Summer fun for all the family
PLENTY OF HOLIDAY ADVENTURES IN THE AREA, FROM THEME PARKS TO NATURE TRAILS
WITH the summer holidays on the horizon, we can start thinking about days out with the family. And here in Staffordshire we have some brilliant destinations right on our doorstep people of all ages will enjoy.
We are lucky to have some amazing attractions in Staffordshire and nearby Derbyshire. We have everything from top theme parks packed with rides to amazing beauty spots and picturesque villages.
We have picked out some of the best day trips for people to enjoy this bank holiday weekend. From relaxing walks to touring ruined castles, there is something for everyone in Staffordshire. So if you’re thinking of taking your friend, partner or family on a day out, be sure to check the list below.
CANNOCK CHASE, BIRCHES VALLEY, RUGELEY, WS15 2UQ:
With a children’s play area, Go Ape tree-top adventure, orienteering trails and even a dog activity trail, people will not be stuck for something to do at Cannock Chase Forest. The area of Outstanding Natural Beauty has a range of woodland walks to suit all ages and abilities, and for those wanting to explore the forest on two wheels, make sure to check out the cycling trails for some of the best family and mountain biking opportunities in the Midlands.
If you don’t have your own bike, you can hire one from the Birches Valley cycle centre. And when it comes to food you can bring a picnic or eat at the café. So come rain or shine, people will all go home having had a fantastic forest adventure.
STAFFORD CASTLE, NEWPORT ROAD, STAFFORD, ST16 1DJ:
The castle is an ancient Grade Ii-listed building situated two miles west of Stafford. From the time of the Norman Conquest and as recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, it was the seat of the powerful Anglo-norman Stafford family.
The castle was re-modelled in the early 19th Century by the Jerningham family in the Gothic Revival style, on the foundations of the medieval structure, and incorporates much of the original stonework. Today, there is a purpose-built museum with a gift and refreshments shop situated on-site below the castle mound.
MATLOCK BATH, DERBYSHIRE:
Developed as one of the country’s first tourist destinations, Matlock Bath retains much of the character and interest that impressed early visitors. Just 1.5 miles south of the town of Matlock, Matlock Bath is set in the beautiful gorge of the River Derwent, with attractive riverside gardens, an aquarium, wooded hillsides and rocky limestone crags. There is also a cable car to the Heights of Abraham to take in the views.
A popular tourist destination since the late 17th Century when the spa waters were discovered, its heyday was in Victorian times when it was dubbed “Little Switzerland” by the poet Lord Byron. Present day, there is lots to do for families, bikers and fun seekers, such as parades of decorated boats, entertainments and, on certain dates, firework displays. If you like motorbikes, then Sunday is the day to visit as the town is a mecca for bikers.
TWYCROSS ZOO, BURTON ROAD, ATHERSTONE, CV9 3PX:
Twycross Zoo has just opened its new major multi-million pound attraction based on the classic children’s book The Gruffalo.
‘The Gruffalo Discovery Land at Twycross Zoo’ spans four acres, bringing together characters from the best-selling children’s book which it is named after, created by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler.
But Twycross is also packed with wild animals, including big cats like snow leopards and the zoo, just 13 miles from Burton, is the only place in the UK home to the four great apes – chimpanzee, orangutan, gorilla and bonobo – the closest living cousins to the human race.
ECCLESBOURNE STEAM RAILWAY, WIRKSWORTH STATION, STATION ROAD, COLDWELL STREET, WIRKSWORTH, DE4 4FB:
Recognised as a Heritage Diesel Railcard Centre of Excellent by the Department for Transport, The Ecclesbourne Valley Railway serves up striking views of the valleys across Staffordshire and Derbyshire, along with welcoming customer service and luxury afternoon teas. And what can be more exciting than travelling on a steam train?
Visitors can hop on and off the Ecclesbourne Valley Railway all day with a day rover ticket from either of the Duffield or Wirksworth stations, or get unlimited travel for a year with an annual pass.
THE ROACHES, NEAR LEEK:
The Roaches is located in the Peak District. The impressively rugged and steep gritstone ridge is said to be home to mythical mermaids.
The crags and moorland are also home to a great range of wild birds; listen for red grouse chuckling in the heather and watch out for birds of prey such as buzzards and sparrowhawks.
The Roaches groups together two main gritstone outcrops, ‘Ramshaw Rocks’ famous for the ‘Winking Man’ rock formation and ‘Hen Cloud’ offering stunning panoramic views. On a clear day, it allows people to see much of Cheshire, Winter Hill in Lancashire and even as far as Snowdon in Wales.
CONKERS, MILLENNIUM AVENUE, MOIRA, SWADLINCOTE, DERBYSHIRE, DE12 6GA:
There are a host of outdoor and indoor things for all the family to do at Conkers in the National Forest. Visitors can explore 120 acres, including the Barefoot Walk, Viewing Tower, Adventure Play, The Fairy Labyrinth before burning off energy across the activity course. Families can also take the Conkerchoo Train between the Discovery and Waterside centres.
There is also a brand new splash park which opened over the Easter holidays that all the family will love.
ROSLISTON FORESTRY CENTRE, BURTON ROAD, ROSLISTON, SWADLINCOTE, DE12 8JX:
This gem just outside of Burton is home to woodland walks, indoor and outdoor play areas, cycle hire, fishing, a gift shop and restaurant. It is also in the National Forest. There is also education programmes, archery and woodland laser games all available for people who pre-book. And there are lots of great walks.
ALTON TOWERS, FARLEY LANE, ALTON, ST10 4DB:
The famous Staffordshire theme park welcomes visitors to experience its new festival which is centred around the seven major rollercoasters at the park; Nemesis, Rita, Oblivion, Th13teen, Wicker Man, Galactica and The Smiler.
But for families that may not all be able to experience the thrills of the major rides, the gardens and Cbebbies land are great alternatives for a chilled time at the park. There is also the new Gangsta Granny ride, based on the best selling children’s book by David Walliams.
DRAYTON MANOR, DRAYTON MANOR DRIVE, FAZELEY, MILE OAK, TAMWORTH, B78 3TW:
Enjoy your favourite rides, such as Shockwave, Apocalypse, River Rapids, Accelerator and so much more. Along with Europe’s only Thomas Land – featuring over 25 rides and attractions, live shows and Sir Topham Hatt himself. So whether you love thrill rides or family favourites, there’s something for everyone.
And don’t forget there is also the parks 15-acre zoo with over 500 animals to explore, including cheeky meerkats and adorable red pandas. Plus, they’ll be plenty of exciting entertainment, such as party games with Rory the Lion.