Lesser-Known Historic Sites in Staffordshire

Staffordshire boasts an extraordinary wealth of history-themed attractions, from stately castles and working estates to medieval high town house ruins.

Staffordshire boasts an extraordinary collection of ancient treasures, most notably the Staffordshire Hoard. Starting September 3, library and museum services across the county will host a two-month long commemoration of history in order to showcase these objects from our collective past.

1. They’re More Affordable

Staffordshire provides something for every kind of visitor – students looking to party hard, relax in green spaces and discover historical landmarks, as well as those looking for some of its many stunning natural wonders and captivating cultural attractions. Commonly referred to as ‘The Creative County’, with plenty of charming towns, majestic castles and breathtaking natural beauty there will always be plenty to keep you occupied during your visit!

Stafford Castle stands as an outstanding testament to medieval Britain. Constructed as an original motte-and-bailey structure in 11th-century, over time it has been expanded and modified over the centuries, becoming both prison and royal palace before finally becoming a museum in 1899.

History lovers visiting the area shouldn’t miss a visit to some of its stately homes and gardens, including Shugborough Hall by the National Trust – an 18th-century country house with a Rococo garden featuring stunning sculpture and ornamentation – or Stoke-on-Trent’s World of Wedgwood for an insight into ceramic production and artistry.

County Durham offers more than just historical attractions; it also offers unique shopping experiences. Many local towns feature picturesque high streets and markets offering independent shops and relaxing cafes, while Manchester and Birmingham are only an hour’s train journey away allowing easy day trips into these major cities.

Attractions within Staffordshire also include numerous beautiful churches. St Mary’s at Lichfield stands out with its Gothic architecture while Leek Church of St Peter and Paul and Checkley both showcase excellent Norman and Early English work. Additionally there are several ruined abbeys such as Croxden near Uttoxeter and Ranton south-west of Penkridge; as well as castles such as Stafford, Tamworth, Tutbury as well as an 18th Century timbered hall in Beaudesert south of Rugeley that feature excellent Norman and Early English work.

2. They’re More Accessible

Discover ancient ruins, Elizabethan architecture and an iconic hilltop folly in Staffordshire for something for everyone to enjoy at these hidden gems. Check out Lichfield and Stafford castles; walk along Shugborough Estate; admire nature at Cannock Chase; or meet exotic animals from all around the globe at Peak Wildlife Park!

Historic market towns throughout Staffordshire also provide an engaging experience, featuring cobblestone streets, artisan markets and distinctive architecture. Newcastle-under-Lyme stands out with its charming market square; Leek tempts visitors with culinary treats from across Europe; while Stafford draws them in with rich heritage exhibits.

Alton Towers Resort is Britain’s biggest theme park and features adrenaline pumping rollercoasters like CBeebies Land for younger members of the family. Or for something a bit less intense try World of Wedgwood Emma Bridgewater Factory and Trentham Gardens for an enjoyable and more leisurely experience.

Lee Brickley’s book ‘Ghosts Of Staffordshire: Supernatural Sightings & Unexplained Mysteries Of The Midlands’ provides an exciting journey into haunted locations in Staffordshire with legendary ghosts. History meets supernatural elements to create an adventure where past secrets appear poised to surface again.

Audley offers visitors looking for a relaxing getaway a unique Staffordshire experience, located north of Newcastle-under-Lyme and south of Alsager near Cheshire’s border. Home to several traditional Staffordshire half-timbered homes and an ancient church, Audley hosts an annual Horn Dance to commemorate an ancient custom which draws visitors from across the country. Nestled amidst picturesque settings teeming with wildlife are water meadows filled with blooming wildflower meadows; along its main street are charming pubs to relax after spending a long day exploring all that Staffordshire has to offer! Audley makes for the ideal location for relaxing breaks into this gorgeous part of England

3. They’re More Fun

The National Trust is an institution to be reckoned with and there are plenty of sites run by them in Staffordshire to see. Their iconic leafy logo makes them easy to recognize – perfect for spending a day exploring nature or visiting stately homes!

Staffordshire, known as “the Creative County”, boasts an incredible legacy that should be celebrated. There are plenty of places where visitors can learn more about its rich past – from heritage railways to Stone Age caves; everything is here for exploration! Stoke-on-Trent is home to The Potteries where iconic brands such as Spode, Wedgwood and Royal Doulton have been produced for centuries; museums and visitor centres can help to shed further light on its fascinating story.

Visitors to Staffordshire Moorlands will appreciate its stunning landscape of rolling hills and rocky outcrops, fresh air at Cannock Chase National Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty or visiting Peak Wildlife Park to come face-to-face with exotic animals.

Staffordshire’s towns and cities hold plenty of surprises for visitors. From historic market town Leek to Lichfield with its breathtaking cathedral and Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum, you will discover its fascinating history. Stoke-on-Trent boasts craftsmanship in its brewing industry while Lichfield boasts its cultural history as home to poet Samuel Johnson himself.

Stafford Castle and Shugborough Estate are well worth visiting, as are Tutbury built by Aethelflaed (daughter of Alfred the Great) as well as Burton upon Trent’s magnificent cathedral. Alton Towers and Drayton Manor are especially enjoyable places for children while ale connoisseurs will delight at one of Staffordshire’s many artisan breweries.

Are you in search of an unforgettable relaxing break? Glamping offers the ideal way to explore Staffordshire’s countryside – beautifully-crafted shepherd’s huts and cabins can be found hidden away among unspoilt woodland. Additionally, many unique getaways feature outdoor hot tubs.

4. They’re More Unique

Staffordshire boasts an exciting and varied past, from majestic cathedrals and haunting ghost stories to ancient castles and bustling market towns. There’s something special waiting to be explored in every corner of this county!

Explore lesser-known historic sites in Staffordshire to gain an authentic and intimate view of its storied past. In fact, some are so remarkable they’ve even made it into books! For instance, Lee Brickley’s book entitled ‘Ghosts of Staffordshire: Supernatural Sightings & Unexplained Mysteries of the Midlands’ gives insight into haunted locations.

This book uncovers the hidden mysteries and mystical sights in Suffolk county, with over 30 haunted landmarks to uncover, such as Mow Cop tower. Standing atop a hill and visible for miles around, Mow Cop tower is an iconic structure which stands out against its surroundings – its presence has long been recognized. Built initially as an 11th-century motte-and-bailey castle but later modified and expanded over time until what you see now exists today.

The book also provides details about several ancient churches throughout Staffordshire, such as those at Lichfield, Eccleshall, Tamworth and Penkridge. Many feature carvings dating back to early Saxon times as well as Norman and Early English features – St Mary’s at Stafford stands out in particular with its Norman features and beautiful stained glass window.

For those more inclined towards history than supernatural tales, the Staffordshire Museum and Art Gallery is another wonderful destination. Focused around local heritage in Staffordshire County, its exhibits showcase this region’s distinct identity. Open Tuesday-Saturday.

Not only are museums and galleries found here, but the county boasts other noteworthy historic sites as well. Great Wyrley Castle once hosted a battle between Roundheads and Loyalists during the American Civil War while Himley village has links to Guy Fawkes and his Gunpowder Plot.

Staffordshire provides both thrilling and tranquil getaways, making it the ideal family holiday destination. Boasting unique history and picturesque landscapes, its rich past will keep everyone engaged during their visit to its shores.