The best road cycling routes around Stone Rural
4.5
(122)
7,922
riders
792
rides
Road cycling routes around Stone Rural traverse a landscape characterized by the flat, accessible towpaths of the Trent and Mersey Canal and undulating roads through rolling countryside. The area features woodlands and low hills, providing varied terrain for cyclists. Downs Banks offers elevated views over the surrounding Staffordshire countryside. This blend of waterways and gentle hills defines the region's cycling environment.
Best road cycling routes around Stone Rural
- The most popular road cycling route is Izaak Walton's Cottage – The…
Last updated: July 5, 2026
124
riders
48.2km
02:14
250m
250m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
37
riders
48.1km
02:23
270m
270m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
Sign up for free
39
riders
51.0km
02:23
480m
480m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
32
riders
64.7km
03:03
300m
300m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
11
riders
79.8km
03:58
800m
800m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
Worth a stop and have a wonder around. plenty to see. 10-15 minutes is enough.
0
0
Croxden Abbey, also known as "Abbey of the Vale of St. Mary at Croxden", was a Cistercian abbey. A daughter house of the abbey in Aunay-sur-Odon, Normandy, the abbey was founded by Bertram III de Verdun of Alton Castle, Staffordshire, in the 12th century. The abbey was dissolved in 1538. In 1176, Bertram III de Verdun, the lord of the manor of Croxden, endowed a site for a new abbey near Alton, Staffordshire, to a group of 12 Cistercian monks from Aunay-sur-Odon, Normandy. Bertram founded the abbey, like many noblemen of his time, for the souls of his family. The monks remained at the Alton site until 1179, before moving to land near Croxden, a few miles south. Croxden was relatively prosperous, drawing the majority of its wealth from sheep farming. By 1315, the monks were supplying more wool to the continent than any other religious house in the county, with transactions being recorded with Florentine merchants well into the 1420s.
0
0
Last time I went past the tea room was permanently closed.
0
0
Uttoxeter is a market town in east Staffordshire. The town's name has been spelt at least 79 ways since it first appeared in the Doomsday book of 1086.
1
0
Croxden Abbey was built in the 12th centaury as the home of 70 Cistercian monks. It was converted to a farm after the suppression of the monasteries in 1538. Remains of the church, infirmary and abbots house remain. Now managed by English Heritage it's open 10:00 - 17:00 everyday. Entry is free.
0
0
Great spot to stop for coffee and cake! Toilets and bike rack, and an outdoor area for those rare, precious warm sunny days!
0
0
Essentially a vending machine that serves fresh buffalo or cow's milk from a local herd. You can add flavours (🍌🍓🍫), and there are usually cakes for sale too. You can purchase a reusable glass bottle, or bring your own. Fresh, local, sustainable. What's not to like? 🥛
1
0
Great local bike shop, equipped with a workshop and the best coffee going.
2
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of road cycling routes can I find in Stone Rural?
Stone Rural offers a diverse range of road cycling routes, from flat, accessible towpaths along the historic Trent and Mersey Canal to undulating roads through rolling countryside and woodlands. You can find routes suitable for various fitness levels, including easy canal-side rides and more challenging routes with significant elevation.
How many road cycling routes are available in the Stone Rural area?
There are over 800 road cycling routes available in Stone Rural. These include a mix of easy, moderate, and difficult options, ensuring there's something for every cyclist.
Are there any easy road cycling routes suitable for beginners or a relaxed ride?
Yes, Stone Rural has over 140 easy road cycling routes. A great option for a relaxed ride is the Izaak Walton's Cottage – The Milk Stop loop from Stone, which is an easy 25.3-mile (40.7 km) trail.
What are some scenic natural features or viewpoints to look out for on a road cycling route?
The region is rich in natural beauty. You can cycle through areas with views of the Staffordshire countryside, including the River Trent Valley. Downs Banks offers excellent views, and you might want to visit the Downs Banks Millennium Viewpoint. The Trent and Mersey Canal also provides picturesque views of the waterway and surrounding landscape.
Are there any historical landmarks or attractions I can visit while road cycling in Stone Rural?
Yes, you can incorporate historical sites into your rides. The remains of Croxden Abbey, a 12th-century Cistercian monastery, are a notable historical attraction. The town of Stone itself also features historical sites like St. Michael and St. Wulfad's Church. For a longer ride that passes by a significant historical site, consider the Croxden Abbey Ruins – Rocket Loop loop from Stone.
What do other cyclists say about road cycling in Stone Rural?
The road cycling routes in Stone Rural are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 100 reviews. Over 8,000 road cyclists have used komoot to explore the varied terrain, often praising the blend of canal paths and challenging countryside routes.
Are there any moderate-difficulty road cycling routes for experienced riders?
Absolutely. Stone Rural has over 580 moderate-difficulty routes. A popular choice is the Izaak Walton's Cottage – Cop Mere loop from Stone, a 30.4-mile (49.0 km) path that winds through rolling countryside. Another option is the Horse Tunnel and Bridge – Christina Collins Memorial loop from Stone, which covers 31.7 miles (51.0 km) through varied terrain.
Can I find circular road cycling routes in Stone Rural?
Many of the road cycling routes in Stone Rural are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For example, the Izaak Walton's Cottage – Workhouse Bridge loop from Stone is a moderate 40.2-mile (64.7 km) circular route.
Are there places to stop for refreshments or food along the cycling routes?
Yes, Aston Marina, located just outside Stone, is a pleasant spot for cyclists and offers a café for refreshments. Many routes also pass through or near villages and towns where you can find pubs and other eateries.
What is the best time of year to go road cycling in Stone Rural?
The rolling countryside and canal towpaths of Stone Rural are enjoyable throughout much of the year. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for cycling, with lush green landscapes. Autumn provides beautiful scenery with changing foliage. While winter cycling is possible, be mindful of colder temperatures and potentially wet conditions on some paths.
Are there any specific natural monuments or lakes to see near the cycling routes?
Yes, the area features several natural points of interest. You can find lakes like Bolton Gate Pool and Bromley Brook Reservoir. Additionally, areas like Hem Heath Woods Nature Reserve offer beautiful woodland environments to explore.
Most popular attractions around Stone Rural
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Road cycling routes in other regions.
