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Cannock Chase Country Park: Staffordshire's Expansive Natural Haven

Explore 3,000 acres of ancient woodlands, heathlands, and trails at Cannock Chase Country Park, Staffordshire’s premier outdoor escape.

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Cannock Chase Country Park, located near Stafford in Milford, is a vast 3,000-acre natural landscape renowned for its ancient woodlands, heathlands, and diverse wildlife. It offers extensive walking, cycling, and mountain biking trails, family-friendly amenities, and rich historical features including Great War huts. Visitors can enjoy picnic areas, a visitor centre with a café, and accessible facilities, making it a top destination for outdoor recreation and nature appreciation in the Midlands.

A brief summary to Cannock Chase Country Park

  • Stafford, Milford, GB
  • Duration: 1 to 6 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Outdoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5

Local tips

  • Visit the Marquis Drive Visitor Centre for maps, café refreshments, and family-friendly activities including an augmented reality trail.
  • Consider hiring a mobility tramper from the visitor centre to explore accessible trails comfortably.
  • Parking fees support park maintenance; pay via number plate recognition at car parks with options for short or all-day stays.
  • Bring binoculars for birdwatching and explore the dog activity trail if visiting with pets.
  • Check visitor centre opening times in advance, especially during winter or adverse weather, to ensure access to facilities.
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Getting There

  • Car

    Driving from Stafford town centre to Cannock Chase Country Park takes approximately 20-30 minutes via A34 and A5192. Parking is available at Marquis Drive and Milford Common car parks with pay-and-display charges ranging from £1.20 for up to two hours to £3.50 for all day. Disabled parking is available at standard rates.

  • Train and Bus

    Take a train to Cannock Railway Station from Stafford or Birmingham (journey time 20-40 minutes). From Cannock Station, local bus services run to the park area, with a bus journey of about 15-20 minutes. Bus frequency varies, so check schedules in advance. Walking from bus stops involves moderate terrain.

  • Cycling

    Cyclists can access Cannock Chase via regional cycle routes connecting from nearby towns. The park offers bike hire at the visitor centre, making it convenient to explore the extensive trails. Terrain ranges from flat easy paths to challenging single-track mountain bike routes.

  • Walking

    For local walkers, several well-marked trails start at the visitor centres and car parks. Walk durations vary from short family-friendly loops of about 1-2 hours to longer hikes across the park. Paths are generally well-maintained but can be uneven in places.

Cannock Chase Country Park location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures
  • Weather icon Cold Weather

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Discover more about Cannock Chase Country Park

Expansive Natural Landscape and Biodiversity

Cannock Chase Country Park covers approximately 3,000 acres (1,214 hectares) of varied terrain, including ancient woodlands, heathlands, and valleys. This diverse environment supports a wide range of wildlife and plant species, making it a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The park’s landscapes offer visitors a chance to experience tranquil forests and open heath, with seasonal changes painting the scenery in vibrant colors.

Recreational Activities and Trails

The park is well known for its extensive network of trails suitable for walking, cycling, and mountain biking. From gentle family-friendly walks such as the Ladyhill Trail to more challenging mountain bike routes like Follow the Dog and the Monkey Trail, there is something for all skill levels. The park also features a dog activity trail designed to engage pets with fetching, weaving, and jumping challenges. Many paths are pushchair and mobility scooter accessible, with tramper hire available at the visitor centre.

Visitor Centres and Family Amenities

Cannock Chase boasts several visitor centres, with the Marquis Drive Visitor Centre serving as a key hub. It offers a café, picnic areas, play areas for children, and easy access trails. The centre features historical exhibits such as a reconstructed Great War hut, connecting visitors to the area's military heritage. Facilities include accessible toilets, baby changing, cycle hire, and information points. The visitor centres also host events and provide maps and guides to enhance the visitor experience.

Historical and Cultural Significance

The park holds rich historical significance, including remnants of military camps from the Great War era. The reconstructed huts and interpretative trails provide insight into the area's role during wartime. Additionally, the park’s landscape has cultural importance as a traditional heathland environment, preserved through ongoing conservation efforts.

Conservation and Sustainable Management

Managed by Forestry England and local authorities, Cannock Chase is maintained with a focus on sustainability and conservation. Parking fees contribute to the upkeep and protection of the park's natural resources. Visitors are encouraged to follow the Countryside Code, including taking litter home to preserve the environment. The park supports wildlife habitats and is a protected area, balancing visitor access with ecological preservation.

Accessibility and Visitor Experience

Open year-round except Christmas Day, the park offers easy access with well-maintained car parks, including disabled parking. The visitor centres operate with seasonal hours and provide mobility scooter hire to enhance accessibility. The park’s diverse facilities and trails cater to families, solo visitors, and outdoor enthusiasts alike, making it a versatile destination for day trips or weekend getaways.

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