A GREAT ROUTE TO RIDE...DEVON, COAST TO COAST
Why it's great A superb mix of retro seaside stop-offs, impressive views and some stunning corners make this a must-ride. Minehead
is lovely, and the A396 at the start flows and twists with serpentine joy, cutting between verdant hedgerows and patchworks of stunning, rolling fields. Best of all, the road is invariably deserted, well-surfaced and always a joy, It's a perfect precursor to a grin-packed day. You then carry on the dance south all the way to the coast, then it is time to chill: cruising through the slightly faded glory of Torquay and then on to Teignmouth. Perfect.
When to go We’d avoid the summer holidays, to be honest, but May, June or September will be a delight. The weather is great (better than just about anywhere else in the UK) with less rain and more sun than most. It's premium biking country.
Where to visit Combining the ride with Paignton Bike Night is a very good idea. They start on Wednesdays in June, carry on until September and attract thousands of bikes and riders.
Take a pic at Paignton seafront is a must, with an ice cream or fish and chips. It's a good couple of hours from Minehead so it's the perfect place for a break.
Stop for a cuppa at Elsie May's in Tiverton is a great outdoor spot in the summer with well-loved fry-ups, decent coffee.... and lots and lots of cake. It's all you need in a café. We’d also recommend Mariners Fish and Chips in Paignton.