Cannock Chase National Landscape - Explore woodland, heathland and wildlife in the heart of Staffordshire.

Cannock Chase National Landscape is a beautiful area of countryside in Staffordshire, renowned for its varied scenery, rich wildlife and outdoor recreation opportunities. Designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in 1958, it is the smallest mainland National Landscape in Britain and remains one of the county's most treasured natural destinations.

Located between Cannock, Lichfield, Rugeley and Stafford, the landscape features a diverse mix of ancient deciduous woodland, conifer plantations, open heathland and reminders of the area's industrial past, including former coal mining sites. Once a Royal Forest, Cannock Chase has a long and fascinating history shaped by both nature and human activity.

Despite its relatively compact size, Cannock Chase supports an impressive variety of wildlife. Visitors may spot part of the resident herd of around 800 fallow deer, along with many bird species including brambling, yellowhammer, bullfinch and the elusive nightjar. Much of the area is protected as a Site of Special Scientific Interest due to its ecological importance.

The landscape is ideal for walking, cycling, horse riding and nature watching, with an extensive network of trails crossing the heathland and woodland. The visitor centre at Marquis Drive provides a great starting point for exploring the area and learning more about its wildlife and history.

Plan your visit to Cannock Chase National Landscape and discover one of Staffordshire's most rewarding outdoor destinations.

Find directions easily using Google Maps.