The best cycling routes around Blithfield

Blithfield offers a wide selection of touring cycling routes, with over 140 options available on komoot. These routes cater to various preferences, ranging from easy, leisurely rides to more challenging, longer distances.

The routes around Blithfield cater to a range of abilities. You'll find approximately 40 easy routes, over 70 moderate routes, and around 35 difficult routes, ensuring there's something for every fitness level. The terrain generally features moderate elevation gains, with some routes incorporating rolling hills.

You can expect mostly well-paved surfaces, making them suitable for touring cyclists. Many routes incorporate the scenic Blithfield Reservoir Causeway, offering captivating views across the water. The area also features broadleaf and coniferous woodlands, providing diverse natural landscapes.

Yes, Blithfield offers several easier routes suitable for families. For instance, the Tixall Wide – Silkin Way Cycle Path loop from Hixon is an easy 25.3 km trail with minimal elevation, making it a good option for a family outing. Another easy choice is the View of Shugborough Hall – Essex Bridge loop from Great Haywood, which is 16.6 km long.

The Blithfield Reservoir itself is a significant natural feature, a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) known for its wildfowl. You can also explore various woodlands, wetlands with boardwalks, and wildflower meadows. Nearby natural attractions include Sherbrook Stepping Stones, Fairoak Pools, and the Millennium Sundial at Broc Hill, which offers a viewpoint.

Many of the touring cycling routes around Blithfield are designed as loops, offering convenient circular journeys. Examples include the popular Abbots Bromley Village Centre – Blithfield Reservoir Causeway loop from Abbots Bromley and the longer Lichfield Cathedral – The Laughing Duck Coffee Shop loop from Staffordshire.

While specific parking details for each route vary, many routes start from villages or towns that offer public parking. For routes around the reservoir, look for designated parking areas often associated with visitor centers or access points. It's advisable to check the starting point of your chosen route on komoot for specific parking recommendations.

Yes, you'll find options for refreshments. The historic village of Abbots Bromley, often a starting or passing point for routes, has several pubs. Longer routes, such as the Lichfield Cathedral – The Laughing Duck Coffee Shop loop from Staffordshire, may pass through towns with cafes and other amenities. It's a good idea to check your chosen route for points of interest.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 80 reviews. Cyclists often praise the scenic views, particularly from the Blithfield Reservoir Causeway, and the varied terrain that offers both leisurely rides through woodlands and more challenging routes connecting to historic towns like Lichfield.

Blithfield is enjoyable for touring cycling throughout much of the year. Spring brings vibrant wildflower meadows, including bluebells, while autumn offers beautiful foliage in the woodlands. Summer provides longer daylight hours. It's always recommended to check local weather forecasts before heading out, as conditions can vary.

While Blithfield Reservoir itself is somewhat rural, routes often start from or pass through nearby towns and villages that may have public transport links. For example, routes originating from Abbots Bromley or connecting to Lichfield might be accessible via bus services. Planning your journey in advance and checking local transport schedules is recommended.

Generally, no specific permits are required for cycling on public roads and designated cycle paths around Blithfield Reservoir. However, as the reservoir is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), it's important to stick to marked routes and respect the natural environment and wildlife. Always check for any local signage or regulations if you plan to venture off established paths.