With sunny days, beautiful green spaces and shimmering lakes, Staffy knows exactly what time it is… playtime in the parks.
Home to some of the country's most spectacular parks, gardens and green spaces, Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent are packed with places made for summer days well spent.
To celebrate Love Parks Week (24 July – 2 August), Staffy has rounded up some of his favourite spots. Think historic castle grounds, lakeside strolls, colourful gardens and wide-open spaces where you can run, climb, play and discover together. This week's School's Out for Staffy Summer adventure is all about fresh air, freedom and making memories together.
Follow Staffy's lead and explore the great outdoors
1. Big Adventures at Cannock Chase Country Park 
With ancient woodland, forest trails and family cycling routes to wildlife-rich landscapes, Cannock Chase Forest is built for summer fun. Add in the enchanting Room on the Broom Trail and the action-packed Pedal and Play area, and it's easy to see why this woodland playground sits near the top of Staffy's favourite places to explore.
2. Wander, Play and Explore at Trentham Estate 
Discover a day of adventure at Trentham Estate, where lakeside walks wind through colourful gardens, enchanting fairy sculptures and family-friendly attractions. Explore beautiful outdoor spaces, enjoy seasonal treats and make memories along the way. Keep your eyes peeled during your visit – you never know where Staffy might pop up this summer!
3. A Summer Escape at Shugborough
Grand parkland and peaceful canals with an historic farmyard and riverside trails, National Trust Shugborough Estate packs plenty into one unforgettable day out. Every path reveals a different side of the estate, making it easy to spend hours exploring its spaces and beautiful landscapes. With so much to see, even Staffy can't decide where to stop first.
4. Chase Colour at Biddulph Grange Garden
Not many places can transport you around the world in a single afternoon, but National Trust Biddulph Grange Garden does exactly that. Twisting pathways lead through extraordinary garden spaces inspired by different countries and cultures, making every turn feel completely different.
Just next door, Biddulph Grange Country Park offers woodland trails, open spaces and plenty of room for a family picnic after exploring the gardens.
Two neighbouring gems, one memorable day out.
5. Riverside Moments at Victoria Park, Stafford
Sometimes the simplest summer days are the best.
In the heart of Stafford, Victoria Park is a place to enjoy and soak up the sunshine. Wander among colourful flower displays, take a riverside stroll along the River Sow and let off steam on the play equipment. Staffy's favourite way to round off a visit? A stop at Albert's Café, where great views and tasty treats are all part of the experience.
6. A Royal Summer at Tamworth Castle Grounds 
Staffy's taking a royal detour at Tamworth Castle Pleasure Grounds. With a magnificent Norman castle and over 1000 years of history at its heart, this glorious riverside green space is ideally located in the centre of Tamworth’s historic town. A much-loved destination, it blends heritage, play, leisure and outdoor fun in one easily accessible setting.
7. A Grand Day Out at Weston Park 
With acres of spectacular parkland and 40 Days of Play filling the summer calendar, Weston Park turns a day into something much bigger. From family trails and giant games to outdoor entertainment and The Granary Restaurant, there's always another reason to stay a little longer. It's no wonder Staffy keeps finding ways to extend his visit.
8. Ilam Park: Staffordshire's Countryside at its Finest 
With the peaceful River Manifold flowing through its parkland and spectacular Dovedale just around the corner, National Trust Ilam Park showcases Staffordshire's Peak District countryside at its finest. The views are so impressive that even Staffy struggles to keep moving.
9. Waterside Walks at Westport Lake
Surrounded by peaceful waters, nature trails and abundant wildlife, Westport Lake is a great place to enjoy the outdoors in Stoke-on-Trent. Managed by Staffordshire Wildlife Trust, the lake offers scenic walking routes where visitors can spot birds, dragonflies and other local wildlife. Staffy has been exploring the waterside paths, taking in the views and discovering one of the city's most tranquil green spaces.
10. Peak District Views at Tittesworth Water 
Staffy's camera roll is filling up fast! With the dramatic backdrop of The Roaches rocky outcrop and the Peak District gritstone reflected across the water, Tittesworth Water is one of Staffordshire's most scenic, yet highly accessible, summer escapes. Breath taking views, waterside trails, outstanding play areas and first class a Visitor Centre make it easy to see why visitors return time and time again. Some places deserve a moment to stand still and take it all in.
11. All Aboard at Chasewater Country Park 
At Chasewater Country Park, the adventure doesn't stop at the reservoir shoreline. Alongside family-friendly walking trails, cycling routes and wide-open spaces, Staffy recommends hopping aboard the popular Chasewater Railway., It’s a great way to explore the country park and enjoy a heritage train ride at the same time!
Explore Staffordshire's National Trust Hidden Gems
Wightwick Manor pairs stunning gardens with one of the finest Arts and Crafts collections in the country, while Moseley Old Hall brings history to life through its charming gardens and royal connections. At Kinver Edge and the Rock Houses, hidden cave-dwellings and far-reaching views make for one of Staffordshire's most unusual outdoor experiences. Each of these places is managed and maintained by the National Trust, Europe’s biggest conservation charity, looking after nature, beauty and history for everyone to enjoy.
Join Staffy this Love Parks Week
From grand estates and hidden gardens to lakeside escapes and woodland trails, Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent's green spaces are ready to be explored. However you spend your summer days, Love Parks Week is the perfect excuse to get outdoors and see where Staffy's adventures take you next.
So, lace up your walking shoes, plan a well-earned food stop and follow Staffy into the countryside
After all, Staffordshire isn't just the Beating Heart of England this summer – it's the Nation’s Playground waiting to be explored.