Armitage With Handsacre
Armitage With Handsacre
Attractions and Places To See around Armitage With Handsacre - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Armitage With Handsacre include a mix of natural features, historical landmarks, and outdoor recreational opportunities. This civil parish in Staffordshire, England, offers diverse landscapes for exploration. Visitors can find significant natural attractions like Cannock Chase Forest, alongside historical sites such as Essex Bridge. The area provides opportunities for outdoor activities and cultural engagement.
Best attractions and places to see around Armitage With Handsacre
- The most popular attractions is Monkey Trail, Cannock Chase,…
Last updated: May 22, 2026
Cannock Chase Forest Trailhead
Highlight • MTB Park
Tip by
Sherbrook Stepping Stones
Highlight • River
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Monkey Trail, Cannock Chase
Highlight • MTB Park
Tip by
Essex Bridge
Highlight • Bridge
Tip by
Lower Cliff Trail
Highlight • MTB Park
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Armitage With Handsacre.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
Essex Bridge is a historic, Grade I listed packhorse bridge located at the Shugborough Estate in Staffordshire, England, which crosses the River Trent. Originally built in the 16th century, it is notable as the longest surviving packhorse bridge in Britain and was constructed for Queen Elizabeth I's use, linking the estate to nearby woodlands. It is one of the oldest bridges in England that has not been altered. The bridge is situated over the River Trent near Great Haywood and is an integral part of the Shugborough Estate, a National Trust property. It was built around 1550 by the Earl of Essex for a visit from Queen Elizabeth I so she could access hunting grounds on the other side of the river. It is the longest surviving packhorse bridge in Britain, with 14 of its original 40 arches still intact today. The bridge is a Grade I listed monument and is one of the oldest un-altered bridges in England. source: internet
0
0
Great place to ride. It's on my doorstep but definitely worth visiting no matter how far you are away.
0
0
Originally called 'Hangmans stones' installed in 1954. The stones were originally from Stafford Prison where they formed the steps to the prison gatehouse where the condemned prisoners were hanged on the flat roof.
1
0
Essex Bridge is historically significant, dating back to the early 17th century. It was built between 1550 and 1554, making it one of the oldest surviving stone bridges in England. The bridge is situated in a tranquil and scenic setting, surrounded by lush greenery and the natural beauty of the River Trent. It provides a charming view of the river and its surroundings.
2
0
having just been in the area for 3 days and ridden all of these: Perry's blue, a new route post Commonwealth games, from the Birches visitor centre, is suitable for even the newest of MTB'ers - there is nothing technically hard. But there are some really fun berms even for experienced to enjoy and it has some good Red optional diversions as well. Follow the Dog is the next one up - a "light and fruity middling" Red - whilst some sections are steep, some are technical, some are loose/narrow/twisty - none are all 3 are at the same time. Suitable as a first time Red. And finally, Monkey is a proper hard red - some brutal sequential switchback climbs (Lung Buster), adverse camber rocky drops verging to "very dark oaky" red (Tom/Dick/Harry on Original Monkey). And the parts that are actually marked black are verging on Danny MacAskill.... Definitely not one for a first red.
6
0
The starting point for your Cannock Chase trail centre rides! Here you'll find maps of each route as well as crucial trail closures information, as they constantly need upkeep to keep them flowing sweet. Choose between the green-rated gravel road loop around the lakes, the new Perry's Trail blue-rated singletrack, or the red-rated trails Follow The Dog and Monkey Trail, with some very spicy black optional segments.
4
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What natural attractions can I explore around Armitage With Handsacre?
The area offers significant natural beauty, including Cannock Chase Forest Trailhead, which serves as a gateway to various trails and natural features within Cannock Chase. Another popular spot is Sherbrook Stepping Stones, located within the picturesque Cannock Chase AONB, where you can cross the scenic Sherbrook.
Are there opportunities for mountain biking near Armitage With Handsacre?
Yes, Cannock Chase Forest Trailhead is a prime location for mountain biking. It provides access to a variety of trails, including the challenging Monkey Trail and the flowy Lower Cliff Trail. You can find more details on specific routes in the MTB Trails around Armitage With Handsacre guide.
What historical landmarks are worth visiting in Armitage With Handsacre?
You can visit Essex Bridge, a historically significant stone bridge dating back to between 1550 and 1554, offering tranquil views of the River Trent. The area also features the remains of the Handsacre Hall Moat, a scheduled monument from an ancient manor, and numerous Grade II listed buildings such as the Church of St. John the Baptist and Hawkesyard Priory.
Are there family-friendly activities or places to visit?
Absolutely. Sherbrook Stepping Stones is a popular beauty spot within Cannock Chase AONB, especially loved by families in summer. The wider Cannock Chase Forest also offers various trails suitable for different ages and abilities, perfect for a family day out.
Where can I find walking or running trails in the area?
The region offers diverse options for walking and running. Cannock Chase Forest has numerous trails, accessible from the Cannock Chase Forest Trailhead. For specific running routes, you can explore the Running Trails around Armitage With Handsacre guide, which includes routes like the 'Trent and Mersey Canal Towpath loop'.
What is the best time of year to visit Armitage With Handsacre for outdoor activities?
The area is enjoyable year-round, but for outdoor activities like walking, running, and mountain biking, spring and summer offer pleasant weather and longer daylight hours. Summer is particularly popular for families visiting Sherbrook Stepping Stones. Autumn also provides beautiful scenery with changing foliage in Cannock Chase Forest.
Are there any specific routes for road cycling?
Yes, road cyclists can find several routes around Armitage With Handsacre. The Road Cycling Routes around Armitage With Handsacre guide features options such as the 'Shugborough Estate – Essex Bridge loop' and 'Rugeley Market Hall – The Old Chancel loop', catering to various distances and difficulties.
What kind of listed buildings can I see in the parish?
Armitage With Handsacre is home to 20 Grade II listed buildings. These include religious sites like the Church of St. John the Baptist and the Roman Catholic Church of St. Thomas at Hawkesyard Priory, historic farmhouses such as Birchen Fields Farmhouse, and even accommodation bridges crossing the Trent & Mersey Canal.
Are there any hidden gems or less-known spots to discover?
While not widely publicized, the protected moat of Handsacre Hall, off Shropshire Brook Road, offers a glimpse into the area's ancient past as the center of the original village. Additionally, exploring the various listed farmhouses and cottages can reveal charming historical architecture beyond the main attractions.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions in Armitage With Handsacre?
Visitors particularly appreciate the blend of natural beauty and historical significance. The challenging and flowy trails of Monkey Trail, Cannock Chase are highly rated by mountain bikers, while the tranquil setting of Sherbrook Stepping Stones is a favorite for families. The historical context of sites like Essex Bridge also adds to the appeal.
Is there public transport available to reach the main attractions?
While specific public transport details for each attraction are not provided, popular spots like Cannock Chase Forest are generally accessible. It's advisable to check local bus routes or consider driving, as parking is typically available at major trailheads like Cannock Chase Forest Trailhead.
Are the trails in Cannock Chase Forest suitable for beginners?
Cannock Chase Forest offers trails for all skill levels. From the Cannock Chase Forest Trailhead, you can access green-rated gravel road loops suitable for beginners, as well as blue-rated singletrack like Perry's Trail. More challenging red and black-rated trails are also available for experienced riders.
Most popular routes around Armitage With Handsacre
Most popular attractions around Armitage With Handsacre
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:
