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Pipe Hall Farm: Historic Woodland Sanctuary Near Burntwood

Explore serene woodlands and historic springs with scenic views near Burntwood at Pipe Hall Farm.

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Pipe Hall Farm is a 48.3-hectare nature reserve nestled between Burntwood and Lichfield in Staffordshire, England. This tranquil site features a mix of ancient and young broadleaved woodland, mature plantations, and open meadows. Visitors can enjoy flat, grassy paths with scenic views of Lichfield Cathedral and explore historic conduit heads linked to medieval water supply. The farm offers free parking and a peaceful escape rich in natural beauty and local heritage.

A brief summary to Pipe Hall Farm

  • St Matthew's Road, Burntwood, WS7 9EL, GB
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 1 to 3 hours
  • Free
  • 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

  • Wear sturdy footwear for walking on grassy and occasionally narrow woodland paths.
  • Bring a camera to capture views of Lichfield Cathedral and the historic conduit heads.
  • The paths are mostly flat but can be narrow; accessibility for wheelchairs and pushchairs may be limited.
  • Enjoy dog walking here; off-lead areas and dog bins are available.
  • Visit in spring or autumn to see seasonal flowers and colorful foliage.
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Getting There

  • Car

    Driving from Burntwood or Lichfield, expect a 10 to 15-minute journey via local roads to reach Pipe Hall Farm. Free parking is available on-site. Note that parking may be limited during peak times and there are no paid parking fees.

  • Bus

    Local bus services connect Burntwood and Lichfield with stops near St Matthew's Road. From the nearest stop, a 15 to 20-minute walk on mostly flat terrain leads to the farm entrance. Bus fares typically range from £2 to £5 one way.

  • Walking

    For those staying in Burntwood or Lichfield, walking to Pipe Hall Farm is feasible but involves up to 2 km on public footpaths, including some narrow sections. Allow 30 to 45 minutes depending on pace. Paths are mostly flat but may be uneven in places.

Pipe Hall Farm location weather suitability

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

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Discover more about Pipe Hall Farm

A Woodland Landscape Steeped in History

Pipe Hall Farm sits in the southeast corner of Cannock Chase, midway between Burntwood and Lichfield. The land has a documented history dating back to 1135 when the Manor of Pipe was established here. Over centuries, the estate was home to tenants such as Henry of Pipe and Dorothy Heaveningham, whose Catholic sympathies earned the manor the nickname 'nest of papists' during Elizabeth I's reign. The site was once part of the Maple Hayes Estate and has been used by local communities since the mid-12th century.

Natural Habitats and Scenic Walks

The farm encompasses a diverse environment of ancient woodland, young broadleaved trees, and grassland meadows. A network of mostly flat, mown grass paths invites gentle strolls through the varied habitats, though some paths are narrow and less suitable for pushchairs or wheelchairs. Wildlife thrives here amid the broadleaf woods and open spaces, making it an excellent spot for nature observation and peaceful walks.

Historic Features and Water Heritage

One of Pipe Hall Farm’s unique attractions is Jubilee Wood, home to two historically significant conduit heads. These structures, including a Grade II listed medieval conduit head restored in 2010, were once part of the water supply system feeding Lichfield Cathedral. The springs in the wood played a vital role in the area's development and remain a testament to the farm’s longstanding connection to local history.

Visitor Experience and Amenities

Visitors to Pipe Hall Farm can enjoy free parking and a calm atmosphere ideal for dog walking, family outings, and quiet reflection. The site is popular with dog owners, offering off-lead areas and plenty of space for pets to roam. The paths form circular routes, ensuring visitors return easily to the car park. Seasonal highlights include vibrant autumn colors and spring flowers that enhance the natural beauty of the farm.

Community Forest and Conservation

Pipe Hall Farm is part of the Forest of Mercia Community Forest, a regional initiative to restore and manage woodlands and green spaces. The Woodland Trust acquired much of the surrounding Maple Hayes estate in the early 1990s, helping protect this area for wildlife and public enjoyment. Conservation efforts maintain the balance between accessible recreation and habitat preservation.

Views and Surrounding Landmarks

From the woodland paths, visitors can catch stunning views of Lichfield Cathedral’s iconic spires and the historic Maple Hays Hall. These vistas provide a scenic backdrop that connects the natural environment with the region’s architectural heritage, enriching the visitor experience with a sense of place and history.

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