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Much of Exmoor may be discovered on bicycle. Quiet country lanes leading to tiny hamlets and villages and a network of bridleways or special trails offer differing experiences for the cyclist and mountain biker. Attend a Bike Hike over moorland or through the Valley of Rocks with a National Park Ranger !
CYCLISTS
The same laws apply to cyclists, except that they may also use public bridleways. Public footpaths are for pedestrians or wheelchairs only, although riders, cyclists and motorists could use them with landowner’s permission. Cycles may be difficult to control on rough tracks, especially when traveling downhill. Please cycle carefully and slow down for riders and walkers, making sure they are aware of your presence.
EXMOOR CODE OF CONDUCT FOR CYCLING
- The following is a set of guidelines which should help to make your cycling safe, responsible and fun.
- Ride only on permitted tracks, i.e. bridleways, roads used as public paths (Rupp’s) and permitted routes clearly identified on the ground or on Ordnance Survey maps of the appropriate scale (Pathfinder/Outdoor Leisure Series).
- Do not make any undue noise or otherwise frighten wildlife or other trail uses.
- Give way to walkers and horses; control your speed and avoid bunching, when travelling in large groups.
- Announce your presence when approaching horses and walkers from the rear, to avoid startling them.
- Take care not to drop litter or start fires. Apart from being unsightly, litter of various kinds can start moorland fires.
- Minimise your impact on the environment by avoiding excessively worn tracks especially during wet weather.
- Skidding during breaking is very destructive, particularly on the delicate moorland soils, so brake sensibly.
- Close any gates behind you to avoid stock escaping.
- Follow the Country Code and use your common sense. Be responsible
- Be aware of forestry operations and guard against the risk of fire.
- By following this basic code you will help to give mountain bikes the image that they deserve. For further information contact one of our National Park Centres.
INFORMATION
Roads Used as Public Paths, public footpaths and bridleways are shown on Ordnance Survey maps, but public and private minor roads are not differentiated. If in doubt you should consult the maps of rights of way held by the National Park Authority or county and district councils for their areas.
SUMMARY
Motor vehicles and motor cycles should keep to public roads, bicycles to public roads and bridleways, not footpaths.
Be sure that you and your machine comply with the law and keep to the rules of the road.
Slow down for riders and walkers and take care not to disturb farm animals or wildlife.
National Parks are for quiet enjoyment: consider other users of Exmoor.