
Cannock Chase AONB
A vast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty offering woodland walks, cycling trails, and historical sites.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Blossoming nature, fewer crowds

Cannock Chase AONB
Best Time
Blossoming nature, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty offering woodland walks, cycling trails, and historical sites.
"Discover the raw beauty and serene trails of Cannock Chase, a perfect escape into nature."

Pack essentials for nature
Bring water & food; amenities are scarce. Enjoy the raw nature! :water_buffalo:
Respect no wild camping
Stick to designated campsites. No wild camping or open fires allowed. :fire:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Slitting Mill Waterfall
Near Slitting Mill
Discover a charming waterfall nestled within the woodland, perfect for a serene nature walk.

Castle Ring Hillfort
Heart of Cannock Chase
Explore this ancient Iron Age hillfort, steeped in history and local folklore.

Go Ape Treetop Adventure
Cannock Chase Forest
Challenge yourself with a thrilling treetop adventure, navigating high ropes and zip lines.

Tackeroo Campsite
Cannock Chase
Experience a basic but beautiful off-grid camping spot with a great atmosphere.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Wild: Prepare for Nature
Respect the Rules: No Wild Camping or Fires
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack essentials for nature
Bring water & food; amenities are scarce. Enjoy the raw nature! :water_buffalo:
Respect no wild camping
Stick to designated campsites. No wild camping or open fires allowed. :fire:
Explore marked trails
Follow color-coded paths for walks & bike rides. :hiking_boot:
Dog-friendly adventures
Cannock Chase is great for dog walks! :dog:
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack essentials for nature
Bring water & food; amenities are scarce. Enjoy the raw nature! :water_buffalo:
Respect no wild camping
Stick to designated campsites. No wild camping or open fires allowed. :fire:
Explore marked trails
Follow color-coded paths for walks & bike rides. :hiking_boot:
Dog-friendly adventures
Cannock Chase is great for dog walks! :dog:
Consider a forest membership
Annual membership offers free parking & discounts. :moneybag:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Cannock Chase's stunning natural beauty, offering abundant opportunities for hiking, cycling, and connecting with nature. The well-maintained trails and diverse landscapes are frequently praised, though some note the limited on-site amenities and the need to bring provisions.
"Numerous raw nature trails here enables you to take up cycling, hiking, trekking and dog walking. It's actually a wooded area with nice undulating landscapes, a stream of clear water and greenery with tall deciduous trees. When you do go there, go with back-ups of drinking water & food.....because there's nothing else except raw nature."
C.Suresh Musical Moments
"Tackeroo campsite is a truly beautiful site .
As basic as they come but as long as your equipped for offgrid it's perfect"
Jonathan Bennett
"Cannock Chase is a large natural beauty spot offering woodlands for biking, mountain bike trails, picnicing, dog walkers, hikers and alike. The few vistor centres have small shops and toilets for refreshments and offers paid parking. Access is easy, many of all ages come on bikes for the plentyful marked trails. For the adventure you can bike all the way to Chase Water (off the A5) and from there along a canal system towards brown Hills all the way to Walsall. Cannock has some lively lakes near the Go Ape vistor centre. Camping areas are by camping sites (no wild camping or open fires) Theres an R.A.F base (restricted access). Some points of interest as land marks.
Note some areas are temporary restricted for forest maintenance and some bike trails are designed one way, clearly signed."
Gtube
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Cannock Chase is accessible by car, with several parking areas available, including at visitor centers and Tackeroo campsite. The postcode WS15 2UQ is often used for navigation. Public transport options are limited, so driving is generally recommended for exploring the AONB.
Yes, there are several car parks, including at visitor centers and Tackeroo. Parking fees typically range from £3.50 to £10, depending on the location and duration of your stay.
Absolutely! Cannock Chase is a popular destination for cyclists, with numerous bike trails. You can cycle from Birmingham or connect to canal systems towards Walsall.
Public transport to Cannock Chase is limited. While buses may serve the surrounding areas, it's best to check local bus routes for specific connections. Driving is the most convenient way to access the AONB.
The AONB has clearly marked trails for walking and cycling. Using a map or a navigation app can be helpful, especially for longer routes or if you plan to explore off the main paths.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Cannock Chase AONB itself is free. However, parking fees apply at most visitor centers and designated parking areas.
Cannock Chase is generally accessible year-round during daylight hours. Visitor centers may have specific opening times, so it's advisable to check their schedules if you plan to visit them.
The main cost is for parking, which varies. Activities like Go Ape have separate booking fees.
Yes, for popular activities like Go Ape, booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons.
Yes, there are visitor centers that offer amenities like small shops and toilets. They can also provide information about the area and its activities.
🎫 🌲 Onsite Experience
Cannock Chase offers a variety of walking trails, from easy strolls to more challenging hikes. Popular spots include walks to Slitting Mill Waterfall and around the visitor centers.
Yes, Cannock Chase is renowned for its extensive mountain bike trails, catering to various skill levels. Some trails are designed as one-way systems.
Absolutely! Families can enjoy nature walks, cycling, and the Go Ape adventure park. It's a great place for kids to connect with nature.
Yes, Cannock Chase is very dog-friendly, making it a perfect spot for a walk with your canine companion.
Don't miss Castle Ring, an ancient Iron Age hillfort, and the mysterious hidden caves, believed to have been used as shelters centuries ago.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Visitor centers usually have small shops selling refreshments. For more substantial meals, it's best to bring your own picnic or dine in nearby towns like Cannock.
Yes, picnicking is a popular activity. There are many scenic spots perfect for enjoying a packed lunch amidst nature.
While there are small shops at visitor centers, dedicated restaurants or cafes are not a prominent feature. Bringing your own food is recommended.
Snacks and drinks are typically available at visitor center shops. For a full meal, self-catering is the most common approach.
While not explicitly prohibited, it's advisable to consume alcohol responsibly and be mindful of other visitors and the natural environment.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for scenic viewpoints like the sundial, woodland paths, waterfalls, and the historic Castle Ring for stunning shots.
Drone usage may be restricted in certain areas, especially near the RAF base. Always check local regulations and be mindful of wildlife and other visitors.
Nature photography, landscape shots, and capturing the woodland scenery are very popular. Many visitors also enjoy photographing wildlife.
Golden hour (sunrise and sunset) can offer beautiful light. Autumn foliage also provides vibrant colors for photographers.
A versatile camera with a good zoom lens is ideal for capturing landscapes and wildlife. A wide-angle lens can be great for forest scenes.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚴 Cyclists and Mountain Bikers
🚶 Hikers and Nature Lovers
🐶 Dog Owners
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Cannock Chase's Trails
For cyclists, Cannock Chase is a premier destination. You can explore dedicated mountain bike trails that cater to various skill levels, offering an exhilarating experience through the woodland. It's even possible to cycle from Cannock Chase all the way to Chase Water and then along canal systems towards Walsall, making it a great starting point for longer cycling adventures. Remember to pack essentials like water and snacks, as amenities can be sparse in the more remote areas.
Beyond the main trails, the AONB offers opportunities for wildlife spotting and simply immersing yourself in the undulating landscapes and greenery. The forest maintenance means some areas might have temporary restrictions, so always be aware of signage. For those seeking a more structured adventure, the Go Ape treetop experience offers a thrilling challenge amidst the canopy.
History and Folklore of Cannock Chase
Adding to the intrigue are the hidden caves scattered throughout Cannock Chase. Carved into sandstone centuries ago, these caves are thought to have served as shelters, hideouts, and secret meeting places during various historical periods. Exploring these ancient sites offers a glimpse into the lives of those who inhabited the area long ago.
Beyond these historical landmarks, Cannock Chase is also known for its creepy myths and legends. While the specific nature of these tales varies, they contribute to the area's enigmatic atmosphere, making it a fascinating destination for those interested in local lore and the paranormal.
Visitor Amenities and Practicalities
For those looking to stay overnight, Tackeroo campsite provides a basic but beautiful off-grid experience. It's important to note that wild camping and open fires are not permitted in Cannock Chase. Visitors are expected to adhere to these regulations to help preserve the natural environment.
Parking is available at various points, with fees typically ranging from £3.50 to £10. For frequent visitors, an annual membership to Cannock Chase Forest can be a cost-effective option, offering free parking and discounts at select suppliers. This membership also supports the ongoing maintenance and preservation of the forest.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit