2. Lovers of Victoriana will adore Biddulph Grange Country Park

This 73-acre park was originally part of the larger Biddulph Grange Estate and shares many of the garden’s Victorian features. Managed by the Staffordshire Wildlife Trust, Biddulph Grange Country Park feels wilder with more woodland, open meadows, a large lake, and deep ponds to explore.

The mixture of Victorian-themed landscaped views and natural features was designed by industrialists James Bateman and Robert Heath. Visitors here have the chance to discover an authentic historic landscape as laid out by its early 20th century creators. A network of themed paths across the park allows gentle and accessible exploration of the meadows, parkland and wooded areas.

There's a large lake and fully restored stone boathouse, which date from 1903 and form a stunning central feature. Fishing tickets are available from the Hideaway café which is open Saturday and Sunday 10am - 4pm, Monday and Tuesday 10am - 3pm, plus extended opening during school holidays. The site's working hydroelectric scheme dates from 1904, providing sustainable power for local use.

Bird lovers will find a range of woodland birds here, including the great spotted woodpecker, jays, nuthatch and chiffchaffs. If you’re lucky, you might spot fieldfares and redwings feeding on the holly berries. Listen for the soft whistles of bullfinches in hedgerows and scrub along the woodland edge. The magnificent trees provide spectacular autumn colour.

Biddulph Grange Country Park is close to the Biddulph Valley Way from Congleton to Stoke On Trent. If out on your bike, turn for the Country Park at Bailey’s Bank or Marsh Green Road.

There are toilets and accessible toilets open from dawn until dusk.

Location

Address: Biddulph Grange Country Park, Grange Road, Biddulph, ST8 7TZ

Parking: The site is signposted from the A527 Stoke-on-Trent to Congleton Road, 1 mile north of Biddulph. Turn into Grange Road, pass the National Trust Biddulph Grange Garden and the main car park is half a mile on the right.

There is parking for 40 cars.

Disabled Access:  Paths have been restored and new ones created to give easy access through the park. The site is on a hillside but there is wheelchair access as far as the main pool.