With a rich mining heritage and a stunning designated National Landscape at its heart, Cannock Chase District is a magnet for walkers, mountain bikers and lovers of the great outdoors. Each of the district’s three main towns, Rugeley, Hednesford and Cannock are connected to the landscape.
Things to Do in Cannock Chase District
Immerse yourself in the breath-taking beauty of Cannock Chase, Britain’s smallest mainland National Landscape (previously known an Area of Outstanding Beauty or AONB) on a visit to Cannock Chase District.
An idyllic setting laden with leisurely walks and cycle trails the former Royal hunting forest is famed for its herd of wild deer, rolling hills, purple heather and miles of quiet woodland tracks to explore.
Discover Cannock Chase forest on horse-back through the Cannock Chase Trekking Centre, providing off-road riding for all abilities, from gentle treks to exhilarating days out under instruction from the experienced team.
At Hednesford, uncover surprising secrets at the Museum of Cannock Chase, with exhibitions exploring the area’s contribution to the Allies’ war efforts during World War One, its mining heritage, and the hundreds of species of wildlife which call the Chase home.
For captivating culture, head for the Prince of Wales Theatre for great live music, West End shows, and ballet, or there’s the Premier Suite for tribute acts and gala dinners with sporting greats.
Ideas for Family Days Out in Cannock Chase
Near Rugeley the Birches Valley Forest Centre is a hub for adrenaline-fuelled activities and adventure. Try the high ropes course at Go Ape Cannock Chase, with 1500m of tree top crossings, plus rope swings, all-terrain segways and stunning views from the 260m zip wire.
Cannock Chase has built a reputation for challenging and technical mountain-bike trails, however there are also relaxing routes for leisure cyclists and families to have a go at which start from the Birches Valley site. They are they are free to use, open all-year round, and great for a laidback stroll too.
The easy Ladyhill Trail is a circular one-mile route which is accessible for wheelchairs, pushchairs and prams, as well as bikes. See if you can spot the Fairy Trees on your way, and don’t forget to look out for The Gruffalo!
Towards the edge of the Chase, Shugborough Estate, boasts a fine Georgian mansion house, complete with servants’ quarters and a working farm, Lord Lichfield’s private apartments and beautiful Grade II listed gardens to admire.
Shop 'til you drop at McArthurGlen Designer Outlet West Midlands, the UK's newest designer shopping destination, located on the outskirts of Cannock town just five minutes walk from the railway station. Here you'll find luxury sought-after brands like BOSS, Calvin Klein, Nike, Kate Spade and many more, together with restaurants and eateries, enough for a full day of retail therapy!
Food & Drink in Cannock Chase District
There are tantalising treats to savour at Springslade Lodge, famed for its fabulous afternoon teas, Canalside Farm – a hotspot for fruit-picking – and the Woodlands Restaurant at Chase Golf Club, while there’s the Inferno, the world’s hottest curry, to take on at Dilshad if you dare!
Cannock Chase Accommodation
There are amazing places to stay around Cannock Chase and hotels in Cannock, with choices for budget hotels through to self-contained accommodation. Check out Dalraddy Cottage, meander along Cannock’s tranquil canals with Anglo-Welsh Holidays, or spot fallow deer at the Silver Trees Holiday Park.
Other places to stay around the district, bed and breakfast accommodation, self-catering properties and caravan & camping sites.
To find out more about the district visit https://www.cannockchasedc.gov.uk/visitors/what-do/visit-cannock-chase
