Cannock Chase may be one of the smallest Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty in the country, but it’s certainly doesn’t scrimp on appeal. Known as the Woodland Jewel of Central England, the AONB is one of the most popular outdoor destinations in Staffordshire and if we’re being frank, the West Midlands as a whole. Once a hunting forest for medieval royalty, today the 69-square kilometre forest protects a unique ecosystem of ancient woodlands, towering conifer plantations, windswept heathlands, lush river valleys and rolling farmland. Not to mention some impressive historic parklands and heritage properties. Look no further for our top 8 Cannock Chase walks for this year.
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A Woodland Oasis in the Heart of England
With around 2 million people living within 30 kilometres of the Cannock Chase AONB boundary and more than 9000 living within the park itself, the forest is no stranger to human activity. As well as dozens of large towns and villages, Birmingham is a mere 25-mile drive away. So, it’s especially amazing when you lace up your boots, start ticking off Cannock Chase walks and realise just how pristine this pocket of Central England is.
The area is laced with walking and hiking trails for every level, making it popular with a huge variety of visitors. From families with toddlers in tow to long-distance hikers training for multiday backpacking trips, you’ll see all sorts on Cannock Chase walks.
Ready to join them? Here are a few of our favourite Cannock Chase trails to get you inspired.
Abraham’s Valley Trail
Dig out your most comfortable pair of boots because Abraham’s Valley Trail will test your endurance. The trail meanders for 12.5 miles through the picturesque Sherbrook Valley, with moderate elevation and some great highlights along the way. There’s a great little café at the car park where you might want to grab an espresso and a slice of banana bread before you set off.
Within minutes the trail has you meandering through open heathland, passing by mature pine plantations and birch woodlands. The trail skirts a crystalline brook for much of the distance so why not bring along a LifeStraw, SteriPen or steriliser tabs to stay hydrated as you hike?
Highlights include picking your way across the Stepping Stones, a series of rocks that form a makeshift bridge across a shallow pond. Of course, if you’re wearing tough waterproof boots you could always splash your way through. You’ll also descend into the trail’s namesake, Abraham’s Valley. Don’t forget to slow down to soak in the views, which range from wide open heathland to sun-dappled woodlands.
The forest is still a haven for wildlife, with native fallow deer often seen grazing in the forest. Birders should keep an eye out for nightjars and woodlarks, while reptile enthusiasts can spot European adders and common lizards basking in the sunshine. Two out of six of Britain’s reptiles isn’t bad for a pint-sized AONB. If you’re looking for something a little shorter, the Pepper Slade Loop is slightly easier at 7.5 miles long.
Length: 12.5 miles
Average time to complete: 4 hours
Starting point: Cannock Chase Forest Main Car Park
Fairoak Trail
Short and family-friendly, the Fairoak Trail passes through mature forests and woodlands. It loops around the Fairoak Valley, taking you past glassy pools that are often dotted with ducks and swans. This is deer territory so keep an eye out for wildlife. You could also spot the rare Cannock Chase berry, a hybrid species found only in Staffordshire.
The Fairoak Trail has special appeal for history buffs as it was once the site of a 19th-century coal mining factory. Listen out for nightjars, which migrate to Europe from Africa in the summer. They can be hard to spot but they’re easier to hear, with a distinctive song that sounds like a revving motorbike.
Length: 2.5 miles
Average time to complete: 1 hour
Starting point: Birches Valley Car Park
Ladyhill Trail
Flat and well-trodden, the Ladyhill Trail is perfect for young kids, families with strollers and anyone else in search of a gentle but scenic hike. Wheelchairs will also sail across this well-maintained trail, making it great for grandparents.
The trail is packed with kid-friendly features, including adorable Fairy Trees with tiny doors and staircases meticulously carved into the bark. If you loved Oaky Doke as a kid these will definitely make you smile. Venture deeper into the woods and you’ll come across a colourful Gruffalo Sculpture inspired by Julia Donaldson’s beloved children’s book. If you hear Ladyhill referred to as the Gruffalo Trail, this is why.
Length: 1 mile
Average time to complete: 20 minutes
Starting point: Cannock Chase Visitor Centre
Castle Ring
The Castle Ring does factor in some elevation, but you’re rewarded with sweeping views over the AONB and the surrounding countryside. The Iron Age fort is perched more than 240 metres above sea level, one of the highest hilltops on Cannock Chase. At over 2000 years old, the Green Flag Heritage Award site recalls the rich history of the area and is one of seven ancient forts in Staffordshire. This trail is popular with dog owners so expect to see plenty of pups enjoying the walk on a sunny day. Things can get a little muddy in the winter so it’s best to wear waterproof boots and as always, a good pair of merino socks.
There are plenty of opportunities to spot local wildlife, including black darter dragonflies and green hairstreak butterflies. The trail starts in the village of Cannock Wood, a great excuse to finish with lunch at the atmospheric Park Gate Inn.
Length: 5 miles
Average time to complete: 2 hours
Starting point: Village of Cannock Wood, car park opposite Park Gate Inn
Shugborough Estate
On the northern boundary of Cannock Chase, Shugborough Estate strikes an imposing figure. This ancestral home was once home to the Earls of Lichfield, though is now maintained by the National Trust. The building is stunning but it’s the 900-acre grounds that really steal the spotlight. There are several well-marked trails to explore, some of our favourites listed below. While all are dog-friendly, you’ll need to keep your dog on a leash to avoid disturbing livestock, wildlife and nesting birds.
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Monuments
At less than one mile long, the Monuments Stroll is a great intro to the park. It takes you through the picturesque formal gardens and past some of the estate’s most impressive monuments, including the Doric Temple, Chinese House and Cat’s Monument.
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Hadrian’s Arch
The trail to Hadrian’s Arch is a little longer at one mile and takes you up to a grassy hilltop. From the summit you’ll enjoy fantastic views over the estate and the countryside. There are some steep sections so be sure to wear sturdy shoes. After you’ve burned off some calories head to the Park Farm Café for scones, jam and tea.
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Stafford Plantation
Woodland scenery is the main attraction on the Stafford Plantation route, with several different paths offering a “choose your own adventure” experience. If you’re feeling really adventurous bring an OS map and venture into the Satnall Hills. Again, there are some stee sections and the paths can get pretty muddy so it’s best to wear grippy, waterproof footwear even in the summer.
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Essex Bridge and Great Haywood Cliffs
This five-mile walk takes you beyond the crowds to some of the less explored areas of Shugborough Estate. After crossing Essex Bridge, the path veers right and takes you up to Great Haywood Cliffs, a historic sandstone quarry that’s now overgrown with native woodland. Along the way you’ll get photo-worthy views of Shugborough Estate, Hadrian’s Arch and the surrounding Staffordshire countryside.
Cannock Chase War Trail
Starting close to the village of Brocton, the Cannock Chase War Trail takes you on an evocative walk past some fascinating military sites. You’ll pass by hilly terrain where huts operated by the Women’s Auxiliary Corps once stood, as well as the Katyn Memorial which honours the Polish soldiers executed in the woods in the 1940s. You can also pay your respects at Freda’s Grave, the final resting place of the beloved Dalmatian and mascot of the New Zealand Rifle Brigade of 1918. Her collar and leash are still on show at a military museum in New Zealand.
Length: 7.5 miles
Average time to complete: 4 hours
Starting point: Coppice Hill Car Park
Rugeley to Colton Circuit
With the option of walking either four or six miles, the Rugeley to Colton Circuit can be customised to suit your fitness level and timeframe. After meandering through a woodland, the track joins the iconic Staffordshire Way. You’ll eventually pass through the village of Colton before hitting the Mersey Canal and crossing over a historic aqueduct.
You’ll pass by two cosy pubs on the Rugeley to Colton Circuit, making it ideal for walkers who like to combine business with pleasure. If you can resist ducking in for a pint, another option is lunch in the Rugeley town centre where you’ll find some great cafes and pubs. On a sunny day the outdoor beer garden at The Chase is the place to be.
Length: 4 – 6 miles
Average time to complete: 2 – 3 hours
Starting point: Rugeley Trent Valley Railway Station
Tolkien Trail Cannock Chase Walks
This is one of three walks in the area that celebrate the county’s connection to the legendary author. Developed by Staffordshire Libraries, the three trails stretch for a collective 30 miles and take you through some of the most evocative landscapes Cannock Chase has to offer. It’s through parts of Cannock Chase inspired Middle Earth, so don’t be shy about rustling up your favourite Lord of the Rings quotes.
Tolkien spent a good chunk of time living in Staffordshire during his time with the British Army. His experience not only immersed him in the beautiful landscapes of Cannock Chase and Staffordshire, but also sparked an infatuation with ancient languages and mythology. The Cannock Chase portion of the Tolkien Trail passes through Brocton Camp where new British Army recruits were trained, then rambles through the Oldacre Valley and past the landmark glacial boulder. You’ll finish back at Coppice Hill Car Park, a stone’s throw from Stafford. Second breakfast anyone?
Length: 12 miles
Average time to complete: 4 hours
Starting point: Coppice Hill Car Park
Staffordshire Way
No roundup of Cannock Chase walks would be complete without a nod to the Staffordshire Way. The long-distance stretches for 92 miles across the county and showcases picturesque countryside, charm-soaked villages and handsome estates. The Eastern Valleys and Cannock Chase section is a highlight and passes directly through the AONB.
Serious hikers load up their backpacks and complete the Staffordshire Way in around eight days, either camping or staying at B&Bs along the way. If 92 miles sounds a little intimidating (we don’t blame you!) it’s also hugely rewarding to hike the Staffordshire Way in sections. We’d definitely recommend the scenic section through Shugborough Estate, as well as the path up to the glacial boulder dragged down from Scotland during the Ice Age.
Length: 92 miles
Average time to complete: 8 days
Starting point: Mow Cop Castle in Peak District to Kinver Edge
Caring for Cannock Chase
With so many incredible walks to discover, Cannock Chase feels much bigger than its 69-square kilometre footprint. We always recommend sticking to marked trails for safety and environmental conservation reasons, but if you’re confident with a map and compass there are some great off-the-grid Cannock Chase walks,
With responsible exploring in mind, it’s worth mentioning that the tiny footprint of the Cannock Chase AONB means the area receives up to five times more visitors than Lake District National Park in terms of usage density. More than 2.5 million visitors a year descend on the park, which makes it more important than ever to practice “leave no trace” principles.
While not as popularised in the UK, the American movement is designed to educate people using pristine natural areas. In Cannock Chase, this means packing out all litter and food scraps, staying on marked trails to protect new growth, cleaning up after your dog and leaving any rocks, plants and other natural features as they are.