The best gravel rides around Mamhead

There are over 10 gravel bike routes in the Mamhead area, offering diverse terrain for riders of all skill levels. You'll find a mix of easy, moderate, and difficult options.

Yes, Mamhead offers routes suitable for beginners. While many routes are moderate, you can find easier sections, particularly within the extensive forest trails. For a moderate but accessible ride, consider the Topsham to Woodbury Common — Exeter gravel routes, which covers 30.1 km.

For experienced gravel bikers seeking a challenge, Mamhead has several difficult routes. The Rixdale Road – Haldon Forest MTB Skills Park loop from Haldon Forest Park is a demanding 46.7 km path with significant elevation gain through Haldon Forest. Another difficult option is the Cafe 3 Sixty – Chudleigh Knighton Bridleway loop from Chudleigh, spanning 26.0 km with substantial climbing.

Yes, many of the gravel routes in the Mamhead area are designed as loops. For example, the challenging Rixdale Road – Haldon Forest MTB Skills Park loop from Haldon Forest Park and the moderate Haldon Forest MTB Skills Park – Kiddens Trail loop from Kenn are both circular routes, allowing you to start and finish at the same point.

The terrain around Mamhead is diverse, featuring rolling hills, dense forested sections, and open common land. You'll encounter a mix of well-maintained gravel paths and more rugged tracks, with moderate elevations and some sustained climbs. The landscape transitions between woodland and expansive views.

While riding, you can enjoy expansive views across the surrounding countryside, particularly from higher points in the rolling hills. Nearby attractions include the Exeter Ship Canal and the Exe Estuary Trail, which offer pleasant waterside scenery. For a coastal view, Orcombe Point and the Geoneedle is also accessible.

Public transport options to access the Mamhead gravel cycling routes vary. Some routes, like the Topsham to Woodbury Common — Exeter gravel routes, start near Topsham, which has train connections. For routes deeper into Haldon Forest, access might require a short ride from a bus stop or a car.

The Mamhead area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.2 stars from over 17 reviews. Riders often praise the varied terrain, the quiet forest trails, and the options available for different skill levels, from moderate rides to challenging climbs.

While specific 'family-friendly' designations aren't always explicit, routes with moderate difficulty and less technical terrain, particularly within Haldon Forest, can be suitable for families. The Haldon Forest MTB Skills Park – Kiddens Trail loop from Kenn, at 25.1 km and moderate difficulty, offers forest trails that might be enjoyable for families with some biking experience.

Parking is generally available at key access points for the trails. For routes starting in or near Haldon Forest, you can typically find parking at Haldon Forest Park. For other routes, look for designated parking areas in nearby villages or trailheads. Always check local signage for parking regulations.

Gravel biking around Mamhead is enjoyable throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery with changing foliage. Summer provides longer daylight hours, though some trails might be busier. Winter can be ridden, but be prepared for potentially muddy conditions on some tracks, especially after rain.

To find less crowded routes, consider exploring some of the lesser-known trails or riding during off-peak hours (weekdays, early mornings). While popular routes like those around Haldon Forest can see more traffic, the extensive network means you can often find quieter paths. The Blackhill Quarry Trail – Hawkerland Bridleway loop from Exmouth Community College might offer a different experience away from the main forest hubs.