Explore six new walking routes in Cannock Chase and accessible trails

Cannock Chase. Photo by Sam Carpenter.

Combat the January blues by exploring six new walking trails in Staffordshire’s stunning Cannock Chase National Landscape. 

The new trails have varying lengths and difficulties and are suited for a range of abilities so there is something for everyone. 

Each new trail has its own leaflet, which maps out the route and provides interesting facts about the sights walkers will encounter. They are available to download online, can be picked up from Cannock Chase Visitor Centre and have been developed with the help of the Staffordshire Ramblers. 

The six new routes are as follows: 

• Wolseley and the Trent Valley – 6.5 miles long - approximately 2.5 hours. 
• Tixall and Shugborough – 5.5 miles – approximately 2 hours or alternative option of 7.5 miles – approximately 2.75 hours. 
• Sow Valley – 8.25 miles – approximately 3 hours. 
• Rugeley and Cannock Chase Forest – 9.25 miles – approximately 3.5 hours. 
• Around Castle Ring and Beaudesert Old Park – 5.25 miles - approximately 2 hours. 
• Around Rugeley Camp and Fairoak Valley – 4.75 miles - approximately 2 hours. 

To help residents plan their visits to Cannock Chase, National Landscapes have produced video tours for six short accessible trails in Milford Common, RAF Hednesford and Brindley Heath.  

These trails range from 1.25 miles to 2.25 miles and are estimated to take between one and two hours to complete. 

These videos can be found on the Cannock Chase National Landscape website. 

Staffordshire County Council (SCC) is part of the Cannock Chase National Landscape partnership, which brings together local authorities, statutory agencies, landowners and community representatives to conserve and enhance the area’s natural beauty. 

Cannock Chase Country Park is managed by the county council.   

Cabinet member for Communities and Culture at Staffordshire County Council and Chair for Cannock Chase National Landscape Joint Committee, Victoria Wilson, said:

“Going into the new year, it’s important that we all prioritise our health and wellbeing by staying active and, what better way to do that than to explore the beautiful National Landscape on our doorstep? 

“The six new self-guided walks range from short gentle routes to steeper and more challenging trails. The online video tours for the accessible routes enable people to see what they can expect ahead of their visit. 

“I want to ask those visiting the Chase to please respect other users and help us to preserve its natural beauty by keeping to designated footpaths, horse and cycle routes.”