Exmoor Forest from Hillsford Bridge

This climb can be done as a continuation of the Hillsford Bridge climb, so effectively beginning from Lynmouth with all the extra distance and height gain that implies. The gradient is never severe, but the climb is unusually long by British standards. The road surface is very good throughout. The scenery changes rapidly and is a source of constant stimulation and enjoyment, beginning with the magnificent gorge along the Lyn, opening out into the rolling and more expansive views through the middle switchbacks, before the long, open, and stark final kilometres. Take heed of the weather forecast as the upper half is very exposed, with no shade and at the mercy of the wind. Amenities such as cafes, pubs, and toilets are plentiful in Lynmouth; again at the Watersmeet cafe at approximately halfway (though you'll need to carry the bike down a path to the National Trust cafe - it's very much worth the brief detour); and at the bottom of the descent to Simonsbath on the other side. Traffic is scarce, with goats and sheep as numerous as vehicles. I only climbed this, but surely it would be a pleasure to enjoy the long, broad, and sweeping descent back to Lynmouth.

Great climb, not and steady at the start, slightly harder in the middle then ends with gradual climbing into the moors

Begins in the trees but once out onto the moorland the gradient is gradually close to flat where you can enjoy the open sweeping road and the views. Lots of sheep and horses stay close to the road so take care