Things to Do around Cannock Chase

Cannock Chase is a National Landscape in Staffordshire, recognized for its unique lowland heathland, extensive woodlands, and varied geological formations. It is mainland England's smallest National Landscape, covering approximately 26 square miles (69 square kilometers).

Cannock Chase offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, touring cycling, jogging, road cycling, and gravel biking. The area features diverse terrain suitable for various skill levels and interests.

Cannock Chase features 157 km of public rights of way for hiking, including sections of long-distance paths like the Heart of England Way and the Staffordshire Way. Accessible trails, such as 'The Route to Health,' are also available. More information can be found in the Hiking around Cannock Chase guide.

Cannock Chase is known for its mountain biking facilities, offering 26 miles of formal cycle trails, with 74% being singletrack. Popular trails include 'Follow the Dog,' 'The Monkey Trail,' and 'Perry's Trail,' along with a downhill park at Stile Cop. The MTB Trails around Cannock Chase guide provides further details.

Touring cyclists can explore an extensive network of 82 miles of bridleways and multi-use leisure trails throughout Cannock Chase. The 'Pedal & Play' trail is available for children learning off-road cycling skills. The Cycling around Cannock Chase guide offers route suggestions.

Cannock Chase offers accessible trails for walkers, such as 'The Route to Health,' and the 'Pedal & Play' trail for children learning off-road cycling. Many routes are suitable for families, providing varied terrain and distances. The Easy hikes around Cannock Chase guide can assist in finding suitable options.

Cannock Chase features the largest surviving area of lowland heathland in the Midlands, extensive woodlands, and ancient broadleaved trees. Castle Ring, an Iron Age hillfort at 794 feet (242 meters), marks the highest point and offers panoramic views. Small lakes, river valleys, and wetlands are also present.

Cannock Chase is generally dog-friendly, with many trails and areas suitable for walking dogs. Visitors should ensure dogs are kept under control, especially in areas with wildlife or livestock, and adhere to local signage.

Cannock Chase is a popular destination on komoot, with more than 800 routes available for exploration. These routes have received an average rating of 4.55 out of 5 stars from over 32,000 visitors.

Cannock Chase is home to diverse wildlife, including endangered species such as the nightjar, woodlark, adder, and bog bush-cricket. Wild herds of fallow deer, numbering around 800, roam the area and are considered an emblem of the Chase.

Cannock Chase has over 1,000 cultural heritage assets, including remnants of a medieval hunting landscape and historic houses. Significant military history is present, such as the German Military Cemetery, which contains nearly 5,000 burials from both World Wars.

The official website for the Cannock Chase National Landscape is www.cannock-chase.co.uk. For general inquiries or visitor information, the Cannock Chase Visitor Centre at Marquis Drive can be contacted at 01543 876741.