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.
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
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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.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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
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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
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Cold Weather
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.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Portobello Tower
16.1 km
An evocative 18th-century folly commemorating a historic naval victory, standing as a haunting landmark in Featherstone’s rural landscape.
Black Country Living Museum
29.3 km
Explore the rich industrial heritage of England at the Black Country Living Museum, a vibrant open-air museum in Dudley showcasing history, culture, and family fun.
Fountain
29.7 km
A Victorian memorial fountain anchoring West Bromwich's historic High Street and town centre.
Oak House Museum
29.7 km
Explore the rich history and enchanting architecture of the Oak House Museum in West Bromwich, a must-visit destination for culture enthusiasts.
Dudley Zoo and Castle
30.0 km
Experience the wonders of wildlife and history at Dudley Zoo and Castle, a family-friendly attraction in the heart of Dudley.
The Fountain
30.4 km
Discover The Fountain, Dudley’s iconic historical landmark nestled in the vibrant Market Place, where heritage meets lively community spirit.
Galton Bridge
31.4 km
Explore Galton Bridge, a pioneering 1829 cast-iron marvel by Thomas Telford, standing proudly in Smethwick’s historic Galton Valley.
Ford Green Hall
31.6 km
Discover the historical charm of Ford Green Hall, a captivating museum in Stoke-on-Trent, offering a glimpse into 17th-century life and culture.
Peak Wildlife Park
31.9 km
Explore Peak Wildlife Park: A family-friendly wildlife sanctuary with captivating animal encounters and indoor play for an unforgettable day out.
Aston Hall
32.3 km
Discover Aston Hall, Birmingham's architectural gem, where history, elegance, and beautiful gardens blend seamlessly for an unforgettable experience.
Soho House Museum
32.3 km
Explore Soho House Museum, the elegant Georgian home of industrial pioneer Matthew Boulton and a birthplace of the Industrial Revolution.
Aston Cross Clock Tower
33.2 km
A distinguished Victorian clock tower in Birmingham symbolizing historic community pride and architectural heritage.
Gem Buildings
33.3 km
Historic Gem Buildings on Key Hill showcase Birmingham's rich jewelry industry heritage and early 20th-century industrial architecture.
Museum of the Jewellery Quarter
33.5 km
Step into a perfectly preserved jewellery workshop and discover Birmingham’s sparkling heritage through immersive guided tours and rich craftsmanship history.
Jewellery Quarter
33.5 km
Explore the historic Jewellery Quarter in Birmingham, where craftsmanship meets culture in a vibrant, artistic atmosphere filled with unique shops and dining options.
Unmissable attractions to see
Freda's Grave
1.7 km
Discover the poignant history and serene beauty of Freda's Grave, a historical landmark in Brocton, Rugeley, perfect for reflection and exploration.
National Trust Shugborough Estate
1.8 km
Explore a majestic Georgian estate blending history, nature, and family fun across Staffordshire’s scenic parkland.
Cannock Chase National Landscape
3.6 km
Explore the tranquil rolling hills, rich wildlife, and historic trails of Staffordshire’s cherished Cannock Chase National Landscape.
Wildwood Park
3.7 km
A vibrant, all-day open park in Stafford with sports, playgrounds, fitness areas, and peaceful green spaces for every visitor.
Stafford Riverway Link
4.0 km
Discover Stafford’s tranquil riverside connection, blending heritage, nature, and recreation along the Stafford Riverway Link.
Southan Antiques Centre
5.4 km
Explore seven barns of vintage treasures and antiques in a charming 1940s-themed farm setting with a cozy tea room and bistro.
Go Ape Cannock
5.5 km
Experience heart-pounding treetop adventures and scenic forest thrills in the stunning Cannock Chase woodland.
Riverside Stafford
5.8 km
Riverside Stafford offers a vibrant shopping experience with top brands, dining options, and convenient facilities in the heart of Stafford.
The Ancient High House
6.1 km
Step back in time at England’s largest Tudor timber-framed townhouse, rich with history, period rooms, and military heritage in the heart of Stafford.
Broad Eye Windmill
6.5 km
Discover Stafford’s tallest windmill, a historic 18th-century landmark blending heritage and modern community spirit.
Nothing New
6.6 km
Discover Stafford’s atmospheric treasure trove of vintage, architectural salvage, and decorative antiques at Nothing New.
Foregate Street Vintage Emporium
6.6 km
Discover over 50 dealers’ treasures and nostalgic charm at Stafford’s vibrant Foregate Street Vintage Emporium.
Astonfields Balancing lakes
6.6 km
A peaceful nature reserve and flood defense haven on Stafford’s northeastern edge, perfect for tranquil walks and wildlife watching.
Amerton Farm & Billy's Farm Barn
7.4 km
A lively family farm in Staffordshire with animal encounters, play areas, tractor rides, and local crafts for a memorable countryside day out.
Stafford Castle
7.7 km
Explore 900 years of Norman history amid scenic woodlands and interactive exhibits at Stafford Castle, a captivating heritage site in Staffordshire.
Essential places to dine
Seven Stars
2.4 km
A stylish gastropub near Stafford offering creative dishes and a welcoming atmosphere in a modern setting close to Cannock Chase.
Clifford Arms
2.9 km
A traditional Staffordshire pub offering hearty meals, real ales, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Great Haywood.
Orangery Restaurant at The Moat House
5.0 km
A bright conservatory restaurant at a historic Staffordshire hotel, serving seasonal British cuisine and classic afternoon teas by tranquil waters.
Verso Lounge
5.9 km
Verso Lounge in Stafford blends modern dining with inclusive menus and a warm, quirky atmosphere perfect for families and casual gatherings.
The Post House Bar & Grill
6.0 km
Historic elegance meets vibrant dining in Stafford’s premier bar and grill with exceptional food, cocktails, and private event spaces.
La Casa Italian
6.1 km
Authentic Italian flavors with a welcoming atmosphere and dedicated vegan options in the heart of Stafford.
The Horns Inn, Slitting Mill
6.1 km
A warm, family-friendly British pub in Slitting Mill offering hearty food, friendly service, and a cozy village atmosphere.
The Soup Kitchen
6.2 km
Stafford’s cozy café offering homemade British classics, rooftop garden charm, and a welcoming atmosphere near historic St Mary’s Church.
The Riverbank Restaurant(NSCG)
6.4 km
Experience top-quality student-prepared cuisine at Stafford College’s Riverbank Restaurant, where education meets exceptional dining.
The Tap Bar & Restaurant
6.6 km
A vibrant Stafford steakhouse blending hearty local flavors with a welcoming pub atmosphere in a stylish, refurbished setting.
Vivere
6.6 km
Authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality come together at Vivere, Stafford’s beloved Italian restaurant on Foregate Street.
Woodlands Restaurant
6.8 km
Contemporary British dining with scenic views at The Chase Golf Club, perfect for family meals and special occasions.
The Mill at Worston
12.3 km
A charming Staffordshire country pub with seasonal British fare, scenic gardens, and warm, friendly hospitality near Great Bridgeford.
Staffordshire Grill
15.0 km
A charming Grade II listed country pub in Brewood serving premium steaks, handcrafted cocktails, and boutique accommodations.
Little Seeds Restaurant
15.5 km
Intimate seasonal dining in Stone celebrating local British produce, sustainability, and a flourishing kitchen garden.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Homesense Stafford
4.7 km
Discover unique homewares and stylish décor treasures at Homesense Stafford, your destination for eclectic and affordable interior finds.
Queens Shopping Park
4.7 km
A bustling retail park in Stafford offering diverse shops, convenient hours, and a welcoming atmosphere for all shoppers.
Primark
5.8 km
Discover trendy, affordable fashion and home goods at Primark Stafford, your go-to riverside shopping destination in the heart of Stafford.
Guildhall Shopping Centre
6.2 km
A vibrant shopping and dining hub in the heart of Stafford, blending modern convenience with a welcoming community atmosphere.
Peccadillos
6.3 km
Discover unique, high-quality gifts at Peccadillos, Stafford’s beloved boutique blending tradition, craftsmanship, and personal service.
Browse-a-while Ltd. House & Estate Clearance, Auction House, Antiques Buyer, Stafford & UK
6.7 km
Trusted Stafford auction house offering expert antiques buying, estate clearance, and collectibles in a convenient industrial estate setting.
Brewery Street Shopping Centre
7.3 km
A welcoming and convenient shopping hub in Rugeley offering diverse stores and easy parking in a clean, respectable environment.
Whimsical. (Hippie Shop)
8.5 km
A vibrant sanctuary of crystals, incense, and bohemian spirit in the heart of Hednesford.
Rogue Boutique
15.3 km
Discover unique, quality women's fashion and accessories with personalised service in the heart of Stone at Rogue Boutique.
Jolu Accessories Boutique
15.3 km
Charming family-run boutique in Stone offering unique gifts, fashion accessories, and beautifully wrapped presents on the historic High Street.
Heart Of The Country Village
21.2 km
A charming rural shopping village near Lichfield with unique boutiques, delightful eateries, and tranquil gardens for a relaxed day out.
Gift Company
22.7 km
Discover unique gifts and homeware at Gift Company, a welcoming shop nestled in the scenic Trentham Estate, Stoke-on-Trent.
Goomoo
22.7 km
Discover unique, fair-trade gifts and curiosities at Goomoo, nestled in the scenic Trentham Shopping Village in Stoke-on-Trent.
Trentham Shopping Village
22.8 km
Explore over 77 charming timber lodges filled with unique shops, cafés, and restaurants in a friendly village atmosphere near Trentham Gardens.
Hippie at Heart
26.7 km
Discover vibrant fair trade fashion and unique bohemian styles at Hippie at Heart, Stoke-on-Trent’s ethical clothing boutique.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Spittal Brook
4.7 km
A friendly Stafford pub and inn offering great ales, home-cooked meals, cozy rooms, and a welcoming atmosphere for all occasions.
The Sun Inn
5.8 km
A traditional Stafford pub serving home-cooked meals and Titanic Brewery ales in a welcoming, pet-friendly setting.
Casa
5.9 km
Lively late-night bar with a welcoming outdoor area, nestled in Stafford’s historic Express & Star building.
The Liquor Tank Stafford
5.9 km
A lively and modern bar in Stafford offering quality cocktails, casual dining, and a vibrant social atmosphere daily until midnight.
The Ye Olde Rose & Crown
6.1 km
A beloved Stafford pub known for local Joules ales, lively music nights, and a warm, authentic British atmosphere.
Bear Stafford
6.1 km
Bear Stafford: A lively, welcoming pub blending traditional charm with unique local quirks in the heart of Stafford.
Market Vaults
6.1 km
A cosy, dog-friendly Stafford pub renowned for spectacular food, cask ales, and a welcoming atmosphere from noon to late every day.
The Empourium
6.1 km
A quirky, fun-filled bar in Stafford’s town center, offering great value drinks and a playful social atmosphere in a unique setting.
The Bird In Hand
6.2 km
A cherished Stafford pub blending traditional ales, hearty carvery, and lively entertainment in a welcoming town centre setting.
Hogarths
6.3 km
Experience Stafford’s vibrant Edwardian-themed Hogarths Gin Bar with its vast gin selection, live entertainment, and cozy social spaces.
The Butler's Bell By Davenports
6.3 km
A lively gastropub in Stafford serving hearty classics, award-winning ales, and all-day breakfast in a welcoming, accessible setting.
Saracens Head
6.5 km
A cozy, family-friendly pub and hotel in Weston offering freshly cooked classics, comfortable rooms, and a warm, rustic atmosphere.
The Kings Arms
6.8 km
A friendly, traditional Stafford pub offering quality ales, hearty food, and cozy rooms in a welcoming local setting.
The Oxleathers
6.8 km
A beloved community pub in Stafford offering a unique atmosphere, friendly staff, and lively events in a welcoming setting.
Staffordshire Bull
8.0 km
A friendly Stafford pub blending local heritage with a welcoming atmosphere and moderate prices for all to enjoy.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Mainstreet Nightclub
23.1 km
Experience Newport’s vibrant nightlife at Mainstreet Nightclub, where music, dancing, and a lively crowd create unforgettable late-night memories.
Reflex - Newcastle Under Lyme
28.5 km
Experience vibrant nightlife at Reflex, Newcastle Under Lyme’s central nightclub and lounge with lively music and social vibes.
TTL Nightclub
28.7 km
Experience Stoke-on-Trent’s vibrant nightlife at TTL Nightclub, Hanley’s energetic hub for dance, music, and social nights.
Reflex - Hanley
28.7 km
Energetic and inclusive nightclub in Hanley, offering classic 80s/90s tunes, affordable drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere for memorable nights out.
Pink Nightclub - Stoke on Trent
28.8 km
Experience the vibrant and friendly nightlife of Pink Nightclub, Hanley’s lively late-night venue with great drinks and a welcoming atmosphere.
Gossip!
28.9 km
Stoke-on-Trent’s premier gay nightclub with vibrant bars, dance floor, and beer garden offering lively, inclusive nightlife in Hanley.
We Love Oldskool Nights
31.1 km
Experience the vibrant energy of classic 90s and 2000s R’n’B and hip-hop at We Love Oldskool Nights, the ultimate dance club for nostalgic partygoers.
DIAMOND SPARKLEZ
33.4 km
Ignite your night in Birmingham's diamond district at this glittering nightclub, where top DJs, stunning lights, and electric crowds create pure nightlife magic.
Dreams Night club and Shisha
33.7 km
Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter gem fusing aromatic shisha clouds with thumping club beats until 5am—pure late-night energy on Barr Street.
757 Night Club & Laluna events venue
33.7 km
A vibrant nightclub and events venue in Wellington, Telford, blending modern style with lively weekend entertainment.
PAVO Birmingham
33.9 km
Vibrant African fusion lounge and nightclub in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter, where bold flavors meet electrifying beats until 4am on weekends.
Eleven
34.0 km
Experience the pulse of Stoke-on-Trent's music scene at Eleven, where live performances and a lively bar atmosphere await every night.
Tunnel Club Birmingham
34.2 km
Dive under Birmingham's arches into Tunnel Club's seven-room warehouse wonderland, where house, techno, and hip-hop fuel all-night dances amid pounding bass and vivid lights.
What do you mean
34.8 km
Dive into Birmingham’s vibrant nightlife at What Do You Mean, a premier nightclub known for electrifying music, creative cocktails, and an unforgettable party vibe.
Reflex - Birmingham
34.8 km
Spin into 80s-00s nostalgia at Reflex Birmingham: revolving dance floor, karaoke booths, neon vibes, and epic sing-alongs on Broad Street's party strip.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Family Friendly
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly