LET’S TAKE THE KIDS OUT: STAFFORDSHIRE TOP PICKS

If you’re looking for some inspiration on where to take the kids and what on earth you can get up to, then we have rounded up some of our favourite places and destinations so you can get a slice of the action. From walks to crafts, and everything in between, get stuck in with your small people and enjoy what Staffordshire has to offer.

WALKS AND RAMBLES IN STAFFORDSHIRE

Dimmingsdale 

Stunning scenery and lovely walks, with some pretty good stop offs along the way. It can get a bit muddy so prepare for the squelch and stop at the Rambler’s Retreat when you’re done. If you have a bit of time, go down and see the Chained Oak which is full of history and magic, but don’t attempt to unchain it as you know what they say…

The Roaches

Lots to do, lots to see, lots to explore. Plan your route according to ability and how long you would like to be out, but if you want to show the kids some magic then Thor’s Cave is a must-see. There are about a million routes you could take so do a little recce first to see which parts of the Roaches you fancy seeing – maybe you can tick bits off over the course of the year?

Cannock Chase

South of Staffordshire we have the stunning Cannock Chase. Possibly one of our favourite places for bike rides and exploring, and packed with trails and scenery that mean you will have a different experience every single time you go. Pack a picnic and stay for the day – you won’t get bored even after 20 visits. 

Wild and wonderful. For more trail ideas, check out our Peak District Trails journal.

ADVENTURES WITH THE KIDS IN STAFFORDSHIRE

Amerton Farm

Goats, pigs, who knows what you’re going to see? There’s plenty to do and ticket prices are normally quite low but check before you go. We love spotting an animal or two, and you might even get to see them being fed!

Arts and Crafts

Things like HiStoke, ReStoke, Appetite, and Urban Wilderness are all organisations that put on free and funded events for young people to get crafty and creative. Have a look online to check what’s going on, but make sure you go and get fully immersed into what they have to offer. Whether it’s learning about the circus or making some funky glasses, there’s always something different to enjoy.

Treasure hunting 

While you’re on walks and travels, see what treasure you can spot, and dream up what it could be used for or what you could make it into. A rock becomes a magic stone, a flower becomes a wand, let your imaginations run wild and see what your little ones come up with.

Trentham Gardens and Monkey Forest 

We love a visit to Trentham, and with our HQ being based there, we’re lucky that a wander is right on our doorstep. The Gardens are gorgeous for a wander and an explore, with a play area that is fun for kids both big and small. Visit the Monkey Forest to see what those cheeky monkeys are up to, and you get to spend time with them up close and personal as they cross the paths in front of you. Finish off your day with a visit to our PAU Cafe for a spot of something tasty or one of our gorgeous hot chocolates. 

NOT-SO-HORRIBLE HISTORIES WITH THE KIDS IN STAFFORDSHIRE

Museum magic

We have The Brampton which has a lovely outdoor area, The Potteries Museum which has an actual Spitfire inside, and plenty more where that came from! Perfect for rainy days when you don’t hugely want to get out in the elements, we love a museum and it’s always fascinating to see what is on display. 

Heritage of Staffordshire

We have so much heritage throughout Staffordhsire but this one goes out to The Potteries. Wander around Middleport, or take a look around Gladstone or Etruria, and see what living here back in the day was like! We’re famous for pottery so get out and explore it.

Travel back in time 

Churnet Valley Railway is one of the most gorgeous places to visit, and you get to see some good old fashioned steam trains while you’re at it. You can observe or book a ticket to enjoy the ride, and if you’re feeling peckish then visit Hetty’s Tea Room…