The best road cycling routes around Hartshill
4.3
(133)
4,366
riders
172
rides
Road cycling routes around Hartshill traverse a landscape characterized by extensive woodlands, including Hartshill Hayes Country Park, and the distinctive Hartshill Ridge. The area features gentle undulations, offering varied terrain for cyclists. Routes often follow the tranquil River Anker and the Coventry Canal, providing scenic stretches. Interspersed open meadows and local nature reserves like Hartshill Park add to the diverse environment.
Best road cycling routes around Hartshill
- The most popular road cycling route is Astley Church and Castle – Woodland…
Last updated: May 14, 2026
12
riders
23.2km
01:00
140m
140m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
7
riders
19.6km
00:56
170m
170m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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7
riders
14.4km
00:38
130m
120m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
3
riders
29.9km
01:26
270m
270m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
7
riders
12.2km
00:31
90m
90m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Tips from the Community
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The church, dating from 1766, was built early in the reign of George III in an Italian classical style typical of the period. However, this was not the first church building on the site. Over Whitacre church certainly dates from Norman times and may be of earlier foundation. Although no evidence of this early church building survives above ground, an item of the old church’s furniture is now to be found in Holy Trinity church at Sutton Coldfield. The 12th-century stone font from Over Whitacre was thrown out when the church was rebuilt. The font was taken to a local pub, either the nearby Owl Inn (now gone) or downhill to the Bull at Furnace End. It was rediscovered in 1856 and presented to Holy Trinity. Documentary evidence of the church here is available from the early 13th century. The advowson of Over Whitacre was given in 1203 by Jordan de Witacre to Christine, prioress of Markyate, Bedfordshire. This gave the priory, amongst other things, the right to appoint a priest to Over Whitacre. Nether Whitacre and Lea Marston were also similarly subject to Markyate Priory. I n a document of 1280 confirming the agreement the church is referred to as the ‘chapel’ of Over Whitacre, suggesting that it was subsidiary to Coleshill at that time. Whitacre was still appropriated to Markyate at the time of Henry VIII’s valuation, the Valor Ecclesiasticus of 1535, but no vicarage had been endowed and the chapel was probably served by a priest from Coleshill. Over Whitacre had probably become a parish church in its own right by the end of the 16th century. The earliest evidence on the site is the stump of a medieval churchyard cross which dates from c1500. In 1766 the church was completely rebuilt. The architect builder/s are thought to have been either or both William and David Hiorn of Warwick. They were neo-classical architects of some local repute having worked in Warwick, on west midland country houses and on churches including Holy Trinity church in Sutton Coldfield in 1760. It may be that the new church was built on the foundations of the old. It is possible too that between the internal plaster and the external sandstone ashlar remains of the medieval building survive. The church originally had a dome on the top of the tower, but this was replaced by a spire in 1850. There are two bells here, which are perfectly ringable. They are hung on one level in a modern lowside metal frame, side by side and both swinging east-west. The treble sounds note E and the tenor Bb. Frame and fittings by Taylors, 1933 at which time the treble was retuned. They have cast iron, canon-retaining, headstocks. Effectively, they are hung as would be any ring at that time. Tilley and Walters give the inscriptions in their book, “The Church Bells of Warwickshire” Source: warksbells.co.uk
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A road bike will be ok, but id recommend a gravel bike. lovely woodland.
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So much to see out here, plenty of smaller climbs, quiet roads.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available in Hartshill?
Hartshill offers a wide selection of road cycling routes, with over 180 options available. These routes cater to various skill levels, including many easy and moderate trails.
What kind of terrain can I expect on road cycling routes in Hartshill?
The terrain in Hartshill is characterized by diverse woodlands, including areas like Hartshill Hayes Country Park, and the distinctive Hartshill Ridge. You'll find gentle undulations throughout the region, with some routes featuring elevation gains of up to 3,000 feet over longer distances. Many routes also follow tranquil stretches along the River Anker and the Coventry Canal.
Are there routes suitable for beginners or those seeking an easy ride?
Yes, Hartshill has numerous easy road cycling routes. For instance, the Woodland Cycle Trail loop from Whytell Pools Nature Reserve is an easy 8.8-mile path through natural woodland areas. Overall, there are 89 easy routes available, making it a great area for less experienced cyclists or those looking for a relaxed ride.
What historical landmarks or points of interest can I see while road cycling in Hartshill?
Hartshill's rich history means you can encounter several points of interest. You might pass by sites with Roman and Norman historical significance, or even the birthplace of poet Michael Drayton. Specific highlights include the Hawkesbury Canal Junction (Sutton Stop) and various historical churches like St Mary and All Saints Church, Fillongley.
Are there scenic viewpoints along the road cycling routes in Hartshill?
Yes, Hartshill Hayes Country Park, a prominent feature of the region, offers superb views of the surrounding area. Routes like the Bramble Bush – View of Hartshill loop from Whytell Pools Nature Reserve incorporate scenic vistas, allowing cyclists to enjoy the landscape.
Can I cycle near water features like rivers or canals in Hartshill?
Absolutely. Many road cycling routes in Hartshill incorporate the tranquil River Anker and the Coventry Canal. The canal, with its linear woodlands and recreational marina, provides particularly scenic stretches. You can also find highlights like Shustoke Reservoir and Kingsbury Meadow Local Nature Reserve nearby.
What do other cyclists say about road cycling in Hartshill?
The road cycling routes in Hartshill are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 100 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse woodlands, gentle undulations, and scenic stretches along the River Anker and Coventry Canal, highlighting the variety of options for different ability levels.
Are there any circular road cycling routes in Hartshill?
Yes, many of the road cycling routes in Hartshill are designed as loops, offering circular journeys. An example is the Astley Church and Castle – Woodland Cycle Trail loop from Chapel End, which is a popular 14.3-mile circular route combining woodland cycling with historical points of interest.
Is there parking available for road cyclists in Hartshill?
While specific parking details vary by route start point, areas like Hartshill Hayes Country Park and Whytell Pools Nature Reserve, which are common starting points for routes, typically offer parking facilities for visitors.
Are there family-friendly road cycling options in Hartshill?
Hartshill's gentle undulations and numerous easy routes make it suitable for family-friendly road cycling. The extensive woodlands provide shaded paths, and the presence of open meadows and parks offers pleasant environments for breaks. Look for routes designated as 'easy' for the most family-friendly experiences.
What is the best time of year for road cycling in Hartshill?
The diverse woodlands of Hartshill offer pleasant cycling conditions throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn provide beautiful scenery with changing foliage, while the extensive tree cover can offer welcome shade during warmer summer months. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
Are dogs allowed on road cycling trails in Hartshill?
While many natural areas in Hartshill are dog-friendly for walkers, specific rules for dogs accompanying cyclists can vary. It's best to check local signage at trailheads, especially within nature reserves or country parks like Hartshill Hayes, to ensure compliance with any regulations regarding dogs on cycling paths.
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