Whitfield Valley Nature Reserve
A tranquil nature reserve and former colliery site offering stunning views, peaceful fishing pools, and a unique landscape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best views and wildlife spotting
Whitfield Valley Nature Reserve
Best Time
Best views and wildlife spotting
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A tranquil nature reserve and former colliery site offering stunning views, peaceful fishing pools, and a unique landscape.
"Nature has well & truly taken over, & from the summit you get great views as well as sunsets!"
👟 Sturdy Footwear Essential
Paths can be muddy and uneven, especially after rain. Waterproof boots are recommended!
🎣 Rod License Needed
If you plan to fish, ensure you have a valid rod license. The Angling Society relies on this support.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sunset Hill Views
Former Colliery Spoil Heap
Climb the 'Sunset Hill' for breathtaking panoramic views of Stoke-on-Trent and stunning sunsets.
Tranquil Fishing Pools
Fishing Ponds
Three free-to-fish pools teeming with life, perfect for a peaceful afternoon of angling.
Nature's Reclamation
Various Areas
Witness nature's impressive takeover of the old colliery site, with lush greenery and diverse wildlife.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Wild Side
Respect the Environment
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Sturdy Footwear Essential
Paths can be muddy and uneven, especially after rain. Waterproof boots are recommended!
🎣 Rod License Needed
If you plan to fish, ensure you have a valid rod license. The Angling Society relies on this support.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
A popular spot for dog walkers; keep your furry friends on a lead where necessary.
🗑️ Pack It In, Pack It Out
Help keep the reserve clean by taking all your rubbish with you.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Footwear Essential
Paths can be muddy and uneven, especially after rain. Waterproof boots are recommended!
🎣 Rod License Needed
If you plan to fish, ensure you have a valid rod license. The Angling Society relies on this support.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
A popular spot for dog walkers; keep your furry friends on a lead where necessary.
🗑️ Pack It In, Pack It Out
Help keep the reserve clean by taking all your rubbish with you.
🦋 Wildlife Spotting
Keep an eye out for butterflies and various bird species, especially around the water.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Whitfield Valley Nature Reserve for its natural beauty, especially the impressive views from 'Sunset Hill' and the peaceful fishing pools. Many appreciate the free access and the opportunity to explore the reclaimed colliery landscape. Some mention occasional issues with litter or teenagers on bikes, and a desire for better maintenance or historical interpretation of the colliery site.
"I love this place for many, many reasons. Firstly, I live just seconds away from the nature reserve that is right next to it! It also has a huge spoil heap from the disused Chatterley Whitfield Coliery that I've nicknamed sunset hill, as you'd never know it was once a spoil heap, as nature has well & truly taken over, & from the summit you get great views as well as sunsets, hence the nickname! It's also got 3 free to fish, fishing pools, all with some very big fish in!! Obviously you still need a rod license, so please buy one, as the Angling Society needs the money more than ever, with the current stare of the waters in the UK right now.
There's a full sized football field too, & great views of the old Coliery, which nature has well and truly taken over, giving a wonderful view! Though personally I'd love it to become a museum again, but I doubt that will happen.
But I highly recommend whether going for a walk, cycle, fishing, bird watching, & just getting out & exploring!
As I say it's right next to Ford Green Nature Reserve, so if you want a bigger walk just add on the beautiful nature reserve!"
Pete Speake
"Lovely place to while away an hour or two for a walk.. wish I could explore the abandoned buildings though."
J The food don
"Gonna go again to give a more detailed review as it wasn't the best of days weather wise. It's quite a stretch, though, so I want to explore much more"
James Kelsey
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Whitfield Valley Nature Reserve is accessible by car, with parking available. It's also reachable by public transport, though specific bus routes may vary. Check local transport schedules for the most up-to-date information.
Yes, there is parking available at the nature reserve, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
Cycling is a great way to explore the reserve and surrounding areas. There are paths suitable for cycling, and it's a popular route for local cyclists.
The nature reserve is located within Stoke-on-Trent, and while it offers a natural escape, it's generally a short drive from the city centre.
The nearest transport links will depend on your starting point, but local bus services operate within Stoke-on-Trent. It's advisable to check journey planners for specific routes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Whitfield Valley Nature Reserve is generally free. Enjoy the natural beauty without any admission fees.
As a nature reserve, it's typically open from dawn till dusk. However, it's always a good idea to check for any specific seasonal or event-related closures.
The fishing pools are free to fish, but you will need a valid rod license.
While the colliery buildings are a prominent feature, access to abandoned structures may be restricted for safety reasons. It's best to admire them from a distance.
Information suggests there might be a visitor centre, but its current operational status can vary. Facilities like restrooms may be limited.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
There are various walking trails, including paths around the fishing pools and a more challenging climb up the former colliery spoil heap, offering different levels of difficulty and scenery.
Yes, the reserve is a haven for birdlife, especially around the water bodies. You can spot various species, including ducks.
Absolutely! The summit of the old colliery spoil heap, nicknamed 'Sunset Hill,' provides excellent panoramic views of Stoke-on-Trent.
Visitors often report seeing butterflies, various bird species, and other small wildlife. It's a great place for nature observation.
Yes, it's a great spot for families to enjoy a walk and explore nature. However, be mindful of teenagers on bikes in some areas.
📸 📸 Photography
The panoramic views from 'Sunset Hill' are a must for photographers, especially during golden hour. The fishing pools and the reclaimed colliery landscape also offer unique photographic opportunities.
While direct access to abandoned buildings might be limited, the imposing presence of the former colliery structures against the natural landscape provides dramatic photographic subjects.
The fishing pools and surrounding greenery attract birds and butterflies, offering chances for wildlife photography. Early mornings or late afternoons are often best for spotting active wildlife.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, always be respectful of other visitors and the environment.
Late afternoon for golden hour light on 'Sunset Hill' and the landscape. Early mornings can be good for mist and wildlife activity.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Encourage your children to look for wildlife, such as birds and butterflies, which are often spotted here. It's a great opportunity to teach them about nature and the environment. Remember to bring snacks and drinks, and ensure everyone wears appropriate footwear, as paths can get muddy. Be aware of other users, including cyclists, and supervise children closely.
🚶♀️ Walkers and Hikers
Wear sturdy, waterproof footwear, especially if visiting after rain, as some paths can become muddy. The panoramic views from the higher ground make the effort worthwhile. It's an excellent place to get some fresh air and enjoy the natural beauty of Stoke-on-Trent.
🎣 Anglers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of Chatterley Whitfield Colliery
Visitors can still see remnants and the scale of the former colliery, which adds a layer of historical intrigue to the natural beauty. While some express a desire for the site to become a museum again, the current state of natural reclamation provides a different, yet equally compelling, experience. The juxtaposition of industrial history and natural resurgence is a key element of the reserve's appeal.
Exploring the reserve allows you to walk upon land that was once the heart of mining operations. The 'Sunset Hill' offers not only great views but also a tangible connection to the area's working-class history. It's a place where the past and present of Stoke-on-Trent's industrial landscape are visibly intertwined with the natural world.
Navigating the Trails and Terrain
For a more challenging hike, the climb up the former colliery spoil heap, known as 'Sunset Hill,' is highly recommended. This ascent offers rewarding panoramic views of Stoke-on-Trent and the surrounding Staffordshire countryside. Be prepared for steeper gradients and potentially uneven surfaces, especially after wet weather. Sturdy footwear is essential for this part of the reserve.
Some visitors have noted that teenagers on bikes can sometimes be present, so it's advisable to be aware of your surroundings, particularly on shared paths. The reserve is also adjacent to Ford Green Nature Reserve, offering the possibility of extending your walk for a more extensive exploration of the local natural landscape.
Wildlife and Angling Opportunities
Beyond fishing, the reserve is a haven for wildlife spotting. Visitors frequently report seeing a variety of butterflies and numerous bird species, particularly around the water bodies. The presence of ducks is often noted, adding to the tranquil atmosphere. Early mornings and late afternoons tend to be the best times for observing wildlife activity.
The natural reclamation of the former colliery site has created a diverse habitat that supports this rich biodiversity. It's a place where you can enjoy the simple pleasures of observing nature, whether you're actively fishing or simply taking a peaceful walk.
Social
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