Cannock Chase National Landscape
Explore the tranquil rolling hills, rich wildlife, and historic trails of Staffordshire’s cherished Cannock Chase National Landscape.
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
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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.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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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.
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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.
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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
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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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Windy Conditions
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Cold Weather
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.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Portobello Tower
13.8 km
An evocative 18th-century folly commemorating a historic naval victory, standing as a haunting landmark in Featherstone’s rural landscape.
Dudley Zoo and Castle
27.4 km
Experience the wonders of wildlife and history at Dudley Zoo and Castle, a family-friendly attraction in the heart of Dudley.
The Fountain
27.8 km
Discover The Fountain, Dudley’s iconic historical landmark nestled in the vibrant Market Place, where heritage meets lively community spirit.
Galton Bridge
28.3 km
Explore Galton Bridge, a pioneering 1829 cast-iron marvel by Thomas Telford, standing proudly in Smethwick’s historic Galton Valley.
Aston Hall
28.9 km
Discover Aston Hall, Birmingham's architectural gem, where history, elegance, and beautiful gardens blend seamlessly for an unforgettable experience.
Soho House Museum
29.0 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
29.8 km
A distinguished Victorian clock tower in Birmingham symbolizing historic community pride and architectural heritage.
Gem Buildings
30.0 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
30.1 km
Step into a perfectly preserved jewellery workshop and discover Birmingham’s sparkling heritage through immersive guided tours and rich craftsmanship history.
Jewellery Quarter
30.2 km
Explore the historic Jewellery Quarter in Birmingham, where craftsmanship meets culture in a vibrant, artistic atmosphere filled with unique shops and dining options.
Birmingham Heritage Walking Tours
30.3 km
Discover Birmingham's rich history and culture through immersive guided walking tours showcasing iconic landmarks and hidden gems.
The Jewellery Quarter
30.3 km
Explore Birmingham's historic Jewellery Quarter, a vibrant district filled with artisan shops, exquisite craftsmanship, and rich heritage.
The Jewellery Quarter Birmingham
30.5 km
Birmingham's glittering historic heart where Victorian workshops craft timeless jewels amid cobblestone charm and creative revival.
Chamberlain Clock
30.5 km
An elegant Edwardian clock tower at the heart of Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter, built in 1903 as a memorial to Joseph Chamberlain and recently restored to its former glory.
J. W. Evans Silver Factory
30.7 km
Explore the historic J. W. Evans Silver Factory in Birmingham, where artistry meets heritage in a captivating journey through silver craftsmanship.
Unmissable attractions to see
Go Ape Cannock
2.2 km
Experience heart-pounding treetop adventures and scenic forest thrills in the stunning Cannock Chase woodland.
Freda's Grave
2.3 km
Discover the poignant history and serene beauty of Freda's Grave, a historical landmark in Brocton, Rugeley, perfect for reflection and exploration.
Cannock Chase Country Park
3.6 km
Explore 3,000 acres of ancient woodlands, heathlands, and trails at Cannock Chase Country Park, Staffordshire’s premier outdoor escape.
National Trust Shugborough Estate
4.1 km
Explore a majestic Georgian estate blending history, nature, and family fun across Staffordshire’s scenic parkland.
The Museum Of Cannock Chase
5.0 km
Discover the rich industrial heritage and natural beauty of Cannock Chase at this engaging family-friendly museum set in a historic colliery site.
Wildwood Park
6.6 km
A vibrant, all-day open park in Stafford with sports, playgrounds, fitness areas, and peaceful green spaces for every visitor.
Southan Antiques Centre
7.0 km
Explore seven barns of vintage treasures and antiques in a charming 1940s-themed farm setting with a cozy tea room and bistro.
Stafford Riverway Link
7.5 km
Discover Stafford’s tranquil riverside connection, blending heritage, nature, and recreation along the Stafford Riverway Link.
McArthurGlen Designer Outlet West Midlands
7.6 km
Discover over 65 designer brands, family-friendly facilities, and great savings at McArthurGlen Designer Outlet West Midlands in Cannock.
Gentleshaw Common
8.2 km
Explore Staffordshire’s largest lowland heathland, a vibrant nature reserve rich in rare plants, wildlife, and tranquil walking paths.
Riverside Stafford
9.1 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
9.4 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
9.8 km
Discover Stafford’s tallest windmill, a historic 18th-century landmark blending heritage and modern community spirit.
Nothing New
10.0 km
Discover Stafford’s atmospheric treasure trove of vintage, architectural salvage, and decorative antiques at Nothing New.
Foregate Street Vintage Emporium
10.0 km
Discover over 50 dealers’ treasures and nostalgic charm at Stafford’s vibrant Foregate Street Vintage Emporium.
Essential places to dine
The Horns Inn, Slitting Mill
3.1 km
A warm, family-friendly British pub in Slitting Mill offering hearty food, friendly service, and a cozy village atmosphere.
Seven Stars
4.9 km
A stylish gastropub near Stafford offering creative dishes and a welcoming atmosphere in a modern setting close to Cannock Chase.
Woodlands Restaurant
5.0 km
Contemporary British dining with scenic views at The Chase Golf Club, perfect for family meals and special occasions.
Clifford Arms
5.1 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
6.2 km
A bright conservatory restaurant at a historic Staffordshire hotel, serving seasonal British cuisine and classic afternoon teas by tranquil waters.
Verso Lounge
9.2 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
9.3 km
Historic elegance meets vibrant dining in Stafford’s premier bar and grill with exceptional food, cocktails, and private event spaces.
La Casa Italian
9.3 km
Authentic Italian flavors with a welcoming atmosphere and dedicated vegan options in the heart of Stafford.
The Soup Kitchen
9.5 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)
9.7 km
Experience top-quality student-prepared cuisine at Stafford College’s Riverbank Restaurant, where education meets exceptional dining.
Vivere
10.0 km
Authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality come together at Vivere, Stafford’s beloved Italian restaurant on Foregate Street.
The Tap Bar & Restaurant
10.0 km
A vibrant Stafford steakhouse blending hearty local flavors with a welcoming pub atmosphere in a stylish, refurbished setting.
Staffordshire Grill
14.4 km
A charming Grade II listed country pub in Brewood serving premium steaks, handcrafted cocktails, and boutique accommodations.
Upstairs by Tom Shepherd
14.4 km
Discover Staffordshire’s first Michelin-starred restaurant offering inventive tasting menus and impeccable service in Lichfield’s historic heart.
Dubberley Delicious
14.4 km
Experience innovative British fine dining with seasonal menus and unique chef’s table events in the heart of Lichfield.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Brewery Street Shopping Centre
4.7 km
A welcoming and convenient shopping hub in Rugeley offering diverse stores and easy parking in a clean, respectable environment.
Whimsical. (Hippie Shop)
5.2 km
A vibrant sanctuary of crystals, incense, and bohemian spirit in the heart of Hednesford.
Homesense Stafford
7.8 km
Discover unique homewares and stylish décor treasures at Homesense Stafford, your destination for eclectic and affordable interior finds.
Queens Shopping Park
7.9 km
A bustling retail park in Stafford offering diverse shops, convenient hours, and a welcoming atmosphere for all shoppers.
Primark
9.1 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
9.5 km
A vibrant shopping and dining hub in the heart of Stafford, blending modern convenience with a welcoming community atmosphere.
Peccadillos
9.6 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
10.2 km
Trusted Stafford auction house offering expert antiques buying, estate clearance, and collectibles in a convenient industrial estate setting.
Heart Of The Country Village
17.7 km
A charming rural shopping village near Lichfield with unique boutiques, delightful eateries, and tranquil gardens for a relaxed day out.
Rogue Boutique
18.8 km
Discover unique, quality women's fashion and accessories with personalised service in the heart of Stone at Rogue Boutique.
Jolu Accessories Boutique
18.8 km
Charming family-run boutique in Stone offering unique gifts, fashion accessories, and beautifully wrapped presents on the historic High Street.
Princess Alice Retail Park
24.8 km
A premier retail park in Sutton Coldfield offering diverse shopping, dining, and wellness options with ample free parking and easy access.
Gift Company
26.3 km
Discover unique gifts and homeware at Gift Company, a welcoming shop nestled in the scenic Trentham Estate, Stoke-on-Trent.
Goomoo
26.3 km
Discover unique, fair-trade gifts and curiosities at Goomoo, nestled in the scenic Trentham Shopping Village in Stoke-on-Trent.
Trentham Shopping Village
26.4 km
Explore over 77 charming timber lodges filled with unique shops, cafés, and restaurants in a friendly village atmosphere near Trentham Gardens.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Spittal Brook
7.9 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
9.1 km
A traditional Stafford pub serving home-cooked meals and Titanic Brewery ales in a welcoming, pet-friendly setting.
Casa
9.2 km
Lively late-night bar with a welcoming outdoor area, nestled in Stafford’s historic Express & Star building.
The Liquor Tank Stafford
9.3 km
A lively and modern bar in Stafford offering quality cocktails, casual dining, and a vibrant social atmosphere daily until midnight.
Bear Stafford
9.4 km
Bear Stafford: A lively, welcoming pub blending traditional charm with unique local quirks in the heart of Stafford.
The Ye Olde Rose & Crown
9.4 km
A beloved Stafford pub known for local Joules ales, lively music nights, and a warm, authentic British atmosphere.
Market Vaults
9.5 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
9.5 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
9.5 km
A cherished Stafford pub blending traditional ales, hearty carvery, and lively entertainment in a welcoming town centre setting.
The Oxleathers
9.6 km
A beloved community pub in Stafford offering a unique atmosphere, friendly staff, and lively events in a welcoming setting.
Hogarths
9.6 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
9.7 km
A lively gastropub in Stafford serving hearty classics, award-winning ales, and all-day breakfast in a welcoming, accessible setting.
Saracens Head
9.8 km
A cozy, family-friendly pub and hotel in Weston offering freshly cooked classics, comfortable rooms, and a warm, rustic atmosphere.
The Kings Arms
10.2 km
A friendly, traditional Stafford pub offering quality ales, hearty food, and cozy rooms in a welcoming local setting.
Staffordshire Bull
11.5 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
25.2 km
Experience Newport’s vibrant nightlife at Mainstreet Nightclub, where music, dancing, and a lively crowd create unforgettable late-night memories.
DIAMOND SPARKLEZ
30.1 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
30.3 km
Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter gem fusing aromatic shisha clouds with thumping club beats until 5am—pure late-night energy on Barr Street.
PAVO Birmingham
30.6 km
Vibrant African fusion lounge and nightclub in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter, where bold flavors meet electrifying beats until 4am on weekends.
Tunnel Club Birmingham
30.9 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
31.4 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
31.5 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.
Popworld - Birmingham
31.6 km
Broad Street's ultimate pop party hub: 90s-00s hits, neon dance floors, cocktails, and celebration packages until 3am.
Rosies - Birmingham
31.6 km
Birmingham's ultimate super club: five themed rooms, killer cocktails, and non-stop beats on Broad Street for epic nights out.
King of clubs
31.8 km
Compact late‑night Birmingham club for high‑energy R&B, hip‑hop and DJ nights, pulsing into the small hours with neon, bass and bar-driven parties.
Snobs
31.8 km
Birmingham's 40-year indie-retro nightclub legend: cheap drinks, themed dance floors, and non-stop beats on Broad Street.
suki10c
31.8 km
Quirky Digbeth nightclub with local art, sustainable vibes, and eclectic beats in an intimate 180-capacity space powered by wind energy.
Basement
32.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Hanley at The Basement, a stylish bar and event venue perfect for socializing and enjoying live entertainment.
Bambu Nightclub
32.0 km
Experience Birmingham’s chic nightlife hotspot with stylish vibes, eclectic music, and late-night dancing at Bambu Nightclub.
We Love Oldskool Nights
32.1 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.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Unique
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
- Festival / Event Nearby
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