Not sure where to head on your day out in Staffordshire? Well, aren't you lukcy that we happened to know the 15 best free things to do in Staffordshire.
Whether you're up for a jaunt out to the Peak District or taking on a fun trail at the park with the kids, we've got a bit of everything for you.
For super easy parking in Staffordshire try JustPark to find available spots (or even reserve in advance!)
Whether you’re looking for somewhere to explore with the kids or a nice spot to settle down for some quiet reflection time, Lichfield’s National Memorial Arboretum could just be the spot for you. Little ones will adore the self-guided Stick Man Trail and the two playgrounds – and it’ll get ‘em a nice dose of fresh air.
Address: Croxall Road, Alrewas, Staffordshire, DE13 7AR
Located in Newcastle-under-Lyme, we reckon this is the perfect free family day out in Staffordshire. Children can explore the play park, pond, sensory garden, sand pit and the Brampton Museum (which is also free BTW).
Address: 9 Granville Ave, Newcastle-under-Lyme ST5 1JH
Grab your bikes and be prepared to set off on a lovely cycle around the stunning Cannock Chase Forest. And once you’re finished there’s an adventure play area for the kids to enjoy. You can definitely make a full day of it by bringing a picnic – even in winter. Our winter picnic tips and tricks will change the game.
Address: Rugeley, WS15 2UQ
Find yourself travelling back in time at this museum and gallery, you’ll learn all sorts about the history of the Potteries – they have quite the collection of Staffordshire ceramics. This makes for the perfect rainy-day activity in Staffordshire.
Address: Bethesda St, Hanley, Stoke-on-Trent, ST1 3DW
This well-loved family day out spot in Staffordshire is a great walking (or cycle) spot. The surrounding area is packed with wildlife (perfect for budding Sir David Attenborough's). And if you’re up for spending a few quid, you can really amp up the experience by hiring a rowing boat for 30-minutes or take a boat trip (runs from Easter to October) - we can’t forget to mention the steam train ride on offer too.
Address: Rudyard Lake, Leek, ST13 8PP
You avid bird watchers are gonna absolutely lose your marbles at this one. Cared for and run by the Staffordshire Wildlife Trust and Stoke City Council, Westport Lake is home to a top-notch visitor centre (made all the more special by the cosy café). This is a great one to keep your eye out for during school holidays – they put on some great family activities.
Address: Westport Lake Visitor Centre, Westport Lake Road, Stoke-on-Trent, ST6 4RZ
This award-winning park (yes, apparently there is awards for parks, who knew?) is based right in Stafford on the banks of the Sow River. Perfect for a good ol’ stroll and the little ones will just love the playground – there’s a trampoline, climbing frame, splash park and sand pit, what else could you ask for? And if you’re feeling a little more risqué, there’s a skating park free for anyone to use – oldies, enter at your own risk. Oh, and we know you’ll love the fact that there are toilets on-site and parking nearby.
Address: Victoria Park, Stafford, ST16 2QF
Get yourself out to Keele University’s grounds for a serene escape from city life. This historic campus is packed full of green spaces and funky old buildings. The woods right by the campus university make for a great free day out in Staffordshire – there’s loads to do, with rope swings and streams for the young’uns to play in.
Address: Springpool Wood, Newcastle-under-Lyme, ST5 5BN
We’d definitely consider this big ol’ patch of land as a hidden gem of Staffordshire – get your walking boots on and prepare to explore the 26-acres of grounds. And the best thing about this parkland? It’s completely free to enter – including the sensory garden, play trail and wildlife garden. But if you’re happy to spend a little, check out the gift shop and café.
Address: The Wolseley centre – Staffordshire Wildlife Trust, Stafford, ST17 0WT
The Churnet Valley Trail is a railway path which follows the River Churnet through a variety of terrains – think woodland, meadows and more. This is a great spot for cycling and strolling, it’s a great spot to start your family day out. And, of course, it’s completely free. If you fancy forking out a bit of cash, why not try out a trip on a steam train from the Churnet Valley Railway station?
Address: Churnet Valley Railway (1992) PLC, Kingsley & Froghall Station, Froghall ST10 2HA
Looking for a way to get your creative juices flowing? There are tonnes of fun and interactive classes at Middleport Pottery. Events are practically designed for families here too, there are fun days, craft workshops, artisan markets and exhibitions to try out. And if you’re about around Christmas, make sure to stop by and meet Santa.
Address: Middleport Pottery Stoke-on-Trent, ST6 3PE
Now, this one might go without saying, but the Peak District National Park is a must-visit area. The Roaches are probably our favourite spot and it’s always popular with hikers and climbers – we reckon they just can’t get enough of the breath-taking views and amazing landscapes either.
Address: The Roaches, Leek, ST13 8TA
This unique museum will take you on a journey through 260 years of ceramics production – if you’re a visual learner, you’ll absolutely love catching a glimpse of the 165,000 items on show. The history of this spot is far more significant than you’d ever guess, learning about Josiah Wedgwood’s role in the abolition of slavery and his family connections to Charles Darwin – now that’s an interesting family tree.
Address: Wedgwood Dr, Barlaston, Stoke-on-Trent ST12 9ER
We simply couldn’t reel off our favourite free days out in Staffordshire without mentioning Lichfield Cathedral. It’s an amazing site – and happens to be the only medieval cathedral in the UK with three spires – that dates back over 1000 years. The cathedral also acts as a venue for loads of free events across the year, like the delicious Lichfield Food Festival. This one is also well-connected by public transport (as well as having plenty car parks within walking distance).
Address: The Close, Lichfield WS13 7LD
Unfortunately, you won’t find Chris Hemsworth lingering about here, but we reckon it’s still a great free Staffordshire day out to add to your list. Based in the Peak District National Park we thought this one deserved its very own special mention. It’s not just any old cave either, evidence has been found which proves human occupation during the latter years of the Stone Age – that's around 11,000 years ago – phwoar.
Address: Manifold Valley Peak District National Park
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