Explore North Devon
by Bike
Discover our Favourite Cycling Routes
Whether you're bringing your own bike or hiring one locally, North Devon offers some of the most scenic cycling routes in the South West. Staying at The Park Hotel puts you within minutes of traffic-free trails, picturesque estuaries and challenging coastal climbs, making it an ideal base for cyclists of all abilities.
Here are three of our favourite rides to enjoy during your stay.
The Tarka Trail to Instow
Distance: Approximately 12 miles each way (24 miles return)
Difficulty: Easy
Perfect for: Families, leisure cyclists and anyone looking for a relaxing day out.
No visit to North Devon is complete without cycling the famous Tarka Trail. Beginning just a few minutes from the hotel, this largely traffic-free route follows the former railway line alongside the River Taw and Torridge Estuary, offering spectacular waterside scenery throughout. The trail is one of the UK's longest continuous traffic-free cycling routes, making it ideal for riders of all ages and abilities.
Your destination is the charming seaside village of Instow, where you'll find sandy beaches, waterside cafés and plenty of places to stop for lunch or an ice cream before enjoying an easy ride back.
The Tarka Trail to Braunton, then onto Saunton
Distance: Around 20 miles return
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Perfect for: Cyclists wanting a longer ride with a beach destination.
Follow the Tarka Trail west towards Braunton before continuing along quiet country roads to the spectacular coastline at Saunton.
The journey begins on smooth, level paths before opening out to some of North Devon's most iconic coastal scenery. Once you reach Saunton, you'll be rewarded with sweeping views across the golden sands and surrounding dunes.
This ride combines gentle cycling with stunning coastal landscapes, making it one of the most rewarding day trips from Barnstaple. The Barnstaple-to-Braunton section is particularly popular thanks to its safe, traffic-free route.
The Ilfracombe Coastal Challenge
Distance: Approximately 30 miles return
Difficulty: Challenging
Perfect for: Experienced road cyclists.
If you're looking for a ride that will test your legs, head north towards Ilfracombe.
Leaving Barnstaple behind, the route climbs steadily through rolling countryside before reaching the dramatic North Devon coast. Expect rewarding descents, breathtaking sea views and plenty of opportunities to stop and admire the scenery.
Once in Ilfracombe, explore the bustling harbour, enjoy fresh seafood or take a well-earned coffee break before tackling the return journey.
Experienced cyclists regularly rate this as one of the area's standout rides thanks to its combination of coastal scenery, quiet roads and rewarding climbs.
Stay at The Park Hotel
After a day exploring North Devon on two wheels, there's nothing better than returning to a comfortable room, enjoying a delicious evening meal in our Seasons Bar & Lounge and relaxing before tomorrow's adventure. Whether you're planning a gentle ride along the estuary or tackling the county's famous coastal climbs, The Park Hotel is perfectly placed to help you make the most of your cycling break in North Devon.
