Discover Staffordshire

At The Roaches, public footpaths cross a landscape that invites visitors to hike, climb and observe nature. Staffordshire combines these outdoor experiences with a rich history of pottery and industry. You can tailor your trip to focus on the landscape, culture or a mix of both.

Landscapes and trails in Staffordshire

The Roaches is designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest and is part of both the South Pennine Moors Special Area for Conservation and a Special Protection Area. Its trails offer access for hiking and nature watching; climbing is also one of the activities mentioned. Trail conditions can vary by season, so check the situation before your visit.

Another landscape is Cannock Chase: at 69 square kilometres, it is the smallest National Landscape in mainland England. The area offers opportunities for hiking, cycling and horse riding. Its public rights-of-way network includes 157 kilometres of public rights of way, including sections of the Heart of England Way and the Staffordshire Way. If you are planning a particular route, check access before you travel, as individual routes and facilities may change.

Part of the Peak District National Park is also in Staffordshire. The national park covers 555 square miles in total, around 20 percent of which lies in Staffordshire. In this section, the rugged landscape of The Roaches and the gentle hills of the Manifold Valley offer contrasting scenery. Hiking and cycling are possible activities here. These figures give an indication of the area's size and Staffordshire's approximate share, rather than a precise boundary for route planning.

Pottery, industrial history and railway journeys

The Wedgwood Factory Tour takes you behind the scenes of production made in England. The V&A Wedgwood Collection Tour focuses on Josiah Wedgwood I, his achievements and innovations, and his family life. At the World of Wedgwood's Clay Studio, visitors can make their own pot on a potter's wheel with guidance; studio availability may vary. The ceramics experience therefore ranges from production and its history to working with the material yourself.

Museums offer further insights into pottery and industrial history from different perspectives. Gladstone Pottery Museum is the world's last complete Victorian pottery factory. Visitors can throw, make or decorate a souvenir there; check current participation options in advance. The Potteries Museum and Art Gallery displays Staffordshire ceramics and objects from the Staffordshire Hoard. The Etruria Industrial Museum explores the development of Britain's canal network and the role of pioneering canal engineer James Brindley. The Apedale Heritage Centre presents the industrial heritage of Apedale Valley and the history of the surrounding region.

For those interested in heritage railways, the Churnet Valley Railway offers another option: its historic steam train journeys pass through the Staffordshire countryside. A programme of events runs throughout the year; operating days and timetables may vary. It's worth checking the specific dates when planning your visit. Unlike a museum visit, the focus here is on the journey through the landscape.

More experiences and regional travel information

Other attractions include the rides and roller coasters at Alton Towers Resort. CBeebies Land is an area of the resort offering family-friendly experiences. Drayton Manor Resort combines a range of rides with a large zoo; it is also home to Thomas Land, described as Europe's only Thomas Land. Trentham Estate brings together the Italian Gardens, a lake and a shopping village. Each of these destinations has its own appeal, from themed attractions to gardens, a lake and shops.

Rail and road can help you find your way around the region when planning your journey. The West Coast Main Line connects Staffordshire stations, including Stoke-on-Trent, Stafford, Lichfield and Tamworth, with cities such as London, Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Glasgow and Edinburgh. Services and timetables change, so check connections for your travel date. By car, the M6 runs through Staffordshire from north to south. Junctions are located at Stoke-on-Trent and Newcastle-under-Lyme, Stafford and Cannock.

You can also make local food and drink part of your trip: the Staffordshire oatcake is a savoury pancake made with oat flour, flour and yeast, and a local speciality of Stoke-on-Trent and the surrounding areas. You can try one at traditional oatcake shops, including several in North Staffordshire. Nelson’s Distillery & School offers tours and tastings; visitors can also create their own blend of gin, vodka or rum there. Check dates and booking options for these experiences.

Discover more destinations

Uttoxeter, Hatherton, Whitmore, Tutbury, Stone, Newport, Loggerheads, Drointon, Hilderstone, Combridge, Hollington, Oakamoor, Leek, Ashley, Brocton, Perton, Coven, Silverdale, Gayton, Branston, Rolleston-on-Dove, Hanchurch, Barton Under Needwood, Flash, Wetley Rocks, Great Haywood, Longnor, Whittington, Meerbrook, Eccleshall, Cheddleton, Endon, Seisdon, Madeley, Hopwas, Alton, Dunston, Hamstall Ridware, Himley, Kinver, Burton-upon-Trent, Trentham, Tamworth, Stafford, Rugeley, Penkridge, Pattingham, Newcastle Under Lyme, Long Compton, Lichfield, Ecton, Cannock, Brewood and Burntwood.

For the broader travel overview: West Midlands.