Newton Poppleford and Harpford
Newton Poppleford and Harpford
The best road cycling routes around Newton Poppleford and Harpford
4.4
(108)
5,600
riders
246
rides
Road cycling routes around Newton Poppleford and Harpford traverse the East Devon National Landscape, characterized by diverse terrain. The area features the River Otter Valley, ancient woodlands like Harpford Woods, and the open landscapes of the Pebblebed Heaths. Cyclists can find routes along repurposed disused railway lines and quiet country lanes, offering varied surfaces and gradients.
Best road cycling routes around Newton Poppleford and Harpford
- The most popular road cycling route is Beer & Ottery St Mary loop from Sidmouth…
Last updated: May 20, 2026
5.0
(2)
34
riders
49.2km
02:47
800m
800m
Cycle the moderate 30.6-mile Beer & Ottery St Mary loop from Sidmouth, gaining 2624 feet through East Devon's scenic coast and countryside.
5.0
(7)
233
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
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5.0
(2)
111
riders
50.1km
02:21
400m
400m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
5.0
(1)
69
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
49
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
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Popular around Newton Poppleford and Harpford
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Tips from the Community
If you enjoy a dramatic entrance, Jacob’s Ladder is Sidmouth’s version of a red carpet—just with more cardio! These iconic white wooden steps link the lush Connaught Gardens to a stunning pebble beach below. As you descend, you get a "bird’s-eye" view of the red Triassic cliffs that look like giant slices of rusty gingerbread. Reach the bottom and you’re in a world of rock pools and crashing waves. Legend says if you climb back up without stopping, you’ve earned an extra large Devon cream tea at the top. Challenge accepted?
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If you’re heading to Beer Beach in East Devon, don’t expect a sandy tropical paradise—and definitely don’t expect actual beer flowing from the cliffs (though the name is a great conversation starter). Instead, you get a quintessential, "old-school" British fishing cove that’s basically a natural suntrap tucked between towering white chalk cliffs. It’s part of the Jurassic Coast, so it’s millions of years of history served with a side of fish and chips. Why it’s a "Vibe": The Boats: This isn't a harbor with a pier; the local fishermen literally winch their colorful boats right up onto the shingle (pebble) beach. It’s like a live-action painting watching them bring in the daily catch of mackerel and crab. The "Pebble Massage": Forget sand in your shoes; here, you get smooth, grey pebbles. Pro-tip: Rent one of the iconic blue and white deckchairs. Your lower back will thank you, and you’ll look like a 1950s movie star. The Beach Cafes: There are little huts right on the shingle where you can grab a crab sandwich or a cream tea. Eating fresh seafood while your toes are three feet from the waves? Hard to beat. The Name: Sadly, "Beer" comes from the Old English word bearu, meaning "grove" or "wood." But don't let that stop you—the village has plenty of actual beer in its cozy pubs like The Anchor Inn, which has a cliff-top garden with elite views. Hidden Gems Nearby: Beer Quarry Caves: Just up the road, you can take a tour of the massive underground caverns where the famous "Beer Stone" was mined for cathedrals like Exeter and Westminster Abbey. It’s like a cool, damp cathedral hidden inside a hill. The Coastal Path: If you walk west toward Branscombe, you’ll tackle some steep "stairway to heaven" climbs, but the views of the white cliffs against the blue sea are pure magic.
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Look out for an entrance onto a footpath on your right, which follows beside the railway tracks on your left, and the exe estuary on your right. The path is too narrow for cycling but great for walking and running.
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Jurassic Coast - here, as a touring cyclist, you get a nice access with wonderful views, swimming options and good restaurants.
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Best cafe for miles . Loads of seating inside and out. Pet friendly. Fantastic cakes and fresh coffee. Staff are brilliant
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Colyford Filling Station, built in 1927-8 to the designs of Frederick Kett. Grade II listed building.
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A mile-long beach with a mix of sand and shingle, clear water, and a gently sloping shore. It's a great place for swimming, water sports, and walking. The beach is surrounded by cliffs and green hillsides, and is a popular spot for photographers. A flat walking area that runs alongside the beach, with a cafe at one end and the town at the other.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available around Newton Poppleford and Harpford?
There are over 250 road cycling routes in the Newton Poppleford and Harpford area, catering to various skill levels. You'll find a wide selection, from easy rides to more challenging routes with significant elevation.
What kind of terrain can I expect on road cycling routes in this region?
Road cycling routes around Newton Poppleford and Harpford traverse the diverse East Devon National Landscape. You can expect a mix of quiet country lanes, sections along repurposed disused railway lines, and roads through the River Otter Valley, ancient woodlands like Harpford Woods, and the open landscapes of the Pebblebed Heaths. Surfaces are mostly paved, but some routes may incorporate bridleways or well-maintained paths.
Are there any easy road cycling routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, the region offers over 50 easy road cycling routes. A good option for a more relaxed ride is the Budleigh Salterton Seafront – Statue of Sir Walter Raleigh loop from Colaton Raleigh, which is an easy 23 km path. The disused railway lines, such as the one through Harpford Woods, also provide traffic-free or low-traffic options suitable for families, connecting to wider networks.
What are some challenging road cycling routes in the area?
For those seeking a challenge, there are over 40 difficult road cycling routes. Many of the moderate routes also feature significant climbs. For example, the Beer & Ottery St Mary loop from Sidmouth is a moderate 49 km route with nearly 800 meters of elevation gain, offering a good workout through the East Devon countryside.
What scenic viewpoints or landmarks can I see along road cycling routes?
The region is rich in natural beauty and landmarks. You can cycle past the picturesque River Otter, explore the Otter Estuary Nature Reserve, known for birdwatching, or admire the dramatic Ladram Bay Sea Stacks. The Exe Estuary Trail also offers fantastic views along its length.
Are there any circular road cycling routes available?
Yes, many of the road cycling routes in Newton Poppleford and Harpford are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the Budleigh Salterton Seafront – Sidmouth Esplanade loop from Sidmouth College, offering coastal views, and the Exe Marsh Flats – Country Lanes to Lympstone loop from West Hill, which takes you through scenic country lanes.
What do other road cyclists say about the routes in Newton Poppleford and Harpford?
The road cycling routes in Newton Poppleford and Harpford are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from over 100 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, the quiet country lanes, and the beautiful natural landscapes, including the River Otter Valley and Harpford Woods.
Can I combine road cycling with other activities like birdwatching?
Absolutely. The Otter Estuary Nature Reserve, accessible from various cycling routes, is a significant spot for birdwatching. The marshes around the River Otter provide an excellent opportunity to observe diverse birdlife, especially at the estuary mouth, making it easy to combine a ride with a stop for wildlife observation.
Are there any routes that follow old railway lines?
Yes, the region is known for repurposing old railway lines into cycle paths and bridleways. A notable example is the disused Victorian railway line running through Harpford Woods, which now serves as a peaceful and scenic route, forming part of National Cycle Network Route 248. These paths often provide traffic-free or low-traffic options.
What are the best areas for extensive views while cycling?
For extensive views, consider routes that traverse the Pebblebed Heaths, including Aylesbeare Common and Harpford Common. These areas offer superb vistas, such as over the Otter Valley, providing a rewarding experience for road cyclists looking for panoramic scenery.
Are there any coastal road cycling options near Newton Poppleford and Harpford?
Yes, you can find excellent coastal road cycling options. The Budleigh Salterton Seafront – Sidmouth Esplanade loop from Sidmouth College offers fantastic coastal views along the seafronts. Additionally, the Exe Estuary Trail, part of National Cycle Network Route 2, is a mainly flat, off-road route around the entire Exe Estuary, linking Exmouth, Exeter, and Dawlish with diverse riverside and coastal scenery.
Most popular routes around Newton Poppleford and Harpford
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