Bideford – Barnstaple

Route overview

Cyclists seeking a moderate 44.7km loop with steady climbs and varied terrain.

44.7km loop from Bideford to Barnstaple in England with 681m climbing.

The route begins in Bideford, shortly passing through East The Water and continues to the nearby towns of Northam and the villages of Westleigh and Diddywells. It then reaches Appledore and Instow before riding on to Yelland and Fremington. At around 12.9km, after Fremington, the first significant climb begins near Penhill, gaining 92m over 2.1km with gradients up to 7.8%. After the climb, the route moves past St John's Chapel and Eastacombe to villages like Bishop's Tawton and Tawstock. The next climb is between 20.1km and 22.1km, gaining 80m at an average of 3.9% with a max of 5.9%. The route then passes through hamlets Harracott and Ensis, before reaching a longer steeper climb from 25.6km which gains 102m over 2km with a max gradient of 10.8%. Further short climbs appear at 28.2km and 35.2km with gains of 47m each at moderate gradients. The highest point, at 185m, is reached around 31.3km. The final climb is at 40.8km with a 2.1km ascent of 80m. The route descends to the finish back in Bideford. The total elevation gain is 681m. Along the way there are several villages and hamlets including Yarnscombe and Huntshaw, and cafés or restaurants such as Belluno and Han Court early on. The ride's profile features rolling terrain with both low points below sea level and hills up to 185m high.

Highlights

• Bideford town start
• Penhill 2.1km climb at 4.4% avg
• Highest point at 185m around 31km
• Longest climb 2.1km at 4.4% avg

Practical information

Surface

Paved

Route shape

Loop

Riding time

2½–3½ hours riding

Season

July

Know before you go

• Steepest climb max gradient 10.8%
• No recorded water or cafés after 12.9km until 24.2km

Routes are for inspiration. Roads, surfaces and conditions change — check locally and ride within your limits.