Itinerary: 72 hours in the Staffordshire Moorlands

Day 1

Let’s kick-off your break with something unusual. A morning at the National Trust's Biddulph Grange Gardens definitely ticks that box, taking you on a magical journey through a garden that encapsulates the sense of exploration and adventure of the Victorian era. From Egyptian ‘pyramids’ to the Chinese garden, this is the perfect opportunity to meander through time and place.

Next door, Biddulph Country Park offers 70 acres to explore, while the town itself is a couple of minutes’ drive away for morning coffee, brunch or a wander around the town centre.

A scenic drive past Rudyard Lake takes you to Leek, which has a range of outdoor and indoor markets on regular days each week, as well as a great selection of independent shops in the bustling town centre.

Day 2

Walking, cycling and riding are all great ways to get around the Staffordshire Moorlands. Depending on your skills and experience, you can stroll along towpaths or marked trails like the Manifold Track, walk around Tittesworth Reservoir or take a more bespoke route along sections of the National Cycleway.

With more than 900 miles of public rights of way across the district, there are plenty of options to explore and some truly stunning hidden gems to discover.

Lud’s Church, part of The Roaches is a dramatic cleft in the rock shrouded in myth and legend, while the tale of Mermaid’s Pool is enough to send shivers down the spine.

The stepping stones at Dovedale is a popular attraction, and just a short stroll from the car park. While the Three Shires Head – where the borders of Staffordshire, Derbyshire and Cheshire all meet – is a fantastic destination for experienced walkers.

Thor’s Cave at Wetton and Hen Cloud near Leek offer panoramic views, with landmarks such as Jodrell Bank in Cheshire visible on clear days.

Chrome Hill – known as the Dragon’s Back – is a spectacular walk that embodies the spirit of the Peak District and is just a stone’s throw from Longnor, where the cobbled market square is home to a café, pub, craft centre and chip shop.

Small children in tow?  If walking isn’t an option head to the Peak Wildlife Park, where conservation, education and entertainment blend into an unforgettable experience, with walkthrough enclosures, animal encounters and expert talks.

If you prefer to explore in comfort, the Churnet Valley Railway is an excellent option for a journey through glorious countryside aboard a heritage mode of transport.

After a busy day, take time to relax over a delicious meal and recount your adventures. If you’re thinking fireside chats and hearty craft ales, head out to one of Staffordshire’s pretty villages where traditional country pubs offer fantastic food and a welcoming atmosphere.

Day 3

After two days of exploration and action, it’s time for some rest and relaxation before you begin the journey home.

Connect with nature by spending time at some of the special sites in the Moorlands that are preserved and managed by Staffordshire Wildlife Trust, the RSPB or National Trust.

Embrace the peace and simply observe, listen and feel the natural energy around you.

Near Biddulph, Marshes Hill Common is all that’s left of a once extensive heathland that covered the area. Visitors can enter for free and enjoy a short circular habitat trail or begin the longer six-mile Brown Edge Green Vale self-guided walk. Wildlife spotted here includes linnets and meadow pipits, green hairstreak butterflies and emperor moths.

Not far from Leek is the spectacularly wild Black Brook nature reserve, where the call of curlews heralds the spring and visitors can walk up to Gib Torr rocks for wonderful views across the moorland landscape.

Short-eared owls nest on the site, where moorland plants such as heather, bilberry and cotton grass create ideal habitats for endangered upland birds, and where, occasionally, lucky visitors might just spot a rare red grouse.

In the very heart of Cheadle, a 1.25km stretch of the Cecilly Brook is a natural oasis that is home to rare water voles.

With wildflower meadows and mature hedges, the reserve is a peaceful place to walk, with a pathway that’s accessible for wheelchairs and pushchairs.

Weekday visitors can stroll along the high streets and take their pick of tempting cafes, tea rooms and coffee shops, while lunchtimes on Sundays are often best spent enjoying a roast dinner at a pub or restaurant.

Important Considerations for Your Trip:

Opening Times: Always double-check the opening times and any potential entry fees for attractions.

The weather in Staffordshire can be variable, so be prepared with layers and an umbrella if needed.

Are any local events or festivals happening in the Staffordshire Moorlands on your specific day of travel? Check before you travel to make the most of your day by checking our What's On page.