4.4
(379)
4,399
hikers
28
hikes
Hikes around Fradley and Streethay are primarily characterized by the region's network of canals, including the Trent and Mersey Canal. The landscape is generally flat, with routes following well-maintained towpaths that connect villages and nature reserves. Beyond the waterways, the surrounding Staffordshire countryside offers a mix of heathland and woodland trails, providing a variety of easy circular walks near Fradley and Streethay.
Last updated: May 12, 2026
3.0
(1)
49
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(4)
65
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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5.0
(2)
22
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
9
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
30
hikers
4.70km
01:11
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Woodend Lock Cottage is a classic example of early canal architecture, dating back to the late 18th century. It sits within the Trent & Mersey Canal Conservation Area, which is prized for its "tranquility" and historic integrity. Because the cottage, bridge, and lock are all listed structures, they have a high level of legal protection against demolition. As of 2026, the cottage remains standing. While HS2 has acquired many properties along the route for demolition, Woodend Lock Cottage's listed status helped ensure its physical survival, even though its environment has been permanently altered.
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Fradley Junction Laughing Duck Cafe is a great place to stop
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Turn right onto the canal and follow it to Fradley Junction; this cuts out unpleasant road sections through Kings Bromley.
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The stream was created from water diverted from the Trent in order to power a mill. Initially a corn mill in medieval times, it later became a cotton mill. Alrewas was also famous for its eel fishery. The miller extracted eels from the stream and supplied them locally. The eel trade survived in the area until 1990.
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A church has stood on the current site since at least 822AD. The current Grade I listed building was mainly built during the 13th, 14th, 16th and 19th centuries. The Normans replaced the simple wooden church with one of local stone which probably occupied the space in the present nave between the two arcades. The tower doorway, the north aisle door and the heavy rough hewn pieces of masonry in the north wall are the oldest remaining parts of the church dating from the original Norman building.
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A wonderful section of tow-path to run alongside the Trent & Mersey Canal between Fradley Junction and Alrewas.
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The walks are predominantly flat, especially those following the canal towpaths of the Trent and Mersey Canal. These paths are generally well-maintained and easy to navigate. If you venture into nearby nature reserves like Fradley Heath or Leomansley Woods, you'll find more varied terrain with gentle woodland and heathland trails.
Yes, the area is very welcoming for dogs. The canal towpaths offer miles of flat, traffic-free walking. For a woodland setting, Leomansley Woods is a local favorite for dog walkers. Fradley Pool is also noted as being dog-friendly, with plenty of space to explore.
For a straightforward and enjoyable family outing, the Trent and Mersey Canal Towpath – The Laughing Duck Coffee Shop loop from Fradley is an excellent choice. It's a gentle walk along the canal, perfect for all ages, and offers the chance to see narrowboats and wildlife. For families with children, the nearby Streethay Play Park is a great spot to visit before or after your walk.
There is parking available at Fradley Junction to access the canal-side walks. You can find both free and pay-and-display options close to the junction, providing convenient access to the start of many popular trails.
Yes, Lichfield Trent Valley station is a key transport hub. From there, you can access several routes, including walks that lead into the historic city of Lichfield or connect to the canal network. This makes it possible to plan a day of hiking without needing a car.
Many walks in the area can easily incorporate a pub stop. The walks around Fradley Junction are particularly good for this, as there is a pub located right at the junction. This makes it a popular spot to start or end a walk with some refreshments.
Besides the main canal paths, hikers enjoy several local nature spots:
The scenery is classic Staffordshire countryside. Along the canals, you'll see colorful narrowboats, historic locks, and plenty of waterfowl like ducks and swans. In nature reserves like Fradley Heath, you'll find a mix of heathland and woodland, which are great for birdwatching.
While the area is known for its easy walks, you can find more moderate options. The Fradley Junction – Trent and Mersey Canal Towpath loop from Fradley is a good example, offering a longer 13 km (8.2 mi) route that provides a greater exploration of the canal system without any significant climbs.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars. Reviewers often praise the peaceful and flat canal towpaths, the abundance of wildlife, and the convenience of having cafes and pubs located right on the walking routes.
Yes, the Trent and Mersey Canal itself is a significant piece of industrial history. Fradley Junction, where the Coventry Canal meets the Trent and Mersey, is a historic hub with listed buildings. For a walk rich in history, consider a route that takes you into Lichfield to see the magnificent Lichfield Cathedral and the surrounding historic city center.


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