4.6
(675)
4,793
hikers
265
hikes
Easy hiking trails around Salt And Enson traverse a diverse landscape in Staffordshire, UK. The region is characterized by the scenic Trent Valley and the Trent & Mersey Canal, which often form part of the routes. Hikers can explore pleasant Staffordshire countryside, including the parkland surrounding Sandon Hall, and sections of forestry land. The area also provides access to the northern part of Cannock Chase Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), featuring heathland and additional canal sections.
Last updated: May 19, 2026
4.6
(5)
18
hikers
5.60km
01:27
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
43
hikers
6.04km
01:32
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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36
hikers
6.48km
01:39
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
16
hikers
7.72km
01:58
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
14
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Essex Bridge is a historic, Grade I listed packhorse bridge located at the Shugborough Estate in Staffordshire, England, which crosses the River Trent. Originally built in the 16th century, it is notable as the longest surviving packhorse bridge in Britain and was constructed for Queen Elizabeth I's use, linking the estate to nearby woodlands. It is one of the oldest bridges in England that has not been altered. The bridge is situated over the River Trent near Great Haywood and is an integral part of the Shugborough Estate, a National Trust property. It was built around 1550 by the Earl of Essex for a visit from Queen Elizabeth I so she could access hunting grounds on the other side of the river. It is the longest surviving packhorse bridge in Britain, with 14 of its original 40 arches still intact today. The bridge is a Grade I listed monument and is one of the oldest un-altered bridges in England. source: internet
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Fun long bridge over rivers and streams. I saw ducklings.
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Able to get a double buggy over
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This is The Lanthorn of Demosthenes, sometimes called “The Dark Lantern”, designed by James “Athenian” Stuart, and was the last of the Shugborough structures he contributed.
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Hadrian's Arch is a neoclassical triumphal arch designed by the renowned architect James 'Athenian' Stuart. It was constructed in the mid-18th century as part of the extensive landscape design at Shugborough Estate. The arch is inspired by the architecture of ancient Rome and Greece, reflecting the neoclassical style popular during that period.
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Essex Bridge is historically significant, dating back to the early 17th century. It was built between 1550 and 1554, making it one of the oldest surviving stone bridges in England. The bridge is situated in a tranquil and scenic setting, surrounded by lush greenery and the natural beauty of the River Trent. It provides a charming view of the river and its surroundings.
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Wicked little cut through! Do-able on any bike - Watch out for Pedestrians - Use a Bell!
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Salt And Enson offers a wide selection of easy hiking trails. There are over 160 easy routes, making up a significant portion of the more than 270 total hiking tours in the area. This ensures plenty of options for all skill levels.
Easy hikes in Salt And Enson showcase the diverse Staffordshire countryside. You'll find scenic sections along the Trent Valley and the historic Trent & Mersey Canal. Many routes also pass through pleasant parkland, such as around Sandon Hall, and offer glimpses of beautiful forestry land. The area provides views towards the northern part of Cannock Chase AONB, featuring heathland and charming villages.
Yes, many easy hikes in Salt And Enson are suitable for families. The gentle terrain and varied landscapes make for enjoyable outings. For example, the Shugborough Estate loop – Cannock Chase is a popular choice, offering a gentle exploration of the estate grounds.
Many of the easy trails in the Salt And Enson area are dog-friendly, allowing you and your canine companion to enjoy the Staffordshire countryside together. Always keep dogs under control and be mindful of local signage, especially when passing through farmland or areas with livestock.
Yes, the region features numerous circular easy hiking routes, perfect for starting and ending your journey in the same spot. A great option is the Bench by the Canal – Workhouse Bridge loop from Little Stoke, which offers a pleasant waterside circuit.
For a shorter, easy walk, consider the Park loop from Stafford, which is just over 3 km and can be completed in about an hour. Another good option is the Shared Path for Cycling – Silkin Way Cycle Path loop from Stafford, which is around 4.4 km.
The easy trails around Salt And Enson offer access to several interesting natural features and landmarks. You might encounter the unique Sherbrook Stepping Stones, the historic Essex Bridge, or the impressive Glacial Boulder, Cannock Chase. Some routes also pass through ancient oak woodland.
Easy hikes around Salt And Enson vary in length and duration. Many popular easy routes can be completed in under two hours, such as the Shugborough Estate loop – Cannock Chase which takes about 1 hour 27 minutes. Longer easy options, like the Stone Canal Lock – Weak Bridge loop from Sandon, can take closer to two hours.
The easy hiking trails around Salt And Enson are enjoyable year-round. Spring brings blooming wildflowers and fresh greenery, while autumn offers beautiful foliage along the canal and in forested areas. Summer is ideal for longer days, and even winter can be pleasant for a crisp walk, especially on well-maintained paths.
The easy trails around Salt And Enson are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 600 reviews. Hikers often praise the tranquil setting, the well-maintained paths along the Trent & Mersey Canal, and the pleasant Staffordshire countryside, making for relaxing and accessible outdoor experiences.
Yes, the Trent & Mersey Canal is a prominent feature of the region, and many easy routes incorporate sections of its scenic towpath. The Stone Canal Lock – Weak Bridge loop from Sandon is a great example, leading you through the canal network and offering waterside views.
While popular routes can see more visitors, the extensive network of over 160 easy trails around Salt And Enson means you can often find quieter paths. Exploring routes slightly off the main attractions or visiting during off-peak hours can help you discover more secluded sections of the Staffordshire countryside and canal paths.


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