Cycling & Cycle Routes

When it comes to exploring Sidmouth and the surrounding area, one of the best ways to see the sights is to jump on your bike, especially if you plan to spend some time in the Sid Valley or the wider East Devon Natural Landscape (Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty). By heading out on your bike in Sidmouth, you get the choice of coast or country, straight lines, circular routes, trails that are perfect for training and exercise and those that are gentle and perfect for a sunny day activity. Further information is available from the Tourist Information Centre and the Sidmouth Cycling Campaign.

Whether you’re a keen cyclist or it’s just a casual hobby, Sidmouth is a great place to indulge, not only do you have the amazing Jurassic Coast to follow, routes that take you to the neighbouring towns and villages like Beer, Seaton and Budleigh Salterton, but also some amazing countryside routes through the Byes into the Sid Valley and through the East Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

With miles of trails managed by the National Cycle Network which takes you through open heathland, woodland trails and beautiful country and coastal views, there are a number of amazing trails for you to explore.

A day out with the bikes is a great way to spend your time, whether you’re after a solo ride, a family adventure, something gentle or a challenge, you’ll find a host of different trails to cater for all ages and abilities.

Some of the most popular routes in the area are below.

National Cycle Network Route 2

This route that stretches from Dover to St Austell passes through Sidmouth. It’s a long distance route, but ideal for families or less confident riders as it has many traffic free sections and quiet roads such as the Exe Estuary Trail. You can find more details here.

The Byes

For an easy and picturesque ride, journey out of Sidmouth through to the Byes, which stretches from the heart of the town and out to the village of Sidford. There are a number of sign posted trails and paths for you to explore, but one great route is to follow the River Sid from the Esplanade in the town centre through green fields through to the village of Sidford where you can stop off for a nice cool drink.

Bicycle Hire

There are a range of businesses offering bicycle and equipment hire, including adapted bikes for those with limited mobility. You can find out more, including maps and other recommended routes from the Tourist Information Centre.

Call in to the centre in the town or drop them an email on tic@sidmouth.gov.uk or phone them on 01395 516441.

three people with bikes cycling through the countryside

The Byes cycle route

This a 1.5miles (2.4km) off road cycle path from Sidford to The Old Tollhouse in Sidmouth suitable for families and young children. The Byes Riverside Park is one of Sidmouth's most important green spaces. It’s made up of the many fields and meadows surrounding the…

Harpford Woods

This route is largely off road with an easy gradient following the picturesque former railway line through Harpford Woods, from The Golden Lion in Tipton St John to The Bowd Inn above Sidmouth. It forms part of National Cycle Network Route 248 and part of the proposed Otter Trail…

Exmouth to Budleigh Salterton Circuit Cycle Route

This is a lovely relaxing cycle route taking in the coast and the rural hinterland between the East Devon seaside towns of Exmouth and Budleigh Salterton. The inland section follows the path of a former railway, and the coast... well, this is Devon and the coast is superb!!…

Buzzard Route

An opportunity to explore East Devon on this regional 80 mile circular route, around Sidmouth, Seaton, Axminster, Honiton and Woodbury. Some of the route follows the National Cycle Network Route 2 along the south coast of Devon. You can find more information here.