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Cannock Chase National Landscape

Explore the tranquil rolling hills, rich wildlife, and historic trails of Staffordshire’s cherished Cannock Chase National Landscape.

4.7

Cannock Chase National Landscape, located in Staffordshire, England, is a stunning 26-square-mile Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty featuring rolling hills, purple heather, woodlands, and diverse wildlife. It offers extensive walking, cycling, and horse-riding trails, a rich military and coal mining history, and family-friendly visitor centres with cafes and picnic areas. The landscape is ideal for nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and those seeking tranquil countryside escapes.

A brief summary to Cannock Chase National Landscape

  • Cannock, GB
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 1 to 6 hours
  • Budget
  • Environment icon Outdoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit the Marquis Drive Visitor Centre for maps, information, and family-friendly activities including the augmented reality Chase Creatures trail.
  • Bring binoculars for excellent wildlife watching, especially to spot the large herds of fallow deer.
  • Try the mountain biking trails ranging from beginner-friendly to technical routes; bike hire is available at the Cannock Chase Cycle Centre.
  • Plan your visit around the Forest Live summer concerts for a unique blend of music and nature.
  • Respect the Countryside Code by taking your litter home and staying on marked trails to protect the environment.
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Getting There

  • By Car

    Cannock Chase is easily accessible via the M6 motorway, with ample free parking available at key visitor centres such as Marquis Drive. Travel times from nearby cities like Birmingham or Stafford typically range from 30 to 50 minutes. Parking charges apply at some locations, generally between £1.20 for two hours and £3.50 for all day.

  • By Train and Bus

    Nearest train stations include Cannock, Rugeley Trent Valley, and Hednesford, each approximately 2 miles from the Chase. Regular bus services connect these stations to the forest entrances, with journey times around 10 to 20 minutes. Bus fares typically range from £3 to £6 depending on the route.

  • Walking

    For local visitors, walking routes from Cannock town centre to the Chase visitor centres take approximately 45 to 60 minutes on mostly flat terrain. Paths are well maintained but can be uneven in places, suitable for most fitness levels.

Cannock Chase National Landscape location weather suitability

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

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Discover more about Cannock Chase National Landscape

A Storied Landscape of Natural Beauty

Cannock Chase is one of England’s finest national landscapes, designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty since 1958. Spanning approximately 26 square miles, it features a diverse mosaic of rolling hills, expansive purple heather moorlands, quiet woodlands, and small lakes. This varied terrain supports a rich array of wildlife, including a large herd of fallow deer and other species such as red deer and muntjac, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and wildlife watchers.

Outdoor Activities for All Levels

The landscape offers superb opportunities for walking, cycling, and horse riding, catering to all abilities. There are numerous waymarked walking trails, including the Staffordshire Way and the Heart of England Way, as well as accessible routes like the Cannock Chase Circular Walk and the RAF Hednesford Trail. Mountain biking is especially popular, with free, year-round trails ranging from gentle rides like Ladyhill to more technical routes such as the Chase Heritage Trail. The Cannock Chase Cycle Centre provides bike hire, repairs, and accessories to support visitors.

Rich Historical and Cultural Heritage

Cannock Chase holds a fascinating history, once serving as a Royal forest and later as a military training ground during World War I and II. Remnants of military camps and heritage trails allow visitors to explore this past. Additionally, the area has a coal mining legacy, adding layers to its cultural significance. The Museum of Cannock Chase and heritage sites nearby offer deeper insights into the region’s story.

Family-Friendly Facilities and Events

The Marquis Drive Visitor Centre is the ideal starting point for exploring Cannock Chase, featuring a café, picnic areas, restrooms, and easy access trails suitable for families and those with mobility needs. Interactive activities such as the augmented reality Chase Creatures trail engage children and families in learning about the landscape and conservation. Seasonal events, including the popular Forest Live summer concerts, bring vibrant cultural experiences to the natural setting.

Conservation and Community Stewardship

Managed by a partnership of local authorities and community groups, Cannock Chase is protected to ensure its natural beauty and biodiversity endure for future generations. Visitors are encouraged to respect the Countryside Code, take their litter home, and help preserve the area’s fragile habitats. Sustainable practices support this balance between enjoyment and conservation.

Accessibility and Visitor Experience

Easily accessible by car and public transport, Cannock Chase lies close to the M6 motorway and railway stations at Cannock, Rugeley, and Hednesford. Ample free parking, visitor centres, cafes, and well-maintained trails make it a convenient destination for day trips or weekend getaways. The landscape’s tranquil atmosphere and scenic vistas provide a refreshing escape from urban life, welcoming visitors year-round to enjoy its natural and cultural richness.

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