4.6
(146)
1,623
riders
14
rides
Touring cycling routes around Burlescombe traverse the rolling hills and verdant fields characteristic of Mid Devon. The area features the Grand Western Canal, offering mainly flat towpaths suitable for leisurely rides. Additionally, Burlescombe provides access to the Blackdown Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, which presents a network of country lanes with varied terrain for on-road cycling. This combination of canal-side routes and hill country lanes creates a diverse environment for touring cyclists.
Last updated: June 26, 2026
4.9
(11)
112
riders
24.5km
01:50
100m
100m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(5)
16
riders
53.0km
03:46
640m
640m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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16
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
16
riders
64.1km
04:06
630m
630m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(3)
12
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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A gravel path, but well graded alongside this lovely canal.
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be careful on the road crossing, bring a towel and be prepared to wait for service, it's busy here in the wknds in summer.
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Beautiful section of the towpath below Beacon Hill.
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Grade II-listed bridge over the Grand Western Canal just outside Tiverton. Lovely peaceful spot.
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Using the power of moving water to drive a mill wheel is an ancient invention of the human spirit of discovery, the origins of which can be traced back to times long past. Thanks to such a construction, human or animal muscle power could be easily replaced by the power of the natural elements through a watercourse - natural or artificially created - in order to grind grain into corn or press oil from fruit, for example. There are essentially two different ways of driving watermills: * Either the flowing water simply hits the blades of the water wheel from below to set it in motion; or * the water is guided above the wheel - usually through a so-called "mill channel" - and falls onto the blades; this type of construction is more efficient due to natural gravity.
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Yes, Burlescombe offers several easy touring cycling routes. The Grand Western Canal Dock – Jubilee Bridge loop from Tiverton Parkway is a great option, covering 15.8 miles (25.5 km) along the scenic Grand Western Canal towpath. This route is mostly flat and ideal for a leisurely ride, as highlighted in the region's characteristics.
Absolutely. The Grand Western Canal is particularly well-suited for families, offering a mainly flat and safe towpath experience. The Owl Carved from Tree Stump – White House by the River loop from Holcombe Rogus is another easy, 10.8-mile (17.4 km) route that provides a pleasant outing for all ages.
For those seeking more challenging rides, Burlescombe provides 6 difficult touring cycling routes. The Owl Carved from Tree Stump – Bickleigh Bridge loop from Tiverton Parkway is a demanding 39.9-mile (64.1 km) route with significant elevation changes, taking you through varied Mid Devon countryside and offering a rewarding experience for experienced cyclists.
Many of the touring cycling routes around Burlescombe are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For example, the Killerton Parkland Bridleway – Halberton Mill Pond loop from Tiverton Parkway is a moderate 32.4-mile (52.1 km) circular route that explores diverse landscapes, including sections near Killerton Parkland.
Touring cycling around Burlescombe offers a diverse range of landscapes. You'll traverse the classic rolling hills and verdant fields of the Mid Devon countryside, enjoy the tranquil towpaths of the Grand Western Canal, and encounter the more challenging terrain and superb countryside views within the Blackdown Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).
The Burlescombe area is rich in attractions. You can cycle past the impressive Wellington Monument, an obelisk commemorating the Duke of Wellington's victory. Other notable sites include St Mary's Church and Hemyock Castle, offering glimpses into the region's history. The Blackdown Hills AONB also features the Hembury hillfort, providing historical context to your ride.
The komoot community highly rates touring cycling in Burlescombe, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 140 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the varied terrain, from the peaceful canal paths to the more challenging hill country lanes, and the beautiful Mid Devon countryside that defines the routes.
Yes, Burlescombe offers access to a segment of the National Cycle Route 3. This long-distance path connects Barnstaple to Tiverton and passes through the beautiful Exmoor National Park, providing opportunities for extended tours and wildlife spotting, including red deer and Exmoor ponies.
While specific cafes and pubs are not detailed for every route, the region research indicates that places like Braziers Coffee Roasters are available in the wider area. Many villages and towns along the routes, especially within the Blackdown Hills AONB, will offer local establishments for refreshments.
The Mid Devon countryside, including Burlescombe, is generally pleasant for cycling from spring through autumn. The verdant fields and rolling hills are particularly beautiful during these seasons. Always check local weather conditions before heading out, especially if planning to tackle routes with significant climbs in the Blackdown Hills AONB.
Yes, some routes, like those starting from Tiverton Parkway, suggest good access points for public transport users. Tiverton Parkway is a railway station, making it convenient for cyclists arriving by train to begin their touring adventures in the area.
Beyond the Grand Western Canal and the Blackdown Hills AONB, keep an eye out for the River Otter Estuary, though slightly further afield, it offers scenic cycling amidst diverse wildlife. Closer to Burlescombe, you'll enjoy the characteristic rolling hills and lush fields of the Mid Devon countryside.


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