With some of the most spectacular scenery in the UK, the Staffordshire Moorlands has everything from Peak District gritstone rocks to luscious rolling valleys. It’s a fantastic destination for walkers, cyclists and rock-climbers, plus adrenaline-fuelled fun for all the family at Alton Towers Resort.
Things to do in Staffordshire Moorlands
Discover the Staffordshire Moorlands’ historic market towns, Leek, Cheadle and Biddulph, each with vibrant town centres, independent shops and eateries, and cultural attractions portraying the area’s heritage.
Before hunting for bargains in Leek’s antique shops, boutiques and Leek Markets, explore the Nicholson Museum & Art Gallery and Brindley Mill, dedicated to ground-breaking canal engineer James Brindley, the man behind the Trent & Mersey Canal who lived in Leek for most of his life.
Visit the beautiful St Giles’ Catholic Church in Cheadle, also known as Pugin’s Gem, and regarded by many as one of the architect’s finest works – even above more well-known examples like the Houses of Parliament!
And you can’t miss the glorious gardens at Biddulph Grange Garden painstakingly restored by the National Trust to make the most James Bateman’s amazing plant collection.
Ideas for family days out in Staffordshire Moorlands
Set in 550 acres of Staffordshire countryside, Alton Towers Resort, is the UK’s biggest theme park. It has some of the UK’s most iconic rollercoasters including Wicker Man, Nemesis Reborn and Oblivion. It’s home to the unique CBeebies Land, with rides and attractions celebrating characters from the popular BBC TV kids’ channel, and there’s a hotel complex on the site with its own sub-tropical indoor Waterpark!
Go on a wild adventure at Peak Wildlife Park, RSPB Coombes Valley and Tittesworth Water.
Journey back in time on a heritage steam train at Foxfield Steam Railway, or Churnet Valley Railway, via picturesque stations and cosy tea rooms. Beside the stunning Rudyard Lake – a favourite of Rudyard Kipling’s parents – there’s also the Leek & Rudyard Steam Railway.
Staffordshire Moorlands Walks
This is serious walking country! Head to The Roaches, Dovedale or the Manifold Valley for challenging hikes and breath-taking beauty. Meander along the Caldon Canal, a branch of Brindley’s creation, following the towpath as it winds through the captivating Churnet Valley, or take a relaxing stroll around the numerous country parks.
Each Spring the district plays host to the Staffordshire Moorlands Walking Festival with a packed programme of guided walks for all ages and abilities.
Staffordshire Moorlands Food & Drink
You’ll have the pick of the crop when eating out in Staffordshire Moorlands. Award-wining eateries include, Duck Goose Bistro, The Ramblers Retreat and the Black Lion Inn at Butterton. Round off your visit at one of Staffordshire’s hidden gems, The Flintlock at Cheddleton an AA 3 Rosette restaurant, the brainchild of chef Thom Bateman.
Staffordshire Moorlands Accommodation
There are amazing places to stay and hotels in Staffordshire Moorlands, with choices for budget accommodation through to luxurious boutique stays. Check out The Tawny Hotel, The Three Horseshoes Inn and the Izaak Walton Hotel.
Perfect for theme park visitors, Alton Towers Hotels offer a mind-blowing complex of themed hotels, lodges and tree houses all with en-suite rooms and themed suites, plus glamping pods for a more relaxed stay.
Other places to stay around the district, include bed and breakfast accommodation, self-catering properties and caravan & camping sites.
Find out more by visiting https://discoverstaffordshiremoorlands.co.uk/
