Welcome to the Great Outdoors

Looking for a breath of fresh air? Step out into the Staffordshire Moorlands. With miles of rambling paths and cycle ways, come and explore the area’s beautiful countryside, tranquil lakes, historic market towns and pretty villages.

Countryside and scenic places in Staffordshire Moorlands

With unrivalled scenery and captivating countryside, Staffordshire Moorlands is a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts, whether you’re an experienced hill walker or just want to get the family out and about discovering nature in the great outdoors.

You’ll find Staffordshire Moorlands offers some of the best Peak District landscapes, from the dark peak gritstone escarpments of the rocky Roaches just north of Leek, to the white peak limestone dales of the Manifold Valley and Dovedale.

The 92 mile Staffordshire Way long distance footpath starts at Mow Cop north of Biddulph and runs through much of the Staffordshire Moorlands, past serene Rudyard Lake and beside the peaceful Caldon canal, following the verdant wooded valley of the river Churnet.

3 Accessible walking and cycling routes for all ages and abilities

1. Biddulph Valley Way
2. Churnet Valley Trail
3. Manifold Valley Track

4 Natural wonders for intrepid explorers

1. The Roaches and Lud’s Church
2. Thor’s Cave
3. Dovedale
4. Three Shires Head

5 Family friendly places to get active with the kids

1. Biddulph Grange Country Park
2. Dimmingsdale (Forestry England)
3. RSPB Coombes Valley & Consall Woods
4. Rudyard Lake
5. Tittesworth Water

Although wild at heart, the Staffordshire Moorlands is also a place where you can explore friendly market towns, soak up fascinating heritage and ride the UK's favourite rollercoasters at Alton Towers Resort!

There are three main towns in the area, Leek known affectionately as the Queen of the Moorlands, Cheadle the gateway to the stunning Churnet Valley and Biddulph the garden town of Staffordshire.

In and around each town you’ll find plenty of places to stay; pubs, cafes and restaurants, lovely independent shops, vibrant events and masses of things to see and do.

5 ‘Must See’ attractions in Staffordshire Moorlands

1. Alton Towers Resort
2. Biddulph Grange Garden (National Trust)
3. Churnet Valley Railway
4. Foxfield Steam Railway
5. Peak Wildlife Park

5 Cultural and heritage places to visit in Staffordshire Moorlands

1. Brindley Mill, Leek
2. Ilam Park (National Trust)
3. Nicholson Museum & Art Gallery, Leek
4. Pugin’s Gem – St Giles’ RC Church, Cheadle
5. St Edward’s Church, Leek

5 Great experiences to enjoy in Staffordshire Moorlands

1. Canoe, Kayak & Paddleboard at Tittesworth Water Sports
2. Rock climbing on the Roaches
3. Self-drive narrowboat hire on the Caldon canal
4. The Mill Wheel Spa at Three Horseshoes Inn
5. Walk with Alpacas on Weltley Moor

To find out more about visiting the Staffordshire Moorlands go to the Explore Our Destinations section of the website.