Haldon Forest Park Mountain Biking

Haldon Forest Park near Exeter is the only purpose-built MTB trail centre in Devon — a Forestry England plantation south-west of the city with five waymarked trails ranging from family green to red technical. It’s the natural choice for south-Devon and east-Cornwall riders who don’t want to drive to Wales or the Forest of Dean.

What to expect

The Discovery Trail (green, 5km) is the family option — flat, gravelled, surfaced for trailers. The Challenge Trail (blue, 8km) introduces gentle singletrack. The Ridge Ride (red, 8.5km) is the headline trail — rolling singletrack with technical rocky descents and quick climbs through the south Devon forestry. Black-graded freeride lines extend the offering for advanced riders. A skills area and pump track sit near the visitor centre.

Practical notes

Open year-round. Forest Cycle Hire at the visitor centre handles bike rental and basic repairs. Forestry England parking fee applies. The cafe is decent. Best as a half-day ride for Exeter-based locals or a destination day from south Cornwall and east Devon. Combine with a Dartmoor scramble or a south Devon coast day for a full weekend.

Getting there car-free

Haldon Forest Park is one of the more accessible trail centres by public transport, sitting just south of Exeter. Exeter is well connected by rail from London, Bristol and Plymouth, and a weekday bus runs from the city up toward Haldon, with a short walk or taxi to the centre.

Can you get to Haldon Forest without a car?

Yes, fairly easily. Train to Exeter, then a weekday bus toward Haldon and a short walk or taxi. Being close to a major rail hub makes it one of the easier English trail centres to reach car-free.