The best MTB trails around Kentisbury

There are over 20 mountain bike trails around Kentisbury, offering a range of experiences from moderate loops to more challenging routes with significant climbs. The area's proximity to Exmoor National Park provides diverse terrain, including moorland, woodlands, and coastal paths.

Mountain biking around Kentisbury caters to various skill levels. While there are a few difficult routes, such as the Coastal loop to the Valley of the Rocks & Exmoor National Park (41.6 km with 900m elevation gain), the majority of trails are moderate. These moderate routes, like the Pinkery Pond – Hoar Oak Cottage Ruins loop, often traverse open moorland and woodlands, providing a good balance of challenge and accessibility.

While many trails around Kentisbury involve significant elevation changes and can be challenging, Exmoor National Park, which borders Kentisbury, offers a variety of outdoor activities. For easier, more accessible cycling, consider areas like Wistlandpound Reservoir, which has accessible trails suitable for families. Always check individual route details on komoot for specific difficulty and terrain information to ensure it's suitable for your family.

Many trails in Exmoor National Park, including those accessible from Kentisbury, are dog-friendly. However, it's crucial to keep dogs under close control, especially on moorland where livestock and ground-nesting birds are present. Some routes may require dogs to be on a lead. Always check local signage and respect wildlife. The Lynton & Lynmouth Cliff Railway, a nearby attraction, also welcomes dogs.

The trails around Kentisbury offer stunning natural features and landmarks. You can ride through the dramatic landscapes of Exmoor National Park, with its dense woodlands, deep valleys, and expansive moorland. Notable sights include the Valley of Rocks, known for its unique rock formations and sea views, and the South West Coast Path, offering incredible cliffside vistas. Historical ruins like Hoar Oak Cottage can also be found along certain routes, such as the Pinkery Pond – Hoar Oak Cottage Ruins loop.

Yes, Kentisbury's proximity to the North Devon coast means you can find mountain bike routes with spectacular sea views. The Coastal loop to the Valley of the Rocks & Exmoor National Park is a prime example, offering challenging riding with dramatic coastal scenery. Another option is the Valley of Rocks – View over Lynmouth Beach loop, which provides extensive sea views.

The varied terrain around Kentisbury and Exmoor National Park can be enjoyed throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, with fewer crowds than peak summer. Summer provides longer daylight hours but can be busier. Winter riding is possible, but trails, especially on the moorland, can be wet, muddy, and exposed to harsh weather, requiring appropriate gear and caution.

Parking is generally available at various access points to Exmoor National Park and specific trailheads. For routes like the Pinkery Pond – Hoar Oak Cottage Ruins loop or the Wood Barrow – Chains Barrow Trig Point loop, starting points like Goat Hill Bridge often have designated parking areas. For coastal routes, parking can be found near popular spots like the Valley of Rocks or Lynton and Lynmouth. Always check specific route descriptions for recommended parking locations.

While the immediate trails might not have direct facilities, the villages and towns surrounding Kentisbury and within Exmoor National Park offer various options for refreshments. Lynton and Lynmouth, for instance, are popular spots with cafes and pubs. It's advisable to plan your route to pass through or near these settlements if you intend to stop for food or drink, or to carry sufficient supplies for your ride.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.9 stars from over 20 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse terrain, from challenging moorland climbs to scenic coastal paths, and the stunning natural beauty of Exmoor National Park. The variety of routes, catering to different fitness levels, is also frequently highlighted.

Generally, no specific permits are required for mountain biking on public bridleways and byways within Exmoor National Park. However, it's essential to stick to designated rights of way and respect private land. Some areas might have specific regulations or voluntary codes of conduct, so always be aware of local signage and guidelines to ensure responsible riding.

The terrain around Kentisbury is highly varied, reflecting its location near Exmoor National Park. You can expect a mix of high open moorland, offering expansive views and sometimes exposed conditions, as well as dense woodlands with technical singletrack. Many routes also feature deep valleys and dramatic coastal sections, which can include steep ascents and descents. The ground can range from rocky and gravelly to muddy, especially after rain.