Cycle with 'Moor' care on Dartmoor
Cyclists are being asked to take “Moor care” when out and about in Dartmoor National Park this summer with the launch of a cyclists code of conduct.
The National Park has seen a steady increase in the popularity of cycling, both “off road” along moorland bridleways and designated trails, as well as a boom in road cycling across Dartmoor.
The leaflet provides guidance on cycling on moorland roads, narrow lanes, “off-road” routes, including public bridleways and designated trails, and stresses the importance of riding considerately, respecting farming operations and other users. It also includes advice on staying safe when cycling in remote areas.
Andrew Watson, Head of Recreation, Access & Estates said: “We have noticed increasing numbers of people choosing to enjoy Dartmoor by bike, particularly road cycling, and the increase in popularity of cycle sportives – timed road cycling events which can impact on local communities and other visitors.
"The growing participation in cycling reflects the interest in events such as the Tour of Britain which saw thousands of people line the route across Dartmoor. We have worked with cycling groups and farmers to produce a simple set of guidelines for cycling on Dartmoor whether on the road or off-road, along bridleways or other designated trails."
Ken Robertson from Mid Devon Cycling Club said: “It is important that all those who use either the roads of Dartmoor or the open moorland do so in a manner that respects all other road users and also enables those who earn their living from the moor to do so. This guide goes a long way in explaining this to all parties”
John Waldon, Chairman of Dartmoor Commoners’ Council said: “Cyclists often don’t realise that it is illegal to ride on the open moorland unless on a bridleway. This guide is welcomed by those that use the moor to graze their cattle, sheep and ponies and they hope that the information within this leaflet will reduce the disturbance to livestock and reduce accidents”.
Copies of the leaflet are available form National Park Visitor Centres at Haytor, Postbridge and Princetown or can be downloaded from The National Park website at www.dartmoor.gov.uk/cycling
The leaflet has also been distributed to cycling businesses in the Dartmoor area.
