4.0
(85)
558
riders
51
rides
Mountain biking around Gidleigh offers access to the rugged landscapes of Dartmoor National Park, providing a diverse range of trails. The area features a mix of open moorland, woodlands, and river valleys, characterized by granite tors and ancient waterways. Mountain bike trails here navigate varied terrain, including natural singletrack, bridleways, and forest paths, with significant elevation changes. This environment supports both moderate and challenging rides for different skill levels.
Last updated: April 28, 2026
19.5km
02:23
570m
570m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(5)
32
riders
34.7km
03:15
830m
830m
Hard mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.

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19
riders
19.6km
01:45
310m
310m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.0
(1)
9
riders
24.6km
02:14
610m
610m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
6
riders
26.6km
02:45
770m
770m
Hard mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
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Sharp Tor on Dartmoor – overview and tips Notes on the name Sharp Tor is a well-known tor on Dartmoor, sometimes spelled “Sharp Tor” or “Sharp’s Tor” in regional references. It is one of the classic granite tors that dot the eastern moor. Location context: Sharp Tor sits in the eastern part of Dartmoor National Park, behind or near the villages of Widecombe-in-the-Moor and intersecting with other moorland features such as Haytor and Hound Tor in the wider area. What to expect Elevation and geology: Granite tor forming a rocky outcrop that offers elevated views over the surrounding moor. Typical Dartmoor granite features, weathered by wind and rain into distinctive boulders and crags. Scenery: Expansive moorland around, open horizons, and, on clear days, distant views toward the coast. Getting there Access points: - Likely starting points include nearby car parks on the eastern Dartmoor plateau and routes from towns like Ashburton or Widecombe-in-the-Moor. Public transport: Bus routes to nearby villages with a short walk onto the moor. Parking: Depending on the exact access point, there are local parking areas; check current signage and National Trust/ Dartmoor NPA guidance. Popular routes and what to expect Short circulars: There are moorland circuits that incorporate Sharp Tor as a highlight, often around 2–4 miles (3–6 km) depending on the exact start point. Longer explorations: Combine Sharp Tor with adjacent tors such as Hound Tor, Widecombe area, or more northern tors for a full moorland day. Expect rolling moorland
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A truly ancient place, stretching back to 1400 BC. What a task constructing the surrounding wall must have been!
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The small sacred monument, made of granite typical of the region, which the biker encounters at this spot, has been located here for several centuries. The familiar cross shape is difficult to recognize because the typical side arms of the longitudinal beam are largely missing, and only a few fragments of this monument are present.
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The small granite sacred monument that the hiker encounters at this spot has been located here for several centuries. The familiar cruciform shape is difficult to recognize because the typical side arms of the longitudinal beam are largely missing, and only a few fragments of this monument are present.
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Hisley Bridge is a historic stone bridge located in the Dartmoor National Park in Devon, England. It spans the River Tavy and is known for its picturesque setting and architectural significance. Built in the 18th century, Hisley Bridge features a single arch and is constructed from local granite, characteristic of many Dartmoor structures. The bridge is part of the area's rich history and is often visited by hikers and walkers exploring the surrounding trails. It provides a scenic spot for photography and offers access to various walking routes that showcase the natural beauty of Dartmoor. The region around Hisley Bridge is also known for its wildlife and diverse ecosystems, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts. Whether you're interested in history, architecture, or the outdoors, Hisley Bridge is a charming feature of the Dartmoor landscape.
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This stone circle from the Bronze Age, thousands of years before the beginning of the Christian era, is not as large and nowhere near as famous as the legendary "Stonehenge" (which is, after all, a UNESCO World Heritage Site; if you're interested, see => https://www.komoot.com/de-de/highlight/960007 ), but this one can be visited without the tourist crowds that are typical there, and it also has a much more interesting-sounding name...
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This tor is just a stone's throw from the nearby car park and towers over Dartmoor. Very impressive, good for a short tour, as a starting point for visiting other tors, for a picnic (depending on the unpredictable weather here 😉) or recently also for climbing (you could see a few people free climbing - but I can't say for sure whether it's allowed) and for treasure hunts. Otherwise just beautiful nature and (outside of tourist times) nice and quiet.
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Gidleigh offers a diverse range of mountain bike trails suitable for various skill levels. You'll find options from moderate rides requiring good fitness to more challenging routes demanding advanced riding skills. There are 5 easy, 37 moderate, and 10 difficult trails available, ensuring something for everyone.
Yes, Gidleigh offers trails suitable for families. While specific 'family-friendly' designations aren't always explicit, moderate routes like the Fingle Bridge – Sharp Tor (Teign Gorge) loop from Drewsteignton, which is 12.2 miles long and takes about 1 hour 45 minutes, are generally accessible for those with good fitness. Always check the route details for elevation and terrain to ensure it suits your family's abilities.
Mountain biking around Gidleigh provides access to the rugged landscapes of Dartmoor National Park, characterized by distinctive granite tors like Gidleigh Tor and Kestor Rock. You'll also encounter scenic river valleys, including the North and South Teign Rivers, and ancient sites such as the Scorhill Stone Circle and Round Pound. The Nine Maidens Stone Circle – Meldon Viaduct loop from Sticklepath is a great option to explore some of these features.
Yes, the area around Gidleigh is rich in history. You can find prehistoric sites like the Scorhill Stone Circle and Shovel Down Stone Rows. Additionally, there are historical landmarks such as Castle Drogo, Challacombe Medieval Hamlet, and Okehampton Castle nearby. Many trails pass close to or offer detours to these fascinating points of interest.
The best time for mountain biking in Gidleigh is generally during the spring, summer, and early autumn months (April to October) when the weather is milder and trails are drier. Dartmoor's weather can be unpredictable, so always check local forecasts. Winter riding is possible but can be challenging due to wet, muddy conditions and shorter daylight hours.
Parking is typically available at common starting points for trails, such as villages like South Zeal or Drewsteignton, or near popular landmarks like Warren House Inn. However, specific parking facilities can vary, so it's advisable to check the details for your chosen route on komoot before you set out.
Mountain biking in Dartmoor National Park is generally permitted on public bridleways and byways. It's crucial to stick to designated routes to protect the fragile moorland environment and respect private land. No specific permits are usually required for general mountain biking, but always adhere to the Countryside Code and any local signage.
The mountain bike trails around Gidleigh are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.0 stars from over 80 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse terrain, the stunning views of Dartmoor's tors, and the sense of adventure offered by the mix of open moorland, woodlands, and river valleys.
Yes, many of the mountain bike routes around Gidleigh are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the Sticklepath & Cosdon Beacon loop from South Zeal and the Hound Tor – Jay's Grave Bridleway loop from Birch Tor. These circular routes are convenient for exploring the area without needing to arrange transport back to your starting point.
While Gidleigh itself is a small village, the wider Dartmoor area offers various pubs, cafes, and accommodation options. Towns and villages surrounding the National Park, such as Chagford, Drewsteignton, or Sticklepath, provide amenities where you can refuel and rest after your ride. Some trails, like the Jay's Grave Bridleway – Hisley Bridge loop from Warren House Inn, even start near establishments like the Warren House Inn.
The mountain bike trails near Gidleigh vary significantly in length and duration. You can find shorter rides under two hours, such as the Fingle Bridge – Sharp Tor (Teign Gorge) loop from Drewsteignton (12.2 miles, approx. 1h 45m), to longer excursions exceeding five hours, like the Jay's Grave Bridleway – Hisley Bridge loop from Warren House Inn (21.6 miles, approx. 3h 17m). There are 52 routes in total, offering a wide range of distances.


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