4.4
(16)
157
riders
9
rides
Gravel biking around Stowe-By-Chartley provides access to diverse landscapes within rural Staffordshire countryside. The region features farm meadows, a network of rivers, and varied terrain suitable for gravel bikes, including both paved and unpaved surfaces. Expansive woodlands and heathlands characterize the area, with routes often incorporating former railway lines and canal towpaths. Its proximity to Cannock Chase National Landscape offers extensive trails through forests and open heathland, with routes ranging from moderate to challenging and featuring significant elevation gains.
Last updated: July 3, 2026
4.8
(6)
109
riders
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
7
riders
31.3km
02:24
430m
430m
Hard gravel ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.

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4.0
(2)
5
riders
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
9
riders
Hard gravel ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
5.0
(3)
8
riders
49.4km
03:12
100m
100m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Great place to ride. It's on my doorstep but definitely worth visiting no matter how far you are away.
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Great place to stop, try the Laughing Duck Cafe for refreshments
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Fradley Junction Laughing Duck Cafe is a great place to stop
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Great road trip with a short bit of the canal. Glorious day to be out on my bike. Loved every minute. Canalside Farm shop great midpoint stop.
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Perrys Trails is brilliant fun, not too challenging, not too hilly. Just nice.
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Originally called 'Hangmans stones' installed in 1954. The stones were originally from Stafford Prison where they formed the steps to the prison gatehouse where the condemned prisoners were hanged on the flat roof.
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The Sherbrook Valley is a beautiful place, with a mixture of woodland, open heathland and the Sher Brook. There are walking and cycling trails that follow the valley on both sides of the brook.
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There are over 10 gravel biking routes available around Stowe-By-Chartley, offering a mix of moderate and difficult challenges. These routes explore the diverse landscapes of rural Staffordshire and the nearby Cannock Chase National Landscape.
The gravel bike trails around Stowe-By-Chartley feature a varied terrain, including both paved and unpaved surfaces. You'll ride through rural Staffordshire countryside, farm meadows, and the forests and open heathland of Cannock Chase National Landscape.
While many routes are rated moderate to difficult, the region's diverse trails offer options for various skill levels. For a moderate ride that explores the natural beauty, consider the Cannock Chase Forest Trailhead β The Butts Trig Point loop from Milford, which is just over 30 km long.
Many routes pass by significant natural features. You can encounter the charming Sherbrook Stepping Stones, the scenic Stony Brook Pools, or reach viewpoints like The Butts Trig Point. The historic Essex Bridge over the River Trent is also a picturesque spot in the area.
Stowe-By-Chartley offers enjoyable gravel biking throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. While winter riding is possible, be prepared for potentially muddier conditions on unpaved sections, especially after rain.
Yes, many of the gravel bike routes around Stowe-By-Chartley are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. An example is the challenging Sherbrook Stepping Stones β Sherbrook Valley loop from Wildwood Nature Reserve, which covers over 40 km.
The gravel biking routes around Stowe-By-Chartley are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse terrain, the quiet rural Staffordshire countryside, and the extensive trails within Cannock Chase National Landscape.
While specific parking details vary by route starting point, areas like Wildwood Nature Reserve or near the Cannock Chase Forest Trailhead are common access points for routes in the wider region. It's advisable to check the specific tour details on komoot for recommended parking locations.
Yes, several routes incorporate beautiful water features. For instance, the Sherbrook Stepping Stones β Stony Brook Pools loop from Colwich will take you past the scenic Stony Brook Pools. You can also find highlights like Fairoak Pools in the area.
One of the longer and more challenging routes is The Butts Trig Point β Sherbrook Stepping Stones loop from Wildwood Nature Reserve, which spans approximately 53.5 km and typically takes around 3 hours and 41 minutes to complete.
Accessing the more rural starting points of these gravel trails directly by public transport can be challenging. It's often more convenient to drive to a suitable parking area near the trailheads, especially for routes within Cannock Chase National Landscape.
While the focus is on natural landscapes, the region has historical elements. The Chartley Walk, a local walking route, offers insights into local history and scenery, and sections may be suitable for gravel biking. The early 17th-century Essex Bridge is also a notable historical landmark in the area.


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