About Cannock Chase

Cannock Chase is a beautiful wilderness in the heart of the busy West Midlands, and one of Staffordshire’s most loved places. Created for William the Conqueror as a hunting forest 1,000 years ago it is packed with landscape, nature and heritage interest waiting to be discovered. There are old oak woodlands, shady pine forests, historic parklands, viewpoints, rivers and canals to enjoy. The heathlands are the most extensive in the Midlands and a stronghold for endangered wildlife.

Cannock Chase is an incredibly important landscape and has been designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). Nearly 20% of the Chase is also a Special Area of Conservation (SAC) and protected by European law. The area is looked after to conserve and enhance its natural beauty, as well as the wildlife habitats and species that live there.

The Chase can be explored by walkers of all abilities, all year round. There are short, family walks and a range of easy to follow trails from visitor hubs/centres. For the more energetic, there are a number of long-distance trails. From children taking their first trip out on their bike, through to cross-country mountain bikers wanting to test their skills, Cannock Chase Forest offers great opportunities for cycling on purpose-built trails. Our network of bridleways also offers some of the most extensive and picturesque horse riding in England. There really is something for everyone here with children’s play areas, the Gruffalo trail, Go Ape treetop adventure, Segway courses, orienteering and dog activity trails.