21:I[47354,["/_next/static/chunks/d435ae05deb4d258.js","/_next/static/chunks/65f8d463a5f0b3b9.js","/_next/static/chunks/6329ec7d7432d62a.js"],"default"] 22:I[17373,["/_next/static/chunks/d435ae05deb4d258.js","/_next/static/chunks/65f8d463a5f0b3b9.js","/_next/static/chunks/6329ec7d7432d62a.js"],"default"] 23:T4d6,

Cannock Chase is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty covering 26 square miles of heathland, forest and valley in the heart of Staffordshire. This walk explores the main forest trails with opportunities to spot fallow deer.

The Route

Start from the Birches Valley Forest Centre and follow the waymarked trail through Corsican pine and oak woodland. The route passes through the deer sanctuary where fallow deer roam freely. Continue to Stepping Stones on the Sher Brook before climbing through the heathland to Abraham's Valley. Return via the valley floor through dense woodland.

Dog-Friendly Details

Cannock Chase is superb for dog walking with extensive off-lead opportunities. Dogs must be on leads in the deer sanctuary area (clearly signed). The forest trails are soft underfoot and well-drained. Sher Brook provides drinking water and paddling spots. There are dedicated dog swimming areas at Stepping Stones.

Practical Information

Pay-and-display car park at Birches Valley Forest Centre (free for Forestry England members). Cafe with outdoor dog-friendly seating. Bike hire and Go Ape also available. Toilets at the visitor centre. Several other car parks around the Chase.

24:T521,

Cannock Chase AONB covers 26 square miles of heathland and forest, one of the most important wildlife habitats in the Midlands. This walk combines the atmospheric forest trails with a visit to the German Military Cemetery, a poignant memorial to nearly 5,000 soldiers from both World Wars.

The Route

Start from the Marquis Drive visitor centre and follow forest trails through Corsican pine and birch woodland. Visit the German Military Cemetery, set in a clearing among the pines. Continue through open heathland (a key habitat for nightjars and woodlarks) and past glacial valleys called "Oldacre". Return through the woodland via the Heart of England Way.

Dog-Friendly Details

Dogs can be off lead on the forest trails (avoid ground-nesting bird areas March to August). The forest is excellent for dogs with varied terrain and plenty of shade. Watch for fallow deer - they are common on the Chase. The sandy soil means paths drain well. Water at streams along the route.

Practical Information

Pay-and-display car park at Marquis Drive visitor centre. Cafe with outdoor seating welcomes dogs. The military cemetery is free to visit and deeply moving. Toilets at the visitor centre. The Chase is managed by Staffordshire County Council and Forestry England.

Dog Walks in Staffordshire

All Walks in Staffordshire