The best cycling routes around Lichfield

There are over 140 touring cycling routes in the Lichfield area, offering a wide variety of options for different preferences and fitness levels. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars.

Lichfield's touring cycling routes feature generally gentle elevations, with most hills under 200 meters, making them enjoyable rather than overly strenuous. You'll find a mix of tranquil canal towpaths, greenways (often disused railway lines), pine forests, and heathland, particularly in areas like Cannock Chase National Landscape.

Yes, Lichfield offers many easy and family-friendly options. Approximately 48 of the routes are rated as easy. The region's canal towpaths and greenways, such as sections of the Lichfield Canal and the McClean Way, provide traffic-free and accessible cycling. A good example of an easy route is the Chasewater Picnic Area loop from Burntwood, which is just over 7 km long.

Beginners will appreciate the numerous easy routes available. Consider the Bridle Path – National Memorial Arboretum loop from Lichfield City, which is an easy 27.8 km ride with gentle elevation. Another excellent choice is the St Giles' Church, Whittington – National Memorial Arboretum loop from Lichfield City, also rated easy and just over 24 km.

Many touring cycling routes in Lichfield are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the popular View of Sutton Park – Holly Hurst Shared Path loop from Lichfield City and the Lichfield Cathedral – Bridle Path loop from Lichfield City.

Lichfield's routes often pass by significant landmarks and natural beauty spots. You can cycle past the historic Lichfield Cathedral, explore the poignant National Memorial Arboretum, or enjoy the tranquil waters of Minster Pool and Chasewater Country Park Visitor Centre and Lake. Beacon Park also offers wide-open meadows and gardens for leisurely rides.

While specific pub stops are not detailed for every route, many routes pass through villages and towns where you can find cafes and pubs. The region's network of canal towpaths and greenways often connects to local amenities, making it easy to plan refreshment stops. For example, routes passing through Alrewas, like the National Memorial Arboretum – All Saints Church, Alrewas loop, offer opportunities to stop in the village.

The gentle terrain and varied landscapes of Lichfield make it suitable for touring cycling throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, with changing foliage. Summer is also popular, though routes can be busier. Even in winter, many of the well-maintained paths and greenways are accessible, especially for those seeking quieter rides.

Yes, many routes provide scenic views and chances for wildlife spotting. Areas like Cannock Chase National Landscape are known for their natural beauty and diverse wildlife. Stowe Pool, a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest, is home to native white-clawed crayfish. The Streethay Marina – Washlands and River Trent loop from Lichfield Trent Valley offers views of waterways and natural areas where you might spot local wildlife.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 60 reviews. Reviewers often praise the region's diverse landscapes, the accessibility of canal towpaths and greenways, and the blend of natural scenery with historic attractions like Lichfield Cathedral and the National Memorial Arboretum. The generally gentle elevations are also frequently highlighted as a positive aspect for touring cyclists.

For experienced touring cyclists seeking a greater challenge, Lichfield does offer more difficult routes. The Dogshead Lane Bridleway – Lichfield Cathedral loop from Lichfield City is rated as difficult, covering over 71 km with significant elevation gain, providing a more strenuous ride through varied terrain.

Lichfield is well-connected by public transport, making it possible to access routes. Lichfield Trent Valley station provides a good starting point for several routes, such as the Singletrack Climb to Quarry – Bermingham Hill loop. The National Cycle Route 54 also passes through the area, connecting various towns and natural spots, and local bus services can help reach destinations further afield like the Shugborough Estate.