The best cycling routes around Plymouth

There are over 25 touring cycling routes available around Plymouth, catering to various skill levels. You'll find a good mix of easy and moderate trails to explore the diverse landscapes.

Plymouth offers a diverse range of terrain for touring cyclists. You can expect stunning coastal routes along the English Channel, peaceful woodland trails, and scenic river valleys. The area also provides access to the edge of Dartmoor National Park for more challenging rides. Elevations vary from sea level to over 269 meters, ensuring options for all preferences.

Yes, Plymouth has several easy routes perfect for beginners and families. The West Medicine Lake Park Beach – Boardwalk loop from Cornerstone Commons offers a pleasant ride through parkland with water views. The Plym Valley Trail is another gentler option, and Plymouth's Waterfront Route is easy and suitable for all ages, taking you past iconic sights like Plymouth Hoe and Smeaton's Tower.

The touring cycling routes around Plymouth are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 50 reviews. More than 300 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore the varied terrain, often praising the scenic coastal paths, river valleys, and woodlands.

While cycling in Plymouth, you can enjoy panoramic views of Plymouth Sound National Marine Park from Plymouth Hoe, see landmarks like Smeaton's Tower, and explore the historic Barbican and Royal William Yard. Inland, Plymbridge Woods offers picturesque woodland cycling, and you can find highlights like West Medicine Lake Park Beach and Luce Line Trail Wooden Bridge along various routes.

Yes, Plymouth is situated on National Cycle Network routes 2 and 27. Route 2, the Southern Coastal route, connects Cornwall to Dover, while Route 27, the Devon Coast to Coast Cycle Route, spans 99 miles from Ilfracombe to Plymouth. Drake's Trail, a spectacular 21.3-mile route, also links Plymouth with Tavistock, offering a longer ride through diverse scenery.

Absolutely. Many routes in Plymouth are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Hardin Park – Bederwood Park loop from Hennepin County, which navigates through local parks, and the Hardin Park – Ox Yoke Inn loop from Long Lake, leading through varied parkland and suburban landscapes.

The Plym Valley Trail offers a gentler cycling experience, winding through extensive parkland, woodlands, and riverside paths along the River Plym. Cyclists can enjoy views of viaducts and quarry faces, making it a picturesque and accessible option for many.

Plymouth's extensive cycle network and position on major National Cycle Network routes make it accessible. While specific public transport options for bikes vary, the city's infrastructure is designed to be cycle-friendly, and many routes are easily reachable from urban centers. For detailed information on public transport with bikes, it's best to check local transport provider websites.

Many of Plymouth's trails, particularly those through woodlands and along river paths like parts of the Plym Valley, are suitable for cycling with dogs, provided they are well-behaved and kept under control. Always check specific trail regulations regarding dogs before you go, especially in nature reserves or protected areas.

The best time to go touring cycling in Plymouth is generally from spring through early autumn (April to October). During these months, the weather is milder and more predictable, making coastal rides and woodland trails more enjoyable. Summer offers longer daylight hours, but spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery without the peak crowds.

Plymouth's urban and semi-urban routes, such as those around the Barbican, Royal William Yard, and near the city center, offer numerous cafes, pubs, and restaurants. Even on trails like Drake's Trail, you'll find villages and towns along the way with refreshment stops. For specific recommendations, exploring the local area around your chosen route is best, or checking resources like Visit Plymouth's cycling guides can provide more details.

Yes, many routes in Plymouth beautifully blend urban and natural scenery. The Waterfront Route, for example, takes you through the city's historic waterfront and past iconic landmarks before transitioning to more open coastal views. Similarly, routes that start in the city quickly lead into areas like Plymbridge Woods or towards the Tamar Valley, offering a diverse cycling experience.