The best road cycling routes around Stone Rural
4.5
(123)
7,881
riders
789
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 18, 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.
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40
riders
50.9km
02:27
510m
510m
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.
31
riders
92.3km
04:14
540m
540m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
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Tips from the Community
Dating back to the 12th century, this Grade II* listed Church of England parish church features early Norman doorways in its west tower. It is most famous for housing a rare, 7-foot-high 13th-century stone statue of a seated Christ, which legend says was rescued from Lichfield Cathedral and buried under the floor to protect it during the Reformation.
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Great place to stop, try the Laughing Duck Cafe for refreshments
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This stunning sandstone church, often called the most beautiful modern church in England, was built in the 1870s. It was commissioned by Emily Meynell Ingram, widow of Hugo, the first Viscount Halifax, as a tribute to him, and designed by the famous architect George Frederick Bodley.
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Last time I went past the tea room was permanently closed.
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Sometimes described as the most beautiful modern church in England, this magnificent sandstone building, with an embattled central tower, dates back to the 1870s and was the inspiration of Emily Meynell Ingram, daughter of the first Viscount Halifax, who was widowed after only eight years of marriage. She commissioned the church, designed by George Frederick Bodley and generally acknowledged as an architectural masterpiece, as a lasting monument to the memory of her husband, Hugo.
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Opens 07:30 and good for cakes, light snacks and drinks
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Fradley Junction, where the Coventry Canal meets the Trent & Mersey Canal, hosts a great little café over-looking the canal, with facilities in the courtyard. A pub, nature reserve and action at the canal locks make this a great place to have refreshments after your run. Can get a little busy due to location.
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Blithfield reservoir was built in 1953 to supply drinking water to the surrounding area. The reservoir and surrounding woodland have been designated as a a SSSI due to the important bird life in the area. The causeway that crosses the reservoir gives good views across the water so do stop and have a look around.
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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
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