Top 6 Natural Monuments around Eccleshall
Best natural monuments around Eccleshall are found in Staffordshire, a region characterized by its picturesque countryside and diverse natural features. The area offers a mix of woodlands, lakes, and viewpoints, providing opportunities for outdoor activities. Eccleshall itself is a market town, serving as a gateway to these natural landscapes. These sites offer opportunities for enjoying diverse landscapes, wildlife, and outdoor activities.
Best natural monuments around Eccleshall
- The most popular natural monuments is Hem Heath Woods Nature Reserve, a forest…
Last updated: October 4, 2026
Downs Banks Millennium Viewpoint
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Hem Heath Woods Nature Reserve
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Aqualate Mere Nature Reserve
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Druids Grove Yew Trees
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I do particularly like this tree for its gnarly roots and unusual trunk. They age in the most spectacular way.
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Norbury Millennium Boulder
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One of the Norbury Boulders, originally transported by glacier from Scotland some 20,000 years ago, then the final 2 miles from nearby Gorse Farm rather more recently by low-loader. It's part of a linked walk past fiver boulders, the Norbury Millennium Boulder Trail. This one is the biggest, and shows dark 'xenoliths', fragments of the magna chamber wall incorporated into the granite as it solidified 400 million years ago.
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The largest natural lake in the Midlands, Aqualate Mere is a nature reserve managed by Natural England. Although large, it is very shallow, generally no more than a metre deep. The Mere is an example of an esker system, which is rare in the Midlands, formed by glacial meltwaters during the late Devensian glaciation. Aqualate is a great place to see vast flocks of overwintering wildfowl, as well as being a breeding site for curlew and snipe. The hide offers superb views out across the water.
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The start of the walk is all up Hill but from then on it's a gentle stroll
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There must be around 12 to 14 yew trees grown together in this spot. I do particularly like this tree for its gnarly roots and unusual trunk. They age in the most spectacular way. It's unusual to see them planted thus together. Usually seen alone in graveyards but I've not seen them grouped like this other than in the druids grove in Knypersley😊.
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In the 18th century Bluebarn farm on Downs Bank grew hops for Joule's Brewery. In 1946 Joule's purchased the land from Viscount Sidmouth. The area was subject to purchase with the help of a public subscription and it was given to the National Trust by John Joule in 1950, as "an offering for victory in the 1939-45 War, and as a memorial to those who died" - apparently on the grounds that it had originally been common land, and should thus be open again to local people.
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From Wikipedia: In the 18th century a farm on Downs Bank grew hops for Joule's Brewery, who rented it from Viscount Sidmouth. The area was well known to the author Mary Renault, whose parents moved to live nearby in the early 1930s. Hops growing on Downs Bank continued until the 1940s, and there was also cattle grazing until 1959. The area was subject to purchase with the help of a public subscription and it was given to the National Trust by John Joule in 1950, as... "an offering for victory in the 1939-45 War, and as a memorial to those who died" - apparently on the grounds that it had originally been common land, and should thus be open again to local people. However, after 1950 the lack of grazing caused its characteristic heathland to decline, as bracken and birch were allowed to invade. Downs Banks Toposcope There is a Millennium Viewpoint stone at one of the highest points, with a toposcope (a disc of metal sight-lines/landmarks) embedded in the top of it. The toposcope went
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This is the largest woodland area in Stoke on Trent but it is a hidden gem.
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A free car park with no curfew. If this car park is full, just go a bit further up to the Toby Carvery. It also has lots of free parking.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some popular natural monuments around Eccleshall?
Visitors frequently enjoy Hem Heath Woods Nature Reserve, known as the largest woodland area in Stoke on Trent. Another favorite is Downs Banks Millennium Viewpoint, which offers a toposcope and gentle strolls after an initial uphill section. Aqualate Mere Nature Reserve, the Midlands' largest natural lake, is also highly regarded for its wildlife.
What natural features can I expect to see around Eccleshall?
The area around Eccleshall is rich in diverse natural features. You can explore extensive woodlands like Hem Heath Woods Nature Reserve and The Oaks Ancient Woodland. There are significant bodies of water such as Aqualate Mere Nature Reserve and Cop Mere, which offer tranquil lakeside scenery. The River Sow also winds through the landscape, contributing to rich wetland environments like Jackson's Coppice & Marsh.
What is the best time to visit the natural monuments near Eccleshall?
The best time to visit depends on what you wish to experience. Spring is ideal for seeing the spectacular bluebell displays at Jackson's Coppice & Marsh. Autumn offers vibrant foliage, particularly in the woodlands. For birdwatching, Aqualate Mere Nature Reserve is excellent in winter for overwintering wildfowl. Generally, warmer, sunnier days are best for enjoying walks and spotting dragonflies and damselflies in wetland areas.
Are there any viewpoints offering panoramic views?
Yes, Downs Banks Millennium Viewpoint is a notable spot. It features a toposcope at one of its highest points, providing clear sightlines to various landmarks and offering expansive views of the surrounding countryside.
What kind of wildlife can I spot in the natural monuments around Eccleshall?
The natural monuments are home to diverse wildlife. At Jackson's Coppice & Marsh, you might spot a variety of bird species, including pied flycatchers and marsh tits, as well as one of Staffordshire's largest badger setts. Dragonflies and damselflies are common near the marsh. Aqualate Mere Nature Reserve is a crucial breeding site for curlew and snipe and hosts vast flocks of overwintering wildfowl.
Are there family-friendly natural monuments around Eccleshall?
Many natural monuments in the area are suitable for families. Hem Heath Woods Nature Reserve, Aqualate Mere Nature Reserve, and Druids Grove Yew Trees are all considered family-friendly. Downs Banks Millennium Viewpoint also offers a gentle stroll after an initial uphill section, making it accessible for families.
Are the natural monuments around Eccleshall dog-friendly?
Yes, many natural monuments around Eccleshall are dog-friendly. For example, Downs Banks Millennium Viewpoint is a great spot for walks with dogs. Always remember to keep dogs under control and check for any specific local regulations or signage regarding pets in nature reserves.
Where can I park when visiting these natural monuments?
Parking is available at several locations. Hem Heath Woods Nature Reserve offers a free car park with no curfew. For Downs Banks Millennium Viewpoint, parking facilities are also available, making it convenient for visitors.
What outdoor activities can I do near these natural monuments?
The area offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can enjoy gravel biking with routes like the 'Norbury Wharf Ltd – Cop Mere loop' or 'Newport to Stafford Greenway – Isabel Trail loop'. For running, there are trails such as the 'Cop Mere – Walk Mill pond loop from Eccleshall'. Road cycling is also popular, with routes like the 'Cop Mere – Red Lion Farm Shop & Café loop'. You can find more details on these activities in the Gravel biking around Eccleshall, Running Trails around Eccleshall, and Road Cycling Routes around Eccleshall guides.
Are there hiking or walking trails near Eccleshall's natural monuments?
Yes, there are numerous hiking and walking trails. A popular loop trail around Cop Mere is approximately 5.4 miles (8.8 km) and takes about 2 hours 15 minutes. Jackson's Coppice & Marsh also features well-maintained paths suitable for walks through diverse habitats. For more options, explore the Running Trails around Eccleshall guide, which includes walking-friendly routes.
Are there any ancient woodlands or historical natural sites?
Yes, The Oaks Ancient Woodland is a significant site, with records showing it has been woodland for over 400 years. Additionally, Druids Grove Yew Trees features a unique grouping of ancient yew trees. Cannock Chase, a short drive away, is also an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty known for its ancient woodlands and heathlands.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the natural monuments around Eccleshall?
Visitors appreciate the tranquility and natural beauty of the area. Many enjoy the peaceful walks and scenic views, especially around Cop Mere and the River Sow. The diverse habitats at places like Jackson's Coppice & Marsh offer excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting, while the historical significance of sites like Downs Banks Millennium Viewpoint adds to the experience. The community has shared over 16 photos and given more than 40 upvotes to these highlights, reflecting their positive experiences.
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