• "Kids go free" or money off at participating tourism businesses in and around Staffordshire.
• From Alton Towers, to Drayton Manor Theme Park, National Trust properties to the thrill of the races at Uttoxeter, fascinating museums to tree top adventure at Go Ape! Not to mention hotels, accommodation, restaurants and shopping. The world of possibilities is right on your doorstep!
• Remember, these offers are ONLY available to Staffordshire Enjoy Card holders. If you don't yet have an Enjoy card, then don't miss out on this fantastic opportunity. Sign up for your FREE card today.

• "Kids go free" or money off at participating tourism businesses in and around Staffordshire.
• From Alton Towers, to Drayton Manor Theme Park, National Trust properties to the thrill of the races at Uttoxeter, fascinating museums to tree top adventure at Go Ape! Not to mention hotels, accommodation, restaurants and shopping. The world of possibilities is right on your doorstep!
• Remember, these offers are ONLY available to Staffordshire Enjoy Card holders. If you don't yet have an Enjoy card, then don't miss out on this fantastic opportunity. Sign up for your FREE card today.

Alton Castle

Although this once quiet village has been made famous world-wide by Alton Towers, one of Britain's top tourist destinations situated on the opposite side of the Churnet valley, it still has other attractions for the visitor.Alton Castle was built on the site of a Norman castle. It was begun in 1847 to a design by the architect Pugin (of Houses of Parliament fame). It is thought that the Earl of Shrewsbury wanted it constructed to house priests but Pugin was not enthusiastic about the idea of a castle to house priests and it was left incomplete. The castle is approached from the village walking on a bridge over the moat. The Catholic Church in Birmingham now owns it and uses it as a Catholic youth centre offering a variety of outdoor activities.The idea for Alton Towers came from the 15th Earl of Shrewsbury but Pugin was a great friend of the Earl's nephew, John Talbot, who succeeded him as 16th Earl.With Pugin's help he enlarged the house itself and was responsible for the construction of many of the Catholic churches in the area.Established as a residential youth centre by the Archdiocese of Birmingham, Alton Castle opened in September 1996. It has had a highly successful first 10 years with over 5,000 children visiting the Castle each year. It's popularity can be put down to the fact that the Castle is offering a unique experience that meets a real need within schools and community youth groups within the Midlands.At the Castle there is a clear spiritual emphasis. While every child regards Alton Castle as an amazing place when they see its towers, Gothic arches, wonderful stonework and turreted views over the Churnet Valley.

Amerton Railway

The Amerton Railway is a 2ft gauge line, set in the rolling Staffordshire countryside, and situated at the very popular Amerton Working Farm. The Railway is home to the 1897 Bagnall-built saddle tank Isabel which became such a part of Stafford life on her plinth outside the main Stafford Station. Now you can ride behind this historic loco, and others, over our mile long railway. Steam trains operate on Sundays and Bank Holidays from the end of March until the end of October. A diesel service runs on Saturdays from Easter until the end of August. There is also a limited diesel service mid-week during the main school holidays and of course Santa Specials in December. All services are subject to availability of rolling stock.

To find us travel along the A4091 from
either the A5 or the A446 and follow our signs.

Bantock House is a fantastic hidden treasure located deep within Bantock Park, just over a mile from the centre of Wolverhampton. In the house, Temporary exhibitions take place all year round, offering displays in a wide range of subjects.

Barlaston Hall
Mid-18th century Palladian villa reportedly designed by Sir Robert Taylor. The public rooms contain fine examples of 18th century plasterwork.  Extensive restoration was carried out during the 1990's.

Barton Marina inc Barton Waterfront

Bilston Craft Gallery is located 3 miles outside of Wolverhampton, and is only a 5 minutes walk from Bilston town centre.

The gallery is the largest dedicated craft venue in the region with a lively programme of exhibitions featuring the best in contemporary crafts.

Birches Valley Forest Centre

Birches Valley Forest Centre is an ideal starting point for a visit to Cannock Chase with car parking, toilets, adventure playground, walking and cycling trails and Birches Valley Cafe offering home made cakes, hot snacks and ice creams.If you are planning a longer stay there is also a class B caravan site for touring vans and motorhomes amongst the trees. The Centre offers a varied programme throughout the year for all ages, bike hire and 6,000 hectares of forest to explore. For further details on Birches Valley Forest Centre in Rugeley, Staffordshire see our website.

Bishop Asbury Cottage,
Newton Road, Great Barr B43 6HN.

BISHOP ASBURY COTTAGE CLICK

Brewhouse Theatre

The Brewhouse provides a venue for a wide variety of performing arts by both local and touring companies. There are workshops and a range of arts projects, a 250 seat theatre, studios, exhibition space and bar.

  Amerton
Stafford
Staffordshire
ST18 0LA
Email:     ahardy@thebwrc.co.uk

AMERTON FARM CLICK

The last working Victorian Pottery in England. Makers of fine English earthenware since 1851. We make a unique product from our 19th century Victorian pottery.We use a 200 year old decorating process of underglaze transfer printing.Famous for our Blue and White China !A  family business established in 1851 is still manufacturing a pure English earthenware product in the 21st Century.We have a rich heritage of design and craftmanship.We use ball clay from Devon; china clay from Cornwall and the unique skilled decorating process of underglaze transfer printing.We believe from our experience and insight we have gained the best of both worlds...from our rich archives and unique traditional decorating skills to our up-to-date country living look, we have achived the fullest potential from the beauty of our English products.We love our factory and our products and hope you do too!

This large town, straddling the River Trent, grew up around the monastery of St Modwen.  The monks started the wool industry and later the ancient market town became associated with the brewing industry.Brewing originally developed here because of the quality of the local water, which contains a high proportion of dissolved salts.  To preserve the quality of the water today much of the open land in and around the town is protected from chemical treatment. Internationally known as 'the brewing capital of Great Britain', Burton upon Trent currently has 5 brewers.  The Coors and Marstons ( Tel: 01283 507391 ) breweries have visitor centres, both offering a museum and brewery tour. Another of Burton upon Trent's great claims to fame is that it is the home of Marmite!  A by-product of the brewing industry, the savoury yeast-extract spead has been manufactured here since 1902.  Bovril, (originally a beef extract but now totally vegetarian) is also produced here. The combination of the Marmite and Bovril factories, together with the 5 breweries, gives Burton upon Trent its distinctive smell! The Trent Washlands in Burton upon Trent forms part of the National Forest.  This large area of the River Trent floodplain boasts a variety of habitats and has a wide range of wildlife.

Every day of our working lives is spent looking for new and exciting gardening products and gift ideas to make every visit to Byrkley Garden Centre a very special and rewarding one. Indoors or outdoors, Byrkley Garden Centre is brimming over with lots of wonderful things.And then of course there are all our wonderful people. Our department managers and their staff continually demonstrate their interest in making sure we add to your Byrkley Garden Centre visit by sharing their experience, passion and knowledge with you. Ask any of our people for advice about any of the indoor or outdoor products on display – you can always be sure of a very helpful response!Byrkley Garden Centre is a great place to bring the whole family. There’s always something for the whole family to see and do – and then finish your shopping adventure off with a delicious snack or meal in either The Garden Room Restaurant or our fabulous new “Seasons” at The Garden Room.

Cannock lies to the north of the Black Country and south of Cannock Chase. In the Middle Ages Cannock was an agricultural town and a weekly market has been held here since 1259.  Coal mining and iron smelting first developed here in Tudor times but the massive exploitation of the local coal seams began in the mid-19th century.New canal and railway links helped the rapid growth of Cannock's mining industry. Other industries, such as edge-tool manufacture, also developed here because of the area's coal reserves and its proximity to the Black Country. Coal mining reached at peak in Cannock in the 1920's but by the end of the 20th century the industry had vanished.  Littleton, the last deep-mined colliery on Cannock Chase, closed in 1993. The facinating history of the local coal mining industry is illustrated at the Museum of Cannock Chase in Hednesford.Since World War II Cannock has grown rapidly as a residential area.  Cannock's excellent transport links, and the beautiful surrounding countryside, have meant that the town has become an attractive commuter area for the urban areas of Stafford, Birmingham, Walsall and Wolverhampton.

Castle Ring - Iron Age Hill Fort

Largest of seven Iron Age forts in Staffordshire. It was built between 500BC and 43AD and covers around nine acres. The fort has two lines of defence to the North, West and South West whilst there are as many as four ditches and banks on the Eastern side. It is also the highest point on Cannock Chase. (801 feet). Open permanently.

Chartley Castle

Chartley Castle is a large and impressive 13th century stone motte and bailey fortress, founded by Ranulph Blundeville, earl of Chester. Supported by the motte are the remains of a rare cylindrical keep, with the inner bailey curtain wall still strongly flanked by two huge half-round towers, a twin-towered gatehouse and an angle tower. A strong counterscarp bank and cross-ditch divides the inner and outer baileys, with another ditch and bank encasing the whole castle. Associations with Mary, Queen of Scots. Access by arrangement only.

Chasewater Railway

This volunteer run former colliery railway operates passenger trains from its principal station at Brownhills West, in Chasewater Country Park. Vintage steam and diesel trains run to Lakeside Wildfowl Reserve and to new stations at Chasewater Heaths and Chasetown (Church Street).

Cheddleton Flint Mill is a fine example of a water mill that ground flint for the pottery industry.  The site features two water mills, a small museum, a period cottage, traditional narrow-boat and many other exhibits.  The site is open to the public.The Cheddleton Flint Mill Preservation Trust was formed in 1967 to preserve the unique mill complex and provide educational information concerning the historical development of pottery raw materials. In 1972 the Trust widened its objectives to encompass more of Britain's Industrial Heritage and became the Cheddleton Flint Mill Industrial Heritage Trust.Between 1997 and 2000 we undertook a second major renovation of our Grade II* listed complex, with the aid of the Heritage Lottery Fund and donations from many other organizations. The buildings should now be structurally sound for many years to come, and much of the machinery is in good running order. One of our current goals is to expand our educational facilities and study packs for school visits, with the help of local teachers.

Cineworld Multiplex Cinema

9 screen cinema with luxury stadium seating, latest cinema technology with Dolby surround sound, deluxe screen and bar, cafe.

Crash!Bang!Wallop! has all the things kids love! This is the Midlands biggest most thrilling indoor play& fun centre for children, an indoor adventure wonderland where children can spend hours of adventure and exploration. We have a giant main play area including firing cannons!, a double helix tunnel slide!, a huge wavy slide!, log ramps and ball pits, bif bash and so much more! We also have our own sports area, separate babies and toddler areas and a car track!
Why not have your childs party at Crash!Bang!Wallop! - they’ll love it and we do parties all day every day!Crash!Bang!Wallop! has a new exciting holiday club for children aged up to 12 with lots of fun and a structured timetable opening at 8am to 6:30pmSo whether you are 12 or only 1 year old we have something to excite! We also have a full café full of tasty treats and beverages so visit Crash Bang Wallop for the best day out!

Cheddleton Railway Centre was established in the mid-1970s by the (then) North Staffordshire Railway Society, as a railway museum displaying small artifacts of the original North Staffordshire Railway Company (the "Owd Knotty"), and a restoration base for, initially, ex- National Coal Board Hunslet "Austerity" loco No.8 (later "Josiah Wedgwood"), ex-LMS Fowler 4F loco 44422 and a small collection of goods vehicles and passenger coaches. In 1978 the NSRS became a company limited by guarantee, the North Staffordshire Railway Co. (1978) Ltd., and Charitable Trust status was granted in 1983. (Some photographs of early days at Cheddleton are available in the Photo Galleries.)Over the ensuing years the Cheddleton site expanded, with the acquisition of further land, until it encompassed the station area (with a bay platform added in 1983-84), a signal box recovered from Elton Crossing near Sandbach in Cheshire, a 300 yard demonstration line, a three road locomotive museum building/shed and associated sidings. The NSRC had however been established with the aim of running a railway and it must be said that the Steam Centre, although popular, was hardly an adequate substitute for the "real thing". Envious eyes were often cast over the fence at the adjacent British Rail mineral line, the sole remaining stub of the former NSR Churnet Valley main line.

Cheddleton Station,

Station Road,

Cheddleton,

ST13 7EE,

Consall Nature Park

Consall Nature Park is situated within the beautiful valley of the River Churnet. Sir Derek Barber, Chairman of the then Countryside Commission (now the Countryside Agency), opened the park in 1989.Part of the park is also a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and here the emphasis is on nature conservation, whilst at the same time welcoming the public to enjoy the paths, fishing and picnic facilities.The Visitor Centre provides displays and exhibitions on the varied and dramatic past of the valley and its present natural history interests. There is a small shop area, selling leaflets and souvenirs throughout the summer (April - September). Toilet facilities are provided all year round and there is easy access to facilities for the less agile..

Deep Hayes Country Park

Set in a natural bowl in the hillside, Deep Hayes Country Park is a delightful mixture of woods, meadows and pools. The park covers 143 acres and boasts ample facilities, including a visitor centre and toilets.

All too often, young people and old people today rarely speak to each other - their lives seem worlds apart, they don't seem to understand each other, and they feel like they have little to talk about. But when they do sit down and start talking - the results can be fascinating!

Today, Doxey Marshes, near Stafford, is a nature reserve – so the wildlife is protected – but 60 years ago for children playing on the marshes – it was all fair game

Haden Hill House

Hilcote Valley Railway

A train journey for the young and not so young alike! Staffordshire's Premier Narrow Gauge Railway offer the chance to learn to drive both Steam and Diesel Locomotives. Day courses available, also open to the public.

Kinver
The picturesque village of Kinver lies on the River Stour.
To the south of the village, standing on prominent hill, is the parish church of St Peter. Set on an ancient site, the current church dates from the 12th century. Kinver was created as a new town in the late-13th century by the lord of the manor, with the High Street laid out with 'burgage' plots. When mills were built on the River Stour in the Middle Ages Kinver became known for its hard-wearing woollen cloth. In the 18th century the river was used to power 'finery forges' and 'slitting mills'.  In the village's five slitting mills iron bars were slit into rods, to be later fashioned into nails in the neighbouring Black Country. Kinver also flourished as a coaching stop on the great 'Irish Road' (Bristol to Chester). Running close to the meandering River Stour is the Staffordshire and Worcester Canal. Each year the village hosts the Kinver Country Fayre which attracts many visitors from the nearby West Midlands conurbation.  The High Street is closed to vehicles and there are many attractions including stalls, a parade, dancing displays and prize draws. To the south-west of the village lies Kinver Edge, a beauty spot owned by the National Trust.  The rock or cave houses on Kinver Edge, carved from sandstone, were still inhabited in living memory.

Knightley Light Railway

Our founder, Roger Greatrex, has over 30 years experience of miniature railway engineering.We have supplied many private individuals, clubs, local authorities and commercial organisations.We can build petrol or diesel hydraulic locomotives, in variety of outline styles including steam and diesel, British or overseas to your requirements.We can build petrol or diesel hydraulic locomotives, in variety of outline styles including steam and diesel, British or overseas to your requirements.

Leek, known as the 'Queen of the Moorlands', stands on a large bend of the River Churnet.Most of the town lies at over 600 ft and it is surrounded by the higher Staffordshire Moorlands at the southern end of the Pennines.Nearby are The Roaches, a series of gritstone outcrops, on the tip of the Peak District National Park.  Cheadle makes a good base for exploring this spectacular area, which is very popular with walkers and rock climbers. Leek,a market town was once the centre of an agricultural area and it still holds a regular cattle market. Following the Industrial Revolution Leek became an important producer of textiles and was once famous for its silk.  Between 1875 - 78 William Morris, founder of the Arts and Crafts Movement, made frequent visits to the silk works to experiment with organic dyes. Many of Cheadle's silk products featured Morris's designs.  Although the textile industry has declined in recent years there are still dyers and clothes manufacturers in the town.Morris influenced much of the art and architecture of Cheadle and in the summer take a guided walk or self-guided tour along the William Morris town trail Leek is also a great place for shopping, with indoor and outdoor markets and good range of individual shops.Leek was the home of James Brindley, the 18th century engineer, who was responsible for the construction of most of England's canal network.  In 1792 he built a water-powered corn mill in Leek and this now houses the Brindley Mill Museum. Nearby, lying in a fold in thickly wooded hillsides, is Rudyard Lake. This two and a half mile long lake was created over 200 years ago to supply water for the canal system of the West Midlands.  Now a popular tourist attraction, the beautiful area offers walking, sailing, boating and fishing. A narrow gauge steam railway runs along its eastern shore of the lake. Rudyard Kipling, one of Britain's greatest writers, was named after this lake because his parents courted beside its waters in 1863.  The picturesque Churnet Valley Railway runs for 5 miles from the village of Cheddleton, near Leek, to Kingsley & Frogall.  This standard gauge preserved line also hosts lots of special events and steam and diesel galas. Other nearby attractions include Alton Towers and the Peak District National Park.

1, Market Place , Leek, Staffordshire ST13 5HH
Tel:01538 483741 fax:01538 483743
Email:tourism.services@

staffsmoorlands.gov.uk

Letocetum Roman Baths Site & Museum

LICHFIELD
The small city of Lichfield is a worthwhile place to visit on holiday or visiting..Lichfield is famous for its three-spired cathedral, known throughout the Midlands as the 'Ladies of the Vale'.  The building, started in 1195, has the finest silhouette of any English cathedral.  Lichfield developed as an ecclesiastical centre around the shrine of St Chad and pilgrims continued to gather here until the Reformation, when the shrine was destroyed. In the 18th century, the town's location, on the main route to the north-west and Ireland, meant that it became an important coaching town.  However, the coming of the railways saw a sharp decline in the coaching trade and Lichfield's prosperity waned. Brewing was important in the 19th century but today light industries are the main employers.  Armitage Shanks, the famous manufacturer of sanitaryware, is located here.  The city also remains an important ecclesiastical centre. The city centre has an attractive old-worlde charm, with good shops and restaurants, and the expanses of open water, tree-lined walks and parkland provide a variety of activities in beautiful surroundings. St Mary's, in the middle of Market Square, hosts a Heritage Centre Samuel Johnson (also known as Dr Johnson) was born in Lichfield in 1709.  The celebrated literary figure is most famous for compiling the first English Dictionary.  The Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum, in Breadmarket Street, illustrates his life, work and personality.  In Market Square, nearby, are statues of Johnson and his great friend and biographer, James Boswell. Another famous resident was Erasmus Darwin (grandfather of Charles Darwin), a leading doctor, botonist, inventor and poet of the 18th century.  His charming Georgian home in Cathedral Close, is now a museum.

Lichfield Garrick

Named after the famous Actor/Manager David Garrick, the Lichfield Garrick is set to revive the cultural side of Lichfield's heritage. Boasting an auditorium capacity of 490, a flexible studio and conference facilities, is set to lead the way as one of the areas biggest attractions.

Hulme End, Nr Hartington, Buxton, Staffordshire Moorlands, SK170EZ
Situated on B5054 Warslow to Hartington Road at Hulme End. Approx  9 miles East of Leek
Winter 10.00am - 4.00pm
Summer 10.00am - 5.00pm
email: tourism.services@

staffsmoorlands.gov.uk
MANIFOLD VALLEY CLICKk

Marston's Visitors Centre & Brewery Tours

Join a brewery tour and see time honoured brewing methods in action. Visit the working co-operage, see the impressive Burton Unions (a system where beer is fermented in oak casks and is unique to Marston's) and enjoy a pint of famous Pedigree Bitter.  Burton-on-Trent was the engine room for brewing in the 19th century, with 26 brewers and 20 cooperages.The secret of Burton's brewing success lies in it's water, the perfect blend for brewing bitter with its unique combination of sulphur, calcium, magnesium and low sodium levels.John Marstons made his first uncompromising decision when he chose Burton as the place for his brewery in 1834.
The tradition of not compromising still continues today with Marston's being the only brewer in the UK to still employ coopers and use the Burton Union System.Book your tour today and experience our unique, time honoured brewing methods in action, and of course enjoy sampling our famous Marston's beers.

Mow Cop Castle

Stunning views of North Staffordshire and the Cheshire plains can be seen from the remains of the castle.

The National Forest Maize Maze

The busy market town of Newcastle-under-Lyme in Staffordshire (not to be confused with the city of Newcastle upon Tyne) lies to the west of Stoke on Trent.  When the city of Stoke on Trent was created in 1910 by the amalgamation of the 'Six Towns' (Stoke upon Trent, Burslem, Hanley, Fenton, Longton and Tunstall), Newcastle was not included despite its close proximity.Known to many locals as 'Castle', the suburbs of Newcastle under Lyme, run directly into those of Stoke on Trent and the conurbation now has a population of over 360,000. Newcastle takes its name from a 'new castle' built by the Normans in the 12th century under the forest of Lyme.  Newcastle was granted permission to hold a market in 1173.  In the 17th and 18th century the market town flourished manufacturing hats.  Later Newcastle's economy became based around pottery and coal mining and like neighbouring Stoke on Trent, the town formed part of the area known as 'The Potteries'.  These traditional industries have declined recently and have been replaced by new industries such as construction materials, electric motors, publishing and computers.Today the open air market is still an important part of life in the town, operating 6 days a week There a number of tourist attractions in and around Newcastle-under-Lyme.The Newcastle Borough Museum and Art Gallery, set in 8 acres of parkland in Brampton Park, illustrates over 800 years of the Borough's history and includes a life-size Victorian street scene.  Local and national artists are featured in the Art Gallery, along with travelling shows. Just outside the town centre is the New Vic Theatre.  The first purpose-built 'theatre in the round' in Europe, the New Vic offers a wide range of entertainment, including classic and modern plays and outstanding concert performances. To the west of the centre of Newcastle-under-Lyme stands Keele University.  Granted University status in 1962, the Keele University campus is located close to the village of Keele. Newcastle is the home of 'Primitive Methodism' and this is reflected in the large number of Methodist churches in the town.  The Venerable Hugh Bourne (1772 - 1852), the founder of the Primitive Methodism Movement, had close links with the town.

Vue Cinemas Newcastle

A multiplex screening all the latest Hollywood blockbusters.

Northycote Farm & Country Park

Parkhall Country Park

Stoke-on-Trent’s only National Nature Reserve, the park consists of sandstone canyons, woodlands, heathland and ponds.  There is also a visitors centre with a small shop.

Polesworth Abbey

Abbey site includes sensory garden and rebuilt cloister as well as Gatehouse and Abbey church.Free entry -Open all the time=Closed Monday

Pooley Fields Country Park & Heritage Centre

Pooley Fields is a former colliery site featuring a heritage and education building that utilises wind and solar generated electricity. It supplies renewable energy to the heritage centre.A nature reserve, examples of water recycling and extensive footpaths, children’s play area, brass rubbing and other activities, as well as a tea room overlooking the Coventry Canal that runs through the centre of the site. Toilets at the visitor centre. *Access to Visitor Centre and Environs only. For further details on Pooley Fields Country Parks and Heritage Centre near Tamworth, Staffordshire see our website.

Ridware Theatre

A small professional theatre in the converted church of this tiny hamlet.

Rudyard Station, Rudyard,
NR. Leek, Staffordshire, ST13 8PF 

Sandwell Valley Country Park

Fax and Office: 01538 753130
email:cheadle@northstaffsdeanery.org.uk

Smestow Valley Nature Reserve
Smestow Valley Nature Reserve is a haven for wildlife, with its meadows and over 150 acres of woodland, the reserve follows a south-westerly route from Oxley to Wightwick along the disused Wolverhampton railway line.Smestow Valley Nature Reserve follows a south-westerly route from Oxley to Wightwick along the disused Wolverhampton - Kingswinford - Stourbridge railway line.It's a haven for wildlife with its meadows and over 150 acres of woodland. The reserve is also close to the Staffordshire and Worcestershire Canal and Smestow Brook.Pathways are flat and well surfaced making them easy for walkers and cyclists.Smestow Valley Nature Reserve can be accessed from Tettenhall Road, Castlecroft Road or Compton  Road

Festival Way, Festival Park,
Stoke on Trent,
Staffordshire, ST1 5PU

Stafford, the county town of Staffordshire, stands on the River Trent and its name means 'ford by a landing place (staithe)'.  This was the only feasible place for a large army to cross this important river and as a result the location was of strategic importance for a large area. The ancient settlement was originally on an island in the middle of marshes on the River Sow, a tributary of the River Trent. The town became the capital of the Kingdom of Mercia in 913 AD and in 1070 William the Conqueror built a wooden fortress on a hillside nearby. This timber structure was later replaced by a stone castle, which was rebuilt several times over the centuries. Today only 19th century ruins crown the earthworks.  #The castle has dominated the Stafford skyline for over 900 years and at night-time the illuminated castle makes an impressive landmark for motorists on the M6 and travellers on the West Coast Main Line. One of Stafford's most famous residents was Izaak Walton (1593 - 1683).  Famous as the author of the Compleat Angler, Walton lived in Shallowford and his thatched cottage is now open to the public.Another famous resident was Richard Brinsley Sheridan (1751 - 1816).  Well known as a playwright, Sheridan was also also the local MP. Since the turn of the 20th century Stafford has been known for its heavy engineering and in particular the production of power station transformers. Occasionally a vast transformer can be seen being transported by road, pulled by an 8-wheel drive 'Goliath' tractor and pushed by 3 more. Stafford is also home to the computing and IT campus of Staffordshire University, the main campus is in Stoke on Trent. Stafford has many attractions.  The town's oldest building is the church of St Chad, dating from the 12th century.  Built in the late-Norman style, the church in noted for its magnificent arches and arcades. In Greengate Street, Stafford's main shopping area, stands the Ancient High House.  This building, built in 1595, is the largest timber-framed town house in England.  Charles I and his nephew Prince Rupert stayed here in 1642 at the start of the English Civil War and the Parliamentarians later used the building as a prison for Royalist officers.  The Ancient High House is a museum with regularly changing exhibitions. The Shire Hall Gallery, in the Market Square, hosts contemporary art exhibitions and visitors can also view the historic courtroom.  The gallery has a craft shop and café. Beside the River Trent stands Victoria Park, opened in 1908.

Stafford Apollo Cinema

3 Screens... Dolby Sound... Computerised Booking

Stafford Gatehouse Theatre

Stafford Gatehouse Theatre is currently celebrating its 25th anniversary year and has a hugely varied and popular programme of comedy, music, dance, family shows, and more. The theatre primarily stages the touring companies’ shows, with the addition of Stafford Gatehouse Theatre own productions of Stafford Festival Shakespeare, Summer School, and Pantomime, and Stafford Gatehouse Youth Theatre performances.As part of the 25th anniversary celebrations, Stafford Gatehouse Theatre will introduce the phenomenon that is Rock ‘n’ Roll Panto to the Midlands this year with Jack and The Beanstalk. This critically acclaimed recipe for panto will bring together all the ingredients of a traditional pantomime, a strong storyline, lavish sets and costumes, larger than life characters, huge amounts of audience participation, magic and spectacle. But what will be truly special about this panto, and what will separate it from all others in the region, is the energy and excitement of the classic rock and pop songs that will be played live by a company of extremely talented actor musicians.

 The Wolseley Centre,

Wolseley Bridge, ST17 0WT,

 STAFFORDSHIRE WILDLIFE
TRUST CLICK 

Stoke On Trent, affectionately known the world over as "The Potteries", is a unique city made up of six separate towns: Tunstall, Burslem, Hanley (the City Centre), Stoke, Fenton and Longton. The City is the centre of the UK ceramic industry and home to some of the world's greatest pottery manufacturers, including, Wedgwood, Royal Doulton and Spode.A visit to the City's award-winning museums offers a fascinating glimpse into the area's rich industrial heritage. The Potteries Museum houses the world's largest collection of Staffordshire ceramics together with a Mark II Spitfire, designed by locally-born Reginald Mitchell, and at the Gladstone Pottery Museum you can get an insight of life at a 19th century pottery factory, and test your own pottery skills by throwing a pot or making an ornamental flower. The Etruria Industrial Museum was originally a bone and flint mill and the original steam engine which powered the mill is in steam the first Sunday of every month.For unbeatable family entertainment, look no further than the Visitor Centres of the various potteries. The larger ones, Wedgwood, Spode and Royal Doulton all offer museums, craft demonstration areas, audio visual presentations, factory tours and restaurants but many of the smaller factories have shops providing excellent shopping opportunities for anyone seeking a bargain. Often the products for sale may be labelled as "seconds" but the untrained eye would not be able to find any imperfection.There's nowhere better to shop for pottery than here in The Potteries. With over 40 pottery factory shops around the City, you can find everything from fine bone china and figurines to tableware and mugs, all at bargain prices. The City Centre is a vibrant and exciting shopping and entertainment centre, offering major high street stores, a busy and lively market and the award-winning Potteries Shopping Centre.In the City Centre, you can also find Festival Park, original site of the 1986 National Garden Festival, and now home to a 10 screen Odeon Cinema, a water fun pool, a dry ski centre, and a colourful canalside marina with restaurant.

Mitchell Memorial Theatre

Amateur dramatics are performed at this theatre, which was built following the Second World War as a tribute to the Spitfire designer, Reginald J Mitchell.Group Captain Douglas Bader officially opened our theatre in 1957 to honour Reginald J. Mitchell, the designer of the Spitfire.We are the main venue for amateur and youth theatre in the city.  We are non-profit making and support many amateur theatre companies from the community. We put on: plays;  pantomimes;  concerts;  scout gang shows;  dance displays;  ceremonies;  drama courses; and  competitions.

Odeon Hanley

A multiplex screening all the latest Hollywood blockbusters.

Queens Theatre

Recently refurbished as a 1000-seat concert venue and theatre, famous for being the theatre where Robbie Williams, as a child, performed in numerous productions.

The Regent Theatre

Beautifully restored Art Deco theatre in the heart of Stoke-on-Trent's cultural quarter.Originally opened in 1929 as a super cinema, its first presentation was a silent film, The Last Command. The foyer was luxuriously decorated in the fashionable Art Deco style, with similar splendour in the auditorium and its reputation grew for presenting Sunday concerts.In 1950 there was a name change to the Gaumont and the venue became part of the increasing touring pop concert circuit in the 60s and was extensively used for amateur operatic and musical comedy productions. It 1974 it was given a triple screen and renamed the Odeon Film Centre two years later. In 1989, following the opening of a six screen Odeon at the Festival Park, it closed.Following a three year, £23 million development of the city centre, The Regent was reopened on 22 September 1999 after being fully restored to its previously elegant Art Deco style and has already been visited by a host of distinguished guests including Sir Derek Jacobi. Her Majesty the Queen officially opened The Regent Theatre in October 1999.As a number one touring venue, The Regent is capable of taking the largest touring productions and has already played host to the very best opera, dance, drama and musicals, direct from Broadway and the West End.Most notably Glyndebourne Touring Opera has relocated its northern operation from Manchester to the Regent.Offering a high quality programme of grand opera, national ballet and West end musicals. For further details on The Regent Theatre Hanley, Stoke-on-Trent see our website.

Stoke Film Theatre

A wide range of independent, foreign (subtitled) and mainstream releases, which have either not been shown or have received a very limited theatrical release.Established in 1974, the Film Theatre ensures that a wider variety of films are shown in Stoke-on-Trent. Our programme contains a wide range of independent, foreign (often subtitled) and more mainstream releases. The emphasis is on films which have either not been shown or have received a very limited release at the local multiplex cinemas.For more information on the history of cinema-going in North Staffordshire, read Lez Cooke's essay on the subject: here.Contrary to popular belief, the Film Theatre is open to the general public. Situated on Staffordshire University's College Road campus, the Film Theatre is independent of the university and operated entirely by volunteers.

Stoke-on-Trent Repertory Theatre 

  In November 1997, the Rep was proud to open a brand new, purpose built, 235 seat theatre in Stoke on Trent. The theatre was built with the help of an Arts Council lottery grant, the assistance of the City Council, funds raised by the members and the generous sponsorship of local companies.The Rep's production company, the Stoke on Trent Repertory Players, performs a season of six plays each year.Its members provide the acting company, volunteer administration, technical, and managerial staff, providing the Potteries with a varied entertainments programme in the best traditions of amateur theatre.The Rep also hosts visiting amateur dramatic and operatic societies.

Victoria Hall

Recently refurbished Victorian Concert Hall offering a wide range of concerts and events throughout the year..The Victoria Hall, the premier concert venue for the Heart of England, is twinned with The Regent Theatre. The Victoria Hall offers a hugely varied and popular programme of music, dance, children’s shows, comedy and local events for all the community, and is only 2 minutes’ walk from The Regent.   further details on The Regent Theatre Hanley, Stoke-on-Trent see our website.

Stoke City Football Club is a football club  . Stoke is the second-oldest Football League club in the world as it was founded in 1863. The club plays in the Football League Championship, the second tier of English football. The club’s nickname is The Potters (after the pottery industry in Stoke-on-Trent) and its home kit consists of a red & white vertical-striped shirt with white shorts and white socks. The club is currently owned by Kidsgrove Road Limited, a subsidiary of Bet365, with Peter Coates as the club's chairman. It was owned by Stoke Holding, from 1999 to 2006, which was in turn owned by a consortium of Icelandic businessmen. Coates completed his takeover on May 22 2006.Stoke play their home fixtures at the Britannia Stadium, a 28,000 all-seater stadium. The stadium was opened in 1997; prior to this date Stoke had played at the Victoria Ground, which had been their home ground since 1878.

Tamworth- The Ancient Capital of Mercia

Tamworth Assembly Rooms

Tamworth Assembly Rooms is the premier entertainments venue in Tamworth and host to a wide variety of events. The grade two listed building currently hosts a full season of professional programmed events for all tastes. These include working with private bookings, professional one night acts and local talent.

The Threshing Barn

A grade 2 listed farm provides a perfect venue for day workshops in country crafts. Come and learn spinning, weaving, dry flower arrangements, papier maché, hand-made paper, decoupagé, soap making, scented gifts, rag rugs, Christmas decorations. Spinning equipment and craft materials for sale. Open all year.

Tittesworth Visitor Centre

Meerbrook
Leek
Staffordshire
ST13 8SW
7.30am until dusk
The Visitor Centre and restaurant are open from 10am daily* (except Christmas Day)
TITTLESWORTH CLICK

On the 3rd May 2007 Uttoxeter Racecourse  celebrated 100 years of racing. In 1907 admission to the racecourse cost just one shilling (5p) and was largely patronised by the nobility, gentry and sportsmen of the county. It was in 1988 when the late Sir Stanley Clarke took over, that the transformation into the racecourse that we know today truly began. Uttoxeter was turned into an award winning racecourse, with a reputation for customer service and innovation.In that first year Uttoxeter Racecourse hosted only five meetings. Now, Uttoxeter Racecourse holds 24 race meetings spread evenly through the year. Whether it is National Hunt Racing in winter, or glorious summer jumping, you are sure to find a fixture that suits you.

Walsall is a large industrial town in the West Midlands  .  Historically part of Staffordshire, Walsall is a component area of the West Midlands conurbation, and is sometimes described as part of the Black Country.Walsall is the administrative headquarters of the Metropolitan Borough of Walsall. In the 2001 census, the town had a population of 170,994 with the surrounding borough having a population of 253,500. Neighbouring towns in the borough include Willenhall, Bloxwich and Aldridge.The name Walsall is thought to have derived from the words "Walh halh", meaning "valley of the celtic speakers" (referring to the Celts). Walsall is first referenced as 'Walesho' in a document dated 1002, however it is not referenced in the Domesday Book. By the first part of the 13th century, Walsall was a small market town, with the weekly market being introduced in 1220. The Mayor of Walsall was created as a political position in the 14th century. Walsall is known as "the town of a hundred trades". (This appellation is a nod to the fact that nearby Birmingham is known as "the city of a thousand trades". Though at the time considerably smaller, Birmingham's growth to size larger than Walsall due to the adoption of a main railway line.)

Walsall Central Reference Library
Lichfield St  Walsall WS1 1TR 

Email reference@walsall.gov.uk

 WALSALL CLICK 

Main Club Email - info@walsallfc.co.uk

SADDLERS CLICK 

For two hundred years Walsall people have been making some of the world's finest saddles and leather goods. Walsall Leather Museum seeks to celebrate this great tradition and reflect the achievements of the leather craftsmen and women of Walsall.In our atmospheric workshops you can watch skilled leather workers in the process of hand-crafting leathergoods such as wallets and purses and perhaps have-a-go yourself. The displays around the museum tell the stories of the Walsall leather trade and feature splendid examples of local craftsmanship past and present, including saddles made for the Royal Family and exciting contemporary designs.

tel: 0121 420 1061

Fax: 0121 434 4430

West Bromwich was first mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086, the name meaning "the little village on the heath of broom" (broom being a particular type of bush). It is believed that it may have originally been part of the Handsworth parish.  A Benedictine priory existed in West Bromwich from the 12th century around which the settlement of Broomwich Heath grew. In 1727, the town became a stop on the coaching road between London and Shrewsbury and its growth began. In the 19th century, coal deposits were discovered, ensuring that the town grew rapidly as an industrial centre, with industries such as spring, gun and nail making developing. Most of the coal deposits were found below the ground a mile or so west of Broomwich Heath, and so the "new" town adopted the name West Bromwich. Well before the end of the 19th century, the relatively new town of West Bromwich had established itself as a prominent area to match older neighbouring towns including Dudley and Walsall.
In 1888, West Bromwich became a county borough, incorporating the village of Great Barr. It was expanded in 1966 to include most of the borough of Tipton and Wednesbury urban district, before joining with the neighbouring county borough of Warley in 1974 to form the Metropolitan Borough of Sandwell.

Children's Services 0845 351 0131

Built on the grounds of a medieval nunnery, it was to White Ladies that Charles II then a Prince was first taken, after fleeing from Worcester. He arrived at White Ladies Priory on Thursday 4th September 1651 after riding throughout the night and was admitted by a servant of the house named George Penderel.The name 'White Ladies' refers to the nuns who lived there who wore white (undyed) habits.Whilst the large timber-framed nunnery has now gone, the remains of the nunneries medieval church, and the nineteenth boundary wall of the small graveyard still remain.In 1535 White Ladies Priory was valued at having an annual income of less than £17 and, owing to an Act of Parliament in 1536 it was shut as its annual value was less than the £200 needed to keep the Priory open.The Priory is located close to Boscobel House (which grounds include the famous Royal Oak), which is about a mile up the road, where Charles II briefly stayed.The Priory is also rumoured to be where Queen Guinevere retired to after the death of King Arthur.

Wightwick Manor is one of only a few surviving examples of a house built and furnished under the influence of the Arts & Crafts Movement.The many original William Morris wallpapers and fabrics, Pre-Raphaelite paintings, Kempe glass and de Morgan ware help conjure up the spirit of the time. An attractive 7-hectare (17-acre) garden reflects the style and character of the house.

The  Library is a registered charity (no. 528570) and is supported by Staffordshire County Council. It is administered by an independent trust and run in close conjunction with the Staffordshire and Stoke on Trent Archive Service. The core of the Library is the huge collection of printed books, pamphlets, manuscripts, drawings, watercolours, and transcripts built up by William Salt (1808-1863), a London banker during his lifetime. The Library continues to collect and preserve printed books, printed ephemera, pamphlets and illustrative material relating to Staffordshire for present and future generations. Collection Policy Statement. The Library's collections represent an outstanding resource for the study of local and family history in Staffordshire and are available for consultation by the public in our reading rooms free of charge.

Wolverhampton is a city in  Staffordshire and metropolitan county of the West Midlands. In 2004, the local authority area had an estimated population of 239,100; the wider Urban Area had a population of 251,462,^] which makes it the 13th largest city in England.The city is commonly recognised as being named after Lady Wulfruna, who founded the town in 985: its name coming from Anglo-Saxon Wulfrūnehēantūn = "Wulfrūn's high or principal enclosure or farm".^[4] Alternatively, the city may have earned its original name from a local Danish leader who was called Wulfere . Nevertheless, the name Wulfruna is commonly used in the city - for example, for the Wulfrun Centre or for Wulfrun Hall.The city's name is often abbreviated to "W'ton"^[ or "Wolves" It is also known as "Wolvo" by many of the locals.  The city council's motto is "Out of darkness, cometh light"  People from Wolverhampton are known as Wulfrunians.The city grew initially as a market town with specialism within the woollen trade. During and after the Industrial Revolution, the city became a major industrial centre, with mining (mostly coal, limestone and iron ore) as well as production of steel, japanning, locks, industry) and within the motorcycles and cars - including the first vehicle to hold the Land speed record at over 200mph. Today the major industries within the city are both engineering based (including a large aerospaceservice sector.^]

Wolverhampton Art Gallery is located in the heart of Wolverhampton's historical city and aims to provide a friendly, accessible and inclusive environment for visitors to explore art, at their leisure.

Wolverhampton Grand Theatre

Wolverhampton Racecourse, Dunstall Park, is Britain's first floodlit horse racing track bringing you the thrills of racing, day and night. It is also the UK's busiest racetrack as we host around 100 fixtures during the year.The unique and electric atmosphere of racing has enthralled punters and families alike for generations. The modern facilities at Wolverhampton are testament to the fact that racing can move with the times but retain the excitement of the sport. Racing takes place on the all weather flat course throughout the year, so whether you're a seasoned race goer or a novice, we can tailor a package to suit your requirements.

Wolverhampton Racecourse,
Dunstall Park, Wolverhampton. WV6 0PE
Located north of the city centre, off the A449 dual carriageway. Follow the brown tourist signs to Dunstall Park.

Wolves first began life as a schoolboy team when the headmaster of St. Luke's school in Blakenhall, Harry Barcroft, presented a football to a group of pupils who had enjoyed an exceptional year's school work. The presentation of the football was instigated by the co-founders of the team, John Baynton and Jack Brodie.St Luke's FC were formed in 1877 and, two years later, after merging with the local cricket and football club known as The Wanderers, they became known as Wolverhampton Wanderers. Eight years later, the club moved to a new ground which is still their home today - Molineux.. Wolves became founder members of the Football League in 1888

Staffordshire Events

February

• Pancake Race

May

• Music Festival

June

• Burslem Summer Arts Festival
• Cancer Research Race for Life
• Etruria Canal Festival
• Flourish Festival
• Folk in a Field
• Lichfield Folk Festival
• Stafford Carnival
• Stafford Festival of Shakespeare

July

• Battle of Britain Exhibition
• Kings Bromley Show
• Lichfield International Arts Festival
• Live @ the Castle
• Mayor’s Festival Parade
• Medieval Fayre and Market
• Party in the Park
• Stafford Festival of Shakespeare
• Street Theatre Extravaganza

August

• Classic Car Show
• Country Fair
• Historic Food Fair and Craft Market
• Proms concert
• Stafford by the Sea
• Tamworth Summer Festival
• V Festival

September

• Autumn Chocoholics Fair
• Bridal & Summer Fair
• Dr. Johnson's Birthday
• Heritage Open Days
• Horn Dance
• Stafford Borough Horticultural Show

October

• CAMRA Beer Festival
• Festival of Fortune
• Halloween Heebie-Jeebie
• Stafford Film Festival

November

• Fireworks Spectacular with the Vikings
• Glyndebourne on Tour
• Victorian Market

• Bonfire & Firework Extravaganza
• Burslem Winter Arts Festival
• Glyndebourne on Tour
• Shugborough Candlelit Evenings