Five Reasons to Visit Cannock Chase

We're celebrating our breath-taking, historic district of Cannock Chase, which will be home to the mountain-biking events at the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games in under a year's time!

There are many reasons to visit Cannock Chase, from stunning vistas to eye-opening history, attractions and events to get your heart racing, and bargains galore at one of the UK's most exciting new shopping destinations!

Here are five reasons to visit to get you started.

Things to do in Cannock Chase

The huge new McArthur Glen Designer Outlet West Midlands, which opened in April 2021, is home to 80 of the world's biggest brands including Boss, Calvin Klein and Tommy Hilfiger.

Indulge in some retail therapy and then refuel with a tasty burger at Five Guys, a flavour of the Orient at Wagamama, or one of the other well-known eateries on-site.

After a spot of bargain-hunting, take on the challenging trails which make Cannock Chase such a haven for mountain-bikers.

With famous routes like Follow the Dog and The Monkey Trail, you can see why it's been chosen to host the Commonwealth Games mountain-biking on Wednesday 3rd August 2022.

Or if you would prefer a more relaxing pursuit, explore the stunning countryside on horseback, courtesy of Cannock Chase Trekking Centre.

For more like this, visit our things to do in Cannock Chase section.

Walks in Cannock Chase

As the smallest mainland Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in the country, Cannock Chase is a popular haunt for walking, cycling and horse-riding.

Choose from a huge selection of walking routes, for all abilities, from the Stepping Stones Walk and the Fairoak Pools Walk, to the more challenging Adventure Walk.

And the brand new Gruffalo Spotters Trail is a perfect walk to try with the kids, with its activity pack, and the AR trail which brings the characters from The Gruffalo story to life!

Longer walks like The Staffordshire Way, The Heart of England Way, and The Way for the Millennium all pass through too.

We've teamed up with the Staffordshire Walks app to provide tons of information on local walks, including downloadable route maps.

Their 5 of the Best Cannock Chase Walks is a great place to start if you fancy exploring this beautiful part of the county.

Events in Cannock Chase

Every year, Cannock Chase hosts some of Staffordshire's biggest events, such as the IRONMAN 70.3 triathlon.

Each June, thousands of athletes from across the globe descend on Staffordshire to tackle the route, which includes a 56 mile cycle in and around Cannock Chase, alongside the swim at Chasewater Country Park and the run in Stafford.

The relatively flat course makes it very first-timer friendly, or an ideal chance to set a personal best - with the help of the spectators who line the route and provide a wonderful atmosphere.

In July, some of the biggest names in music perform at the Forest Live concerts. The likes of Paul Weller, Tom Jones and the Kaiser Chiefs have all taken to the Cannock stage in the past, and Rag n Bone Man, Jess Glynne and Keane are scheduled for 2022.

And all-year round, The Premier Suite offers great nights out, including dinners with world-famous boxers.

Explore our Events in Cannock Chase section for more details.

Attractions in Cannock Chase

Enjoy a unique perspective on our AONB by tackling the high ropes courses at Go Ape Cannock Chase.

There are almost 1500m of crossings to negotiate on the Challenge course, while the Adventure course is ideal if you're just starting out. 

And there are Segway tours too if you'd rather stay at ground level.

The Museum of Cannock Chase provides an eye-opening journey through the area's heritage, first as a centre for coal mining in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, and then as a vast military training camp during World War One.

And The Prince of Wales Theatre has a packed programme of musicals, comedy, children's shows, and live music all year round.

Full details are available in our Attractions in Cannock Chase section.

Places to eat in Cannock Chase

Cannock Chase is also home to fabulous food and drink businesses which are perfect for recharging and refuelling.

For a light bite, Bella's Coffee House, in Hednesford town centre, is the perfect spot for a catch-up with friends, whether it's over a delicious afternoon tea, Staffordshire oatcakes, or an indulgent sweet treat.

With a host of children's, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, no visitor will leave disappointed.

If you fancy something more substantial, try The Rag at Rawnsley, known for its extensive menu and breath-taking views.

And for real ale fans, there's a treat in store at The Newhall Arms, regarded as one of Staffordshire's best pubs, with a great range of locally-brewed ales and craft beers to choose from.

Browse our Places to Eat in Cannock Chase section for more options.

Buy Commonwealth Games tickets

Tickets for the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games, which run from 28th July to 8th August 2022, are now available to West Midlands residents, before going on general sale from September 2021.

Visit https://www.birmingham2022.com/ for more information.