Attractions and Places To See around Stowe-By-Chartley - Top 20

The area is rich in history. You can explore the remains of Chartley Castle, a motte and bailey castle with an unusual cylindrical keep, notable as one of Mary Queen of Scots' last imprisonment sites. Nearby, Chartley Old Hall offers a glimpse into an early Renaissance manor. Don't miss St. John the Baptist's Church, a Grade II* listed building dating back to the 12th century.

Yes, the region boasts several unique natural features. You can visit Sherbrook Stepping Stones, a popular beauty spot in Cannock Chase AONB. Another interesting site is the Glacial Boulder in Cannock Chase, a large granite rock transported from Scotland during the last Ice Age. Additionally, Fairoak Pools offers a beautiful, tranquil spot to enjoy the water.

Families have several options. The Sherbrook Stepping Stones are a hit with children. For farm experiences, Amerton Farm & Billy's Farm Barn offers animals and activities. You can also find seasonal activities like Pumpkin Picking at Canalside Farm or indoor pottery fun at Pretty Pots Ceramics. PLAY@ Lower Drayton Farm, a short drive away, provides both indoor and outdoor play areas.

For scenic walks, the area around Stowe-by-Chartley offers diverse options. The Essex Bridge is situated in a tranquil setting by the River Trent, perfect for a peaceful stroll. You can also explore the local countryside via The Chartley Walk, a 13km route published by the Parish Council, which takes you through former deer parks and Hand Leasow Wood. For more structured hiking, consider the easy hikes available in the broader area, such as the Shugborough Estate loop near Cannock Chase, which you can find details for in the Easy hikes around Stowe-By-Chartley guide.

Absolutely. Cannock Chase National Landscape, a significant natural area nearby, is excellent for cycling. The Cannock Chase Forest Trailhead is a popular starting point, offering maps for various cycling routes, from green-rated gravel loops to red-rated singletrack. For more cycling options, you can explore the Gravel biking around Stowe-By-Chartley guide or the Road Cycling Routes around Stowe-By-Chartley guide.

Visitors particularly enjoy the tranquility and natural beauty. For instance, many find Fairoak Pools a beautiful spot to watch the sunshine on the water and sit in peace. The Sherbrook Stepping Stones are also very popular, especially with families, adding an adventurous dimension to any walk.

The best time for outdoor activities, such as walking and cycling, is generally during the warmer and drier months, from spring to early autumn (April to October). During these periods, the weather is more favorable for exploring natural sites like Cannock Chase and enjoying the various trails. Summer can be busy, especially at popular spots like Sherbrook Stepping Stones.

While popular spots can get busy, you might find more solitude by exploring parts of Cannock Chase away from the main trailheads or by visiting during off-peak hours. The Fairoak Pools can be a peaceful retreat, especially during weekdays. For a truly unique natural experience, though potentially challenging to access, Chartley Moss is an international nature reserve with a floating bog and unique vegetation.

Essex Bridge is a historically significant stone bridge built between 1550 and 1554, making it one of England's oldest surviving stone bridges. It's a remarkable packhorse crossing, originally said to have 40 arches, with 14 remaining today, making it the longest packhorse bridge in England. It's named after the Earls of Essex who oversaw its construction.

Yes, several locations offer scenic views. The Essex Bridge provides charming views of the River Trent and its lush surroundings. Sherbrook Stepping Stones is a picturesque spot within the Cannock Chase AONB. Additionally, Fairoak Pools is noted for its beautiful water views, especially at sunset.

Yes, the Amerton Railway, located in Amerton, offers a railway and transport attraction that provides an outdoor experience for all ages, making it a fun visit for enthusiasts and families alike.

The terrain around Stowe-by-Chartley and nearby Cannock Chase varies. You can expect a mix of gravel paths, forest trails, and some singletrack, particularly in areas like Cannock Chase Forest. Walks like The Chartley Walk explore local countryside, which may include fields and wooded areas. Some routes, especially those for gravel biking, can be quite long and challenging, as seen in the Gravel biking around Stowe-By-Chartley guide.