Best natural monuments around Uttoxeter are found in a region characterized by rolling hills, river valleys, and woodlands. The area offers a variety of natural features and attractions, providing opportunities for outdoor activities. These natural spaces are ideal for walks and connecting with the local environment. The landscape provides scenic routes for exploration and enjoyment.
Last updated: May 19, 2026
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Reasons for Designation Bowl barrows, the most numerous form of round barrow, are funerary monuments dating from the Late Neolithic period to the Late Bronze Age, with most examples belonging to the period 2400-1500 BC. They were constructed as earthen or rubble mounds, sometimes ditched, which covered single or multiple burials. They occur either in isolation or grouped as cemeteries and often acted as a focus for burials in later periods. Despite limited antiquarian investigation the bowl barrow on Toot Hill survives well. This investigation located pottery dating to Prehistoric and Roman periods and confirmed this monument as a rare example in Staffordshire of a bowl barrow re-used in Roman times. Further evidence of interments and grave goods will exist within the mound and upon the old landsurface. The monument includes a bowl barrow located on a hill top on the north-east side of a plateau 150m north of Forest View. It survives as a flat-topped oval earthen mound up to 2.3m high with maximum dimensions of 27.5m by 23m. Limited antiquarian investigation of the barrow located pottery sherds identified as a collared urn and a Roman storage jar, and a number of flint flakes. https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1008710?section=official-list-entry
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At 11:11 am on 27 November 1944 a huge explosion occurred at the RAF Fauld underground munitions facility. The accident caused over 3,500 tonnes of bomb and ammunition to explode, which resulted in this massive crater. The site is still considered dangerous with possible unexploded ordnance, so please obey the signs and stay on the path.
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This was erected in 1900 as a memorial to Sir Thomas Percival Haywood. The fountain is still fed by a spring and reservoir!
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The village cross and drinking fountain are in stone. They are on two steps, and have an octagonal pedestal with an inscription, containing a spring in a recess with a shaped head and a semicircular projecting trough. On the pedestal is an octagonal base carrying an octagonal shaft and a foliated cross. Grade II listed, 1900
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"On an autumn night, the Earl of Shrewsbury was returning to his home at Alton Towers when an old woman suddenly appeared in the road ahead of his horse and coach. The coach stopped to find why she was there at which point the old woman begged for a coin. The Earl cruelly dismissed her, so the old woman stated that she would place a curse on him. The old woman told the Earl that for every branch on the Old Oak Tree that fell, a member of the Earl’s family would die. The Earl dismissed this and carried on his way. That the same night, a violent storm caused a single branch from the old oak tree to break and fall. Later that evening, a member of the Earl’s family suddenly and mysteriously died. Now firmly believing the power of the curse, the Earl is said to have ordered his servants to chain every branch together to prevent other branches from falling." The Oak tree remains chained up.
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This is one of seven great rocks for bouldering in this locality. You can include it in a tour of all of them in an hour and a half should you choose. This one is easy to find as it is directly on the footpath through Toothill Wood. There is a great section under the rock that would make a ideal shelter if you needed to make use of it in a fix. Or the kids may like to use it as a den.
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Near Uttoxeter, you can discover several distinctive natural monuments. One notable site is The Chained Oak, an ancient tree steeped in local legend. Another is the Fauld Explosion Crater Memorial, a massive crater formed by a wartime event, now a significant historical and natural landmark. For a geological feature, visit Toothill Rock, which is part of a bouldering area and offers natural shelter.
Yes, several natural monuments in the area have historical significance. The Chained Oak is famous for its local curse and historical legend. The Fauld Explosion Crater Memorial marks the site of a massive munitions explosion during WWII. Additionally, the Toot Hill Bowl Barrow is an ancient funerary monument dating back to the Late Neolithic and Bronze Age, with evidence of Roman-era reuse.
The region around Uttoxeter offers diverse outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking and walking along the River Dove, which is celebrated for its beauty and offers scenic routes. The surroundings of Croxden Abbey also provide public footpaths through rolling hills. For more structured routes, explore the hiking routes around Uttoxeter, or consider cycling routes that pass through the picturesque countryside.
Absolutely. Toothill Rock is considered family-friendly, offering a section that can provide shelter or be used as a 'den' by children. Bramshall Park, located within Uttoxeter, is also a popular spot for leisurely strolls and picnics, providing an accessible outdoor space for families.
For easy walks, consider exploring the well-maintained gardens of Bramshall Park within Uttoxeter. The general countryside around Uttoxeter, particularly along the River Tean and River Dove, offers numerous footpaths suitable for various abilities, including shorter, family-friendly options. You can find specific easy routes, such as the 'Bear Café Uttoxeter loop from Uttoxeter' or the 'Toot Hill Bowl Barrow loop from Uttoxeter', within the hiking guide for the area.
The River Dove valley is an excellent choice for nature walks, offering a 'purest Chrystalline stream' experience and pastoral countryside. The tranquil surroundings of Croxden Abbey also provide expansive views and peaceful public footpaths. Cotton Dell is another highly recommended spot for those seeking a serene escape into natural surroundings. Dimmingsdale Mill Pond, part of National Trust's Dimmingsdale, is very popular for walkers seeking a blend of natural beauty and historical elements.
While not widely publicized, Cotton Dell is mentioned as a 'particular favorite' for those looking to connect with nature and enjoy a serene environment near Uttoxeter, offering a refreshing escape. The wider network of footpaths through the rolling hills and river valleys, such as those heading east towards Doveridge, can also lead to quiet, picturesque spots away from the main trails.
The natural areas around Uttoxeter, particularly along the River Dove and in woodlands like Dimmingsdale, offer opportunities for wildlife spotting. The River Dove is historically noted for being 'fullest of fish'. The broader Staffordshire Way, which connects to areas like Blithfield Reservoir, is known as a great spot for bird watching. Keep an eye out for various bird species, small mammals, and aquatic life in these natural habitats.
Yes, Toothill Rock is one of seven great rocks in its locality suitable for bouldering. You can include it in a tour of all the bouldering spots in the area, which can be completed in about an hour and a half.
The landscape around Uttoxeter is characterized by rolling hills, picturesque river valleys, and woodlands. It offers a blend of pastoral fields and quiet natural spaces, providing scenic routes for exploration and enjoyment. The River Dove forms a significant natural feature, contributing to the area's beauty with its 'Chrystalline stream' and dramatic limestone gorges further upstream.
While specific public transport routes to every natural monument can vary, Uttoxeter itself is a market town with transport links. For destinations further afield, such as Dovedale (part of the River Dove's catchment), public transport options might be limited, and checking local bus services or planning for car access would be advisable for reaching more remote natural sites.
Visitors appreciate the diverse range of natural monuments, from ancient trees like The Chained Oak with its intriguing legend, to historical sites like the Fauld Explosion Crater Memorial. The opportunity for peaceful walks through rolling hills, river valleys, and woodlands, as well as the chance to connect with nature in tranquil settings like Cotton Dell and Dimmingsdale Mill Pond, are highly valued.


Extend your search for the best caves by checking out these guides of the top ones around Uttoxeter: