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Exciting attractions, picturesque gardens, breath-taking hikes, independent shops and eateries, pretty towns and villages, and more!
Covering over 200 square miles, the Staffordshire Moorlands is a huge, mostly rural, district, packed with things to do, whether you're visiting as a couple, a family, with friends, or on your own.
Here are 16 great reasons to choose the Staffordshire Moorlands for your next short break or day trip.
One of the top theme parks in the UK, Alton Towers Resort is renowned for its thrilling rides - including the brand new Nemesis Reborn (pictured) - as well as the only CBeebiesLand in the country, which celebrates its 10th anniversary in 2024.
Home to the three polar bears, Hope, Nanook and Noori, now fully settled in following their arrival in 2023, Peak Wildlife Park is the perfect day out for any animal lover, with VIP animal experiences, keeper talks, and much more.
All aboard the heritage steam trains of Churnet Valley Railway for a relaxing journey through stunning Staffordshire countryside, and enjoy events like the May Steam Gala, Staffordshire Beer Train, and The Polar Express Train Ride.
Featuring 11 days of great walks at beauty spots and towns and villages across the district, the Staffordshire Moorlands Walking Festival (26th April-6th May)(pictured) programme has everything from easy, accessible walks to challenging routes for seasoned hikers.
A rugged sandstone ridge which dominates the landscape above Leek, The Roaches is a haven for hikers, rock-climbers and free-runners, it provides breath-taking views of Cheshire, Lancashire, and even to Snowdon, on a clear day.
A picturesque wooded valley on the Staffordshire-Derbyshire border, the Manifold Valley has quaint villages like Ilam, imposing caves, and routes for walking, cycling and horse-riding. Thor's Cave and Dovedale are absolute must-visits.
Just outside Leek is The Flintlock at Cheddleton (pictured), which offers an exciting dining experience featured in the Michelin Guide. There are great value set menus for lunch and dinner and extensive tasting and vegetarian menus for splashing out.
A welcoming independent bistro in Leek town centre, Duck Goose is the perfect spot for refuelling after a busy day, or filling up before the exertions ahead. Locally-sourced fayre of the highest quality at Staffordshire's Casual Dining Restaurant of the Year.
Tuck in to a hearty Sunday lunch or the legendary lemon meringue pie at the Ramblers Retreat, the unusual tea room in the heart of Dimmingsdale, an enchanting and beautiful valley, which is a popular spot for walking and mountain-biking.
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A quirky National Trust property with plenty to see and do, Biddulph Grange Garden (pictured) takes you on an expedition through China, Egypt and Italy, and back in time at the geological gallery of fossils.
Designed by Augustus Pugin, the man behind iconic landmarks like the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben, St Giles Catholic Church in Cheadle - aka Pugin's Gem - is one of the finest examples of Gothic Revival architecture.
Indulge in the revitalising treatments and experiences at The Mill Wheel Spa, at Three Horseshoes Country Inn near Leek. Lie on the warm sand in The Beach Hut, unwind in The Farmers Sauna, or relax in a fluffy robe beside a cosy fire.
On the edge of the Peak District National Park, and a stone's throw from The Roaches and The Mill Wheel Spa, Tittesworth Water (pictured) offers a host of accessible walks, plus bird-watching, fishing, paddle-boarding, kayaking, sailing and more.
Image: Tilly Grocott
Staffordshire's first deconstructed hotel, The Tawny Hotel combines all the best bits from a traditional hotel - including the excellent Plumicorn restaurant - with the peace and tranquility of a private country estate.
Ideal for a family short break away from the hustle and bustle, Hales Hall Caravan & Camping Park has electric hook-ups, free showers, a licensed bar and restaurant, and other excellent amenities.
On the first Sunday of each month, the Sunday Supplement market brings 70 of the finest food and artisan traders to Leek. Combine with a visit to the town's many independent shops and boutiques for a truly great shopping experience.
Other things to do in the Staffordshire Moorlands
There are so many things to do we couldn't fit them all in! We mustn't forget Foxfield Railway, Rudyard Lake, Leek Arts Festival, the Nicholson Museum, Beechenhill Farm, and the National Trust's Ilam Park.
Our Staffordshire Moorlands and Peak District section has everything you need to know about these and other reasons to visit, including places to stay, events, and food & drink.
Related
Alton Towers Resort is Britain’s Greatest Escape and home to the UK’s favourite theme park with endless family fun and ground-breaking roller-coasters.
Winner- Bronze Award - Enjoy Staffordshire Experience of the Year 2019. Set on the edge of the Staffordshire Peak District; Peak Wildlife Park offers a truly unique and immersive animal experience. Its large walkthrough exhibits allow you to come face to face with exotic and endangered animals from across three continents. Whether you love lemurs, have a passion for penguins or want to wander with the wallabies (and feed them with your hand!), the park has something for you.
The Churnet Valley Railway takes you on a journey back to the 1950s and 1960s. Take a break from busy urban life and hop on board a heritage steam train to ride through delightful countryside with riverside views and the Caldon Canal. Why not join one of our First-Class dining train experiences? Choose from breakfast, lunch or afternoon cream tea.
Step into Spring and enjoy a variety of beautiful guided walks during the 2025 Staffordshire Moorlands Walking Festival! Most of the walks are free to join, suit various abilities and interests and take place all over the Staffordshire Moorlands. Explore our charming market towns and uncover fascinating facts about the history and heritage of Biddulph, Cheadle and Leek. Afterwards treat yourself to a bite to eat and refreshing brew in our pubs, cafes and restaurants.
Impressive gritstone edges and craggy rocks loved by walkers and climbers offering stunning panoramic views. It groups together two main gritstone outcrops, 'Ramshaw Rocks' famous for the 'Winking Man' rock formation and 'Hen Cloud'.
A deep limestone valley of steeply wooded slopes and towering rock pinnacles, perfect for walks and cycling, particularly along the accessible Manifold Track.
A seasonally-inspired and locally-sourced relaxing dining experience, with some special touches.
A simple independent bistro, with a small, regularly changing menu. Nestled in the heart of Leek, Staffordshire
We are a family run country tearoom nestled in Dimmingsdale, in the heart of the beautiful Churnet Valley in Staffordshire. For over 40 years, we have offered a range of high quality, traditional home-made food – from hearty breakfasts, to delicious three course lunches to tasty snacks – not to mention our extensive range of mouth watering home-made desserts!
Owned by the National Trust, this Grade 1 listed garden is one of Britain's most exciting and unusual gardens, with a series of connected compartments. Features a Chinese garden, Italian garden & Scottish Glen designed by James Bateman
Serving the parish of Cheadle, Staffordshire, St Giles' is considered to be the finest of all the churches built by the celebrated nineteenth century architect and designer, A.W.N. Pugin.
Highly Commended - Enjoy Staffordshire Experience of the Year 2019. Welcome to the newest spa in Staffordshire, situated next to the glorious Roaches. Wind down in the Therapy Lounge or experience the Beach Hut day. For real relaxation sit in the outdoor heated pool and view the glories of the Staffordshire countryside.
An ideal part of a great day out in the Peak District National Park. There's something for everyone to enjoy; visitor centre, restaurant, gift shop, children's play area and easy access walks.
The UK’s first deconstructed hotel where you can relax in nature. Located in the heart of rural Staffordshire, escape to the The Tawny and let the surrounding landscape envelop you.
Hales Hall Caravan & Camping Site is an exclusive family run Holiday Park, situated in 16 acres on the edge of the delightful Peak District. In its own outstanding beauty we overlook the historic market town of Cheadle which is just a short distance away. Within walking distance is the wonderful Les Oakes and Sons Architectural Salvage Yard, St Giles Catholic Church "Pugins Gem", which is considered to be the finest of all churches built by A WN Pugin. Alton Towers the UKs number 1 Theme Park is only a 10 minute drive.
