Best attractions and places to see around Anslow, a village in East Staffordshire, offers a blend of local charm and access to diverse attractions. The area is characterized by its historical landmarks, natural features, and recreational opportunities. Visitors can explore sites within the village and a variety of points of interest in the surrounding region. This location provides a mix of cultural heritage and outdoor activities.
Last updated: October 5, 2026
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A 29 hectare Site of Special Scientific Interest. The reserve features a combination of lakes and ponds, woodland and sheltered sunny areas make the former gravel pits at Hilton a haven for wildlife. Look for kingfishers flashing blue over the water, herons, great crested grebes, and tufted ducks. It is famous for dragonflies and damselflies, with 15 species recorded here.
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Ferry Bridge is a pretty Victorian foot bridge over the River Trent. Built to replace a small ferry service that had operated at the same site since the 13th century. and gifted to the town by brewing magnate Michael Arthur Bass, later Lord Burton. The bridge is a "semi-suspension" bridge, of which this is the first and only one of its kind in Europe to be built to this design.
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The Ferry Bridge is a pedestrian bridge over the River Trent. It was opened in 1889 and replaced a small ferry service that had run since the 13th century. It's a semi-suspension bridge and was the only one of this design to be built in Europe.
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Nice spot, shame about the noise from the A50.
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Boasting an ancient church, several excellent pubs and some beautiful half-timbered cottages, Abbots Bromley is an attractive and affluent village in the heart of Staffordshire. It is famous for the Horn Dance, an annual event that attracts visitors from far and wide. There are a number of public footpaths in the countryside around the village. Blithfield Reservoir has three walks that are open to the public, with pockets and woodland, wildflower meadows and superb birdwatching.
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A pleasant nature reserve worth checking out if in the area. Despite the noises from the nearby A50, it is still a calming place with hardly any visitors, and full of wildlife. A loop around the nature reserve is about 1.5 - 2 miles and there are suggested routes on a board at the entrance. Car parking can be found at the entrance alongside the road. Note: most of the paths do not allow dogs.
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Built to honour the lives of those who died during conflicts, the National Memorial Arboretum is an interesting place to visit, especially if you are interested in military history. You can learn more about Britain's conflicts at the exhibition galleries or reflect on the tyranny of war at the restaurants, cafe and courtyard garden. The arboretum has over 30,000 trees and 350 memorials. A church service takes place in the Millenium Chapel of Peace every morning at 11am, when the Last Post is played. The arboretum is open from 10am - 4pm. You can find more information here: http://www.thenma.org.uk/
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Regular winner of Staffordshire best kept village and best place to live in midlands
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Anslow village itself features the historic Holy Trinity Church, built in 1851, and The Thatched Cottage, a Grade II listed building dating back to the 17th century. Nearby, you can visit the National Memorial Arboretum, which honors lives lost in conflicts, or the charming Abbots Bromley Village Centre, known for its ancient church and half-timbered cottages. Other historical sites in the surrounding area include Sudbury Hall, Calke Abbey, and Ashby de la Zouch Castle.
Yes, the Ferry Bridge is a notable Victorian footbridge over the River Trent. It's unique for its "semi-suspension" design, which was the first and only one of its kind in Europe when it was built.
The area around Anslow offers several natural attractions. You can explore parts of the historic Needwood Forest, which is undergoing replanting efforts as part of the New National Forest. The Rosliston Forestry Centre is also nearby, providing natural scenery and various outdoor activities. For birdwatching and walks, Blithfield Reservoir near Abbots Bromley features woodlands and wildflower meadows.
You can enjoy short circular walks directly from Anslow, offering diverse landscapes. The Mickleover Greenway (National Cycle Network Route 54) is an old railway line converted into a motor-traffic-free path, perfect for cycling and walking through scenic countryside. The Trent & Mersey Canal also offers relatively flat routes for walking, connecting to various pathways within the National Forest. For more specific routes, you can find numerous hiking trails and cycling routes in the area.
Yes, the Trent & Mersey Canal offers a relatively flat and accessible route. The Mickleover Greenway, being an old railway line, also has a very gradual gradient, making it suitable for easy walks and family cycle rides. You can find more easy options in the easy hikes guide for Anslow.
Many attractions around Anslow are suitable for families. The National Memorial Arboretum is family-friendly, offering exhibition galleries and extensive grounds. The Mickleover Greenway is excellent for family cycling, being completely motor-traffic-free. Additionally, the National Forest Adventure Farm near Branston provides a dedicated family-friendly experience.
In Anslow village, The Bell Inn is a recognized bar and restaurant with gardens. The Abbots Bromley Village Centre is known for its excellent pubs. Near the northern end of the Mickleover Greenway, you'll find the Great Northern pub, and cafes are available near its southern end.
Yes, the Ferry Bridge and sections of the Trent & Mersey Canal are noted for their accessibility, offering relatively flat routes. The National Memorial Arboretum is also designed with accessibility in mind.
Anslow and its surrounding areas are pleasant to visit throughout the warmer months. In spring and summer, the village is particularly noted for its well-maintained lawns and colorful floral displays. Outdoor activities like walking and cycling are most enjoyable during these seasons. However, sites like the National Memorial Arboretum are open year-round and offer a reflective experience regardless of the season.
Beyond the main attractions, consider exploring Anslow's own historical features like the Blacksmith's Anvil Monument, marking the site of the old Blacksmith's Forge. The village's well-maintained gardens in spring and summer are also a charming sight. For a unique historical experience, the National Trust Museum of Childhood at Sudbury Hall offers a fascinating look into the past.
Yes, Blithfield Reservoir, located near Abbots Bromley, is an excellent spot for birdwatching, featuring diverse habitats including woodlands and wildflower meadows. The natural areas within the historic Needwood Forest and along the Trent & Mersey Canal also provide opportunities to observe local wildlife.


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