Explore East Devon by Bike

East Devon is a stunning corner of the spectacular and diverse county of Devon, bounded by the panoramic Exe Estuary to the west and is largely an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), covering an area of more than 100 square miles. The AONB countryside is characterized by farmland, secluded wooded combes, large areas of heathland, fertile river valleys, breathtaking cliffs and hilltops. It includes the eighteen-miles-long East Devon section of the Jurassic Coast - the first World Heritage Site in England - with its dramatic cliffs and beautiful beaches. The Otter, Sid, Coly and Axe rivers run through the area into the sea and there are several historic coastal towns such as Budleigh Salterton, Sidmouth, Beer and Seaton.

The views are magnificent and the cycling is superb. The area abounds with quiet lanes, unspoilt countryside and picturesque villages, making it ideal for leisurely exploration by bike. For the more adventurous, there is Woodbury Common with many off-road heathland trails for cross-country mountainbiking.

Exmouth is a largely Victorian town situated on the east bank of the mouth of the River Exe at the western end of the Jurassic Coast; it boasts a two-miles-long beach of golden sands with shops, cafes and restaurants and many amenities expected to be found in such a seaside resort, ranging from ten pin bowling and crazy golf to water sports such as jet skiing and kitesurfing. From here the Exe Estuary Trail runs up to the cathedral city of Exeter and around the Exe Estuary to Starcross, passing many places of interest like the historic port of Topsham and Powderham Castle on the way. The Exe Estuary is a Site of Specific Scientific Interest (SSSI), a Special Protection Area and a Ramsar Site, noted in particular for its wading and migratory birds and so offers some great bird watching opportunities.

The Buzzard Cycle Route from Exmouth to Budleigh Salterton offers a quiet off-road trail along a former railway track which is largely tree-covered and has gentle gradients. The pebble beach, sandstone cliffs and the Otter Estuary make Budleigh Salterton a super destination.

Those wanting a longer, more challenging route may try the lanes over Woodbury Common and Peak Hill to Sidmouth and back. If that is still not tough enough, then try extending this route over Observatory Hill to Beer or Seaton and back.