It’s no secret that Stoke-on-Trent is home to some of the most stunning countryside this side of the Peak District. Despite all the buzzing bars, independent restaurants and exciting events that happen in the region, sometimes all you want to do is round up your dog and your family and head into the great outdoors. Read on for our roundup of the best and most beautiful outdoor spaces in Stoke and Staffordshire…
Trentham Gardens
Whilst not necessarily rugged Stoke countryside, Trentham Gardens boasts incredible, manicured gardens, a lake, a maze, and so much more. This idyllic spot is the perfect place to take your kids, a date, or your friends – and with activities on offer such as barefoot walks and rowing on the lake, it’s an easy sell. Take a picnic with you on a warm day for the perfect summer activity – or, if you’d prefer, stock up when you arrive courtesy of the beautiful on-site artisan food store, Brown & Green. It’s brimming with local, organic and ethical produce from small and independent producers.
Tittesworth Reservoir
This is Stoke countryside at its best. You can choose from a 1.5 or 5-mile route, meaning the reservoir is the perfect choice whether you fancy a leisurely stroll or a slightly more active challenge. There’s also an activity centre on site, where you can try your hand at sailing, kayaking, raft building and paddle boarding, and you’re welcome to bring your dog along too. The cherry on top? It’s roughly a 17-minute walk from the reservoir to gorgeous gastropub The Lazy Trout.
The Roaches
Just a little further out than Tittesworth, the phenomenal, panoramic views which this walk boasts are well worth the climb. Make sure to wear sensible shoes and pack some provisions for when you reach Hen Cloud!
Barlaston Downs
A little pocket of wilderness in the heart of Stoke, Barlaston Downs is the perfect nod to Stoke-on-Trent’s reputation as a cosmopolitan city with acres of lush countryside on its doorstep. Here, you can pick blackberries and sloe berries, cross The Lions’ Bridge (built by the Stone Lions Club) and walk up the hill for breathtaking views of the area.
Cannock Chase Country Park
There are over 3,000 acres of countryside here in total, so you won’t be hard pushed to find a quiet spot to have a little sit down and enjoy Stoke’s scenery. Ramble through the woodland and winding trails, or even better – bring your bike along and cycle your way round. As one of the largest country parks in England, you can return time and time again – and with a children’s adventure playground to boot, it’s the perfect family spot.
Wrinehill and Betley
From The Hand & Trumpet pub, you can embark on a 3-mile round trip across gorgeous pastures, admiring the farm animals and taking in nature at its best. The route takes you through the picturesque village of Betley, which is a classic example of a quaint little civil parish, and it’s very Instagrammable (which is, of course, the most important thing). Finish off at The Hand & Trumpet, a beautiful, classic pub with roaring fires, wooden floors and a hearty food offering.
Time to get your walking shoes on!
There are so many wonderful options when it comes to getting out in the Stoke countryside that it’s difficult to narrow them down to just a few. As one of the greenest cities in the UK, Stoke has endless options for explorers, adventurers, or just those who fancy getting a little fresh air.
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