Top 10 Best Bike Rental Services in West Devon

Cycling in West Devon

Few places in England offer cycling as varied as West Devon. Traffic-free routes follow old railway lines across towering viaducts, quiet lanes wind between hedgerows and ancient woodland, and challenging climbs lead onto the open moorland of Dartmoor. Two routes in particular have put the borough on the cycling map: the Granite Way, an eleven-mile trail between Okehampton and Lydford, and Drake's Trail, which links Tavistock with Plymouth. Both form part of the long-distance Devon Coast to Coast route.

You do not need to own a bike to enjoy these routes. A growing number of rental services offer everything from children's bikes and tag-alongs to high-specification electric mountain bikes. Electric bikes in particular have transformed cycling in this hilly area, allowing riders of all abilities to tackle the climbs. Here are ten of the best bike rental services in and around West Devon.

The Top 10 Bike Rental Services

1. Granite Way Cycle Hub

Located in Okehampton, the Granite Way Cycle Hub provides direct access to one of Devon's most popular traffic-free trails. It offers a range of bikes for adults and children, along with helpful advice on routes. Riding out towards Meldon Viaduct, with its dramatic views over the reservoir valley, is an unforgettable experience.

2. Devon Cycle Hire

Based at Sourton Down beside the Granite Way, Devon Cycle Hire has long been a favourite with families and touring cyclists. Its convenient location means you can be on the trail within minutes, with easy riding towards Lydford or back towards Okehampton. A good selection of bikes and accessories caters for riders of every age.

3. Tavistock Cycles

Tavistock Cycles is a well-established local bike shop offering sales, servicing and hire. Its staff know the surrounding routes intimately and can recommend rides ranging from gentle sections of Drake's Trail to demanding moorland loops. Having expert mechanics on hand adds reassurance for longer adventures.

4. Dartmoor Cycles

Also based in Tavistock, Dartmoor Cycles provides hire bikes suited to the varied terrain around the town. It is an excellent starting point for riders heading south along Drake's Trail or north towards the western edge of Dartmoor.

5. Leg o' Mutton Cycle Hire

Situated in Yelverton, close to Drake's Trail, Leg o' Mutton Cycle Hire is ideal for exploring the southern section of the route and the open moorland around Burrator Reservoir. Its location makes it easy to plan a ride that combines trail and moor in a single day.

6. Rockin Bikes

Rockin Bikes in Yelverton offers bike hire alongside repairs and servicing. Riders appreciate its friendly approach and practical advice, especially those new to cycling on Dartmoor who want guidance on safe and scenic routes.

7. Princetown Cycle Hire

Located in the heart of Dartmoor at Princetown, this hire service gives riders access to some of the moor's most iconic landscapes, including the old railway trackbed towards King's Tor and Foggintor Quarry. It is perfect for experienced riders seeking a true moorland experience.

8. Plym Valley Cycle Hire

Plym Valley Cycle Hire serves the southern end of Drake's Trail, where the route passes through wooded valleys and over historic viaducts towards Plymouth. Families enjoy the gentle gradients, and it is a convenient option for visitors staying in or near the city.

9. Plymouth Bike Hire

Plymouth Bike Hire provides an easy starting point for those who want to ride north along Drake's Trail towards Tavistock. Its range of bikes and flexible hire periods suit both day trips and longer stays.

10. Brompton Bike Hire

Brompton Bike Hire operates self-service docks at selected railway stations across the UK. For rail travellers arriving in the region, a folding Brompton offers a convenient way to combine train and bike, particularly when exploring towns and connecting with local trails.

Choosing the Right Hire Bike

Consider the type of riding you plan to do. Hybrid bikes are perfect for the smooth surfaces of the Granite Way and Drake's Trail. Mountain bikes suit rougher moorland tracks, while electric bikes make light work of the borough's steep hills and allow longer distances. Families should ask about child seats, trailers and tag-alongs.

Always check that your hire includes a helmet, lock and basic repair kit. Weather on Dartmoor can change quickly, so pack waterproofs and extra layers even in summer. Booking ahead is wise during school holidays, when demand for e-bikes is particularly high.

Cycling Trends in the Borough

E-bike adoption has surged, opening up cycling to older riders and those with lower fitness levels. Investment in traffic-free infrastructure continues, and better links with the Dartmoor Line mean visitors can arrive by train in Okehampton and be on the Granite Way within minutes. Sustainable tourism campaigns also encourage visitors to leave cars behind and explore by bike.

Final Thoughts

West Devon is one of the most rewarding places in England to ride a bike, and the rental services listed here make it easy for everyone to enjoy. Whether you want a gentle family ride along an old railway or a thrilling moorland adventure, there is a bike waiting for you. Contact providers in advance to confirm availability, plan your route and set off to discover the borough on two wheels.