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Stafford & South Staffordshire

Attractions - General

Stafford & South Staffordshire

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Attractions - General

Stafford & South Staffordshire - Tourist Attractions, Amusements, Theme Parks, Walks, Viewpoints, Zoos, etc

This page covers general Tourist Attractions, including Amusement Parks, Boat Trips, Theme Parks, Specialist Shops, factory shops and outlet villages, Guided Walks, Country Parks,  Viewpoints, Zoos and wildlife parks, etc.
 

We know that not all the attractions in Stafford & South Staffordshire are listed. Please help us make this guide comprehensive by giving details of missing attractions here.

 

Attractions

General

LICHFIELD FESTIVAL

7 The Close, Lichfield, Staffs, WS13 7LD
Tel:  01543 306270
E-mail: info@lichfieldfestival.org
Web: www.lichfieldfestival.org  

27th Lichfield Festival 2008 - 3rd to 13th July.

One of the UK's major Arts Festivals. Centred around the magnificent 13th century three-spired cathedral, and Lichfield Garrick Theatre.

There is an extensive programme of classical, jazz and world music, plus drama, dance, films, exhibitions, talks, medieval market, spectacular fireworks and outdoor events.

 


For further details on Lichfield Festival, Lichfield, Staffordshire see our website for full details.

ASH END HOUSE CHILDRENS FARM

Middleton Lane, Middleton, Tamworth, Staffordshire, B78 2BL
Tel: 0121 329 3240     Fax: 0121 329 3240
E-mail: contact@childrensfarm.co.uk
Web: www.childrensfarm.co.uk

Ash End House Children's Farm is a small, family owned farm with lots of friendly animals to feed, mostly undercover.

A fun filled day out for all the family. Children have feed for the animals, a farm animal admission badge and can hold a newly hatched chick or duckling..

 


All inclusive price - no hidden extra charges! 'Three Little Pigs Story' and 'Little Red Hen Story' during school holidays and weekends. New for 2007 Farm education classroom which is used for schools and families inline with the Year of Food and Farming within the national curriculum.

 

Farm Shop, stocking souvenirs, gifts and local farm produce. Indoor tractor and trike barn for tiny tots and crazy golf for the older boys and girls. In Spring and Summer the children can help bottle feed the lambs and goat kids. Father Christmas and Nativity Story during December. Also 4 themed Birthday Parties to suit toddlers upwards with a real difference, phone for prices..

For further details on Ash End House Childrens Farm, near Tamworth, Staffordshire see our website.

AMERTON FARM & CRAFT CENTRE

Amerton Farm, Stowe by Chartley, Stafford, Staffordshire, ST18 0LA
Tel: 01889 270294     Fax: 01889 271242
E-mail : marketing@amertonfarm.co.uk
Web site: www.amertonfarm.co.uk
Open daily: Easter to Christmas 9.00am - 5.30pm. Christmas to Easter 9.00am - 5.00pm. Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Years Day.

A Great Day Out for Everyone!

We have a vast array of attractions to appeal to all the family.

We aim to provide a relaxed and pleasant environment so that everyone can enjoy their visit.

 

 
Plenty to see and do in lovely surroundings including: Farm Yard, Tea Room, Farm Shop, Cook Shop, Garden Centre, Nursery Corner, Craft & Gift Centre, Amerton Ice Cream, Celebration cakes, Bakery & Sweet Shop, Farmhouse Fabrics & Yarns, Senior Citizens Discount Day, Complementary Therapy Centre, British Wildlife Rescue Centre, Farmhouse Bed & Breakfast, Traditional Craft Workshops, Private Evening Functions, Windmill Farm Play Barn, Toddlers Discount Day, Candlelit Suppers, Amerton Railway, Children's Parties, Balloon Flights, Studio Pottery, Santa Special, Toy Shop. Pinetum furniture, jewellery shop and heritage studio. Conference room available. For further details on Amerton Farm & Craft centre near Stafford see our website.

HILCOTE VALLEY RAILWAY

Fletchers Country Garden Centre, Eccleshall, Staffordshire, ST21 6JY

Tel/Fax: 01785 284553


E-mail: rogergreatrex@aol.com
 

 

Hilcote Valley Railway

A train journey for the young and not so young alike!

Staffordshire's Premier Narrow Gauge Railway offer the chance to learn to drive both Steam and Diesel Locomotives.

Day courses available, also open to the public.

 

Hilcote Valley Railway

Situated at Fletchers Country Garden Centre, near Eccleshall. We hope you will visit us and enjoy a ride!
 

See our Web Site for further details. 

AMERTON RAILWAY

Amerton Farm, Stowe-by-Chartley, Stafford, ST18 0LA
Railway Only: 01785 850965
E-mail: enquiries@amertonrailway.co.uk
Web: www.amertonrailway.co.uk

The Amerton Railway is a 2ft gauge line, set in the rolling Staffordshire countryside, and situated at the very popular Amerton Working Farm. The Railway is home to the 1897 Bagnall-built saddle tank Isabel which became such a part of Stafford life on her plinth outside the main Stafford Station. Now you can ride behind this historic loco, and others, over our mile long railway. Steam trains operate on Sundays and Bank Holidays from the end of March until the end of October. A diesel service runs on Saturdays from Easter until the end of August. There is also a limited diesel service mid-week during the main school holidays and of course Santa Specials in December. All services are subject to availability of rolling stock.


KNIGHTLEY LIGHT RAILWAY

Holly Cottage, Gorse Lane, Knightley, Nr Stafford, ST20 0JP
Tel/Fax: 01785 284553
E-mail : rogergreatrex@aol.com
Web site: www.knightleylightrailway.co.uk

Our founder, Roger Greatrex, has over 30 years experience of miniature railway engineering.

We have supplied many private individuals, clubs, local authorities and commercial organisations.

 

Knightley Light Railway

We can build petrol or diesel hydraulic locomotives, in variety of outline styles including steam and diesel, British or overseas to your requirements.

BRANSTON WATER PARK NATURE RESERVE

Branston, Burton-upon-Trent (Access off the A38, south of the Branston / Burton turn off)
Tel: 01283 508657
E-mail: lawrence.oates@eaststaffsbc.gov.uk

A 40-acre lake used by junior wildlife group, model boaters and anglers. Wide variety of bird life. Footpath around lake to woodland, wildflower meadow, children's play facilities, picnic area and information centre. The Trent and Mersey Canal runs alongside and an attractive canal side pub is just a short walk along the tow path.


BURTON TOWN HALL

King Edward Place, Burton upon Trent
Tel: 01283 508548
E-mail: caroline.smith@eaststaffsbc.gov.uk or
lynne.allman@eaststaffsbc.gov.uk
Web site: www.eaststaffsbc.gov.uk

 

 

BURTON TOWN HALL - Civic Function Suite


The Civic Function Suite in all its Victorian Splendour is the ideal venue for hire for Concerts, Exhibitions, Dances, Seminars, Wedding Receptions and Corporate Parties.

 


Centrally located in the Heart of the Midlands, close to the A38, A511, A50, A444 and only a few minutes walk from the Railway Station. The versatility of the Venue is reflected in both the size and character of the individual rooms. The Main Hall with stage and balcony, houses our Wurlitzer Organ available for hire at events or practice sessions. Customers may self-cater in our kitchen, bring their own buffet, or hire one of our Select List Caterers and Bar Operators who provide quality service, tailor made to suit each event. Large car park available for evening and weekend functions. If you would like our Brochure, please contact us (01283 508547 or 01283 508548) or visit our website.

 

PUBLIC EVENTS Two Annual Beer Festivals hosting many beers from around the Country and a good selection of live entertainment over each weekend. Many different concerts throughout the year in addition to Dances, Exhibitions and Shows. Please call for details of our event list.

POOLEY FIELDS COUNTRY PARKS AND HERITAGE CENTRE

Pooley Lane, Polesworth, Tamworth, Staffordshire, B78 1BN
Tel: 01827 897438
E-mail: parks@warwickshire.gov.uk
Web:  www.warwickshire.gov.uk

Pooley Fields is a former colliery site featuring a heritage and education building that utilises wind and solar generated electricity. It supplies renewable energy to the heritage centre.

A nature reserve, examples of water recycling and extensive footpaths, children’s play area, brass rubbing and other activities, as well as a tea room overlooking the Coventry Canal that runs through the centre of the site. Toilets at the visitor centre. *Access to Visitor Centre and Environs only. For further details on Pooley Fields Country Parks and Heritage Centre near Tamworth, Staffordshire see our website.

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BREWHOUSE THEATRE

Union Street, Burton-upon-Trent, Staffordshire, DE14 1EB
Box Office: 01283 508100    
E-mail: info@brewhouse.co.uk

The Brewhouse provides a venue for a wide variety of performing arts by both local and touring companies. There are workshops and a range of arts projects, a 250 seat theatre, studios, exhibition space and bar.


CINEWORLD MULTIPLEX CINEMA

Middleway Leisure Park, Guild Street, Burton-upon-Trent
Tel: 01283 511535
E-mail: burton@cineworld.co.uk

9 screen cinema with luxury stadium seating, latest cinema technology with Dolby surround sound, deluxe screen and bar, cafe.


Lichfield Garrick

Castle Dyke, Lichfield, Staffordshire
Tel: 01543 412110    Box Office: 01543 412121
E-mail: info@lichfieldgarrick.com
Web: www.lichfieldgarrick.com

Named after the famous Actor/Manager David Garrick, the Lichfield Garrick is set to revive the cultural side of Lichfield's heritage. Boasting an auditorium capacity of 490, a flexible studio and conference facilities, is set to lead the way as one of the areas biggest attractions.


Oak Farm Craft Centre & Children's Farm

Drayton Lane, Drayton Bassett, Tamworth, Staffordshire, B78 3EF
Tel: 01827 289537    Fax: 01827 289537

Visit a traditional working farm offering lots of activities including Pets Playtime, barrel rides, a picnic area, maize maze and undercover activities. Browse around the shops for a special purchase. Sleigh ride to Santa at Christmas. Birthday parties all year round plus group bookings.


Chasewater Railway

Brownhills West Station, Chasewater Country Park, Brownhills, Staffordshire, WS8 7NL
Tel: 01543 452623    Fax: 01543 452623
E-mail: info@chasewaterrailway.co.uk
Web: www.chasewaterrailway.co.uk

This volunteer run former colliery railway operates passenger trains from its principal station at Brownhills West, in Chasewater Country Park. Vintage steam and diesel trains run to Lakeside Wildfowl Reserve and to new stations at Chasewater Heaths and Chasetown (Church Street).


Uttoxeter Racecourse

Wood Lane, Uttoxeter, Staffordshire, ST14 8BD
Tel: 01889 562561   Fax: 01889 562786
E-mail: info@uttoxeter-racecourse.co.uk
Web: www.uttoxeter-racecourse.co.uk

With superb racing in beautiful surroundings, award winning Uttoxeter Racecourse is famous for its warm and friendly welcome. Home of the Midlands Grand National and the new English Summer National, Uttoxeter guarantees a day to remember. 21 race days throughout the year. Lots of other activities on non-race days, such as antique fairs and country shows.


Stafford Town Crier

Tel: 01785 619608

Peter Taunton, our award-winning Town Crier, has represented Stafford borough for several years and during that time Peter has become a familiar figure promoting Stafford both at home and abroad. Among his many awards his peers recently acknowledged Peter when "The Loyal Company of Town Criers" presented him with the "Heart of Gold" award for his work in the community.


Marston's Visitors Centre & Brewery Tours

Shobnall Road, Burton-upon-Trent, DE14 2BW
Tel: 01283 507391    Fax: 01283 507529
E-mail: lesley.sweeney@bankss.co.uk

Join a brewery tour and see time honoured brewing methods in action. Visit the working co-operage, see the impressive Burton Unions (a system where beer is fermented in oak casks and is unique to Marston's) and enjoy a pint of famous Pedigree Bitter.


Claymills Pumping Engines

Meadow Lane, Stretton, Burton-upon-Trent
Tel: 01283 509929
E-mail: webmaster@claymills.org.uk
Web: www.claymills.org.uk

Preserved Victorian sewage pumping station. 4 Beam engines by Gimson of Leicester 1885 (being restored), 5 Lancashire boilers 1937, early 20thC Generator house, Victorian workshop (steam driven), blacksmiths forge, steam hammer. Many other small engines and artefacts. Shop.


Ridware Theatre

Pipe Ridware, Rugeley, WS15 3QL
Tel: 01889 504380

A small professional theatre in the converted church of this tiny hamlet.


Highbury Little Theatre

Sheffield Road, Boldmere, Sutton Coldfield, West Midlands, B73 5HU
Tel: 0121 373 2761
E-mail: boxoffice@highburytheatre.co.uk
Web: www.highburytheatre.co.uk

Small and friendly, superbly appointed. Highbury Little Theatre has something for everyone, with a season of plays ranging from farce to high drama and thriller, to tear jerker, an evening of excellent entertainment is guaranteed in comfortable easy-access surroundings. Coffee shop and bar. On the Cross City Line.


The National Forest Maize Maze

Postern House Farm, Tatenhill, Burton on Trent, Staffs, DE13 9SJ
Tel: 07812 333315
E-mail: tom@nationalforestmaze.co.uk
Web: www.nationalforestmaze.co.uk

Getting lost has never been so much FUN!! The 2007 Magical Maze will confuse the mind and confound the feet!! But the fun doesn’t end there! Once the spell is broken and you have managed to escape this giant 3-dimensional puzzle, head for the Fun Field. There is a refreshment area, go-carts, giant sand pits, tractor and trailer rides, the splash zone, footy skills soccer challenge, farm animals and new for 2007...

…A giant inflatable maze!

The National Forest Maize Maze….Fun for all the Family. Open 7 days a week from 14th July – 4th September 10.30 am – 6.00pm (Last Admission 5.00pm). Also on weekends throughout September and on Saturday evenings until 10.00pm from 25th August until end of September…Remember to bring a torch!!

Admission Prices: Adults: £5.75, Child/Concession: £4.75, Family (2 adults + 2 children, or 1 adult + 3 children): £18.50. Groups 12 persons and over get a 15% discount on adult and child/concession prices if pre-booked.


Uttoxeter May Festival

Web: www.uttoxetermayfest.moonfruit.com 

MAY 7th 2007, Uttoxeter Market Place. May Festival with traditional activities including several traditional and border Morris groups, Maypole dancing and Jack O' the Green. Electric folk music from Seamus O'  Blivion and the Megadeath Morris Men and other guests. May Market with local food products and traditional crafts. All day market and folk dancing and music from 12-5PM. Plenty of hassle free parking in local car parks only a couple of hundred yards away. See website for more details.



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Theme Parks

 

DRAYTON MANOR FAMILY THEME PARK

Near Tamworth, Staffs, B78 3TW
Tel: 01827 287979       Fax: 01827 288916
Web site: www.draytonmanor.co.uk

Drayton Manor Family Theme Park has over 100 exciting rides and attractions, from white-knuckle thrills to family rides. Get ready for the world's first stand up tower drop, the £2m APOCALYPSE.

There's also a zoo, museums and extensive conference and banqueting facilities, which are open throughout the year.


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Walks & Viewpoints

DEFRA – Rural Affairs

Tel: 08459 335577
E-mail: helpline@defra.gsi.gov.uk
Web: countrywalks.defra.gov.uk

More than 1800 walks etc in the United Kingdom. Simply select your destination and you will be rewarded with mini guides and map references to help you explore the countryside at your leisure.


Cannock Chase Outdoor Trails

Near Rugeley, Staffordshire

The Great War Trail reminds us that During World War I, the Chase was home and training ground to thousands of Commonwealth servicemen. Cannock Chase Maps and information are available from Cannock Chase Visitor Centres and local booksellers.


Staffordshire Way
 

The Staffordshire Way is a long distance footpath which has been established by Staffordshire County Council. It spans the length of the county for 92 miles from Mow Cop to Kinver Edge. A guide book gives complete coverage of the Way. It provides notes on natural history and places of interest along the Way. The guide book can be purchased from bookshops and Tourist Information Centres in the area.


Abbey Trail
 

This trail will introduce you to the historic town, which dates back to before the Norman Conquest. The route takes you past information panels, blue waymarker signs and finger posts which show the way. It is all accessible in a wheel chair. The walk takes about an hour.


Borough Trail
 

This trail will take you past the breweries and public buildings, which symbolised the town's prosperity. The route takes you past information panels, green waymarker signs and finger posts which show the way. It is all accessible in a wheel chair. The walk takes about an hour and fifteen minutes.


Brewing Trail
 

This trail will introduce you to the brewing capital of Britain. The route takes you past information panels, red waymarker signs and finger posts, which show the way. It is all accessible in a wheel chair. The walk takes about an hour.


TOURS - Lichfield area

For further information about the tours listed below contact:
Tel: 01543 308216    Fax: 01543 308211
E-mail: tic@lichfield-tourist.co.uk

A LICHFIELD DAY OUT - Full day with guided city and cathedral tours - something special, add a cream tea.

PERAMBULATING THE PUBS - visit some of the many historic pubs of Lichfield (tasting only at the end!).

FOR LOVERS OF ROMANCE - visit the romantic spots and hear the stories.
CIVIL WAR TOUR - find out how the three sieges of the Civil War affected Lichfield.

A LICHFIELD DISCOVERY - a full day combining a city tour with a visit to the Mansion House at Shugborough.


CHOCOHOLICS TOUR - a city tour plus a visit to the Tudor of Lichfield, where locally made chocolate is sold - enjoy a tasting.

WINTER TOURS - 'Gruesome and Ghostly' - an evening walk with stories to chill your bones, then finishing at a local hostelry with a warming drink.


SHOPPING SPECIALS - city tour combined with a visit to any of our excellent craft shops.



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Zoos & Wildlife Parks

BIRCHES VALLEY FOREST CENTRE

Lady Hill, Rugeley, Staffordshire, WS15 2UQ
Tel: 01889 586593
E-mail: debbie.wellecomme@forestry.gsi.gov.uk
Web: www.forestry.gov.uk

Birches Valley Forest Centre is an ideal starting point for a visit to Cannock Chase with car parking, toilets, adventure playground, walking and cycling trails and Birches Valley Cafe offering home made cakes, hot snacks and ice creams.

If you are planning a longer stay there is also a class B caravan site for touring vans and motorhomes amongst the trees. The Centre offers a varied programme throughout the year for all ages, bike hire and 6,000 hectares of forest to explore.

For further details on Birches Valley Forest Centre in Rugeley, Staffordshire see our website.

JCB Lakes & Nature Reserve

Rocester, Nr Uttoxeter

There are many species of wildfowl on the 42 acres of beautifully landscaped lakes.


Baggeridge

South Staffordshire District Council, Near Wombourne, South Staffordshire
Tel: 01902 696000

Country Park Bracken and heather clad heathland.


Cannock Chase

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Tel: 01543 871773

Once the hunting ground of ancient royalty, Cannock Chase is today a picturesque playground of woodland walks, wildlife and superb scenery. Cannock Chase Country Park covers 4.5 square miles (3,000 acres) making it one of the largest country parks in Britain. Although the country park is largely 'motorless', its many car parks are easily accessible and pleasant picnic facilities abound. An area roughly between Stafford, Cannock and Rugeley.


Highgate Common Country Park
 

Lies in the south-west of Staffordshire, only five miles west of Dudley. Although many walks are available, its 278 acres of open heathland and woodland areas make a very pleasant and popular spot for the family group who do not wish to wander too far from their car. Toilets and refreshments are available.


The Wolseley Centre

Staffordshire Wildlife Trust, Wolseley Bridge, Stafford
E-mail: staffswt@cix.co.uk
Web: www.staffs-wildlife.org.uk

The new Wildlife Trust Visitor Centre in the grounds of the former garden park. 26 acres of Lakes, Parkland, Woodland and Sensory gardens complete with all-ability access trails to enjoy.


Brereton Spurs

Near Rugeley, Staffordshire

Part of Cannock Chase. 88 acres of heathland with dramatic views over the Trent Valley.


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