Staffordshire Moorlands and Peak District

With some of the most spectacular scenery in the UK, the Staffordshire Moorlands and the Peak District has everything from rocky outcrops to rolling hills and luscious valleys.

It’s a fantastic destination for walkers, cyclists, watersports and rock-climbing, plus adrenaline-fuelled fun for all the family at Alton Towers Resort.

Discover idyllic villages and historic market towns like Leek, Cheadle and Biddulph, relax in traditional pubs and re-energise with soothing spa treatments at The Mill Wheel Spa and The Retreat.

Explore the area’s heritage at the Nicholson Museum and Art Gallery and Brindley Mill, dedicated to ground-breaking canal engineer James Brindley, the man behind the Trent & Mersey Canal who lived in Leek for most of his life.

Meander along the Caldon Canal, a branch of Brindley’s creation, on a narrowboat as it winds through the captivating countryside and pretty villages of the Churnet Valley, Staffordshire’s Little Switzerland.

Visit the beautiful St Giles’ Catholic Church in Cheadle, also known as Pugin’s Gem, regarded by many as one of the architect’s finest works – even above more well-known examples like the Houses of Parliament!

Journey back in time on a heritage steam train at Churnet Valley Railway, via picturesque stations and cosy tea rooms, or beside the stunning Rudyard Lake – a favourite of Rudyard Kipling’s parents – on the Leek & Rudyard Steam Railway.

Experience a traditional Peak District custom at well-dressings in Endon and Longnor and help the villagers give thanks for their plentiful water supply.

Go on an animal adventure at Peak Wildlife Park and RSPB Coombes Valley, and unwind in glorious gardens at Biddulph Grange Garden and Ilam Park.

Head to The Roaches, Dovedale or the Manifold Valley for breath-taking beauty, before hunting for bargains in the Leek antique shops, boutiques and Leek Markets.
This former textile town hosts regular bustling markets, the annual Leek Arts Festival promoting great folk music every Spring and the popular Leek & District Show each July.