Cannock Chase | 82%
Birches Valley Forest Centre, Rugeley, WS15 2UQ or Marquis Drive Visitor Centre, Hednesford, WS12 4PW
5 5 4 5 4 4 2 4 4 4 = 41/50
Ways to Wellbeing Score = 82%
Summary
Situated towards the south of Staffordshire, this expansive area of outstanding natural beauty offers the best of both worlds. Quiet heathland walks and forest trails for those just wanting to explore, with lots of activities for those with a sense of adventure. If you’re sporty or daring you can try the Go Ape high rope course, or hire a mountain bike to tear down the famous ‘Follow The Dog’ trail.
Open dawn to dusk, 364 days a year (closed Christmas Day).
Connect (People & Nature) ***** 5
Forest centre and cafe | Visitor centre and cafe | Learning centre | Picnic area and BBQ areas | Camping and caravanning site | Adventure activities | Numerous walking and bike trails | Events progamme
Be Active (Body) ***** 5
Mountain bike hire | Numerous mountain bike trails (various difficulty) | High rope course (chargeable) | Sedgway hire | Adventure play areas | Orienteering courses | Horse riding | Fishing (members only) | Good for dog walking (on lead recommended)
Take Notice (Place) ***** 4
Area of oustanding natural beauty (AONB) status | Various heathland and forest landscapes | Pools and streams | Various viewing points | Places to sit and relax | Discovery/route maps available | Wild deer roam free
Keep Learning (Mind) ***** 5
Learning centre with forest classroom | Educational and activity packs for schools | Ranger led visits (self led options) | Wildlife interpretation boards
Give (Spirit) ***** 4
Volunteer opportunities | Nature conservation | Bike trail maintenance
Care (Planet) ***** 4
Management plans/funds in place to protect the AONB | Strategic partnerships in place
Be Creative (Self) ***** 2
Some artwork and heritage features | Wildlife and landscape photo opportunities
Value ***** 4
Parking fees apply in most areas | Bike trails free | Adventure activity prices can seem high
Upkeep ***** 4
Usually well maintained and litter free | Good support on maintenance from volunteer teams
Secure/Feeling Safe ***** 4
Well manned by numerous rangers and support staff | Some remote areas
Conclusion
Offers a great get away from city life, with plenty of space and different landscapes to explore. Great for those who want to take their ‘green exercise’ seriously – with some real adventure.