The best traffic-free bike rides around Staffordshire Moorlands

The Staffordshire Moorlands offers a wide selection of traffic-free touring cycling routes, with over 180 options available. These range from easy, family-friendly paths to more challenging rides, ensuring there's something for every skill level.

You'll find a diverse range of terrain. Many traffic-free routes utilize converted railway lines and canal towpaths, offering relatively flat and smooth surfaces ideal for touring. Examples include sections of the Manifold Way and the Biddulph Valley Way. However, the region also features rolling hills and dramatic gritstone ridges, particularly in the northern parts within the Peak District National Park, which can offer more challenging ascents and descents on routes like the Leek to the Manifold Valley loop.

Yes, the Staffordshire Moorlands is excellent for families and beginners. Many routes follow former railway lines or canal towpaths, providing flat, traffic-free, and well-surfaced paths. The Leek to Rushton Spencer Greenway and the Biddulph Valley Way are great examples of family-friendly options. The Manifold Way Trail loop from Hulme End is another popular choice, offering scenic views along a dedicated path.

The routes often pass through stunning natural landscapes and near historical landmarks. You might cycle alongside the River Manifold, explore the dramatic gritstone formations of The Roaches, or pass by the iconic Dovedale Stepping Stones. Notable attractions include Lud's Church, a deep mossy chasm, and Thor's Cave, a natural cavern. Many routes also offer views of picturesque lakes like Rudyard Lake.

Yes, several circular routes are available, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps. A popular option is The Manifold Way cycle trail loop from Cotton, which provides a fantastic experience through the valley. Another is the Cumberland Clough Descent – View of Two Reservoirs loop from Roaches Gradbach, offering more challenging terrain and stunning views.

The traffic-free touring routes in Staffordshire Moorlands are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.55 out of 5 stars from over 210 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the peacefulness of the dedicated paths, the stunning natural beauty of the Peak District fringes, and the variety of routes suitable for different abilities.

Many of the popular traffic-free routes, especially those on converted railway lines, have designated parking areas at their trailheads or along their length. For instance, routes like the Manifold Way often have car parks in nearby villages such as Hulme End or Wetton. It's advisable to check specific route details for parking information, as some smaller access points might have limited space.

While many routes are shorter, some can be combined or are inherently longer, offering a more extensive touring experience. The Churnet Valley Way, for example, offers approximately 30 miles of scenic riding, though not entirely traffic-free in all sections. For a challenging, longer loop that incorporates traffic-free sections, consider the Leek to the Manifold Valley loop, which covers over 46 km with significant elevation.

Spring and summer are generally the most popular times, offering pleasant weather, lush green landscapes, and longer daylight hours. However, autumn provides spectacular scenery with changing foliage, and many traffic-free paths remain accessible and enjoyable during milder winter days, offering a quieter experience. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.

Public transport access can vary depending on the specific route. Some market towns like Leek and Biddulph, which are starting points for certain routes, have bus services. However, many of the more rural trailheads for traffic-free paths might have limited public transport links. Planning your journey in advance and checking local bus timetables is recommended if you intend to use public transport.