Holiday Cottages in Staffordshire

Things to Do in Staffordshire

Staffordshire is packed with attractions, catering to a wide range of interests and ages. Naturally, many visitors come here specifically for Alton Towers, and it’s easy to see why. Spending at least a full day – if not two – is recommended to fully experience the rides, shows, and themed areas. It's best suited to thrill-seekers and families with older children who meet the height requirements for the bigger attractions. Don't underestimate the queues, especially during school holidays; consider purchasing fast track tickets if you want to maximise your time. Beyond the adrenaline rush, Alton Towers also offers beautiful gardens and woodland walks, providing a calmer alternative for those seeking respite from the excitement. However, Staffordshire has so much more to offer than just one theme park. The Trentham Estate is a must-visit, and deserves a significant portion of your itinerary – allow at least half a day, but ideally a full day if you want to explore everything it offers. It’s not simply a park; it's an expansive experience featuring stunning Italianate gardens, woodland walks, a beautiful lake, and a charming shopping village. The estate has undergone considerable renovation in recent years, making it a really polished destination that appeals to all ages. Nearby is the Trentham Monkey Forest, which provides a fascinating insight into Barbary macaques living freely within a natural woodland environment. This is a unique experience; walking amongst these playful creatures as they go about their daily lives is genuinely captivating. Allow around two to three hours for your visit, and be mindful of the rules in place to protect both visitors and the monkeys. For those seeking outdoor adventures, Cannock Chase National Landscape is unparalleled. With over 80 miles of footpaths and bridleways, it's a haven for walkers, cyclists, and horse riders. The landscape is varied; from ancient woodland to open heathland, offering stunning views and plenty of opportunities for wildlife spotting. It’s worth dedicating at least half a day to explore the Chase, perhaps incorporating a visit to one of the many pubs in nearby villages afterwards. Carsington Water Visitor Centre provides another excellent outdoor experience, focusing on watersports and birdwatching; it's a great option for families with younger children. If you prefer culture over adrenaline, consider spending an afternoon at National Trust - Biddulph Grange Garden. This Victorian garden is renowned for its unique collection of plants and elaborate landscaping features – a true masterpiece of horticultural design. Allow around two to three hours to explore the different sections of the garden; it's particularly beautiful in spring when everything is in bloom. Similarly, Ilam Park offers a tranquil escape with picturesque riverside walks and historic manor house ruins. For evening entertainment, Staffordshire’s pubs and restaurants offer a welcoming atmosphere and delicious local cuisine (more on that below). Blockhouse at The Sheet Anchor consistently receives high ratings for its steaks and sophisticated dining experience, while The Wayfarer provides a more relaxed gastropub setting with excellent food and drink options.

Where to Eat and Drink

Staffordshire’s culinary scene is evolving rapidly, but it still retains a strong emphasis on hearty, locally sourced produce. While the county isn’t necessarily known for a specific ‘dish’, you'll find plenty of excellent pub fare featuring Staffordshire beef and local cheeses. The abundance of farm shops reflects this commitment to regional ingredients. Brindley Farm - Dining & Carvery is a popular choice, particularly with families, offering generous portions and a relaxed atmosphere. It’s best known for its carvery, but also serves a range of other dishes; expect it to be busy during peak times. Blockhouse at The Sheet Anchor offers a more refined dining experience, specialising in high-quality steaks and seafood. With an average rating of 4.6/5 from almost 4000 reviews, it's clear that diners consistently enjoy the food and service. The Wayfarer is another excellent option for those seeking a gastropub atmosphere; they offer a seasonal menu featuring locally sourced ingredients and a good selection of beers and wines. Miller & Carter Burton also specialises in steaks but provides a more formal dining environment with attentive service, earning an impressive 4.7/5 rating. If you’re looking for something a little different, The Lazy Trout offers excellent pub food alongside stunning views overlooking the River Hamps; it's particularly popular during warmer months. And finally, The Swan With Two Necks is another highly rated gastropub, known for its traditional dishes and cosy atmosphere. While this selection represents some of the best-rated establishments in Staffordshire, options are somewhat limited based on our current data. It’s worth noting that many villages also have smaller pubs and cafes offering excellent local food and drink; exploring these hidden gems is part of the fun of discovering Staffordshire.

Towns and Villages to Explore

The majority of our properties are located in and around Alton Towers & Staffordshire Villages, with a small selection in Dilhorne, Alton and Cheadle. Staying within this central area provides easy access to the main attractions while also offering the opportunity to explore charming rural communities. Alton Towers & Staffordshire Villages is less a single town and more a collection of picturesque hamlets surrounding the theme park. This offers a range of accommodation options from cosy cottages to larger farmhouses, all within easy reach of Alton Towers. The villages themselves are relatively small but offer local shops, pubs and restaurants catering to tourists and residents alike. It’s an ideal base for families wanting quick access to the park; however, it lacks the hustle and bustle of a larger town centre. Dilhorne is a quieter option, offering a more secluded rural escape. With only three properties available in this village, it's perfect for those seeking peace and tranquility. The village itself has a charming pub and local shops but limited amenities beyond that; you’ll need to drive to reach the larger attractions or supermarkets. Alton (separate from Alton Towers) is a small market town with a historic High Street featuring independent shops and cafes. It's a good option for those wanting a more traditional town experience, offering easy access to Cannock Chase National Landscape. With only one property available here, it’s best suited to couples or smaller groups. Cheadle is the largest of the towns where we have properties, offering a wider range of shops, restaurants and amenities. It's known for its beautiful Georgian architecture and historic market square; however, it can be quite busy during peak times. The town also has good transport links, making it easy to explore other parts of Staffordshire. Choosing which area to stay in depends on your priorities. For convenience and access to Alton Towers, the villages surrounding the park are ideal. For peace and quiet, Dilhorne is a great option. For a traditional market town experience, Alton is worth considering; while Cheadle offers a wider range of amenities but can be busier.

Getting Here and Getting Around