Apedale Community Country Park and Heritage Centre
Explore Staffordshire’s rich mining heritage and scenic landscapes at Apedale Community Country Park and Heritage Centre.
Apedale Community Country Park in Newcastle offers 184 hectares of diverse landscapes including woodlands, meadows, and pools, ideal for nature lovers and families. The park houses the Apedale Heritage Centre, a volunteer-run museum and mining heritage site with guided underground mine tours on weekends and bank holidays. Visitors can enjoy walking trails, wildlife spotting, a café, and family-friendly activities in a serene, historic setting.
A brief summary to Apedale Community Country Park
- Apedale Energy Station Visitor Centre, Blackbank Road, B5367, Newcastle, High Lane, ST5 6AX, GB
- +441782632350
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 5 hours
- Budget
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10:30 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 10:30 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 10:30 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10:30 am-4 pm
- Friday 10:30 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10:30 am-4 pm
- Sunday 10:30 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit on weekends or bank holidays to experience the guided underground mine tours.
- Bring comfortable walking shoes to explore the extensive trails and varied terrain.
- Enjoy a break at the café inside the Heritage Centre, open daily from 10:30 AM to 4:00 PM.
- Check the visitor centre for scheduled events, guided walks, and family activities.
- Plan a picnic in one of the scenic picnic areas to fully enjoy the park’s natural beauty.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car
Driving to Apedale Community Country Park is straightforward via the A500, exiting towards the B5367. Parking is available at the Apedale Energy Station Visitor Centre. Travel times from central Newcastle-under-Lyme range from 15 to 25 minutes depending on traffic. Parking is free but can be limited during busy weekends.
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Public Transport
Take a train to Newcastle-under-Lyme station, then catch bus routes 1 or 2 towards High Lane. Alight at Blackbank Road stop, followed by a 5-minute walk to the visitor centre. Bus services run hourly with variable frequency on weekends. A single bus fare typically costs £3-£5.
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Walking
From the Blackbank Road bus stop, the walk to the park entrance is about 5 minutes on a well-marked, mostly flat path suitable for all ages and abilities.
Apedale Community Country Park location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Apedale Community Country Park
A Landscape Transformed: From Mining to Nature
Apedale Community Country Park spans approximately 184 hectares (454 acres) of reclaimed land in Newcastle-under-Lyme, Staffordshire. Once an open-cast mining site, the park has been transformed into a vibrant natural haven featuring woodlands, meadows, and pools. Its varied terrain is crossed by numerous paths and tracks, inviting visitors to explore the rich biodiversity and tranquil environment. The park’s restoration reflects a successful blend of industrial heritage preservation and environmental renewal.Heritage at the Heart: Apedale Heritage Centre
Nestled within the park is the Apedale Heritage Centre, located at the historic site of Staffordshire’s Apedale Mine. This volunteer-run museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the region’s industrial past, focusing on coal mining history and local industries. The centre features a small museum with exhibits and a café open daily from 10:30 AM to 4:00 PM. On weekends and bank holidays, visitors can join guided underground tours of the drift mine, which run hourly from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM, providing an immersive experience suitable for families and children over five years old.Activities and Visitor Experience
Apedale Community Country Park is well-equipped for family outings and nature enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy walking and cycling trails, pond dipping, wildlife watching, and picnicking in scenic areas. The park hosts guided walks, educational activities, and seasonal events that engage visitors with both nature and heritage. The peaceful atmosphere and open skies make it an excellent spot for relaxation and outdoor recreation.Facilities and Accessibility
The park offers practical amenities including parking, restrooms, disabled access, baby changing facilities, seating areas, and picnic spots. The Heritage Centre café provides refreshments throughout the week. Dogs are welcome under control, with specific rules in place to protect wildlife and other visitors. The park’s terrain is generally accessible, with well-marked paths suitable for casual walkers and families.Railway Enthusiasts and Industrial Legacy
The site is also home to the Moseley Railway Trust’s collection of narrow gauge industrial locomotives. Some locomotives are displayed in the Heritage Centre museum, and the trust organizes open days for the public. Plans are underway to develop a dedicated museum and railway to showcase this unique industrial collection, further enriching the park’s cultural offerings.Connecting Past and Present in Staffordshire
Apedale Community Country Park stands as a testament to the region’s industrial heritage and its ongoing commitment to conservation and community engagement. It offers visitors a unique opportunity to connect with the natural environment while exploring the stories and legacy of Staffordshire’s mining history, making it a meaningful destination for history buffs, families, and outdoor lovers alike.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Burma Star Island
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National Trust - Hare Hill
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Thor's Cave
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National Trust - Alderley Edge and Cheshire Countryside
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Knutsford Obelisk
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Cotebrook Shire Horse Centre
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Land Rover Experience Cheshire
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Beeston Castle
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The Tabley House Stately Home
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Lion Salt Works
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White Nancy
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National Trust - Ilam Park
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Anderton Boat Lift Visitor Centre
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National Trust Shugborough Estate
32.0 km
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Marbury Country Park
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Unmissable attractions to see
Apedale Heritage Centre
0.4 km
Explore Staffordshire’s coal mining heritage with authentic underground tours, a rich museum, and heritage railway at Apedale Heritage Centre.
Apple Tree Town
1.0 km
Explore, learn, and play in a vibrant children's role play town designed to spark imagination and social skills in a safe, family-friendly setting.
Affinity Staffordshire
3.9 km
Discover unbeatable deals and top brands at Affinity Staffordshire, Talke Pits’ premier outlet shopping destination with free parking and Wi-Fi.
The Brampton Museum
4.0 km
Explore Newcastle-under-Lyme’s heritage through immersive exhibits, a charming Victorian street, and vibrant community events in scenic Brampton Park.
Westport Lake Visitor Centre
4.0 km
Discover Stoke-on-Trent’s largest lake with rich wildlife, scenic walks, and family-friendly facilities at Westport Lake Visitor Centre.
Middleport Pottery
4.0 km
Discover the last working Victorian pottery in the UK, where heritage ceramics come alive alongside historic canals and timeless craftsmanship.
Waterworld
4.9 km
The UK’s largest indoor tropical aqua park with thrilling rides, wave pools, and family-friendly fun all year round in Stoke-on-Trent.
Eleven
5.1 km
Intimate live music venue in Stoke-on-Trent with top-tier sound, friendly atmosphere, and a strong focus on rock and tribute bands.
Festival Retail Park
5.3 km
A dynamic outdoor retail and leisure destination in Stoke-on-Trent, blending popular high street brands with family-friendly entertainment and dining.
Etruria Industrial Museum
5.5 km
Step into the world’s only working steam-powered potter’s mill, where Stoke-on-Trent’s industrial heart beats on at the Etruria Industrial Museum.
Hartshill Park
5.5 km
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Hanley Park
6.6 km
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Ford Green Hall
7.0 km
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Hulton Abbey
8.5 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Hulton Abbey, a modest yet historically rich 13th-century Cistercian monastery nestled in Stoke-on-Trent’s tranquil Trent Valley.
Hanchurch Woods
9.0 km
Tranquil Staffordshire woodland with scenic trails, panoramic views, and vibrant wildlife for walkers and mountain bikers.
Essential places to dine
Ostler Restaurant
4.1 km
A charming British dining experience blending historic ambiance with quality cuisine in the heart of Newcastle-under-Lyme.
Marloes Restaurant
4.2 km
An intimate British bistro in Newcastle-under-Lyme, where seasonal European cuisine and a legendary beef Wellington make every meal feel like a celebration.
85 Secret Garden
5.1 km
Discover the enchanting blend of fine dining, creative cocktails, and soulful ambiance at 85 Secret Garden in Newcastle-under-Lyme.
Orange Tree Bar and Grill
5.8 km
Stylish bar and grill in Stoke-on-Trent offering creative grill dishes, excellent steaks, and a lively, welcoming atmosphere for all occasions.
the QUARTER at Potbank
6.5 km
A dynamic restaurant and event venue blending Stoke-on-Trent’s heritage with vibrant dining and unique indoor-outdoor spaces.
The Potters Club
6.6 km
Historic elegance meets refined British cuisine in Stoke-on-Trent’s distinguished Potters Club.
The Stafford Arms
10.9 km
Historic 16th-century gastropub in Bagnall blending rustic charm with modern dining excellence and warm hospitality.
Lunar
11.1 km
Modern British dining inspired by the Lunar Society, set within the iconic World of Wedgwood estate in Staffordshire.
Pecks Restaurant
11.7 km
A refined British dining experience in Cheshire, blending seasonal flavors with a theatrical tasting menu and a welcoming countryside atmosphere.
Academy Restaurant
13.7 km
Experience fine dining crafted by rising hospitality stars in a stylish, award-winning training restaurant in Crewe.
The Oak House Restaurant and Balcony Bar (located at Moddershall Oaks)
15.3 km
Lakeside dining with fresh local flavors and scenic views at Moddershall Oaks’ elegant Oak House Restaurant and Balcony Bar.
The Wayfarer
16.4 km
A contemporary gastropub in Stone blending British classics with international flair in a cozy, stylish setting.
Little Seeds Restaurant
16.7 km
Intimate seasonal dining in Stone celebrating local British produce, sustainability, and a flourishing kitchen garden.
The Spotgate Inn
17.1 km
Dine in authentic vintage Pullman carriages at The Spotgate Inn, where historic charm meets hearty British pub fare in Stone.
La Villa Verde
18.5 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality at La Villa Verde, Stoke-on-Trent’s beloved Italian restaurant.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Roebuck Shopping Centre
3.8 km
A historic-rooted shopping centre blending national brands and local charm in the heart of Newcastle-under-Lyme’s vibrant High Street.
Nike Clearance Store
3.9 km
Discover discounted Nike gear and footwear at Talke Retail Park’s dedicated clearance store in Stoke-on-Trent.
Festival Heights Retail Park
5.3 km
A modern, accessible retail park in Stoke-on-Trent offering diverse shopping options and convenient amenities for a seamless shopping experience.
Sign of the Times Antiques ltd
5.7 km
Discover quirky antiques and vintage treasures at Sign of the Times Antiques Ltd, a unique shop in Stoke-on-Trent’s historic Burslem district.
The Potteries Centre
6.3 km
Staffordshire’s largest shopping and leisure destination with over 50 stores, dining, cinema, and community events all under one roof.
Hippie at Heart
6.6 km
Discover vibrant fair trade fashion and unique bohemian styles at Hippie at Heart, Stoke-on-Trent’s ethical clothing boutique.
Trentham Shopping Village
9.4 km
Explore over 77 charming timber lodges filled with unique shops, cafés, and restaurants in a friendly village atmosphere near Trentham Gardens.
Goomoo
9.5 km
Discover unique, fair-trade gifts and curiosities at Goomoo, nestled in the scenic Trentham Shopping Village in Stoke-on-Trent.
Gift Company
9.6 km
Discover unique gifts and homeware at Gift Company, a welcoming shop nestled in the scenic Trentham Estate, Stoke-on-Trent.
The Market Shopping Centre
13.5 km
Conveniently located in Crewe town centre, The Market Shopping Centre offers a practical and accessible retail experience for everyday shopping needs.
Crafts of Cheshire (Ltd)
15.9 km
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Jolu Accessories Boutique
17.0 km
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Rogue Boutique
17.0 km
Discover unique, quality women's fashion and accessories with personalised service in the heart of Stone at Rogue Boutique.
Walk The Line Vintage
17.1 km
Discover timeless style and unique vintage fashion treasures in the heart of Nantwich at Walk The Line Vintage.
Cabin Boutique
19.2 km
Discover stylish women's fashion in a charming log cabin boutique nestled within Middlewich’s Hopley House Shopping Village.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Basement
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Experience Stoke-on-Trent’s vibrant nightlife in the Basement, a cool underground bar and events venue in the heart of Hanley.
Sutherland Arms
6.7 km
A welcoming pub and cozy B&B in Stoke-on-Trent offering quality ales, lively events, and comfortable rooms with self-catering facilities.
No.41
8.7 km
A stylish pub in Milton, Stoke-on-Trent, known for its eclectic decor, craft ales, cocktails, and extensive gin selection.
The Swan With Two Necks
11.0 km
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The Boars Head
12.2 km
A charming gastropub near Nantwich serving refined British cuisine in a cozy countryside setting with welcoming service and a lively beer garden.
The Plume of Feathers- With Neil Morrissey
12.3 km
A friendly canalside pub in Barlaston offering fresh local food, Neil Morrissey’s ales, and a welcoming atmosphere for all ages and pets.
Fitzherbert Arms
13.5 km
Historic Staffordshire pub blending award-winning cuisine, rustic charm, and warm hospitality in the heart of Swynnerton village.
The Beer Emporium
13.7 km
Discover Sandbach’s craft beer gem with a vast selection of ales, a cozy atmosphere, and a welcoming community spirit.
DV8 Bar & Lounge
14.7 km
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The Borehole
15.9 km
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Swan Inn
17.1 km
A traditional canalside pub in Stone offering real ales, ciders, hearty food, and a welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
The Swettenham Arms
18.6 km
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The Lazy Trout
20.8 km
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Heath & Moor mobile bars
22.3 km
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Dog & Doublet Inn
23.3 km
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Reflex - Newcastle Under Lyme
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Gossip!
6.2 km
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TTL Nightclub
6.2 km
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Pink Nightclub - Stoke on Trent
6.2 km
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Reflex - Hanley
6.3 km
Energetic and inclusive nightclub in Hanley, offering classic 80s/90s tunes, affordable drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere for memorable nights out.
The Club
14.6 km
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3D Congleton
14.6 km
A vibrant and affordable nightclub in Congleton’s town centre, perfect for late-night dancing and fun weekends.
The Studio
17.3 km
Experience Nantwich’s energetic nightlife at The Studio, a vibrant club known for live DJs, dance music, and late-night fun in the town center.
Base 95
18.1 km
Leek’s vibrant nightclub and bar at Market Place, Base 95 offers lively late-night entertainment for a diverse crowd every weekend.
3D Leek - Bar & Nightclub Experiences
18.1 km
Experience Leek’s vibrant nightlife at 3D Leek, where lively music, great drinks, and dynamic events create unforgettable evenings.
Mainstreet Nightclub
30.5 km
Experience Newport’s vibrant nightlife at Mainstreet Nightclub, where music, dancing, and a lively crowd create unforgettable late-night memories.
Level 2
34.0 km
Buxton’s vibrant two-floor nightclub with diverse music, lively bars, and themed nights, perfect for an energetic night out.
Great Rocks Social Club
38.4 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Great Rocks Social Club, a welcoming hub in Peak Dale perfect for socializing and entertainment.
757 Night Club & Laluna events venue
40.9 km
A vibrant nightclub and events venue in Wellington, Telford, blending modern style with lively weekend entertainment.
We Love Oldskool Nights
42.0 km
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Family Friendly
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Family Friendly
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly