The best road cycling routes around Cannock Wood

There are over 250 road cycling routes available around Cannock Wood, offering a wide variety of options for different skill levels and preferences within the Cannock Chase Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).

Road cycling routes in Cannock Wood feature diverse terrain, including quiet miles of rolling hills, extensive forest tracks, and open heathland. You'll find both challenging climbs and gentler routes, often passing through natural deciduous woodland and coniferous plantations.

Yes, Cannock Wood offers over 60 easy road cycling routes. An excellent option for a relaxed ride is the Poms – Rugeley Market Hall loop from Burntwood, which is 22.7 miles (36.5 km) long and offers a mix of rural and market town scenery.

For those seeking more challenging rides, Cannock Wood has 12 difficult routes and 187 moderate routes. The Poms – Rugeley Road Climb loop from Burntwood is a moderate 21.3 miles (34.3 km) trail known for its notable ascents and varied terrain.

As you cycle, you can encounter diverse ecosystems, including natural deciduous woodland, coniferous plantations, and open heathland. Notable natural features include the Fairoak Valley and its magnificent pools, and the charming Sherbrook Stepping Stones. You might also spot wildlife, such as the area's herd of approximately 800 fallow deer. For specific points of interest, consider visiting Fairoak Pools or Minster Pool.

Many of the routes around Cannock Wood are designed as loops, offering circular experiences. For example, the Bridleway loop from Burntwood is a moderate 32.6 km route that allows you to start and finish in the same location.

The road cycling routes in Cannock Wood are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 70 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, the scenic beauty of the AONB, and the extensive network of trails suitable for different abilities.

Yes, the Trent and Mersey Canal Towpath – Lichfield Cathedral loop from Burntwood is a popular moderate route that combines waterside cycling along the canal with views of historic architecture, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural interest.

Cannock Wood offers enjoyable road cycling throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery with changing foliage. Summer is also popular, though routes can be busier. Even in winter, many routes remain accessible, but it's always advisable to check local conditions and trail updates, especially for forest tracks.

Yes, the Cannock Chase Forest Trailhead and Cycle Centre serves as a central hub for cyclists. It offers maps, information, and crucial trail closure updates. The Cannock Chase Cycle Centre also provides bike hire, tuition, and maintenance services, making it a convenient stop for cyclists.

While specific cafes and pubs directly on every route are not listed, the region's popularity for outdoor activities means there are various establishments in nearby towns and villages. The 'Poms – Rugeley Market Hall loop' passes through Rugeley, which would offer options for refreshments. It's recommended to plan your route with potential stops in mind.

For longer rides, you can explore routes like the Trent and Mersey Canal Towpath – Lichfield Cathedral loop from Burntwood, which covers 26.2 miles (42.2 km). Many routes can also be combined or extended to create longer distances, taking advantage of the extensive network in the AONB.