Best attractions and places to see around Catton include a mix of historical sites, natural landscapes, and cultural landmarks. The area, particularly near Derbyshire and Staffordshire, features significant historical industrial heritage alongside medieval architecture and serene water features. Visitors can explore sites ranging from ancient furnaces and canals to historic cathedrals and tranquil pools, offering diverse experiences.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Highlight • Historical Site
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The canal is a lovely place for a walk, especially on a sunny day when the water reflects beautifully. There's a large forest area adjacent to the canal, with trails leading back to the path. You'll also find a museum, some small shops, and public restrooms. It's a great place for a day out, whether you're looking for adventure, walking the dog, fishing, or just grabbing a bite at the cafe!
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lovely walk. donisthorpe woods great for pushchairs etc. path to oakthorpe walkers only
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Opening Times Monday - Saturday 10:00 - 17:00 Sunday 12:00-17:00
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The first church was built here in about 700AD. Then the Normans built the first cathedral soon after the invasion of 1066. This was then rebuilt in a gothic style in 1340. The building has been besieged several times during the English Civil War it suffered great damaged but was mended soon after the war finished. The cathedral was then restored again in the 19th century to roughly what you see today. It's the only English medieval cathedral with three spires. The cathedral is normally open to visitors from 10:00 - 17:00 on Mon to Sat and 12:00 - 17:00 on Sundays.
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Apart from the obvious, this is just a nice place to stop for a rest.
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Around Catton, particularly in the Derbyshire and Staffordshire areas, you'll discover a rich blend of historical sites, natural landscapes, and cultural landmarks. These include significant industrial heritage sites, medieval architecture, and serene water features. You can explore everything from ancient furnaces and canals to historic cathedrals and tranquil pools.
Yes, the area is rich in history. You can visit Moira Furnace and Canal, a historical site with industrial heritage, or the stunning Lichfield Cathedral, a medieval church unique for its three spires. Another notable historical spot is the Erasmus Darwin House Museum and Herb Garden in Lichfield, which was the family home of the renowned doctor and inventor.
You can enjoy various outdoor activities. For easy walks, explore routes like the 'Sunset View at Barton Marina loop' or 'Path Section loop from Walton-on-Trent'. There are also options for gravel biking and mountain biking, with trails around Moira Furnace and Donisthorpe Woodland Park. Find more details on these activities in the easy hikes, gravel biking, and MTB trails guides for Catton.
Absolutely! Many attractions are suitable for families. Moira Furnace and Canal offers accessible footpaths, a visitor's centre, museum, and a children's play area. Lichfield Cathedral and Minster Pool also welcome families, providing engaging historical and natural sights.
For picturesque views, visit Minster Pool, a reservoir south of Lichfield Cathedral, offering lovely views over the water and the cathedral itself. The canal paths around Moira Furnace and Canal also provide beautiful waterside walks, especially on sunny days when the water reflects the surroundings.
There are two notable Catton Halls. The one near Walton-on-Trent, Derbyshire, is a Georgian manor house that has been home to the Nelson family since 1405. It features fine art, period furniture, and a richly decorated private chapel. It is set in parkland beside the River Trent. While it hosts events like the Bloodstock Open Air festival, public visiting hours for the house itself may vary. The other Catton Hall is near Old Catton, Norwich, a late 18th-century mansion set in parkland landscaped by Humphry Repton.
Yes, Moira Furnace and Canal offers good free parking, making it convenient for visitors to explore the historical site, museum, and surrounding canal paths.
Visitors particularly appreciate the blend of history and nature. Many enjoy the easily accessible footpaths and the historical significance of sites like Moira Furnace and Canal, especially its connection to J.R.R. Tolkien. The stunning architecture and peaceful atmosphere of Lichfield Cathedral, and the scenic views from Minster Pool, are also highly rated.
Yes, the area around Moira Furnace and Canal is noted for its easily accessible footpaths, making it a good option for visitors using wheelchairs or pushchairs.
Lichfield, home to Lichfield Cathedral, Minster Pool, and Erasmus Darwin House, has plenty of nice cafes, pubs, and eateries that are worth visiting after exploring the city's sights.
While specific opening hours vary by attraction, many sites like Lichfield Cathedral are open year-round. The canal walks and outdoor areas are particularly pleasant on sunny days. Checking individual attraction websites for current opening times is always recommended.
Beyond the Cathedral, you can explore Dr Milley's Hospital in Lichfield, an almshouse with parts dating back to 1652, and a rich history of providing accommodation for women in need. It's a Grade II* Listed building with a chapel in its oldest section.


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