4.6
(80)
5,968
riders
15
rides
Road cycling around Colwich offers routes through varied terrain, characterized by rolling hills, open plains, and river valleys. The area benefits from its proximity to woodlands, providing a mix of scenic environments for cyclists. Routes often follow ancient pathways and connect to broader networks, showcasing the region's diverse physical geography. This landscape provides a range of gradients suitable for different cycling preferences.
Last updated: July 4, 2026
60
riders
64.3km
02:36
280m
280m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
24
riders
29.5km
01:16
180m
180m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

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19
riders
58.0km
02:36
340m
350m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
12
riders
55.3km
02:24
330m
330m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
8
riders
83.5km
03:49
600m
600m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Essex Bridge is a historic, Grade I listed packhorse bridge located at the Shugborough Estate in Staffordshire, England, which crosses the River Trent. Originally built in the 16th century, it is notable as the longest surviving packhorse bridge in Britain and was constructed for Queen Elizabeth I's use, linking the estate to nearby woodlands. It is one of the oldest bridges in England that has not been altered. The bridge is situated over the River Trent near Great Haywood and is an integral part of the Shugborough Estate, a National Trust property. It was built around 1550 by the Earl of Essex for a visit from Queen Elizabeth I so she could access hunting grounds on the other side of the river. It is the longest surviving packhorse bridge in Britain, with 14 of its original 40 arches still intact today. The bridge is a Grade I listed monument and is one of the oldest un-altered bridges in England. source: internet
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Great place to stop, try the Laughing Duck Cafe for refreshments
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Great little Cafe with friendly staff. Although on the main road, cyclists can take their bikes round the back of the cafe. Enter by the side of the barbers next door.
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Generally quiet road ( except during rush hour or when there are events on at Canton Hall ) some nice views of the Trent near Walton, or earlier if its Winter and flooded. The Trent is on one side and the Mease is on the other. Nice rolling but potholes
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The old bakers cottage have great coffee, lovely cakes and a welcoming smile !
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Opens 07:30 and good for cakes, light snacks and drinks
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There are over 15 dedicated road cycling routes around Colwich, offering a variety of distances and difficulties. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars.
Road cycling around Colwich features varied terrain, including rolling hills, open plains, and river valleys. You'll find routes that traverse ancient pathways and connect to broader networks, offering a mix of gradients suitable for different cycling preferences. The region's proximity to woodlands also provides scenic environments.
Yes, Colwich offers several easy road cycling routes. One popular option is the View of Shugborough Hall – Essex Bridge loop from Rugeley, an 18.3-mile (29.5 km) path that provides gentle gradients and scenic views, perfect for a relaxed ride.
Many routes offer beautiful sights. You can enjoy views of Shugborough Hall and cross the historic Essex Bridge. Within the nearby Cannock Chase National Landscape, you might encounter the picturesque Sherbrook Stepping Stones, Fairoak Pools, or the Millennium Sundial at Broc Hill.
Yes, many of the road cycling routes around Colwich are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Fradley Junction – Washlands and River Trent loop from Great Haywood and the Marchington Cliff Hill Climb – Essex Bridge loop from Great Haywood.
Many routes, particularly those starting from Great Haywood or Rugeley, offer convenient access to parking. For public transport, local bus services connect to towns like Great Haywood, which serve as common starting points for rides into the Cannock Chase area. Specific parking availability can vary by trailhead, so checking local information for your chosen starting point is recommended.
Yes, the region around Colwich, particularly near popular starting points like Great Haywood and within the Cannock Chase area, has various cafes and pubs. Routes like the Essex Bridge – Cobwebs Coffee Stop loop from Great Haywood are even named after local amenities, indicating opportunities for refreshments during your ride.
The spring and summer months generally offer the most pleasant conditions for road cycling in Colwich, with milder weather and longer daylight hours. Autumn can also be beautiful with changing foliage. While some routes are accessible year-round, be mindful of potentially wet or icy conditions during winter.
While road cycling itself isn't typically suitable for dogs to run alongside, many areas around Colwich, especially within the Cannock Chase National Landscape, are very dog-friendly for walks. If you plan to stop for breaks or combine your ride with a walk, you'll find plenty of opportunities for your dog to enjoy the outdoors, provided they are kept under control, especially near livestock or wildlife.
The road cycling routes in Colwich are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 40 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, from rolling hills to scenic river valleys, and the well-maintained paved surfaces that make for an enjoyable ride through the region's beautiful woodlands and open landscapes.
Yes, for more experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, Colwich offers routes with significant elevation gain. The Marchington Cliff Hill Climb – Essex Bridge loop from Great Haywood, for example, includes a notable climb and varied terrain, providing a more demanding ride.
The duration of road cycling routes in Colwich varies significantly depending on the distance and your pace. Easy routes like the View of Shugborough Hall – Essex Bridge loop can take around 1 hour 15 minutes, while longer, moderate routes such as the Fradley Junction – Washlands and River Trent loop typically take around 2 hours 45 minutes.


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