Cannock Chase Heritage Trail Brought to Life

Two new trails added with digital maps and audio experiences.

“The Chase” remains a not-so hidden gem in Staffordshire, without the fame of the Peak District, many people in the North Staffordshire area especially are unlikely to visit or spend time there. It’s an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty with historical, environment and cultural important.

Cannock Chase is full of history and wonderful nature. Ranging from JRR Tolkein and Lord of the Rings to Deer, protected heathland, mining and the RAF.

The launch of two new trails is intended to encourage more visitors to spend time their and learn about the history, heritage and environment of Cannock Chase.

The Cannock Chase Heritage Trail is a 10-mile route linking the towns of Cannock, Hednesford and Rugeley in South Staffordshire. It passes through, or close to sites of historic or environmental interest, with panels along the way that tell the story of each location.

The Chase Tales Trail is suitable for families and brings to life the interpretation panels with the use of musical animations. Content has been created by local schoolchildren alongside professional artists and the Birmingham Rep Theatre.

The Hear Our Heritage Trail is suitable for families and history enthusiasts who would prefer to listen to the interpretation panels rather than read them. An audio piece has been created or each and allows people to listen to the history whilst they walk along the trail.

Visitors can now take on the new trails via the Cannock Chase Can App where they will need to collect all the QR codes for each themed trail to complete a challenge and gain points and rewards for their efforts. The app is free to download from Google Play or the App Store.

These improvements have been funded by the Cannock Chase Cultural Education Partnership, Cannock Chase Council, Inspiring Healthy Lifestyles, National Landscapes and Forestry England.

For more information about the Cannock Chase Heritage Trail and to download a copy of the new map, visit https://www.cannockchasedc.gov.uk/visitors/what-do/cannock-chase-heritage-trail