Eccleshall: History and Walking Routes

Eccleshall combines historic buildings, walking routes and regular local events. This means that several themes can shape your travel plans: architectural history, routes through the town and parish, and markets and shows. Which of these define your stay depends on whether you are primarily interested in the town’s history, outdoor activity or attending an event.

Castle, Church and Local History

Eccleshall Castle is a quadrangular castle, with historical records dating back to its construction. The monument includes a 14th-century bridge, the moat and a body of water alongside it. These features give the castle its architectural and landscape setting; the bridge adds an element from a later period to the castle complex.

The Church of the Holy Trinity also offers concrete insights into Eccleshall’s architectural history: the chancel, arcades and tower largely date from the 13th century. The church also contains the graves of four Bishops of Lichfield. The Eccleshall Memorial Cross commemorates a different aspect of the town’s history. It was dedicated in 1921, later extended with additions relating to the Second World War, and is designated a Grade II listed monument. It commemorates local men who died in the war.

The town’s history also includes industries of the past: glass was made and leather was processed in Eccleshall. These activities complement the buildings by offering a glimpse of the work that was once part of local life.

Walks and Green Spaces

The Eccleshall Bench to Bench Walks comprise six walks around Eccleshall. Public benches serve as places to rest along the way. Walk 1 is a circular route of approximately 5,289 metres, or 3¼ miles. It runs along country lanes and across Elford Heath, past the Church of the Holy Trinity and through the historic High Street. The street features 18th-century houses; a library, cafés and a clock are also among its notable features.

Walk 6 runs along Castle Street and footpath 12, passes the church and then continues through the High Street. The difference between the routes as described is clear: Walk 1 is circular and includes Elford Heath, while Walk 6 follows the named sections of streets and paths. You can therefore choose based on the approximate distance and route, without treating the two walks as equivalent tours.

The Eccleshall Parish Council maintains more than 130 public footpaths in the parish. Route conditions and information sheets may change, so check the latest details before setting out. The landscape also offers a range of places to explore: Town Meadow is a well-preserved historic green space in Eccleshall. Elford Heath has picnic benches, woodland, a pond and an open area.

Markets, Shows and Food

The events calendar brings together a range of local interests. The Tern Valley Vintage Vehicle Show takes place annually in Eccleshall. The Eccleshall Show is also an annual event: it is a traditional agricultural show that attracts visitors from a wide area. Event dates and arrangements may change, so check the specific details before your trip.

A farmers’ market selling locally produced goods takes place on the fourth Saturday of every month. As market dates may change, it is advisable to check the date before making plans. Eccleshall also has restaurants and cafés serving food. As individual businesses may change, check the latest details with the restaurants and cafés when making specific plans.

Discover more destinations: Madeley, Drointon, Dunston, Lichfield, Tamworth, Whittington, Hollington, Coven.

For the wider travel overview: Staffordshire.