Cycling
Active or restful, enjoy the water.
Cycle Hire, Routes, Trails and Canal Paths
Many of the cycle routes here, provide off-road cycling routes and trails along canal paths and disused railways offering safer cycling opportunities for families to enjoy the sights, sounds and smells of the country at first hand. It is the ideal way for the whole family to explore at their leisure with none of the pressures of parking or traffic congestion. There are lots of great places to cycle, and the following website has some great routes in Cornwall.
Three brilliant cycling locations are Cardinham Woods, Tamar Trails, and Drakes Trail. There are many cycle hire outlets in Cornwall, details below, so that you can book in advance.
Cycling Routes
Tamar Trails
- 12 Miles from Kernock
- SN PL19 8JE
- 01822 833409
Tamar Trails is 25km of dedicated walking, running and mountain bike trails in the Tamar Valley AONB, with 25km of off-road mountain biking trails for all abilities and free to use. Take your own bike, or hire one of theirs. For trail maps, bike hire information and prices, see their website.
The Tavistock Canal Towpath
- 14 Miles from Kernock
- SN PL19 8DF
Provides a level cycle. Depending on your preferred distance, you could start at Tavistock Wharf. You could also take in Grenofen Bridge and double waters where the river Walkham meets the river Tavy.
Lanhydrock Estate
- 24 Miles from Kernock
- SN PL30 4AB W
Lanhydrock, National Trust, offers a number of woodland cycle trails – a great way to explore this beautiful estate.
Mount Edgcumbe
- 18 Miles from Kernock
- SN PL19 1HZ
- 01752 822236
Has a range of cycle routes across this vast country estate with colour coded graded trails to choose from. Enjoy glorious views across to Plymouth and Dartmoor. It is possible to hire bikes but booking is essential.
Cardinham Woods
- 24 Miles from Kernock
- SN PL30 4AL
- 01208 72577
A 650-acre site of productive mixed woodlands owned by the Forestry Commission. Has 7.2km way-marked cycle trail, woodland walking trails and a fantastic café which does great food and wonderful cream teas. The main trail is designed for family groups and is mostly gentle gradients but there are also routes such as the ‘Bodmin Beast’ with a number of technical climbs and descents, snaking single track trail, and features such as tight bermed corners, small step downs, rollers, and table tops, exposed to steep unfenced side slopes in places. There is a cycle hire centre one mile from Cardinham woods.
Drakes Trail, Dartmoor National Park
- 16 Miles from Kernock
- SN PL19 8JE
- 01752 257701 (Plymouth Cycle Scene)
A network of walking and cycling trails. The network has something for all age groups and fitness levels, starting with the new off-road cycling section between Tavistock and Plymouth. Cycle hire and Tramper hire available at Marsh Mills (Plymouth).
Siblyback Lake Country Park
- 14 Miles from Kernock
- SN PL14 6ER
- 01579 346522
Siblyback provides the backdrop of the gorgeous lake on Bodmin Moor. There is a graded track around the lake which is dog-friendly and cycle-friendly. Bike hire is available between April and October, and they also have Tramper hire and Segway here. For bike and tramper hire, opening hours and rates see their website.
Cycle Hire
Go ByCycle deliver road bikes, electric bikes or bikes for family groups direct to your cottage.
Camel Trail Cycle Hire are based in Wadebridge. You can park up, collect your bikes and cycle into Padstow or go the other way to Bodmin on the Camel Trail.
Repairs and Cycle Shops
- 5.1 Miles from Kernock
- SN PL12 6LD
- 01752 849315
Certini cycle shop is just down the road in Saltash next to Waitrose.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I cycle near Kernock Cottages?
There are excellent cycling routes nearby, including Tamar Trails, Drakes Trail, Cardinham Woods, Mount Edgcumbe, and Siblyback Lake. Many offer off-road tracks, canal paths, and woodland trails suitable for families and experienced bikers alike.
Are there family friendly cycling routes in South East Cornwall?
Yes. Many routes follow disused railways and canal paths, providing safer, mostly traffic-free cycling. The Tavistock Canal Towpath and Siblyback Lake are particularly good for families.
Are there scenic estate cycling routes nearby?
Yes. Mount Edgcumbe and Lanhydrock Estate offer woodland and parkland cycling routes, with beautiful views across to Plymouth, Dartmoor, and the surrounding countryside.
Where can I hire bikes near Kernock Cottages?
Several nearby cycling centres offer bike hire, including Tamar Trails, Siblyback Lake, Cardinham Woods, Lanhydrock Estate, and Mount Edgcumbe. Options usually include adult mountain bikes, children’s bikes, and electric bikes.
Are electric bikes available to hire in Cornwall?
Yes. Many cycling centres such as Tamar Trails, Lanhydrock Estate, and Siblyback Lake offer electric bike (e-bike) hire. E-bikes are a great option for exploring Cornwall’s countryside while making hills easier to manage.
Do I need to book bike hire in advance?
During weekends, school holidays, and the summer season it is recommended to book bike hire in advance, particularly at popular locations such as Lanhydrock Estate and Cardinham Woods where bikes can sell out early in the day.
How much does bike hire cost in Cornwall?
Prices vary depending on the bike and location, but typical guide prices include:
- Standard adult mountain bike: around £12–£22
- Children’s bikes: roughly £8–£15
- Electric bike hire: typically £25–£40
Prices can vary depending on hire duration and season, so it is best to check the cycling centre’s website for current rates.
Where can I get bike repairs near Kernock?
Certini in Saltash provides bike servicing and bike repairs and is conveniently located near Waitrose, around 5 miles from Kernock Cottages.
