The Gatehouse

Staffordshire Way (Rushton Spencer - Cannock Chase)

Traverses 76km across Staffordshire from moorland edges to ancient forest, mixing moderate climbs through rolling farmland with gentler wooded stretches. Not suitable for buggies due to stiles, uneven terrain and muddy sections after rain. Dogs welcome but must be under control near livestock. Rewards walkers with varied landscapes from Peak District foothills to Cannock Chase's heathland, passing historic market towns and quiet villages—ideal for multi-day hiking with good pub stops en route.

Weaver Walk

Follows the River Weaver through Staffordshire's gentle countryside, mostly flat with occasional mild inclines along towpaths and field edges. Ideal for families and accessible with all-terrain buggies on well-maintained sections, though some stretches may be muddy after rain. Dogs welcome on leads near livestock. Offers peaceful waterside scenery, wildlife spotting opportunities including herons and kingfishers, and connects charming villages with historic canal locks and bridges worth explorin

Booth's Wood Loop

RSPB

Meanders through an RSPB woodland reserve with gentle, well-maintained paths suitable for families and buggies on drier days. Mostly flat terrain with a few short inclines. Dogs welcome on leads to protect ground-nesting birds. Excellent for birdwatching year-round, particularly woodpeckers and warblers in spring, with interpretive signs explaining the habitat along the way.

Churnet Way

Follows the Churnet Valley through Staffordshire's dramatic former industrial heartland, mixing waterside stretches along the river with woodland climbs and open ridges offering valley views. Terrain varies from flat canal towpaths to moderate hillside ascents—manageable for older children but too uneven for buggies. Dogs welcome on leads near livestock. The route passes abandoned mills, heritage railways, and quiet villages, rewarding walkers with surprisingly wild scenery close to the Potterie

Peak District Boundary Walk Stage 15