Best Things to Do in Stafford and Staffordshire

Are you planning a visit to Stafford or Staffordshire but are unsure what to do in the area? If so, then in this blog post you can read about some of the best things to do in both Stafford and Staffordshire including a few towns, cute villages, castles, gardens and obviously hikes. Not to mention some incredibly unique accommodations you can stay at whilst you’re in the area.

Staffordshire is rich in history and heritage, so you’ll find a fair share of factories, museums, shops and estates across the county. You can also visit not one but two of the UK’s best theme parks in the area. It’s also important to highlight the county’s natural beauty that consists of an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), the oldest national park in the UK, Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), plus many valleys, lakes and rivers.

As you can see, Staffordshire offers something for everyone, so depending on your interests, you can enjoy a mix of activities during your stay.

This is a sponsored blog post in collaboration with Unique hideaways who offer many quirky and one-of-a-kind places to stay across England and Wales. As always, all thoughts and opinions are my own.

Introducing Stafford and Staffordshire

The landlocked county of Staffordshire is located in the West-Midlands region of England. It is bordered by Cheshire, Derbyshire, Leicestershire, Warwickshire, the West Midlands County, Worcestershire and Shropshire.

Although the county is most famous for its Staffordshire Bull Terrier, it’s also filled with historic manors, amusement parks, wildlife refuges and offers countless outdoor activity opportunities.

Staffordshire is home to the Peak District National Park and is also home to an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) called Cannock Chase AONB. AONB’s are areas that are both beautiful and important. Therefore, efforts are being made to conserve and enhance their beauty. 

Staffordshire’s county town is Stafford which is a small market town on the River Sow. According to legend, Stafford was founded around 700 AD by a prince called Bertelin. In 913 AD the Burh of Stafford was established which was a fortified settlement. Later, in the 10th century, Stafford became a county town.

During the Middle Ages it was still a small but busy market town, and it wasn’t until the 19th century when the town’s population exploded, growing from 4,000 to nearly 20,000. This number had actually doubled by the 20th century. Today Stafford is still thriving and definitely a town that’s worth a visit considering its rich history.

How to Get to Stafford

By Car: Stafford is located about 24 km (15 miles) south of Stoke-on-Trent and a similar distance to the north of Wolverhampton. It’s also about 40 km (24 miles) northwest of Birmingham and approximately 96 km (60 miles) south of Manchester. Depending on where you’re based in the UK, you can easily reach Stafford by car.

If you don’t have your own car but would like to enjoy the freedom of a private vehicle, then you can always hire a car to tour around Staffordshire.

By Public Transport: Alternatively, you can easily reach Stafford by train or bus. Make sure to plan your journey with Trainline which also provides information on bus fares. In addition, you can also travel by local buses or trains within Staffordshire.

Top Tip – If you’re planning on travelling across the UK by train a lot, then check out some Railcard options which allow you to save some pennies on your train fares.

Unique Places to Stay in Staffordshire

Do you want to get away from all the city noise and enjoy even more time in nature on your holiday? Are you seeking a romantic getaway in Staffordshire with your significant other? Or do you just want to stay in an eco-friendlier accommodation rather than a hotel room? If your answer is yes to any of these questions, then a glamping retreat in Staffordshire will provide you with the perfect opportunity to fully disconnect and recharge whilst exploring this beautiful county in England.

The glamping accommodations below were designed to be quirky and cosy but also comfortable. They are equipped with everything you need and more during your holiday including kitchen facilities, bathrooms, indoor and outdoor dining areas and even hot tubs!

Most importantly, each of these places has eco-friendly features such as solar panels that supply your electricity, refillable toiletries, and low-impact cleaning supplies. You can also enjoy seasonal fruit and vegetables from the gardens. In addition, the owners can lend you bicycles to explore the surrounding area in a more sustainable way.

I bet that one of the following unique accommodations will be the perfect choice for you.

Shepherd’s View

Can you imagine a more romantic getaway than a cute shepherd’s hut with a Scandinavian wood-fired hot tub? What’s even better is that due to its lovely design, it provides the perfect hideaway all year round. 

During the summer months, you can just relax on the patio with a glass of wine in your hand watching the sun go down. However, you can also put the wood-fire on inside and get cosy with a book and some hot chocolate in the winter months. In addition, let’s not forget about the inviting wood-fired hot tub where you can relax in the evening.

The Woodsman

Don’t worry if the Shepherd’s View isn’t available, because there’s another great accommodation option for you: The Woodsman. Since it sleeps two, it’s also perfect for any couples wanting to be away from all the hustle and bustle.

Once again, this cosy cabin would be an excellent choice at any time of the year due to its features which include a wood-fired hot tub and wood-burner. The whole place has got such a cosy vibe and picturesque setting that I bet you wouldn’t want to leave this cabin.

The Potting Shed

Last, but by no means least, you can always choose to stay at the lovely Potting Shed. Both the interior and the exterior combine to make the perfect retreat for anyone wishing to be comfortable but also close to nature.

This cabin actually has a beautiful outside bathtub, where you can soak your sore muscles after a day of hiking or exploring. You can always enjoy your dinner outside looking at the incredible scenery or just cosy up indoors with the wood-burner on. 

Are you heading somewhere else in the UK? Then don’t forget to check out other glamping retreats with hot tub options across England and Wales.

Best Things to Do in Stafford

1. Stafford Castle

Without doubt, one of the best things to do in Stafford is to take a walk up to Stafford Castle. It was built on a hilltop around 1090 by the Normans just to the west of Stafford. The motte-and-bailey castle was first made of wood and then later, in the 14th century, it was replaced with a stone keep.

By the early 17th century, the condition of the castle had deteriorated, and it was actually ordered to be demolished during the English Civil War. In 1813 it was rebuilt in the Gothic Revival Style then fell into ruin once again. Again, the castle was rebuilt in the early 19th century but became abandoned in the 1950s. 

Today, after further restoration works, the castle is considered one of the best surviving examples of Norman earthworks in England. You can freely explore the keep, inner bailey, outer bailey, woodland and herb garden. From the keep, you can also enjoy some panoramic views over the area.

Facilities – Car park (with free parking), small visitor centre, toilets and a small café.

Opening Times – 1st April – 31st October: Visitor Centre – Wednesday to Sunday between 11AM and 4PM, Car Park – 7AM and 8PM; 1st November – 31st March: Visitor Centre – Saturday and Sunday only between 11AM and 4PM, Car Park – 7AM and 6PM.

Entry Fee – Free.

2. The Ancient High House

There are many interesting landmarks you shouldn’t miss in Stafford’s town centre.

One of these landmarks is the Elizabethan Ancient High House, which is the largest surviving timber-framed house in the UK. The Tudor-era house was built in 1595 for the wealthy Dorrington family.

Did you know? – In 1642 King Charles I stayed in the house en-route to Shrewsbury at the start of the English Civil War.

In 1986 The Ancient High House opened as a museum and during your visit you can get an insight into the lives of the people.

Opening Hours: Tuesday – Saturday between 10AM and 4PM.

3. St Chad’s Church

Just across from the Ancient High House is St Chad’s Church, another building you shouldn’t miss in Stafford Town Centre.

It is actually the oldest building in Stafford, dating all the way back to the 12th century. Apparently, the carvings in the archways and on the pillars could have been made by stonemasons from the Middle East. In the 17th and 18th centuries the church adopted a neo-classical style. During this time, the Norman stonework was covered up and was only rediscovered during the restoration works in the 19th century. 

4. Stafford Indoor Market

Located in the heart of Stafford Town Centre is Stafford Indoor Market. Visiting the market is the perfect thing to do in Stafford if you’re looking for cards for all occasions, antiques, jewellery, beauty products and household goods.

Opening Times – Apart from Monday, the market is open every day.

5. Stafford Gatehouse Theatre

Stafford’s main entertainment and cultural venue is the Gatehouse Theatre. The Victorian neo-Gothic building is located on Eastgate Street. It caters for a wide audience with opera, ballet, musicals, live music, and even matinees for kids.

Its Met Studio is actually dedicated to stand-up comedy and in 2018 stand-ups such as Julian Clary, Paul Foot and Ross Noble were some of the many who were booked in. 

If you’re looking for something to do in the evening, then make sure to check out what shows are on here.

Even if you’re not in Stafford to watch a show, you can always just visit its coffee shop and treat yourself with some famous Staffordshire oatcakes. 

6. Shire Hall

Located at Stafford’s Market Place is Shire Hall which is a Palladian courthouse built in 1798. 

The design of this Grade II listed building was by John Harvey who was working as Samuel Wyatt’s assistant. Apparently, Wyatt, who was working on Shugborough Hall at the time, was involved in the final Neoclassical style design of the building.

It used to be Stafford’s courthouse, however until 2017 it was used as an art gallery and library. Since then, the art gallery has closed, and the building only operates as a venue for certain events. However, the council has been considering options for its future use.

7. The Collegiate Church of Saint Mary

Another must do thing in Stafford is to visit the Collegiate Church of Saint Mary. 

The impressive Grade I listed church dates back to the early 1200s. The church has a long history which dates back to the legendary St Bertelin in the 8th century. It’s actually the second oldest building in Stafford after St Chad’s Church. 

It was restored in 1842 by Giles Gilbert Scott. 

8. Victoria Park and River Sow Walk

A walk around Victoria Park and along the banks of the River Sow is definitely a must do when visiting Stafford.

The park opened in 1908 and its original name was Victoria Park Pleasure Grounds. Today, Victoria Park covers an area of 4.95 acres, making it the largest formal park in the borough. The park is home to the County War Memorial and the listed monument of Alderman Mottram Shelter. You can also find a sensory raised garden, a glass house, an education centre and play areas within the park. 

In addition, the River Sow, which is a tributary of the River Trent, runs through the park, adding an extra charm to this green space. 

Only recently, the park was further enhanced thanks to the Heritage Lottery Fund.  

Things to Do in the Vicinity of Stafford

9. Cannock Chase AONB

For any outdoor lovers, visiting Cannock Chase AONB is one of the top things to do in Staffordshire. Because of its beautiful landscape, its wildlife and its history, it was designated as an AONB in 1958. 

Did you know? – Cannock Chase is actually the largest surviving area of lowland heathland, which is a threatened wildlife habitat, in the Midlands.

With an area of 68 square miles, Cannock Chase is actually the smallest AONB in Britain. It’s also often referred to as the jewel of the West Midlands. You can explore Cannock Chase on foot, by bike or even on horseback. Since the area is very important for wildlife, you can expect to see wild deer during your visit. 

10. Shugborough Hall and Estate

The stunning Shugborough Estate is only about 6.5km (4 miles) east of Stafford which makes it a great thing to add to your Staffordshire itinerary. The stately home is also located within the Cannock Chase AONB; therefore, you can definitely visit both on the same day.

Shugborough Estate was initially owned by the Bishops of Lichfield. After the dissolution of the monasteries, it had multiple owners until William Anson purchased it in 1624. It then remained in the family for three centuries.

When the 4th Earl of Lichfield passed away in 1960, the National Trust took ownership of the hall. However, it was then immediately leased to Staffordshire County Council until 2016. Now, it’s once again managed by the National Trust. 

During your visit you can walk around the grounds, visit the hall, the museum, the formal and kitchen gardens and the servants’ quarters. 

Facilities – Car park (with free parking), visitor centre, toilets and cafés. For more information visit the National Trust’s website.

Entry Fee – £13 for adults and £6.50 for children. Note that National Trust Members can enter for free.

11. Eccleshall

Located about 11km (7 miles) northwest of Stafford in the Sow Valley is the historical town of Eccleshall. The town’s history goes all the way back to the Domesday Book. From only being a small village, Eccleshall became an important market town. It was once a centre for leatherwork and shoemaking. During the coaching age it was a popular stop and also developed a reputation for its hospitality. 

Today, you can still sense this hospitality through the fine artisan food and drink that’s served in many of the local cafés and restaurants. The town has many public footpaths, historical buildings and even a 13th century Holy Trinity Church.

Visiting Eccleshall is definitely a lovely and relaxing thing you can do in Staffordshire.

12. The Mill Meece Pumping Station

If your visit lands on a Sunday and you’re looking for something interesting to do around Stafford, then definitely head over to the Mill Meece Pumping Station. The station is only a short drive to the north of Eccleshall, so once again, you can definitely combine your visit.

The Edwardian water pumping station was built to supply water to Staffordshire’s Potteries.

Did you know? – It’s actually the second pumping station in the area. Hatton Pumping Station is only located about 3.2 km (2 miles) to the north and it was built between 1890 and 1907.

Although it shut down in 1979 you can still tour around it every Sunday. For more information, visit the pumping station’s website. 

Additional Things to do in Staffordshire

13. The Peak District National Park

Located in the heart of England at the southern edge of the Pennines is the Peak District National Park. For outdoor lovers, a visit to the park should be top of their Staffordshire itinerary.

The Peak District is the oldest national park in the UK, covering an area of 555 sq miles (1,438 sq km). It covers most of Derbyshire, parts of Cheshire, Greater Manchester, Yorkshire and of course Staffordshire. The national park is full of scenic hiking and walking trails, natural wonders, a rich history and is home to many myths and legends. 

Below are some of our favourite walks and hikes that fall within the Staffordshire part of the Peaks:

• The Roaches and Lud’s Church – A 10 km circular route filled with stunning views, history and legends. Click here to read it.
• Three Shires Head Walk – A picturesque waterfall, located at the meeting point of three counties in the north of England: Cheshire, Derbyshire and Staffordshire. Click here to read it.
• Dovedale Stepping Stones – A 6-mile circular route with beautiful views, stepping stones and the coolest limestone formations. Click here to read it.
• Thor’s Cave and the Manifold Valley – Click here to watch our adventures.

Want to explore more of the Peak District? Click here for more hiking trails and places to explore in the national park.

14. RSPB Coombes Valley

Another great thing to do in Staffordshire, especially for nature lovers, is a visit to RSPB Coombes Valley. It’s located about 4.8 km (3 miles) east of Leek on the southern edge of the Staffordshire Moorlands. The reserve opened in 1962 and is the oldest RSPB reserve in the Midlands.

The 100-hectare nature reserve is very important for upland and lowland woodland birds, but it’s also home to other habitats such as native oak woodland. It is also designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest.

You can enjoy one of its nature trails, go bird watching or have fun at its canopy walkway. (Trust me, the latter is fun for even adults).

15. Biddulph Grange Garden

If you’d like to do something unique in Staffordshire, then definitely add a visit to Biddulph Grange Garden to your itinerary. 

The Victorian Garden is located in Biddulph, to the north of Stoke-on-Trent in Staffordshire. It was created by James Bateman to display his excessive collection of plants that he and his wife had collected from around the world. The garden you see today has gone through a lot of changes and been used for many different purposes over time. In 1988 the National Trust took ownership and restoration works began. 

Today, the 15 acres (6.1 ha) of landscaped garden are divided into different themes such as Egypt, China and Italy showing you something unique from those places.

If you love combining travel, science, religion and horticulture, then you’ll definitely enjoy your visit to this stunning National Trust property. 

Facilities – Car park (with free parking), visitor centre, toilets and cafés. For more information visit the National Trust’s website.

Entry Fee – £11 for adults and £5.50 for children. Note that National Trust Members can enter for free.

Click here for a detailed blog post about Biddulph Grange Garden or click here to watch our adventures at this National Trust site.

16. Mow Cop Castle

If you’re after panoramic views of Staffordshire, then make sure to visit Mow Cop Castle. Since 1937, it’s been owned by the National Trust and can be accessed by the public. 

Fun Fact – The castle was built by the Wilbraham family and it’s actually not a castle but a folly. The intention of this folly was for it always to look ruined. 

From the top you won’t only get to see the Staffordshire moorlands but can also admire the Cheshire Plain. To make the most of your visit, make sure to follow the Mow Cop Trail which is a 1.6km (1 mile) long trail. Along this path you’ll pass a huge rock that’s called the Old Man o’Mow. It’s called ‘old man’ because from certain angles it looks like a sitting figure. 

Click here to see our adventures at Mow Cop Castle.

Final Thoughts on Things to Do in Stafford and Staffordshire

Whilst Staffordshire can be a bit overlooked and is a lesser visited county compared to others in England, it offers plenty of unique things to do and places to stay. From hiking, to visiting historical sites, to wondering around picturesque towns, you really can’t go wrong by choosing this county as your holiday destination. Plus, don’t forget about the amazing glamping sites where you can relax after a long day of exploring.

Stafford itself is also a beautiful county town to visit and you could easily spend a few days just exploring its surrounding area. 

We’ve definitely added additional things to do in Staffordshire to our map and are very much looking forward to visiting these marked destinations. 

Have you ever been to Stafford or Staffordshire before? If so, how much of the area did you manage to explore? Let me know in the comments below.

Now, let your adventure begin,

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