The best walks and hikes around Colwich

Essex Bridge is a historic, Grade I listed packhorse bridge located at the Shugborough Estate in Staffordshire, England, which crosses the River Trent. Originally built in the 16th century, it is notable as the longest surviving packhorse bridge in Britain and was constructed for Queen Elizabeth I's use, linking the estate to nearby woodlands. It is one of the oldest bridges in England that has not been altered. The bridge is situated over the River Trent near Great Haywood and is an integral part of the Shugborough Estate, a National Trust property. It was built around 1550 by the Earl of Essex for a visit from Queen Elizabeth I so she could access hunting grounds on the other side of the river. It is the longest surviving packhorse bridge in Britain, with 14 of its original 40 arches still intact today. The bridge is a Grade I listed monument and is one of the oldest un-altered bridges in England. source: internet

Welcome to the Shepherd's Monument, Sleep Token fans. We're really excited to welcome you all to the estate and for you to discover the history of Shugborough. The Shepherd's Monument was commissioned by, Thomas Anson and built in 1748 with further additions in 1763. The marble panel was carved by Dutch artist Scheemakers and is a mirror image of a painting by Nicholas Poussin, titled 'Et in Arcadia Ego' (1640-2). As a Grade II* listed structure, it is important that great care is taken of the Shepherd's Monument.

Completed in 1747, the Chinese House at Shugborough is thought to be one of the earliest buildings of Chinese influence in the country. The design is thought to have been taken from on-the-spot sketches by Piercy Brett, one of George Anson's officers aboard the Centurion during its circumnavigation. These sketches were then turned into reality by Thomas Anson, George's elder brother. In 2024, the Chinese House underwent conservation work to the roof and windows to ensure it remains watertight and safe for many years to come. As part of this project, extensive research was carried out into the building including its construction and design and position within the gardens. Unfortunately; despite hours of research being carried out; we still can't definitively say whether the story of its origin is true or not.

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Able to get a double buggy over

Lovely pushchair friendly paths

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.

This tranquil summer scene on the Trent and Mersey Canal footpath is a favourite! The curving canal and path, the pleasant greenery and houses, and the approaching stone bridge all combine to give a scene that is peaceful, interesting and typically English! The view shows the easterly approach to Bridge #72 of the Trent and Mersey Canal at Little Haywood in Staffordshire. Please be aware that the bridge is low for pedestrians and that the tranquility is interrupted by noise from the nearby West Coast Main Railway Line.