The best traffic-free bike rides around Lichfield

There are nearly 80 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes around Lichfield, offering a wide range of options for all skill levels. Approximately 30 of these are easy, 32 are moderate, and 14 are more challenging.

The best seasons for no-traffic touring cycling in Lichfield are spring and summer. During these months, you'll experience milder temperatures and longer daylight hours, which are ideal for exploring the area's diverse landscapes, including Cannock Chase Forest and the tranquil canal towpaths.

Yes, Lichfield offers several family-friendly options, particularly along its canal towpaths and greenways. These routes are generally flat and traffic-free, providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all ages. The Lichfield to Chasewater Greenway is a great example, offering a scenic path on a disused railway line. You can also find easy-rated routes like the St Giles' Church, Whittington – National Memorial Arboretum loop from Lichfield City.

Many of the no-traffic routes in Lichfield, especially those along canal towpaths and through natural areas like parts of Cannock Chase Forest, are suitable for cycling with dogs, provided they are well-behaved and kept on a lead where required. Always check local signage for specific restrictions in nature reserves or private land sections. The McClean Way – Rushall Canal Path loop from Chasewater Railway Museum is a good option for a leisurely ride with your canine companion.

Lichfield's no-traffic routes offer varied terrain. You'll find predominantly flat surfaces on canal towpaths and greenways, such as the Lichfield to Chasewater Greenway. Routes through areas like Cannock Chase Forest feature a mix of compacted gravel and natural forest paths. Most elevations are gentle, with hills generally under 200 meters, making the area very suitable for touring cyclists.

Yes, many of the no-traffic touring cycling routes around Lichfield are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. An example is the Lichfield Cathedral – Bridle Path loop from Lichfield City, which offers a scenic circular journey through varied landscapes.

Lichfield's no-traffic routes often pass by or lead to significant attractions. You can cycle to the poignant Lichfield Cathedral, explore the green spaces of Beacon Park, or visit the Erasmus Darwin House Museum and Herb Garden. The National Memorial Arboretum – All Saints Church, Alrewas loop from Lichfield Trent Valley takes you close to the National Memorial Arboretum, a significant national landmark.

Absolutely. The region around Lichfield features several beautiful water bodies. You can enjoy views of Minster Pool within Lichfield itself, or cycle near Chasewater Country Park Visitor Centre and Lake, which also has a dedicated cycleway. Blithfield Reservoir, though a short distance away, also offers scenic circular routes with impressive woods and water views.

The komoot community highly rates the no-traffic touring cycling routes in Lichfield, with an average score of 4.4 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquility of the canal towpaths, the natural beauty of areas like Cannock Chase Forest, and the accessibility of routes that connect historical sites and green spaces while keeping cyclists away from vehicle traffic.

Yes, many routes are accessible via public transport. Lichfield has train stations (Lichfield City and Lichfield Trent Valley) which can serve as starting points. The Lichfield to Chasewater Greenway, for instance, is well-connected and can be reached by public transport, making it convenient for cyclists without a car. Some routes, like the View of Sutton Park – Holly Hurst Shared Path loop from Lichfield City, start directly from the city center.

While specific amenities vary by route, many no-traffic touring cycling routes in Lichfield pass through or near villages and towns where you can find cafes, pubs, and other services. The city of Lichfield itself offers numerous options for refreshments. For routes extending into more rural areas, it's advisable to check the route details on komoot or local maps for points of interest and facilities before you set off.