The best cycling routes around Exford
4.7
(14)
466
riders
17
rides
Touring cycling around Exford offers diverse and challenging landscapes within Exmoor National Park. The region features rolling hills, extensive moorland, and tranquil wooded valleys, providing varied terrain for cyclists. Rivers like the Exe flow through the area, complementing the natural features. Elevations include numerous hills and Exmoor's highest point, Dunkery Beacon, which is under 200m.
Best touring cycling routes around Exford
- The most popular touring cycling route is Newland Plantation loop from Exford, a 6.1 miles (9.7 km) trail that takes 39 minutes to complete. This easy route winds through ancient woodlands, offering tranquil forest tracks.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Dunkery Beacon Summit – Dunkery Beacon Summit loop from Exford, a difficult 19.6 miles (31.5 km) path. This route features significant climbs and panoramic views from Exmoor's highest point.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Dunster Watermill – Dunster Village loop from Exford, a 31.0 miles (49.9 km) trail leading through varied terrain including quiet country lanes and village surroundings, often completed in about 3 hours 30 minutes.
- Touring cycling around Exford is defined by extensive moorland, deep river valleys, and ancient woodlands. The network offers options for different ability levels, from relaxed rides to strenuous climbs.
- The routes in Exford are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 14 reviews. More than 400 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Exford's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 28, 2026
23
riders
35.9km
02:45
890m
890m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
21
riders
49.9km
03:30
920m
920m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.0
(1)
16
riders
9.74km
00:39
140m
140m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
10
riders
31.5km
03:07
730m
730m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
riders
31.4km
02:39
550m
550m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Other adventures around Exford
Tips from the Community
Great Rowbarrow 511.0m P22.9 (1673ft) [List Objective: English sub Dodds] (DoBIH Hill ID: 7793) [JNSA 6632] Exmoor National Park Definitive List summit.
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very nice hike with a view of the sea
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Almost nothing reliable is known about the life of Saint George, to whom this church was dedicated, but veneration of him stretches back to early Christianity. A martyr identified with George is said to have lived in the third century. The legend of Saint George as the dragon slayer, however, is quite well known and widespread; he is often depicted—in paintings or statues—as the conqueror of the monster, often as a knight on horseback. The feast day of the very popular Saint George in the calendar of saints is celebrated on April 23rd in both the Roman Catholic and Anglican churches. Among other things, he is the patron saint of the English kingdom, and some of the orders and decorations awarded there bear his name.
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Swim shoes/boots - it’s quite shallow also so not able to fully swim but great for a cool off dip
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Almost nothing reliable is known about the life of Saint GEORGE, to whom the church of Dunster was dedicated, but the veneration of him goes back a long way to early Christianity. A martyr who is equated with George is said to have lived in the third century. The legend of Saint George as a dragon slayer is well known and widespread, however, and he is usually depicted - in paintings or as a statue - as the conqueror of the monster, often as a knight on horseback. The memorial day of the very popular George in the calendar of saints is celebrated on April 23rd in both the Roman Catholic and Anglican churches. Among other things, he is the patron saint of the English kingdom, and some of the orders and decorations awarded there also bear his name.
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Almost nothing reliable is known about the life of Saint GEORGE, to whom the church of Dunster was dedicated, but the veneration of him goes back a long way to early Christianity. A martyr who is equated with George is said to have lived in the third century. The legend of Saint George as a dragon slayer is well known and widespread, however, and he is usually depicted - in paintings or as a statue - as the conqueror of the monster, often as a knight on horseback. The memorial day of the very popular George in the calendar of saints is celebrated on April 23rd in both the Roman Catholic and Anglican churches. Among other things, he is the patron saint of the English kingdom, and some of the orders and decorations awarded there also bear his name.
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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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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect when touring cycling around Exford?
Exford, nestled in Exmoor National Park, offers a diverse and challenging landscape for touring cyclists. You'll encounter rolling hills, extensive moorland, and tranquil wooded valleys. Routes vary from quiet country lanes with tarmac to more demanding off-road bridleways and tracks. Expect significant elevation changes, including sections that reach the highest points of Exmoor.
Are there any easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners in Exford?
Yes, while many routes are challenging, there are options for easier rides. For instance, the Newland Plantation loop from Exford is an easy 9.7 km trail that winds through ancient woodlands, offering tranquil forest tracks. It's a great option for a more relaxed cycling experience.
What are some challenging touring cycling routes in the Exford area?
Exford is known for its challenging routes. A notable difficult path is the Porlock Village Centre – View of Porlock Village loop from Exford, which covers 35.9 km with significant elevation. Another demanding option is the Wheal Eliza mine ruins – Withypool Stone Bridge loop from Exford, a 31.4 km route with over 550 meters of ascent.
What natural features or landmarks can I see along the touring cycling routes near Exford?
The Exford area is rich in natural beauty and historical sites. You can cycle past the ancient Tarr Steps clapper bridge, explore the Porlock Village Centre, or visit the Withypool Stone Bridge. The region also features the stunning East Lyn River Rapids and the unique Coin Tree in Exmoor National Park.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes around Exford?
Yes, many of the touring cycling routes around Exford are circular, allowing you to start and end in the same location. Examples include the Dunster Watermill – Dunster Village loop from Exford, which is a 49.9 km trail, and the Newland Plantation loop from Exford, a shorter 9.7 km option.
What do other touring cyclists say about the routes in Exford?
The touring cycling routes in Exford are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from over 14 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, the challenging climbs, and the rewarding panoramic views from points like Dunkery Beacon.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Exford?
Exmoor National Park offers great cycling opportunities throughout the year, but spring and autumn are particularly scenic with vibrant foliage and generally milder weather. Summer provides longer daylight hours, while winter can be challenging due to colder temperatures and potentially wet conditions, though some routes remain accessible. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.
Are there any long-distance touring cycling routes that pass through or near Exford?
Yes, Exmoor National Park is home to several notable long-distance cycling trails. The Coleridge Way Cycle Route traverses Exmoor's hills and valleys, offering stunning views and challenging terrain for more experienced riders. Additionally, the Exmoor Cycle Route, which follows in the wheel marks of professional cyclists from the Tour of Britain, provides a fantastic and challenging way to explore the best of Exmoor.
Can I find places to eat or stay near the cycling routes in Exford?
Exford village itself has a welcoming atmosphere with historic inns and tea rooms, making it an ideal base. Along many routes within Exmoor National Park, you'll find villages and hamlets that offer amenities such as cafes, pubs, and accommodation options suitable for cyclists. It's always a good idea to plan your stops in advance, especially on longer routes.
How many touring cycling routes are available around Exford?
There are over 15 touring cycling routes available around Exford, catering to various skill levels. The majority of these routes are classified as difficult, offering significant challenges and rewards for experienced cyclists, while a few easier options are also available.
Are there any specific viewpoints or high points accessible by bike in Exford?
Absolutely. Exmoor's highest point, Dunkery Beacon Summit, is a prominent feature and offers unparalleled panoramic views across the national park. The Dunkery Beacon Summit – Dunkery Beacon Summit loop from Exford is a challenging route designed to take you to this iconic viewpoint.
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