The best walks and hikes around RSPB Coombes Valley
4.5
(2388)
18,304
hikers
355
hikes
Hiking around RSPB Coombes Valley takes visitors through a steep-sided wooded valley located in the Staffordshire Moorlands. The landscape features dense oak woodlands, open wildflower meadows, and the meandering Coombes Brook. Trails within the nature reserve offer routes through the forest and to viewpoints overlooking the surrounding area. This 186-hectare reserve provides varied terrain for hikers.
Best hiking trails around RSPB Coombes Valley
- The most popular hiking route is Woodland Percussion Area loop from Staffordshire Moorlands, a 4.9 miles…
Last updated: May 25, 2026
5.0
(1)
7
hikers
7.87km
02:15
180m
180m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
5.0
(1)
6
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
4
hikers
13.1km
03:42
280m
280m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
hikers
7.68km
02:02
80m
80m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
When the Holy Father Leo XIV greeted the faithful in May 2025 – immediately after his election as Pope – his first words deeply touched not only people of the Catholic faith. Perhaps the following words from him may also be a helpful reflection for the hiker pausing before this small sacred monument: + "Peace be with you all! Dear brothers and sisters, this is the first greeting of the Risen Christ, the Good Shepherd... I too desire that this greeting of peace enter your hearts, reach your families, all people, wherever they are, all nations, the whole earth. Peace be with you! This is the peace of the Risen Christ, an unarmed and disarming peace, humble and persevering. It comes from God, the God who loves us all unconditionally." (Leo XIV)
0
0
It’s located between Ipstones and Above Church village. From the road just follow the farm and you’re there. Did I mention it’s on a private land 🫢?
0
0
The Devil's Staircase is situated in Consall Woods in Staffordshire. It consists of 200 thigh-burning steps that lead you through oak trees, wetlands and deep woods.
1
0
GRVL trail runs through some farm gates and it's BUSY at milking time.
0
0
The segment starts just by the wooden gate at the end of Villa Road and finishes at the canal junction near Deep Hayes Country Park
0
0
Cheddleton Flint Mill is a splendid example of a watermill that ground flint for the local pottery industry. It was built sometime around 1760, possibly under the stewardship of the great canal engineer James Brindley. Today, the mill has been fully restored to working order, is Grade II-listed and makes for a fascinating visit. It houses a small museum that offers education to schools and a wealth of information for visitors.
0
0
An old stretch previously used as a tramway.
15
0
A small building which has the distinction of being the first place used by the Methodists for Sunday Services in Cheddleton.
14
0
Frequently Asked Questions
Is RSPB Coombes Valley suitable for a family walk?
Yes, the reserve is very family-friendly. The Natural Play Trail is a short 0.8km loop designed for children, featuring a canopy walkway, den building, and a mud kitchen. It's also accessible for pushchairs.
Can I bring my dog to RSPB Coombes Valley?
To protect the sensitive wildlife and ground-nesting birds, dogs are not permitted on the main trails within the RSPB Coombes Valley reserve. However, nearby areas like RSPB Consall Woods and Ladderedge Country Park are popular spots for dog walking.
What facilities are available at the reserve, like parking and toilets?
The reserve has a visitor centre with maps, information, and toilet facilities. There is on-site parking available. You'll also find picnic benches and several benches along the trails for resting.
Are there any challenging hikes in Coombes Valley?
Yes, for a more rugged experience, you can take on the Woodcock Trail. It's the longest trail in the reserve at 5.2km and features unsurfaced paths, steep sections, and narrow footbridges, taking you deep into the wilder woodland.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see while hiking?
Coombes Valley is a wildlife haven, especially for birds. In spring and summer, listen for migratory birds like pied flycatchers and redstarts. Dippers and kingfishers can often be spotted along Coombes Brook, while the wildflower meadows are great for butterflies.
Are there any good circular walks in the area?
The area is perfect for circular hikes. For a longer, moderately challenging loop that combines woodland and valley views, consider the Woodland Percussion Area loop from Cheddleton, which is just under 8 km.
Is there a pub nearby for a post-hike meal or drink?
Yes, there are several options in the surrounding area. A popular choice after exploring the nearby woods is the Black Lion pub at Consall Forge, which is the starting point for the Black Lion Pub, Consall Forge – Helly's Tea Room loop from Ipstones.
What do other hikers enjoy most about RSPB Coombes Valley?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community. Reviewers often praise the peaceful atmosphere of the ancient oak woodlands, the well-maintained and clearly marked trails, and the beautiful scenery that changes with the seasons.
How many hiking trails are there around RSPB Coombes Valley?
You can explore over 370 hiking routes in the region. These range from short, easy loops within the reserve to more demanding hikes that venture into the surrounding Staffordshire Moorlands.
What are the trail conditions like?
Trail conditions vary. The family-friendly loops are generally well-surfaced and accessible. Longer trails like the Woodcock and Buzzard trails are more rugged, with unsurfaced paths, steps, and potentially muddy sections, especially after rain. Good footwear is recommended for these routes.
Are there any viewpoints with good scenery?
Yes, certain trails lead to a viewpoint that offers panoramic vistas across the valley and the surrounding Staffordshire Moorlands. The Buzzard Trail, in particular, takes you higher up into the woods for rewarding views.
What is the best time of year to visit for hiking?
Coombes Valley offers a great experience year-round. Spring is fantastic for birdsong and bluebells. Summer brings vibrant wildflower meadows. Autumn provides stunning woodland colours, and winter is a peaceful time to spot wintering birds like redwings and fieldfares.
Most popular routes around RSPB Coombes Valley
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
