you winch yourself upwards through the woods, glance back (when safe!) at the rapidly unfolding, stunning views over Porlock Bay. Be aware you'll be sharing this famously steep A-road with other vehicles. After battling the steepest sections, the gradient lessens slightly, but the climb persists relentlessly until you emerge onto the exposed Exmoor moorland at the summit and breathtaking views over the Bristol Channel.
2
0
In the middle of the village there is a beautiful, old stone bridge with a ford across the stream next to it. Great photo opportunity!
2
0
Not the prettiest Exmoor village, but probably the one with the greatest view.
1
0
There are over 110 road cycling routes around Timberscombe listed on komoot, offering a wide range of experiences within Exmoor National Park. These routes cater to various skill levels, from easy spins to challenging climbs.
Road cycling around Timberscombe offers diverse terrain, from challenging ascents towards landmarks like Dunkery Beacon Summit and Selworthy Beacon, to quieter country lanes winding through wooded valleys. You'll encounter open moorland, sheltered forests, and significant elevation changes, all providing panoramic views across the Bristol Channel and Exmoor.
Yes, Timberscombe offers routes suitable for beginners. For example, the Allerford Stone Bridge – Bossington Village loop from Minehead is an easy 13.4-mile path that provides scenic views through villages and along lower slopes, avoiding the steepest climbs.
For experienced riders seeking a challenge, the region is famous for its hilly cycle routes. The Porlock Toll Road – Lynton Old Town loop from Minehead is a difficult 69-mile route featuring significant climbs and expansive views across Exmoor. Other routes incorporate demanding ascents towards Dunkery Beacon and Selworthy Beacon, including the notoriously steep Porlock Hill.
Many routes offer breathtaking views and pass by notable attractions. You can cycle towards Dunkery Beacon Summit, the highest point in Somerset, or Selworthy Beacon for impressive vistas. The medieval Dunster Village and its historic castle are also popular stops, as is Porlock Village Centre.
Yes, many road cycling routes in the Timberscombe area are designed as loops. For instance, the Wheddon Cross Village loop from Cutcombe is a moderate 16.6-mile circular route. The region also features a permanent circular route that follows the path of the 2007 Tour of Britain, offering a fantastic way to explore Exmoor.
The road cycling routes in Timberscombe are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars from over 20 reviews. Cyclists often praise the challenging hills, quiet country lanes, and the stunning panoramic views across Exmoor National Park.
Yes, some routes offer beautiful coastal scenery. The Torre Cider Farm and Café – Blue Anchor Bay loop from Minehead is a 20-mile trail that leads through coastal areas, providing views of the Bristol Channel.
Exmoor National Park, where Timberscombe is located, is beautiful year-round. However, for road cycling, spring and autumn generally offer pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds. Summer can be excellent, but be prepared for potentially warmer weather on exposed moorland sections. Always check local weather forecasts, especially for the exposed high points like Dunkery Beacon.
Absolutely. Many routes are designed to pass through picturesque villages. The 'Peaceful Back Lanes' route, for example, offers a gentle spin through villages with views towards Dunkery Beacon and Porlock Bay. The Torre Cider Farm and Café – Blue Anchor Bay loop from Minehead explicitly mentions a cider farm and café, providing a perfect stop for refreshments.
For those looking for longer rides, the area offers extensive options. The Porlock Toll Road – Glen Lyn Gorge loop from Minehead is a difficult 77.6-mile route, while the Porlock Toll Road – Lynton Old Town loop from Minehead is nearly 70 miles, both providing significant distances and elevation.


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