The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Brocton
4.5
(235)
1,357
hikers
84
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Brocton are primarily found within the expansive Cannock Chase, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The region features diverse landscapes including woodlands, open heathland, and gentle hills, providing varied terrain suitable for families. These routes often follow well-maintained paths and offer opportunities to explore natural features and local history.
Best family friendly hiking trails around Brocton
- The most popular family friendly hiking route is Tolkien Trail: Great Haywood loop – Cannock Chase, a 6.5…
Last updated: July 7, 2026
4.3
(79)
320
hikers
10.5km
02:51
140m
140m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(28)
58
hikers
4.46km
01:13
70m
70m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.6
(19)
60
hikers
8.40km
02:14
90m
90m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.6
(16)
44
hikers
15.0km
04:01
170m
170m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.5
(2)
3
hikers
4.63km
01:15
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
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
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Cannock Chase, referred to locally as just 'The Chase' is one of the jewels of the midlands. It features an internationally important heathland which is teeming with wildlife.
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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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The Cannock Chase German Military Cemetery is the largest German military cemetery in the United Kingdom. The Cemetery contains the graves of nearly 5,000 German nationals who lost their lives in the UK during the First and Second World Wars. The fallen were gathered from cemeteries across the UK in the 1960s, and include the crews from four Zeppelin airships. The grounds of the Cemetery are exceptionally well maintained by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission. The Cemetery is tranquil and thought-provoking and is well worth a visit. There are also informative guided tours that explain who is buried and that recount the stories of individual notable graves.
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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.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are there around Brocton?
There are over 80 family-friendly hiking routes around Brocton, with more than 60 of these classified as easy, making them ideal for families with children of all ages.
What kind of landscapes can we expect on family hikes in Brocton?
The trails around Brocton offer a diverse range of landscapes, from woodlands and wetlands to open meadows. Many routes follow segments of the Chautauqua Rails-to-Trails system, providing gentle paths and opportunities to see local wildlife. Some trails also offer picturesque views, especially those that descend towards Lake Erie.
Are there easy walks suitable for families with young children or toddlers?
Yes, many of the routes are designed to be easy-going with manageable distances and gentle paths. For a shorter, easy option, consider the Stepping Stones loop – Cannock Chase, which is just over 4 km long and features minimal elevation gain, perfect for little legs.
Are there any circular routes suitable for families?
Absolutely! Many family-friendly routes in the area are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. The Brocton Village loop – Cannock Chase is a great example, offering a pleasant 4.6 km circular walk through the local scenery.
Can we find trails with interesting natural features or landmarks?
Yes, the area is rich in natural features and historical landmarks. Along the trails, you might encounter original railroad bridges, diverse ecosystems, and wildlife. Nearby attractions include the tranquil Fairoak Pools and the scenic Sherbrook Stepping Stones, which are popular spots for families to explore.
What is the best time of year to go hiking with family in Brocton?
Spring and autumn are particularly beautiful for family hikes in Brocton, with wildflowers blooming in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn. The diverse ecosystems along the trails are rich in wildlife, making these seasons ideal for spotting beaver, turkey, and deer. Summer also offers pleasant conditions, while winter walks can be magical, though some paths might be muddy.
Are dogs allowed on the family-friendly trails?
Generally, dogs are welcome on most public trails in the Brocton area, especially on the Chautauqua Rails-to-Trails system. However, it's always best to keep them on a leash, especially in areas with wildlife or near livestock, and to check specific trail regulations before you go.
What do other hikers say about the family-friendly trails in Brocton?
The family-friendly trails around Brocton are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.55 stars from over 225 ratings. Hikers often praise the quiet woodlands, well-maintained paths, and the peaceful atmosphere, making them perfect for a family day out.
Are there any waterfalls near Brocton that we could visit as part of a family outing?
While some iconic waterfalls like Niagara Falls are a bit further afield, the region near Brocton does boast several beautiful waterfall hiking trails within a 50-mile radius, such as Shumla Falls, Arkwright Falls, and Stoney Pitcher Falls. These offer varying levels of difficulty, providing options for different family preferences.
Are the family-friendly trails in Brocton accessible by public transport?
Access to trailheads by public transport can vary. While Brocton itself has some local transport options, many of the more scenic trailheads, especially those within the Chautauqua Rails-to-Trails system, might require a short drive. It's advisable to check local bus routes or consider carpooling for easier access to specific starting points.
Is there parking available at the trailheads for family hikes?
Yes, most popular trailheads for family hikes around Brocton, particularly those along the Chautauqua Rails-to-Trails system or within areas like Cannock Chase, offer designated parking facilities. These are usually well-marked and provide convenient access to the trails.
Are there any longer family-friendly routes for older children or more active families?
For families looking for a longer adventure, the Tolkien Trail: Great Haywood loop – Cannock Chase offers a moderate 10.5 km hike. It provides a good challenge while still being manageable for active families, with varied terrain and beautiful scenery.
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