Walking in the Staffordshire Moorlands

The stunning landscape of the Staffordshire Moorlands rolls out the red carpet for fans of walking. 

Head outdoors and it can feel like a film set, offering a glimpse behind the lens of changing scenes including rocky gritstone backdrops, wild moorland, rolling hills, sweeping valleys, ancient woodland, gentle dales, and much more.  

This is an area that prides itself on offering adventure for all, creating active experiences with the freedom and space to explore. 

Scramble over hills and rocks to get views that set the heart racing, or tackle purpose-made trails and walking routes.  

Enjoy rural contrasts along The Staffordshire Way, a long-distance footpath of 92 miles, which offers an insight into all the variety and diversity the district has to offer.  

Starting at the landmark Mow Cop Castle, this pathway runs through stunning Staffordshire Moorlands countryside and skirts the historic town of Leek for good measure. 

Created by Staffordshire County Council in response to a recognised demand for access to the countryside, easy accessibility for as many people as possible was an essential factor in determining the route.  

Head to Tittesworth Reservoir a gem of a place where the water glistens like a jewel and enjoy some of the UK’s most stunning and dramatic countryside from different perspectives.  

A network of pathways takes families, groups and solo walkers on scenic, circular routes around the water and surrounding countryside 

With a choice of four trails, there’s something for everyone, and the chance to experience wildlife on route, from the electric flash of a kingfisher to the evocative call of a curlew. 

Biddulph Valley Way marks the spot where the Midlands meets the Northwest, linking the Staffordshire and Cheshire border along a disused former railway that offers a direct route to some impressive countryside. 

With a mixture of embankments, cuttings, small copses, hedgerows and ditches, the path is surfaced to provide an inclusive trail. 

Look out for woodland plants including bluebells, wood anemones, wood sorrel and yellow archangel on route. 

The Churnet Way starts its 30 mile journey under the watchful gaze of The Winking Man, a rock famous in the Staffordshire Moorlands for looking like a man and giving passers-by a wink of the eye as they travel past along the A53. 

It’s an iconic beginning for a route bursting with experiences, with highlights including The Roaches, Consall Forge, Churnet Valley Steam Railway, Cheddleton Flint Mill, Hawksmoor Nature Reserve, and, of course, the River Churnet, as well as the River Dove. 

As the pathway progresses towards the south of the county, enjoy plenty of opportunities to experience traditional Moorlands hospitality and fuel up  with delicious food and drink options. 

For panoramic views that stretch across counties, head to The Roaches for walks that have won over hearts and minds for generations.  

Named after Roches, the French word for rocks, a wide variety of pathways criss-cross the ridge and its rock formations to provide an epic experience for walkers, whatever the language. 

Feel the variety of the area, which includes dramatic moorlands, lush green spaces, and a dash of mystery and legend with folklore favourites Doxey’s Pool and Lud’s Church.   

A deep limestone valley of steeply wooded slopes and towering rock pinnacles, the Manifold Valley is the picture-perfect location for walks. 

Travel through the valley along the accessible Manifold Track, which offers almost nine miles of world-class countryside between Hulme End and Waterhouses.  

Stroll through chocolate box villages, rise to the challenge at the limestone cliff of Beeston Tor and explore the fascinating mining remains of Ecton Hill, which was once home to a bustling industrial area rich in copper mining.  

With its dramatic, symmetrical entrance, the archway of Thor’s Cave offers a window of opportunity to connect with the past and enjoy some of the best views the UK countryside has to offer. 

A star of films, the front cover of The Verve’s first album, photoshoots and video, the cave can be accessed by well-equipped walkers keen to see first-hand this popular attraction. 

There are several routes to get to Thor’s Cave, which is situated in a steep limestone crag, approximately 80 metres (260 feet) from the bottom of the valley.   

Dovedale has been a popular destination since the 18th Century, enticing walkers to this corner of the Staffordshire Peak District National Park with its charm and beauty for generations. 

A choice of walks is available, running along the waterside and surrounding hills in this linear area, which follows the course of the River Dove for around three miles. 

The terrain includes a variety of inclines, stiles and steps, with different routes for all levels, offering a mixture of steep and gentler routes.  

Take a stroll around charming Rudyard Lake and enjoy a variety of opportunities, from a brief amble along the shore, to a walk all the way around the lake. 

The area has the benefit of convenient car parking, much of which is free.  

Walkers can expect to cover five miles walking around the lake, on a route that divides into two parts. 

The east side of the lake follows the line of the area’s popular miniature railway track, offering a flat and straight surface with relatively easy walking. 

Did you know Staffordshire has its own Three Peaks Challenge? It’s a great attraction for ambitious walkers, and the fantastic news is that the peaks are all located in the Staffordshire Moorlands. 

The Staffordshire 3 Peaks Challenge Walk takes in numerous highlights and landmarks over a 16-mile journey. 

Crossing rough and uneven ground for much of the way, and offering up 900m of ascent, participants can expect stunning views and panoramas at the summits of The Roaches, Oliver and Cheeks Hill, in ascending order.