The best walks and hikes around Forsbrook
4.5
(785)
6,290
hikers
335
hikes
Hikes around Forsbrook Staffordshire explore a landscape of country parks, woodlands, and river valleys. The area is characterized by features like the sandstone canyons of Park Hall Country Park and the semi-natural woodlands of the Churnet Valley. The terrain is generally composed of rolling hills and well-defined public footpaths, offering a variety of routes through the Staffordshire countryside.
Best hiking trails around Forsbrook
- The most popular hiking route is Park Hall Country Park loop via Hulme Quarry / Play Canyon, a 4.0 mile (6.5 km) trail that takes about 1 hour 45 minutes to complete. This route explores the sandstone canyons and varied terrain of the National Nature Reserve.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is Hawksmoor Wood – Oakamoor Weir and Sluice Gates loop from Cheadle, a difficult 12.1 mile (19.5 km) path. This longer hike involves more significant elevation changes as it passes through woodlands and by the River Churnet.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Park Hall Hill Viewpoint – Bolton Gate Pool loop from Boltongate Farm, a 4.4 mile (7.0 km) trail leading through Park Hall Country Park, often completed in about 1 hour 55 minutes.
- Hiking around Forsbrook is defined by its mix of sandstone canyons, ancient woodlands, and gentle river valleys. The network of trails provides options suitable for different ability levels, from easy family-friendly walks to more demanding hikes.
- The routes in Forsbrook are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 700 reviews. More than 5,800 hikers have used komoot to explore Forsbrook's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
3.2
(6)
18
hikers
6.47km
01:44
80m
80m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(3)
8
hikers
7.04km
01:54
100m
100m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
6
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
hikers
5.33km
01:27
70m
70m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
19.6km
05:29
380m
380m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
T:UK - Hulme Beacon https://share.google/zkeCFc5epcQBmSv8x
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There’s no such thing as too many oatcakes when you’re a Stokie! 😋
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Never have been lost for words as I was when I opened that door to this absolutely stunning church! It certainly has the ‘WOW!’ factor for sure!!!! This certainly is a must visit!
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A half-timbered building dating from the 17th-century.
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St Giles Catholic Church, known as ‘Pugin’s Gem’ as it was designed by Augustus Pugin for the then Earl of Shrewsbury. The heraldic Lions of the Earls of Shrewsbury are present at the main entrance. The tower and spire are 200 feet high, a striking feature in the town, and much of the church is ornate as befits Pugin’s style. The interior is particularly elaborate and rich in colour.
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A great little shop selling freshly made, filled and unfilled oatcakes and pikelets. Open - Thu-Sat 6am-2pm Sun 7am - 11:30am
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Threap Wood sits on the border between Alton and Oakamoor in Staffordshire. It's a beautiful woodland that is a far cry from much of the hustle and bustle that surrounds the area, and features a wonderful variety of flora and fauna.
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Pretty waterfall to stumble upon as you make your way through the woods.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there many hiking trails to choose from around Forsbrook?
Yes, there are over 300 marked hiking routes in the Forsbrook area. The trails range from easy strolls through country parks to more challenging treks in the surrounding woodlands and valleys, offering plenty of options for all fitness levels.
What do other hikers enjoy about the trails near Forsbrook?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the varied scenery, from the unique sandstone canyons in Park Hall Country Park to the peaceful, ancient woodlands of the Churnet Valley. The well-maintained paths and the mix of landscapes are frequently highlighted.
Are there any good circular walks starting near Forsbrook?
Many of the best walks in the area are circular. For a moderately challenging loop through varied terrain, the Park Hall Hill Viewpoint – Bolton Gate Pool loop from Boltongate Farm is a great option that offers excellent views from Park Hall Hill.
Can I take my dog on the hiking trails?
Yes, the area is generally dog-friendly. Parks like Park Hall Country Park and the woodlands of Dimmingsdale are popular with dog walkers. It's always best to keep your dog on a lead, especially near wildlife and livestock, and to follow any local signage.
Are there any family-friendly hikes suitable for children?
Definitely. Park Hall Country Park is an excellent choice for a family outing. The Park Hall Country Park loop via Hulme Quarry / Play Canyon is an easy walk that explores the park's fascinating sandstone canyons, which are sure to capture the kids' imagination.
Where can I find a hike with a waterfall?
The Anchor Brook Waterfall – Parkhall Lake and Waterfall loop from Normacot is a lovely, easy walk that features a waterfall. It's a relatively short and gentle route, perfect for a peaceful afternoon stroll.
What is the terrain like for hiking around Forsbrook?
The terrain is quite varied. You'll find a mix of rolling hills, well-defined public footpaths through fields, and woodland trails. A key feature is Park Hall Country Park with its unique sandstone canyons. The Churnet Valley offers more secluded, ancient woodland paths, some of which can be steep in places.
Where can I find parking for the main hiking areas?
The main hiking destinations like Park Hall Country Park and Dimmingsdale have dedicated parking areas. For Park Hall, you can find more information on access and facilities on the Visit Stoke website. It's always a good idea to arrive early on weekends as spots can fill up.
Are there any pubs or cafes on the walking routes?
Yes, if you're exploring the trails in Dimmingsdale and the Churnet Valley, the Rambler's Retreat is a very popular spot for walkers to get refreshments. For a walk that starts or ends in a town, the Stone Fountain – Ye Olde Oatcake Shoppe loop from Cheadle offers a chance to experience a local delicacy after your hike.
What are some popular places for hiking near Forsbrook?
Besides the local footpaths, hikers often visit several key areas:
- Park Hall Country Park: Stoke-on-Trent's only National Nature Reserve, known for its sandstone canyons and diverse habitats.
- Dimmingsdale: An enchanting valley managed by Forestry England, offering peaceful woodland walks.
- Hanchurch Woods: A popular spot for both walkers and mountain bikers with a network of tracks through the forest.
- Manifold Valley: A scenic part of the Peak District with limestone geology and riverside paths.
Are there any particularly long or challenging hikes in the area?
Yes, for those seeking a full-day challenge, the Hawksmoor Wood – Oakamoor Weir and Sluice Gates loop from Cheadle is a difficult hike of over 12 miles (19 km). It involves significant elevation gain as it explores the woodlands and the River Churnet valley.
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