The Staffordshire Way

Location: Cheshire; Derbyshire; Staffordshire

OS Maps: Explorer 268; 259;244; 242; 219 Outdoor Leisure 24

The Staffordshire Way travels in a north to south direction commencing in the dramatic gritstone hills of Cheshire and finishing in a gentler landscape of parkland and pasture. It passes through the lovely Cannock Chase Area of Outstanding natural Beauty along the way and attractive ever-changing scenery unfolds between interesting villages and towns. There is a thread of social history passing along the route as ancient hill forts, Roman settlements, medieval sunken lanes, early mills and industrial buildings are all encountered. The Way uses old coach roads, canal tow-paths and the bed of a disused railway as it makes it's facinating journey south.

The route was created and developed by Staffordshire County Council between 1977 and 1983 and is well established. It has been commended by the British Tourist Board and is regarded as being of recreational importance. The Ramblers Association have also done much to improve the route on the ground.

Guide Book:

Walking on and around the Staffordshire Way edited by Geoff Loadwick ISBN 1-85058-594-6. This guide, written by the Ramblers Association, is designed for those who wish to walk the Way, but cannot devote the time to complete the route in one long hike. The book selects some of the best sections of the Way so that you can complete it as time and energy permit. [Click for further information or to purchase]