Explore Newcastle-under-Lyme

Explore Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough. Tucked away in the heart of Staffordshire, the local countryside offers a place to reconnect, reflect, and recharge, whilst the historic market town brims with independent shops, pubs and eateries.  

Discover the Great Outdoors in Newcastle-under-Lyme’s countryside 

Breathe deep, walk far, feel free. The Staffordshire countryside here will make you discover that the world is bigger, richer, and more beautiful than you remembered. Come and Find Your Favourite Place. 

Step into over 450 acres of rolling meadows, woodlands, and industrial heritage. Apedale is more than just a country park; it's a journey through time and terrain. Explore winding trails that lead you through lush green valleys, spot rare wildlife in the woodlands, or climb to one of the many scenic viewpoints for panoramic vistas of the borough. 

Don’t miss the Apedale Heritage Centre for a glimpse into the area's mining past. 

Centred around a shimmering lake fringed with reed beds and trees, Bathpool Country Park is a peaceful retreat just minutes from Kidsgrove. It’s a hidden treasure with woodlands, wildlife and perfect picnic spots.  

One of Newcastle-under-Lyme's best-kept secrets, Parrot’s Dumble near Talke Pits is a secluded woodland valley with steep-sided banks, cool canopies, and babbling brooks rich in biodiversity and folklore charm.  

Small but soul-stirring, Target Wood is perfect for early morning walks. This patch of protected woodland buzzes with birdsong in spring and wears a golden crown in autumn. It’s a peaceful pocket of wilderness right on the edge of the borough and a reminder that you don’t have to travel far to find somewhere truly special. 

Just a short drive from Newcastle town centre lies Hanchurch Hills. Here, tall trees stretch upwards like nature’s spires, leaving a cathedral-like canopy beneath, perfect for a walk, cycle or horse ride. Spot deer in the undergrowth or birds of prey circling overhead.  

A visit to Mow Cop Castle feels like stepping into a storybook or entering a castle in the sky. Perched dramatically on the edge of a gritstone ridge, this iconic folly watches over the Cheshire Plain and the Staffordshire Moorlands. 

It’s not just the views here that take your breath away; it’s the feeling of standing on top of the world, the wind on your face, the horizon stretching endlessly in every direction. On clear days, you can see as far as Snowdonia. 

Towns and Villages 

Explore Newcastle-under-Lyme town centre, where history whispers from red-brick facades, and independent spirit thrives on every street. 

Wander through the charming, pedestrian-friendly streets of the town centre and you’ll quickly feel the pull of Newcastle’s unique blend of traditional and contemporary. 

Forget the high street clones, here you’ll find independent shops brimming with character. Discover hand-crafted jewellery, vintage treasures, artisan gifts, and unique locally-made delights. 

Newcastle’s food scene is worth sampling, too. From cosy cafés to trendy eateries, ale houses to cocktail bars, there’s something to delight every palate. Try a candlelit dinner in a restored Georgian building or share tapas and laughter in a vibrant bistro. 

Don’t miss the historic outdoor market, trading since the 12th century. With fresh produce, crafts, flowers, antiques and more, it's a colourful experience that captures the true spirit of Newcastle-under-Lyme. 

Kidsgrove 

Discover Kidsgrove, a town centre with a local heart, tucked on the edge of Staffordshire’s northern border. This is a traditional, compact town centre surrounded by greenery. 

On the high street, you’ll find independent shops, cosy eateries, friendly florists, family-run bakeries, and everything in between. If you love to shop local and support small businesses, you’ll feel right at home here.