Five Reasons to Visit Cannock Chase

We're celebrating our breath-taking, historic district of Cannock Chase, with a round-up of five of the best reasons to visit, including stunning views, eye-opening history, exhilarating attractions and events, and one of the UK's most exciting shopping destinations!

McArthurGlen West Midlands

Offering luxury brands at outlet prices, McArthurGlen West Midlands is one of the premier shopping destinations in the region.

Over 80 diverse fashion, sportswear, lifestyle and home retailers, including Burberry, Ralph Lauren, Adidas, Le Creuset and Yankee Candle, call the designer outlet their home.

There's a wide range of eateries too, with well-known options, from Five Guys, Pizza Express and Wagamama, to regular pop-ups from local indies. 

Younger shoppers can stock up on Haribo and let off steam in the huge state-of-the-art playground, with its trampolines, climbing towers, and tube slides, or at the Mill Green & Hawks Green Valley nature reserve next door.

With its convenient location, selection of brands, and attractive discounts, McArthur Glen West Midlands is a must-visit for savvy shoppers.

Parking is free and Cannock Train Station is just five minutes walk away.

Cannock Chase Forest

No visit to the district of Cannock Chase is complete without checking in at the wonderful Cannock Chase Forest.

Choose from a huge selection of walking routes and trails, such as the Zog Activity Trail - a huge draw for fans of the little dragon and his friends.

Take a forest adventure and bring the story to life with the Zog app, pick up a Zog trail activity pack, or simply follow the trail and collect the stars as you learn how to care for the forest - and how the forest cares for you.

The Chase is also renowned for its mountain bike trails.

There's something for all abilities, from the Pedal and Play Trail for total beginners, to the famous red trails Follow The Dog and The Monkey Trail, and the elite downhill routes of Stile Cop Bike Park. 

And every June, the Forest Live concerts bring some of the biggest names in British music to the forest, with top billing going to legends like Paul Weller, Noel Gallagher, and Texas, or relative newcomers including Tom Grennan and Jack Savoretti.

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.

Go Ape Cannock Chase

With an intricate network of high ropes, zip lines and treetop obstacles, Go Ape Cannock Chase is an exhilarating adventure experience nestled within the beautiful forest.

Thrill-seekers can tackle the Challenge course (£35pp), suspended high in the forest canopy - the longest of any Go Ape location with almost 1500m of crossings - while the Treetop Adventure course (£20) is perfect for anyone starting out or aiming to build confidence.

And the Go Ape Sundown Adventures in Autumn 2023 add another level of excitement, offering you a chance to take on the challenge at night, aided by the stunning lights.

For a more laidback look at the forest, try a 1 hour Forest Segway tour (£38) and head to the breath-taking Fairoak Valley and Pools on a quirky, all-terrain vehicle. Full training is provided by the experienced Go Ape staff.

Go Ape Cannock Chase is an ideal location for families, friends, and team-building events, offering a day of bonding with nature and conquering your fears. A blast in The Great Outdoors!

Parking is £3.50 for 1hour, £6 for 2hrs, £9 for 3hrs, or £10 for the full day.

Cannock Chase Trekking Centre

Or why not explore the diverse terrain on horseback, courtesy of Cannock Chase Trekking Centre?

A haven for outdoor enthusiasts and equestrians alike, whether you're a total novice or experienced rider, the centre provides well-trained horses and knowledgeable guides to ensure a safe and enjoyable adventure.

Meander through the ancient forests, past serene lakes, and across rolling hills, on an outstanding and immersive horse-riding experience.

After your ride, warm up or refuel in the Ranch Bistro, well-known for its fresh coffee, delicious milkshakes, and extensive, locally-sourced menu.

Museum of Cannock Chase

A must-see for history enthusiasts and anyone curious about the region's coal-mining heritage, the Museum of Cannock Chase brings the past to life with its fascinating artefacts and engaging displays.

Take a journey through the life of the miners who worked here in the 19th and 20th Centuries, learning about the challenges they faced and the innovations which shaped the industry.

Discover the story of the huge military training camps at Brocton and Rugeley, which accommodated up to 40,000 men at a time during World War One - including JRR Tolkien, who was stationed at both camps from November 1915 to June 1916.

Once you've delved into the Chase's past, embrace its present with a stroll along one of the fantastic nearby walking routes, home to abundant local wildlife, or enjoy an arts & crafts workshop, or children's story-telling session.

Parking is free, and the museum is free to enter too.