Hiking in Staffordshire

In Staffordshire, you can find beautiful hiking trails. These include the Barlaston Downs, Monsal Trail, Monsal Moor and Cannock Chase. You can also find trails in the Hope Valley, which is in the Peak District. Here, you can take a 12-hour hike to Mam Tor, one of the country's best ridge walks.

Cannock Chase

If you're looking for a great hike in Staffordshire, look no further than the beautiful Cannock Chase. This forest-based trail features beautiful views, wildlife, and history. The trails are also popular with mountain bikers. In fact, the Cannock Chase woodland will be the site for Mountain Biking events at the upcoming Commonwealth Games. The 12-mile Cannock Chase trail boasts almost 144,740 Instagram hashtags.

For literature lovers, the Tolkien Trail over Cannock Chase is a must-do. The author took inspiration for his novels from many places in the UK, including this location. In fact, he spent time convalescing at the base during the first world war. The hike is also great for those interested in military history.

Barlaston Downs

Several different routes are available for those who want to explore the beauty of the countryside and explore the different aspects of the area. For example, you can go on a short stroll through Stafford's market town, along the River Sow. You can also explore the town centre and visit local landmarks like the Church of St Mary and the memorial. For a more strenuous trek, you can head north to the Staffordshire Moorlands Walk trail.

Another great walking route in Staffordshire is the Peak District. It offers stunning scenery and wildlife encounters. Hiking in this area will allow you to explore the area's ridgeline, where flowering heather can be seen. This route offers numerous routes to choose from, including one through a quaint village called Lud's.

Downs Bank

Staffordshire is nestled in the heart of England's Midlands, and boasts a variety of hiking experiences. From the limestone grandeur to the awesome gritstone ridges, you'll be spoilt for choice. There's also the National Forest, England's most ambitious green project, and hundreds of miles of trails to explore.

The National Trust's Downs Bank offers a short circular walk through woodland and heath. It also offers panoramic views. The Edgbaston Reservoir covers 70 acres and is a popular place for wildlife. Birds, newts, and bats can be seen in this natural sanctuary. The walk is wheelchair accessible and takes in the beautiful surroundings.

If you prefer a more challenging walk, there are several popular routes in Staffordshire. There are easy routes that are suitable for beginners, as well as harder routes that include steeper ascents. Many of the walks can be downloaded for free, and some even come with GPS files for added convenience.

Monsal Trail

If you are considering taking a walk in the countryside, consider the Monsal Trail. This area of Staffordshire is steeped in industrial history. Its limestone quarries produced quicklime and coal used in the steel industry. It was also a vital supply for the agricultural industry. The railway brought coal to burn in the lime kilns and take away the quicklime.

The Monsal Trail begins at Bakewell and takes about 45 minutes to an hour to cycle without stopping. However, if you choose to cycle the whole distance, you will probably need two to three hours. The route is easy to cycle, though there is a small incline heading towards Wye Dale. At the end of the trail, you'll reach the junction with the Pennine Bridleway.

Peak District

One of the most popular hikes in the Peak District is Jacob's Ladder, situated between Edale and Kinder Scout. The scenery is stunning, and you'll pass a charming stone bridge over the River Noe and purple heather hills. If you're feeling ambitious, try standing on one foot.

Staffordshire's countryside combines the best of the English countryside with quaint villages, grand country houses, and centurion English oaks. In the heart of the county is the Peak District, Britain's oldest national park, and it's a breath of fresh air. Hikers will find a variety of trails and scenery in the Peak District, including gritstone ridges and limestone grandeur. It's also home to England's newest woodland environment, the National Forest, and hundreds of miles of hiking trails.

The Peak District has a wide range of accommodation options, including hotels, hostels, and B&Bs. Camping is a popular option, and there are a variety of campsites available throughout the region. Many campsites are open from spring to autumn. Wild camping is also popular, though it isn't strictly legal.