A Hidden Gem Cycle Route: Minehead to Wootton Common via Grabbist and Knowle Hill
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Adventure details for: A Hidden Gem Cycle Route: Minehead to Wootton Common via Grabbist and Knowle Hill
If you’re staying in Minehead and fancy a ride that combines steep climbs, woodland tracks, moorland edges, and hidden Exmoor villages, this route east out of town is a real treat.
We set off from Minehead, heading east along the A39 for a short stretch before picking up the bridle path at Ellicombe. Almost immediately, the road noise fades, replaced by birdsong and the crunch of tyres on gravel as you begin the climb up Grabbist Hill.
It’s a proper hill – no gentle warmup here – but the views make every push worthwhile. Looking back, the Bristol Channel glints between tree branches, with Minehead nestled below.
From Grabbist Hill, the path continues on towards Knowle Hill, weaving through sections of woodland and open clearings where deer are often spotted in the early mornings. The trail rolls and dips, never quite letting you settle but always rewarding with views of Exmoor opening up around you.
The ride continues on towards Wootton Common, a beautiful stretch of higher moorland and woodland edge, often quiet apart from the wind in the trees and the occasional Exmoor pony grazing nearby. At the far side, we took the footpath down towards Wootton Courtenay – a small diversion off the bridleway to explore this picture-postcard village with its stone cottages and medieval church.
From here, we cycled north, passing Tivington Knowle. The lanes here are narrow, flanked by old hedgerows and lined with foxgloves and cow parsley in early summer. Eventually, we rejoined the A39 to roll back towards Minehead, legs tired but spirits lifted.
- Distance: 9 Miles
- Time: 2–3 hours depending on stops
- Elevation Gain: Significant climbs up Grabbist Hill and Knowle Hill
Highlights:
- Climbing Grabbist Hill for panoramic views
- Woodland trails along Knowle Hill
- Quiet moorland at Wootton Common
- Quaint village of Wootton Courtenay
- Peaceful back lanes past Tivington Knowle
This route is ideal for riders looking for a moderate challenge with a mix of surfaces – from bridleways and woodland tracks to quiet country lanes. Bring snacks, water, and a camera for those sweeping Exmoor views.
Hope You Enjoyed: A Hidden Gem Cycle Route: Minehead to Wootton Common via Grabbist and Knowle Hill
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Updated 15/6/2023