Dulverton And Weddon Cross

Taunton Deane, England, GB

Panoramica del percorso

Wellington Wheelers CC

Road Cycling and Mountain Biking in Somerset UK

85 km
1.275 m

Nice 50 Miles with plenty of stops and gorgeous views

Dettagli del percorso

Summary

A gentle 50 mile exploration of Exmoor - with plenty of gorgeous views and places to stop, and some historical places of interest. It can be done in a morning if necessary.

This moderate ride avoids steep hills and busy roads, but is undulating with a couple of fairly steep descents. There is one optional short cut up a cat3 hill if you feel so inclined!

The Route

Head west out of Wellington on the A38, and take a left at the Beambridge arms which allows you to climb up a little used lane rather than the main road. At the top rejoin the A38 for a hundred yards before taking a right turn towards Greenham. Busy roads done!

The route meanders to Greenham, where you cross over the Great Western Canal. It continues on nice lanes undulating, and gradually climbing up to a ridge road with great views on both sides before dropping down to Shillingford.

Cross the B3227 road and continue on the back lanes to Exbridge, taking the road to Dulverton over the Exe river. This road goes through Brushford (look for the old station buildings on the right (now disused Taunton to Barnstaple railway) to Dulverton. The Tantivvy cafe is a favourate of ours (very friendly to cyclists) but there are plenty of other establishments to choose from - a good place to stop and explore.

Head east out of Dulverton on Jury road until you meet the Exe valley road at Machine Cross, where you turn left (A396) to follow the Exe river as it gently twists and turns, gently climbing up to Weddon Cross.

Those who fancy a steep climb can turn right up Quarme Lane - a steel cat3 climb - 17% in places, up to Heathpoult Cross.
Alternatively just stay on the main road, a gentle 6% climb up to the Rest and be Thankful in Weddon Cross which serves coffee and refreshments.

When adequately rested turn right at the cross roads (B3224) and climb the moderate drag that is Hare lane up to Heathpoult cross, the highest point of the ride. The road winds its undulating way eastwards, along the ridge in places with fantastic views of Wales and the Bristol Channel.

Just before the T junction with the B3190 you pass the derelict old engine house which powered "The Incline" on the West Somerset Mineral Line.

More fantastic views are to be had as you continue past the Ralegh's cross Inn (nice pub) before a sharp descent down to Elworthy Cross - with the Quantock Hills laid out before you.

Turn right at the bottom and the route takes you mainly downhill back to Wellington via Wiveliscombe.

Useful Contacts

More resources

West Somerset Mineral Line

Important Reminders

This route has a moderate amount of climbing - but the descents are steep and should not be attempted if icy.

Altri percorsi di Wellington Wheelers CC