Starting in the small Devon town of Dawlish Warren this short route covers some amazing scenery. However, it does give some payback with a couple of pretty big climbs to really test those legs out.

Route Description

Starting close to the railway station the route takes the main Dawlish Warren road roughly northward to go through Cockwood. From here the route then skirts around the edge Starcross and then on to Powderham using the coastal road.

From Powderham the route becomes what can only be described as ‘rolling’ as it turns inland and uses some country lanes to make the journey in to Exminster. If you have time we’d recommend a stop in Exminster for some refreshments as you’re about to tackle the first climb of the day.

From Exminster the route takes Day Pottles lane for around 0.4 miles before turning in to Towsigham Lane. Now you’re on the first climb proper. The first three-quarters of a mile at around 2-3% are a nice warm up after which the next half mile or so is a tougher climb of 4-5% up to and along Old Dawlish Road.

The Old Dawlish Road marks the highest point for this section of the ride so enjoy the resulting downhills for a few miles as you cross the River Kenn as the last and most brutal climb is looming.

After crossing the River Kenn the next two or three miles are a mixture of short sharp uphill sections and the resulting downhill. The respite doesn’t last long though as it’s soon time to start the steep climb to the highest point of the ride as the route skirts around the village of Mamhead.

After you’ve reached the top of the climb a rest and a visit to Mamhead Obelisk and the sensory trail are well worth the time.

Once you have left Mamhead it’s a gentle and relaxing run downhill broadly following the banks of Dawlish Water until you reach the outer reaches Dawlish town. After navigating the town centre you’ll find yourself on the seafront ready for a gentle cruise back in to the start point at Dawlish Warren.

Note – This route is largely on very quiet country lanes and has fewer stops than usual so we suggest taking plenty of fluids and something to eat just in case.

Route Summary

Start Point – Dawlish Warren Railway Station

Distance – 20.6 miles / 33.15 km

Elevation Gain – 1513ft / 461 metres

Places of Interest

  • Dawlish Warren Nature Reserve and ‘Spit’ – about 0.5 miles from the start / finish point.
  • Powderham Park & Castle – just off the route at the 4.5 mile point.
  • Kenton Park Estate – just off the route at the 11.4 mile point.
  • Mamhead Obelisk and Sensory Trail – on the route at the 14.8 mile points.
  • Dawlish Manor House and Riverside Centre – on the route at the 18.5 mile point.

Refreshment Stops

  • There are an assortment of cafes etc in Dawlish Warren – at the start / finish
  • The Anchor Inn, Cockwood- on the route at the 1.5 mile point.
  • The Royal Oak Inn Exminster – just off the route at the 7.3 mile point
  • The Ley Arms, Lanton Matravers – just off the route at the 9.0 mile point.
  • A selection of cafe’s etc in Dawlish- on the route at the 18.5 mile point.

Local Bike Shops

  • Exe Trail Cycle Hire, Dawlish Warren – Beach Rd, Dawlish Warren, Dawlish EX7 0NF. Tel 01626 865827
  • Partridge Cycles, Kennford – A38, Kennford, Exeter EX6 7TW. Tel 01392 833303
  • Piora Bikes, Dawlish – 4/5 Piermont Place, Dawlish EX7 9PH. Tel 01626 899073

Closest Railway Stations

  • Dawlish Warren – at the start / finish (Network Rail)
  • Starcross – just off the route at the 2.5 mile point
  • Dawlish – just off the route at the 18.9 mile point

Ride With GPS Link – https://ridewithgps.com/routes/39048314

GPX file direct download – Click Here

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