Attractions and Places To See around Cannock Wood - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Cannock Wood include a variety of natural and recreational sites within the Cannock Chase area. This region is characterized by its extensive woodlands and trails, making it a popular destination for outdoor activities. Visitors can explore diverse landscapes, from dense forests to open heathlands, offering opportunities for both active pursuits and tranquil observation. The area is well-suited for those seeking natural environments and designated trail systems.
Best attractions and places to see around Cannock Wood
- The most popular attractions is Monkey Trail, Cannock Chase, an mtb_park that offers a range of trails from green to black. It features fun technical sections and jumps, rewarding riders with downhill runs after climbs.
- Another must-see spot is Cannock Chase Forest Trailhead, a trailhead with facilities. This location serves as the starting point for various mountain biking routes, including green, blue, and red-rated trails, with information on trail conditions available.
- Visitors also love Sherbrook Stepping Stones, a river crossing with historical significance. These stepping stones provide a unique way to cross the Sherbrook, situated in a popular beauty spot within Cannock Chase.
- Cannock Wood is known for its mountain biking trails, forest areas, and natural river features. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, catering to different outdoor interests.
- The attractions around Cannock Wood are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 350 upvotes and 16 photos contributing to their appeal.
Last updated: May 6, 2026
Cannock Chase Forest Trailhead
Highlight • MTB Park
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.
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Sherbrook Stepping Stones
Highlight • River
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Monkey Trail, Cannock Chase
Highlight • MTB Park
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Lower Cliff Trail
Highlight • MTB Park
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Trail Junction: Follow the Dog & The Monkey Trail
Highlight • MTB Park
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Tips from the Community
Great place to ride. It's on my doorstep but definitely worth visiting no matter how far you are away.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Diversions in place in on at least 3 ref routes- twist and shout steregasorous and aunt flow
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if you dont like technical climbs or decents take follow the dog
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main outdoor activities available around Cannock Wood?
The area around Cannock Wood, particularly within Cannock Chase, is renowned for its extensive network of trails. You can enjoy various activities such as mountain biking on dedicated trails like the Monkey Trail, Cannock Chase, hiking, and road cycling. For detailed routes, you can explore the hiking guides and road cycling routes for the region.
Are there family-friendly attractions near Cannock Wood?
Yes, Sherbrook Stepping Stones is a popular beauty spot that families particularly enjoy. It offers a unique river crossing experience and is a great place for children. Additionally, many of the easier walking trails in Cannock Chase are suitable for families.
Where can I go mountain biking around Cannock Wood?
Cannock Wood is a prime location for mountain biking. The Cannock Chase Forest Trailhead serves as a central starting point, offering access to various routes including green, blue, and red-rated trails like the challenging Monkey Trail, Cannock Chase and Follow the Dog. You'll find maps and trail condition information at the trailhead.
What natural features can I explore in the area?
The region is characterized by its diverse natural landscapes, including dense forests, open heathlands, and river features. The Sherbrook river, crossed by the Sherbrook Stepping Stones, is a beautiful example. You'll also encounter various viewpoints offering expansive vistas over Cannock Chase.
Are there easy walking trails suitable for all abilities?
Yes, Cannock Chase offers several easy walking trails. For instance, the 'Castle Ring Iron Age Hill Fort – View over Cannock Chase loop from Cannock Wood' is an easy 6.3 km hike. You can find more options in the easy hikes guide for the area.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions near Cannock Wood?
Visitors frequently praise the well-maintained mountain biking trails, highlighting the fun technical sections, jumps, and rewarding downhill runs after climbs. The natural beauty of spots like Sherbrook Stepping Stones is also highly appreciated, especially by families, for adding an 'added dimension to any walk'.
Are there any historical points of interest in the region?
Beyond its natural beauty, the area holds historical significance. The Sherbrook Stepping Stones, for example, were originally called 'Hangmans stones' and were installed in 1954, repurposed from Stafford Prison. Additionally, nearby routes mention 'Castle Ring Iron Age Hill Fort', indicating ancient historical presence.
What facilities are available at the main trailheads?
The Cannock Chase Forest Trailhead is well-equipped, serving as the primary starting point for many mountain biking routes. Here you'll find maps of each route and crucial trail closure information. It's advisable to check for specific facilities like bike hire or cafes, as these can vary.
Can I find circular walks around Cannock Wood?
Yes, many of the hiking routes in the area are designed as circular loops. For example, the 'Castle Ring Iron Age Hill Fort – View over Cannock Chase loop from Cannock Wood' is a popular circular option. You can explore various circular routes in the hiking guide for Cannock Wood.
Is the area around Cannock Wood suitable for dog walking?
Cannock Chase is generally very dog-friendly, with many trails and open spaces perfect for walks with your canine companion. Always ensure dogs are kept under control, especially near wildlife or livestock, and check for any specific signage regarding dog access in certain areas.
What is the best time of year to visit Cannock Wood?
Cannock Wood and Cannock Chase are beautiful year-round. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, summer offers pleasant conditions for outdoor activities, autumn showcases stunning foliage, and winter provides a peaceful, crisp atmosphere. The best time depends on your preferred activities and weather tolerance.
Are there options for road cycling near Cannock Wood?
Absolutely. While Cannock Chase is famous for mountain biking, there are also several road cycling routes in the vicinity. You can find various options, including routes like 'Poms – Rugeley Market Hall loop from Burntwood', in the road cycling guide for the area.
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Most popular attractions around Cannock Wood
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