Visitor Guide 2010

Stafford VISIT

and the surrounding area

Leisure and Culture | www.visitstafford.org

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Cosford, Shifnal, Shropshire, TF11 8UP Tel: 01902 376 200

Contents Town & Country Shopping & Eating out

Festival Fun A Bit of Culture History Comes to Life

Historical Houses

Gardens & Woodland

Wonderful Wildlife Further Afield Stafford Parking Map Events Calendar Questionnaire

Where to Stay In Tow n Where to Stay Out of Town Self Catering

05 07 09 11 15 18 20 22 25 31 33 37 43 46

VISIT!

Stafford & the Surrounding Area Whether a day visitor, staying a weekend, or en-route to other destinations Stafford has much to tempt you to stay and so much more to discover if you do.

The area is served by M6 junctions 13 and 14, and is only 12 miles from the M6 Toll. Few towns in the UK could claim to be so centrally located with such good road and rail access, combined with proximity to several major cities and a choice of airports. Stafford Railway Station is on the West Coast Main Line with excellent links to London, Birmingham and Scotland.

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TOURIST INFORMATION CENTRE Stafford Gatehouse Theatre Eastgate St | Stafford | ST16 2LT

The TIC is the perfect place for tourists and residents alike to seek expert advice and to find out information on local, regional and national events and theatres, holiday information and airport parking, as well as buying theatre tokens, National Express tickets, stamps, postcards and much, much more.

OPEN

Mon

WWW.

visitstafford.org

TEL EMAIL

To Fri 9.30am - 5pm, Sat 9am - 4pm

01785

619 619

tic@staffordbc.gov.uk

03

04 www.visitstafford.org

St Chad's Church, Stafford

, Stafford St Mary's Church

Market Square, Stone

EXPLORE! Town & Country

Surrounded by thriving market towns, and delightful villages and hamlets, Staffordshire’s county town gives you the best the region has to offer.

A lively network of waterways links towns and villages, taking cyclists, walkers and boaters through stunning countryside, and the Town’s Nature Reserves and Cannock Chase offer a fantastic stomping ground for all lovers of the outdoors.

Stafford’s villages and hamlets are to be found in some of England’s prettiest countryside; their picturesque streets, traditional pubs and welcoming accommodation are waiting to be enjoyed.

Try the Stafford or Stone Town Trail, Stafford’s Ghost Trail, and the Churches Trail or alternatively, book a tailored Stafford Town Tour for groups of 15 or more by phoning 01785 619 131.

WWW.

staffordbc.gov.uk/tourismbrochures

THE RING OF CHURCHES If you enjoy beautiful and special churches then Stafford Borough has some interesting gems to visit.

The Church Trail leaflet available from the Stafford TIC reveals many ecclesiastical delights.

In the heart of Stafford, St Chad's is one of the oldest buildings in the town, and the Collegiate Church of St Mary’s holds the Izaak Walton memorial and hidden green men.

Equally, Ingestre Church is not to be missed as one of the very few Wren churches outside London and is a real box of delights, and the churchyard at St Michael’s in Stone houses the mausoleum of the Earl of St. Vincent, Nelson's Admiral at Trafalgar.

WWW.

TEL

s taffordbc.gov.uk/ tourismbrochures 01785 619 619

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THE SOUP KITCHEN 2 Church Lane, Stafford, ST16 2AW TEL 01785 254775 WWW. thesoupkitchen.co.uk

THE GROVE

This 16th century building is probably Stafford's best known eating house and has justifiably picked up many an award and recommendation. The Soup Kitchen attracts visitors from not only the county town but from all over the world and many have enthused over the home-made food, convivial atmosphere and above all the traditional, old fashioned, friendly service. Duncan and his team look forward to welcoming you very soon.

Open during every day (except Sundays).

THE GROVE

9 St Mary’s Grove, Stafford, ST16 2HT TEL 01785 252825 If you find yourself in Stafford’s Market Square, follow the little lane that runs to the left of Boots the Chemist. After 20 yards you’ll emerge by St Mary’s Church. Now look to your right. You’ve just discovered…

‘The Grove’.

For a coffee and a scone or a home cooked lunch, a warm welcome awaits you.

06 www.visitstafford.org

Stafford Market

The Swan Hotel

A TASTE OF STAFFORDSHIRE Stafford, the home of a ‘Taste of Staffordshire’ – the county’s Good Food Awards, has something of a reputation for gourmet dining. Successful entries in the 2009 Awards were Moddershall Oaks Spa, Siam Corner Ma Ma Thai, and The Swan Hotel.

WWW.

enjoystaffordshire.co.uk/ goodfoodawards.asp

INDULGE!

Shopping & Eating Out Browse through markets, designer outlets, high street names and side streets full of character… break for lunch at one of the many restaurants, bars, cafés or coffee shops.

Shop in the ‘piazza-style’ square adjacent to the Shire Hall Gallery and in the modern Guildhall Shopping Centre. Wander away from the main street and discover picturesque streets and lanes with individual designer shops and interesting eateries. The market town of Stone boasts a thriving café culture, market, and riverside location whilst Eccleshall offers an alternative to the High Street brands. Choose from the many bars and restaurants waiting to tempt you with awardwinning food and wines.

STONE FOOD & DRINK FESTIVAL Stone Food and Drink Festival 2010 will be held from Friday 1st October to Sunday 3rd October.

WWW. TEL

stonefooddrink.org.uk 01785 816 955

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Stafford Festival

08 www.visitstafford.org

Stafford Festival

ENJOY!

Live @ the Castle

Festival Family Fun There’s plenty to keep you entertained all year round with a calendar of festivals and events that will appeal to all.

STAFFORD FESTIVAL Sat 3 to Sun 11 July 2010 A series of exciting events for all ages, including: Raw Talent music competition, Street Theatre Extravaganza, Party in the Park, Mayor’s Festival Parade, live music and comedy at Live @ the Castle, and a Teddies Tea Party at Izaak Walton’s Cottage.

See page 12 for details.

WWW.

TEL

staffordbc.gov.uk/

staffordfestival 01785 619 619

The Music Festival in May offers a symphony of music from classical to contemporary. Summer brings the parks to life, and Victoria Park plays host to the popular and colourful Party in the Park event. Stafford Festival treats visitors to free family entertainment in July. A series of Summer events sponsored by the Guildhall Shopping Centre will be held in Stafford’s Market Square, culminating in a Children’s Fun Week from 23rd to 27th August.

The year ends with events including a Victorian Market, Christmas Parade, and Christmas Lights Switch-on with a firework extravaganza. Sandon Hall, Shugborough, Weston Park and Stafford Showground all host large-scale events; from pop festivals to toy fairs, classic cars to classical music.

Full events listing pages 32 - 35.

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Stafford Gatehouse Theatre and Stafford Borough Council Leisure and Culture Present

Stafford Festival Shakespeare

Open Air at Stafford Castle

The Merry Wives of Windsor

by William Shakespeare

Book 01785 254 653 Online staffordfestivalshakespeare.co.uk

A sound and light celebration of 800 years of Stafford and the ancient church of St Chad.

In the comfort of your seat listen to voices of characters from the past - Izaak Walton, King Charles I, Thomas Salt and many more - as 800 years of the colourful history of Stafford and the ancient church of St Chad’s situated at its heart, are brought to life.

Performances:- Saturdays 2.30pm Weekdays and evenings as advertised on our website. Groups bookings by arrangement. tel: 07954 99 66 10 email: Timewalk@hotmail.co.uk rices: £3.00 and £2.00 p (Special rates for schools and youth groups).

ST CHAD'S CHURCH | GREENGATE STREET | STAFFORD | ST16 2HP

10 www.visitstafford.org

Photograpghy by Robert Day

Thu 24 June to Sat 10 July 2010

SAVOUR! A Bit of Culture

STAFFORD FESTIVAL SHAKESPEARE

Open Air at Stafford Castle, Thursday 24 June to Saturday 10 July 2010 Enjoy a picnic with friends on a balmy summer’s evening before taking to your seats under the covered grandstand and delight in Shakespeare under the stars.

The beautiful surroundings of Stafford Castle makes the perfect backdrop to enjoy Shakespeare's hilarious comedy The Merry Wives of Windsor this summer. This brilliantly constructed farce features the infamous fat knight Sir John Falstaff, and contains plenty of physical laughs and vivid characters. On-site restaurant available, this year provided by the Moat House.

STAFFORD GATEHOUSE THEATRE

WWW. TEL

Eastgate Street | Stafford | ST16 2LT

staffordfestivalshakespeare.co.uk 01785 254 653

Stafford Gatehouse Theatre is an accessible, thriving venue, which offers a full and exciting programme of entertainment plus a wide range of modern facilities in the heart of Stafford.

From conference facilities to studio theatre, recording space to theatre Coffee Shop, Stafford Gatehouse is one of the best-equipped and most versatile venues in the region.

WWW. TEL

staffordgatehousetheatre.co.uk 01785 254 653 EMAIL gatehouse@staffordbc.gov.uk

SHIRE HALL GALLERY

Market Square | Stafford | ST16 2LD

An exciting and innovative contemporary visual art gallery, hosting a diverse programme of lively and family friendly art and craft exhibitions throughout the year. Craft shop stocking one-off work by British designermakers and The Balcony Coffee Bar. Visitors can explore the historic Victorian Crown Court which still stands within this listed building, learn about the fate of the people who stood in the dock, and see the holding cells where prisoners would await trial. Admission is free.

OPEN Mon & Wed to Sat 9.30am - 5pm, Tue 10am - 5pm, Sun 1pm 4pm. Closed Bank Holidays & during exhibition changes.

WWW. staffordshire.gov.uk/sams TEL 01785 278 345

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DETAILS

NOW ON www.sta LINE ffordbc.g ov.uk/leis Tel 0178 ure 5 619 30

0

Sat 03 July

STREET THEATRE EXTRAVAGANZA

Stafford Town Centre

RAW TALENT MUSIC COMPETITION

Market Square Stafford

Sun 04 July

Sat 10 July

PARTY IN THE PARK

MAYOR'S FESTIVAL PARADE

Stafford Victoria Park

Thu 08 July

GRAND PRIX CYCLING EVENT Evening Event

Stafford Town Centre

Stafford Town Centre

Sun 11 July

LIVE @ THE CASTLE, MUSIC EVENT

Stafford Castle

TEDDIES TEA PARTY

Izaak Walton’s Cottage Leisure Services | www.staffordbc.gov.uk

All information correct at time of going to print.

The Heart of Shopping in Staff rd

Market Square, Stafford St16 2BB telephone 01785 223107 www.guildhallstafford.com

12 www.visitstafford.org

November 2010

Stafford’s Market Square From 9am to 4pm Traditional Family Fairground Rides Farm Produce Arts and Crafts Stall Holders in Victorian Costume Christmas Gifts and much, much more.

Regeneration | www.staffordbc.gov.uk | 01785 619 619

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Stafford Castle comes to life

EXPERIENCE! History coming to life!

STAFFORD CASTLE

Newport Road | Stafford | ST16 1DJ

The Castle's impressive motte and bailey defensive system has dominated the local sky-line for over 900 years. William the Conqueror first built the Castle as a fortress to subdue the local populace. Visitors today will find a more peaceful setting, where you can discover for yourself the dramatic history behind the Castle walls. Take a circular walk along the woodland trail, or visit the fragrant herb garden. The visitor centre, created to represent a Norman guard-house, has an audio-visual display, museum exhibits and a souvenir gift shop. Have fun trying on reproduction period arms and armour, a fun hands-on experience for all the family, or buy a souvenir from the shop.

Come along to the exciting range of events throughout the year, from the interesting Herb Day to the popular Classic Car Show, there’s fun for all the family. There is a school and group tour programme and occasional themed tours, talks and workshops. Tours can be booked all year round.

Admission is free [except for some events, workshops and guided tours].

OPEN WWW.

For opening times - please visit the website. staffordbc.gov.uk/heritage TEL 01785 257 698

FOOD THROUGH THE AGES Period food festival at Stafford Castle

Sunday 20 June 2010 11am – 5pm Experience food preparation, cooking and dining from medieval times to WWII. Medieval, Tudor and Stuart re-enactments and Victorian and Second World War displays. Talk to the characters, learn the recipes and taste some food! Demonstrations and handson family fun activities with selling stalls and farmers’ market.

Adults £2, children and concessions £1, family (2+2) £5 Sponsored by A Taste of Staffordshire Supported by the Swan Hotel and Cadmus Wines.

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Izaak Walton's Cottage

IZAAK WALTON'S COTTAGE

Worston Lane | Shallowford | Stafford | ST15 0PA

This thatched timber-framed 17th Century cottage, bequeathed to the people of Stafford by Izaak Walton the celebrated author of the Compleat Angler, has over 300 years of rural life waiting to be discovered.

Nestled within the beautiful Staffordshire countryside, the cottage’s tranquil environment is perfect for you to enjoy a calm and relaxing afternoon. The cottage is decorated in period style and is home to a small angling museum.

Throughout the opening period, staff are on hand to give an insight into both this unique property and the great man himself. Visit the fragrant herb garden and wander around the scented rose garden or linger over a pot of tea or refreshments from the tea-room. A gift shop is available to purchase souvenirs to remind you of your visit. Admission is free [except for some events].

OPEN WWW. TEL

Opening

times vary - please visit the website for details staffordbc.gov.uk/heritage 01785 760 278

16 www.visitstafford.org

TEDDY'S TEA PARTY Sunday 11 July 2010 12noon – 5pm Enjoy family fun and games in the cottage garden, with a puppet show, face painting, story telling, craft stalls and a bouncy castle for the younger family members. Bring along a picnic and don’t forget your teddy!

FREE admission if accompanied by a teddy bear.

Supported by the Izaak Walton Cottage Chapter.

TOMB RAIDER at the Ancient High House Saturday 16 October 2010 10am - 4pm Become a real life treasure hunter. Learn from the experts and handle real archaeological artefacts, antiques and documents from the past. Items from the Roman period through to WWII, including: Anglo Saxon, Medieval, Tudor, Stuart, Georgian and Victorian.

The Ancient High House

FREE admission.

Supported by Staffordshire Arts and Museum Service and private collectors.

ANCIENT HIGH HOUSE

Greengate Street | Stafford | ST16 2JA

Built in 1595, England’s largest timber framed town house has over 400 years of history waiting to be discovered within its walls. The Ancient High House is one of the finest Tudor buildings in the country, fully restored with superb period room settings reflecting its fascinating history. Step inside and embark on a journey from Elizabethan days through the turbulent Civil War era to the more refined Edwardian period.

Wander through the gallery spaces and enjoy art displays and history exhibitions or buy a gift from the ground floor shop. Come along to the exciting range of events, activities and workshops that bring added colour and bustle to the house. Admission is free [except for some events, workshops and guided tours].

The top floor houses the museum of the Staffordshire Yeomanry Regiment.

OPEN WWW. TEL

Opening

times vary - please visit the website for details staffordbc.gov.uk/heritage 01785 619 131

HISTORY EXHIBITIONS AT THE ANCIENT HIGH HOUSE Stafford in the reign of George V

Tue 6 April - Sat 22 May 2010

Dunkirk 70 Years On

Tue 25 May - Sat 3 July 2010

The Battle of Britain:

Some of the ‘Few’ Sat 10 July - Sat 30 Oct 2010

Stafford Through the Ages Tue 9 Nov to Tue 11 Jan 2011

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Sandon Hall

WESTON PARK

DISCOVER! Historical houses SANDON HALL

Sandon | Stafford | ST18 0BZ

Since its opening in 1994, Sandon Hall, conveniently located just 5 miles from Stafford, has rapidly become one of the most exclusive venues for private and corporate functions.

Situated in the heart of the county and surrounded by 400 acres of glorious parkland, Lord Harrowby's elegant home is a superb venue whose private drive ambles almost a mile in zig-zag fashion past grazing sheep and proud pheasants.

WWW. TEL

sandonhall.co.uk 01889 508 004

18 www.visitstafford.org

An Award winning 17th Century stately home. Open to the public for the Summer from Sat 29 May 2010 - Sun 5 September 2010. See overleaf for more information

SHUGBOROUGH

Milford | Stafford | ST17 0XB

In addition, the attraction also features a land train ride, playground, tearooms, gift shop, craft workshops and full facilities to enjoy a full day out.

OPEN WWW. TEL

11am

- 5pm, 19 March to 28 October shugborough.org.uk 0845 459 8900

SHUGBOROUGH OUTDOOR PICNIC MOVIE NIGHTS Mama Mia - Friday 20 August The Rocky Horror Picture - Show Saturday 21 August The enormous outdoor screen will be set against the breath-taking backdrop of the famous mansion house and thousands of picnickers will dance the night away as they watch blockbuster ABBA inspired movie MAMA MIA (PG) on Friday 20 August or join in a mega TIME WARP during outrageous cult classic musical THE ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW (12) – on Saturday 21 August.

Please note – dressing as your favourite character from the movies is actively encouraged!

Shugborough

Journey through the historic estate of Shugborough and discover a bygone era as costumed living history characters bringing the past to life. Shugborough, the UK’s only Complete Working Historic Estate is no ordinary stately home but a living, working experience of life as it was 200 years ago. Located on the fringes of Cannock Chase, the estate is set in 900 acres of stunning parkland and riverside gardens with elegant mansion house, working Victorian servants’ quarters, Georgian farm & mill and restored walled garden. Daily milling, bread making, cheese making and brewing demonstrations take place along with themed activities at weekends.

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EXPLORE!

Cannock Chase

Gardens, woodland & more

GO APE

Birches Valley Forest Centre Rugeley | WS15 2UQ

CANNOCK CHASE

Between Stafford, Cannock & Rugeley

Staffordshire’s Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), once a royal hunting forest is rich in local history. The chase trail links visitor centres offering well marked pathways.

Cannock Chase was designated as an AONB in 1958 because of its beautiful landscape, its wildlife and its history. Cannock Chase is the largest surviving area of lowland heathland in the Midlands. Lowland heath is an internationally scarce and threatened wildlife habitat. The AONB also has extensive areas of forest and woodland along with areas of designed parkland, sand and gravel quarrying and mixed agriculture.

WWW. TEL

forestry.gov.uk/cannockforest 01889 882 613

20 www.visitstafford.org

Bring Out Your Inner Ape! Think you, your friends and family can handle 3 hours of tree top adventure? Are you wild enough to climb 30ft up a rope ladder, Tarzan Swing into a giant rope net then zip wire through trees, crawl through tunnels and tackle high wire rope bridges? If the answer’s yes, you’re ready to Go Ape. Restrictions apply, please check details before your visit.

OPEN

WWW. TEL

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- 21 Feb (closed Tues 16), weekends only from 27 Feb 21 Mar. Daily 26 Mar - 31 Oct (closed Tuesdays during Term Time). Weekends only throughout November. goape.co.uk 0845 643 9215

TRENTHAM

Stone Road | Trentham Stoke-on-Trent | ST4 8JG

WESTON PARK

Weston-under-Lizard | Nr Shifnal | Shropshire | TF11 8LE

An award winning 17th Century stately home, Weston Park was the family home of the Earls of Bradford for over 300 years. Set within 1,000 acres of magnificent gardens and grounds; there is an endless choice of attractions for everyone. Whether you are looking for a fun-packed day out or a leisurely visit around the house and gardens Weston offers something special that will appeal to the widest range of tastes and age groups. Children can run wild in the adventure playground, take a ride on the miniature railway, pick up great local produce in the farm shop, view the latest exhibition in the art gallery and explore the woodland walks, lakes and follies.

OPEN

WWW.

Stroll around award-winning gardens, discover fantastic plantings that present stunning, changing vistas throughout the seasons. Get back to nature in the woodlands, brave the barefoot walk, ramble, row, set sail on the catamaran or even steam along the lakeside aboard the miniature train.

'Hide and Speak' in the maze and let the children get active with adventure play.

Quench your thirst, satisfy your hunger and indulge in retail therapy amidst a charming timber lodge shopping village and hugely inspirational garden centre.

Get up close and personal with the monkeys at the Monkey Forest or take an exhilarating high wire adventure at Aerial Extreme, extend your stay at the Premier Inn. Take a breath of fresh air and enjoy a visit to the Trentham Estate.

WWW. TEL

trentham.co.uk 01782 646 646

Open

daily from Saturday 29th May to Sunday 5th September 2010 (Except 18th – 25th August. House closed on Saturdays). weston-park.com TEL 01952 852 100

AERIAL EXTREME

Trentham Estate | Stone Rd | Trentham | ST12 9HR

A unique, fun packed experience for anyone over 1.4m. Test your nerve on the world’s most awesome Adventure Ropes Course. From speedy zip wires, mid air platform jump, suspended gravity defying climbing walls and much more.

WWW.

aerialextreme.co.uk

TEL

08456 521 736

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Trentham Monket Forset

ENCOUNTER! Wonderful wildlife

TRENTHAM MONKEY FOREST

Stone Road | Trentham | Stoke-on-Trent | ST4 8AY

A unique experience for everyone, Monkey Forest is the only place in Britain where you can walk amongst 140 Barbary macaques roaming free in 60 acres of beautiful English forest. Walking in the park you are transported into a different world through close contact with the monkeys.

WWW. TEL

monkey-forest.com 01782 659 845

22 www.visitstafford.org

STAFFORDSHIRE WILDLIFE TRUST Wolseley Bridge Stafford | ST17 0WT

The Wildlife Trust’s award-winning Visitor Centre is set in 26 acres of lakes, park and woodland. Shop, café, all-ability trail, wildlife and sensory gardens; there’s so much to see and do! Admission is free.

OPEN

WWW. TEL

Mon-Fri

9am-5pm all year, except Christmas & New Year.

Sat, Sun and Bank Holidays 11am - 5pm. staffs-wildlife.org.uk 01889 880 100

Visitors Centre

AMERTON FARM & CRAFT CENTRE

ANIMAL ANIMAL ZONE

Stowe by Chartley | Stafford | ST18 0LA

We have a vast array of attractions to appeal to all the family.

We aim to provide a relaxed and pleasant environment so everyone can enjoy their visit. On site we have a Craft Centre, Garden Centre, Jewellery Shop, Bakery, Pottery, Glass Studio, British Wildlife Rescue Centre, Toy Shop, Farm Shop, Playbarn, Amerton Railway, Hot Air Balloon Flights, Bed & Breakfast, Celebration Cakes and Sweet Shop. Farm animals and horses can be found in the farmyard where children can feed them. The welcoming Tea Room is particularly impressive.

OPEN

WWW. TEL

9am

- 5pm every day of the year except Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day. General admission and car parking are FREE amertonfarm.co.uk EMAIL office@amertonfarm.co.uk 01889 270 294

RODBASTON VISITOR CENTRE ANIMAL ZONE Penkridge | Staffordshire | ST19 5PH

Take a walk around our Animal Zone, try and spot our skunk, chat to our parrots and see our collection of exotic fish. We have over 1000 animal species for you to see. There are ‘meet the keeper’ sessions which give you a chance to ask the staff about the animals and during our ‘animal encounters’ you can hold a rabbit or guinea pig and see snakes and lizards up close. Our tearoom sells snacks, sandwiches cakes etc. and our shop sells a variety of games, books, educational toys, pet products, gifts and local food.

OPEN

WWW. EMAIL TEL

Every

Weekend and during School Holidays, 10am - 5pm (4pm Winter) southstaffs.ac.uk/visitorcentre visitor.centre@southstaffs.ac.uk 01785 710 560

HOO FARM

Preston on the Weald Moors | Telford | Shropshire | TF6 6DJ

Hoo Farm is a family run Countryside Attraction nestling in 32 acres of woodland and paddocks in the heart of Shropshire. The farm is well over 100 years old and has been a dairy farm, tree nursery, and since 1991 an award winning Farm Attraction. Now the farm is home to owls, ostriches, emus, parrots, meerkats, wallabies, deer, llama, alpacas, ferrets, lizards and snakes. Go karts, pony rides and much much more including the Famous Sheep Steeplechase and the unique Galloping Goats.

OPEN WWW. TEL

Opening

times vary, please visit the website. hoofarm.com EMAIL info@hoofarm.com 01952 677 917

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RAF Museum Cosford

24 www.visitstafford.org

JOURNEY! Further afield

There is a lot to do and see within a 45-minute drive or less. Why not stay in Stafford, and visit the varied attractions in the Heart of England?

The Wedgwood Centre, home of Josiah Wedgwood, must rate highly on your list to visit. Other attractions within easy travelling distance include Whitwick Manor, Moseley Old Hall and Boscobel House, and for the more adventurous, the Staffordshire Moorlands Peak District has outdoor activities including climbing and cycling.

The Black Country Museum, Ironbridge, the RAF Museum at Cosford, and heritage railways at Churnet Valley and Foxfield unfold the history of Staffordshire and surrounding area. The cathedral city of Lichfield and nearby Tamworth with Staffordshire’s most complete castle are fascinating attractions for the visitor.

THE NATIONAL MEMORIAL ARBORETUM Croxall Rd | Alrewas | Staffs | DE13 7AR

The home of the new Armed Forces Memorial, with 150 acres of trees and memorials devoted to remembrance.

There is a Chapel, in which a short, poignant service called The Homage is held every day at 10.50am. The Visitor Centre includes the Arbor Café and Gift Shop. Guided tours by arrangement. Free entry, donations welcome.

OPEN

WWW. TEL

9am

- 5pm daily [dusk in winter] Closed Christmas Day. FREE entry, donations welcome thenma.org.uk 01283 792 333

RAF MUSEUM COSFORD Shifnal | Shropshire | TF11 8UP

The Royal Air Force Museum Cosford offers a fun, entertaining day out for all the family. With over 70 aircraft on display throughout the museum – which is also situated next to an active airfield and RAF base – the only attraction in the Midlands where you can get close to so many breathtaking aircraft for free. Take one giant leap in knowledge by visiting the National Cold War Exhibition and soar above the clouds in one of the simulator rides.

OPEN

WWW. EMAIL TEL

10am

– 6pm daily.

Closed 24 to 26 December, and 1, 10-14 January 2011 rafmuseum.org cosford@rafmuseum.org 01902 376 200

THRILL SEEKERS For sheer, wide-eyed excitement, nowhere comes close to Staffordshire. This is where you’ll find Alton Towers, Drayton Manor Family Theme Park, Tamworth SnowDome, and the subtropical aquapark – Waterworld, with rides, rapids and flumes. Enjoy all four of these great family attractions with a Thrill Hopper ticket.

WWW.

www.thrilhopper.com

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STAFFORD and STONE

FARMERS’ MARKETS

2nd Saturday every month, Stafford Market Square 1st Saturday every month, Stone Market Square Stafford Market, Earl Street, Stafford ST16 2DF 01785 245 935 email staffordmarket@btconnect.com

Regeneration | www.staffordbc.gov.uk

26 www.visitstafford.org

eight lane 25 metre swimming pool / teaching pool with state of the art moveable floor / main gym housing up to 100 pieces of equipment / easy line gym circuit multi-purpose fitness studio / squash courts / four-court sports hall / training suite body tonic beauty suite and massage / activo membership offering great value access to the centre’s facilities and activities - from £25 per month Lammascote Road, Stafford ST16 3TA Tel 01785 619 500 Email slc@staffordbc.gov.uk www.staffordbc.gov.uk/staffordleisurecentre

main gym housing up to 80 pieces of equipment / multi-purpose studio facility offering a range of fitness classes / three tarmac tennis courts - from £25 per month Stafford Road, Stone, ST15 8QW Tel 01785 619 600 Email westbridge@staffordbc.gov.uk www.staffordbc.gov.uk/westbridge

six lane 25 metre swimming pool / squash courts four-court sports hall / floodlit synthetic all-weather pitch four competition-sized tarmac tennis courts / infared sauna / education suite offering a range of sports’ training courses and seminars Oulton Road, Stone ST15 8DR Telephone 01785 815 715 Email alleynes@staffordbc.gov.uk www.staffordbc.gov.uk/alleynes

Leisure Services | www.staffordbc.gov.uk

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Staff rd

QUAINT STREETS | COBBLED LANES | FABULOUS SHOPPING AND MORE…

The historic County Town of Stafford has shops to suit all tastes, from major high street names to unique specialist stores, from designer boutiques to Victorian style gift shops.

Stafford offers a fabulous shopping experience. Browse through markets, designer shops and picturesque side streets full of character.

Find everything you need in the Guildhall Shopping Centre then just sit back, relax and sample the café culture.

Enjoy more of Stafford for less! www.stafford-towncentre.co.uk

Further Information For details about Stafford Town Centre Please contact: Lisa Clemson TEL 01785 619 470

Planning and Regeneration | www.staffordbc.gov.uk

28 www.visitstafford.org

Sandon

Hall

Weddings Conferences Events Staffordshire`s Premier Country House Venue Sandon Hall, Sandon, Stafford ST18 0BZ Telephone 01889 508 004 Email info@sandonhall.co.uk

Enjoy a relaxing day in…

Shop in the ‘piazza-style’ square adjacent to the Shire Hall Gallery and in the modern Guildhall Shopping Centre. Wander away from the main street and discover picturesque streets and lanes… break for lunch at one of the many restaurants, bars, cafés or coffee shops.

TOURIST INFORMATION CENTRE

Stafford Gatehouse Theatre, Eastgate St, Stafford, ST16 2LT tel: 01785 619 619 web: visitstafford.org email: tic@staffordbc.gov.uk

OPEN Mon to Fri 9.30am - 5pm, Sat 9am - 4pm Leisure Services | www.staffordbc.gov.uk

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ST RE ET

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Aviary

Railway RAILWAY Station STATION

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War Memorial Victoria Park

ST AT IO N

EA 19 ST GA 13

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War Memorial

H UT SO

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St Mary’s Garden of Remembrance

MARKET S

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Victoria Park Play Area

Y’S AR TM

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FRI AR S’ W ALK

Doxey Marshes Nature Reserve

Friary Retail Park

T

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30 www.visitstafford.org

N RD

Tesco

Parking Symbols

P Long Stay Car Park P Short Stay Car Park

Bus Stop Public Toilet

Shopmobility Taxi Rank

Railway Station

Tourist Information Centre

P Long & Short Stay Car Park P Saturday Short Stay Car Park P Lorry & Coach Park

Key Buildings 1 Ancient High House 2 Church Lane Evangelical Church

QU EEN SW AY

3 Cinema 4 Civic Centre 5 Collegiate Church of St Mary’s

Kingsmead Marsh Local Nature Reserve

6 County Buildings 7 Crown / County Court 8 County Records Office

P A518 To Hospital, University, and County Showground

NOR TH W A LL S

8

Entrance to Local Nature Reserve

P

LLS

CLARKE ST.

COPE ST.

H WA SOUT

11 Magistrates Court 12 Police Station

LAMMASCOTE RD

STREET

13 Registry Office

20

P

14 Shire Hall Gallery 15 Stafford Baptist Church 16 Stafford College

P

ASDA

17 Stafford Indoor Market 18 Stafford Prison

QUE ENS WAY

STGAT E

9 Guildhall Shopping Centre 10 Library

19 Stafford Gatehouse Theatre ow

er S

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20 Stafford Leisure Centre 21 St Chad’s Church 22 Trinity Church

Supermarkets TH

To A3 LIC 4, HF A5 IEL 13 DR D

EO VA L

Pedestrianised Area.

This map is based upon Ordnance Survey material with the permission of Ordnance Survey on behalf of the Controller of Her Majesty's Stationary Office © Crown Copyright.Unauthorised reproduction infaringes Crown Copyright and may lead to prosecution or civil proceedings. 100018205 [2010].

31

CALENDAR OF EVENTS 2010 All of the events were correct at the time of entry but may be subject to confirmation. Call Stafford Tourist Information Centre TEL 01785 619 619.

APRIL

MAY

2-5 Easter Egg Trail | Trentham Gardens 2-5 Easter Eggstravaganza Wolseley Centre 2,3,5 Bush Craft Activities 10,11 Trentham Gardens

3 Easter Eggcitement Ancient High House | Stafford

3 National Terrier Show Staffordshire County Showground

3 Eli the Bear Guildhall Shopping Centre

4 Easter Eggstravaganza | Stafford Castle 4-5 Plant Hunters Fair Dorothy Clive Gardens 4-5 Transport Festival | Weston Park 6-9 Step Back In Time | RAF Cosford 6 APR Exhibition: Stafford in the Reign 22 MAY of George V History Ancient High House | Stafford 9-11 Quilt Show | Trentham Gardens

10 Motown & Northern Soul St Dominic's Parish Social Centre | Stone 10-11 Antique Fair Staffordshire County Showground

11 Shropshire Modellers’ Show RAF Cosford 12-14 Step Back In Time | RAF Cosford

17 Stone Male Voice Choir Walton Community Centre | Stone

24 St George's Day Celebration Ancient High House | Stafford

24 Garden Tour | Trentham Gardens

25 St George's Day Celebration Stafford Castle 24-25 Classic Motorcycle Show Staffordshire County Showground

32 www.visitstafford.org

2 Bluebell Walk & Lunch | Weston Park

2 Gardening Day | Wolseley Centre 2-3 Bush Craft Activities | Trentham Gardens 6-9 National Dog Show Staffordshire County Showground

8 Motown & Northern Soul St Dominic's Parish Social Centre | Stone 15-16 Antique Fair Staffordshire County Showground

16 Wildlife and Country Craft Fair Stafford Castle

23 Plant Hunters Fair The National Memorial Arboretum Alrewas 25 MAY History Exhibition: Dunkirk 70 Years On 3 JUL The Ancient High House | Stafford

30 Fly Casting | Izaak Walton's Cottage Shallowford | Nr Stone 30-31 Bush Craft Activities | Trentham Gardens 31 MAY Spy Week 4 JUN RAF Cosford

JUNE

JULY

2-3 Staffordshire County Show Staffordshire County Showground

3 Dress Like the WAGS Event

Guildhall Shopping Centre 1-5 Stone Revellers’ Café Rene

by Richard Smith St Michael’s Hall | Stone

5 Food and Beer Festival Wolseley Centre 6-13 Stone Festival | Stone

12 Stone Carnival | Stone 12-13 Garden Festival | Trentham Gardens

13 Toy Fair Staffordshire County Showground

12 RAF Cosford Air Show | RAF Cosford 18-19 Stamp Fair Staffordshire County Showground 18-20 Bowman's Antique Fair Staffordshire County Showground

19 Garden Tour | Trentham Gardens 19-20 Model Air Show | Weston Park 19-20 Craft Fair | Dorothy Clive Gardens

20 Food Through the Ages | Stafford Castle

20 Fathers' Day Dining in Stables Weston Park 24 JUN Stafford Festival Shakespeare 10 JUL The Merry Wives of Windsor Stafford Castle

26 Armed Forces’ Day | RAF Cosford 26-27 West Midlands Festival of Wings, Wheels, Speed, Steam & Horsepower Shugborough

27 Fly Casting | Izaak Walton's Cottage Shallowford | Nr Stone 28 JUN Shakespeare on the Amphitheatre - 4 JUL Trentham Gardens

3 Stafford Festival Street Theatre Extravaganza Town Centre | Stafford

3 Stafford Festival Raw Talent Competition Market Square | Stafford

4 Stafford Festival Party in the Park Victoria Park | Stafford

4 National Service RAF Parade RAF Cosford

7 Evening Grand Prix Cycling Event Town Centre | Stafford

10 Stafford Festival - Mayor’s Festival Parade Town Centre | Stafford 10 JUL - History Exhibition: 30 OCT The Battle of Britain - Some of the 'Few' The Ancient High House | Stafford

11 Stafford Festival ‘Live @ the Castle’ Stafford Castle

11 Teddies Tea Party Izaak Walton’s Cottage Shallowford | Nr Stone 17-18 Large Model Aircraft Rally RAF Cosford

18 Pipe & Drums of the Black Watch Regiment Guildhall / Stafford Market Square

25 Fly Casting | Izaak Walton's Cottage Shallowford | Nr Stone 24-25 Glider Weekend | RAF Cosford

33

AUGUST

SEPTEMBER

1-31 August Activities | RAF Cosford

1 Vintage and Racing Cars Guildhall / Stafford Market Square

3 Evening Garden Tour Trentham Gardens

3 Play Day 2010 | Wolseley Centre

8 Classic Car Show | Stafford Castle 13-15 Bowman’s Giant Antique Fair Staffordshire County Showground

14 Motown & Northern Soul

St Dominic's Parish Social Centre | Stone

15 Family Sports Day Guildhall / Stafford Market Square

15 Toy Fair Staffordshire County Showground

13 Classic Car and Transport Show Shugborough 18-21 Open air theatre - "Little Shop of Horrors" Ingestre Stables | Nr Stafford 20-22 Triumph Sports Six Club International Weekend Staffordshire County Showground

20 Summer Picnic Movie Night Mamma Mia | Shugborough

21 Summer Picnic Movie Night Star Wars, A New Hope | Shugborough

21 Garden Tour | Trentham Gardens 21-22 V Festival | Weston Park 20-30 Plant Hunters Fair Dorothy Clive Gardens 23-27 Children's Fun Week Guildhall / Stafford Market Square

29 Fly Casting | Izaak Walton's Cottage Shallowford | Nr Stone 29 AUG Scope Festival - 4 SEP Staffordshire County Showground

34 www.visitstafford.org

6 Abbot’s Bromley Horn Dance 8-11 Stone Revellers’ Happy Campers

by Richard James

St Michael’s Hall | Stone

11 Tudor Costume and Military Dress The Ancient High House | Stafford

11 Motown & Northern Soul St Dominic's Parish Social Centre | Stone 11-12 Country Show | Shugborough 11-12 Garden Festival | Trentham Gardens 11-12 Battle of Britain Weekend | RAF Cosford

12 A Norman Adventure | Stafford Castle

18 Staffordshire History Fair: Staffordshire in the 17th Century The Ancient High House | Stafford 18-19 Antique Fair Staffordshire County Showground 18-19 Midland Game and Country Fair Weston Park

25 A Stitch in Time The Ancient High House | Stafford

OCTOBER

DECEMBER

1-3 Stone Food and Drink Festival | Stone

3 Little Hearts Fun Run | Shugborough

9 Motown & Northern Soul St Dominic's Parish Social Centre | Stone

13 Garden Tour | Trentham

16 Tomb Raider The Ancient High House | Stafford 25-29 Hallowe'en Hands on Horror Stafford Castle

28 Ghoulish Ghost Tours The Ancient High House | Stafford

29 Hallowe’en Spooktacular | Shugborough 29-31 Gifts for Christmas and Live Crafts Fair Shugborough 29-31 Hallowe’en | Trentham Gardens

1-4 Christmas Candlelit Evenings Shugborough

3 Garden Tour | Trentham Gardens

5 A Christmas Story The Ancient High House | Stafford

11 Bjorn the Polar Bear Guildhall Shopping Centre 11-12 Wartime Christmas | RAF Cosford 11-12 Santa at the Farm | Shugborough 18-19 Santa at the Farm | Shugborough 31 DEC Antique Fair 1,2 JAN Staffordshire County Showground

NOVEMBER

6 Bonfire Night | Shugborough

7 Bonfire and Firework Extravaganza Weston Park 9-20 History Exhibition: Stafford Reminiscences The Ancient High House | Stafford 9 NOV - History Exhibition: 11 JAN Stafford Through the Ages The Ancient High House | Stafford 13-14 Antique Fair Staffordshire County Showground

14 Remembrance Day Service RAF Cosford 15-20 Conservation Centre Open Week RAF Cosford 16 NOV History Exhibition: - 24 DEC Christmas Presents Past The Ancient High House | Stafford

20 Christmas Parade and Lights Switch-On Market Square | Stafford 20-21 Wolseley Christmas Fayre | Wolseley

27 Christmas Victorian Market Market Square | Stafford 30 NOV Stone Revellers’ Pantomime - 4 DEC St Michael’s Hall | Stone

35

Get more out of your visit to Staffordshire for less Because there’s so much to see and do in Staffordshire, there’s more to save on with a FREE enjoy Staffordshire card. You’ll get fantastic discounts, offers and promotions at: Theme parks Museums Pubs and restaurants Stately homes Accommodation And so much more.

FREE TICKETS KIDS GO FREE BIG DISCOUNTS 2 FOR 1 OFFERS For your FREE enjoy card and FREE copy of enjoy Staffordshire 2010 brochure, phone 0844 888 1747 or go to www.enjoystaffordshire.com

Book-a-Bed-Ahead At Stafford's Tourist Information Centre (TIC) you can book accommodation anywhere in the UK. The TIC can make advance bookings for Visa, MasterCard and Switch cardholders.

When booking, a non-returnable booking fee of £2.95 - as well as 10% of the first night's stay - is charged by the TIC. This 10% is then deducted from your final bill by the accommodation provider.

TOURIST INFORMATION CENTRE

Stafford Gatehouse Theatre, Eastgate St, Stafford, ST16 2LT tel: 01785 619 619 web: visitstafford.org email: tic@staffordbc.gov.uk

OPEN Mon to Fri 9.30am - 5pm, Sat 9am - 4pm

Leisure Services | www.staffordbc.gov.uk

36 www.visitstafford.org

WIN

WIN a weekend break for two in one of our major hotels. Fill in our questionnaire and post it to us by 1st December 2010 for free entry into our prize draw.

a weekend break for two!

SECTION A

Have you visited Stafford before?

How did you obtain this brochure?

Direct mail A Tourist Information Centre Advert in magazine / newspaper [please specify name below]

Yes

No

Are you planning to visit Stafford during 2010/2011?

Yes

No

To which age group do you belong?

Under 21 50-54 Website

Other [please specify below]

Please rate this Visitor Guide for its...

Information Excellent Poor

Good Very Poor

Average

Good Very Poor

Average

Appearance Excellent Poor

If you visited www.visitstafford.org did you think it was: Excellent Poor

Good Very Poor

Average

21 - 34 55+

35 - 49

SECTION B For how long did you visit?

Daytrip 1 - 3 nights 1 week 2 weeks Longer At what time of year did you visit?

SPRING - February - May SUMMER - June - September WINTER - October - January What was the main reason for your visit?

Business Pleasure Visit friends or family Floral displays Attend an event [please specify below]

Has this Guide inuenced you to visit Stafford?

Yes

No 37

SECTION C

SECTION B continued Which attractions did you visit?

Ancient High House Amerton Farm Izaak Walton’s Cottage Sandon Hall Shire Hall Gallery Shugborough Stafford Castle Trentham Wedgwood Others [please specify below]

Would you like to receive a copy of the 2011 Visitor Guide?

Yes

No

Please use this space to tell us your comments and any suggestions you may have for improvement:

Please rate your accommodation Excellent Poor

Good Very Poor

Average

How did you travel to Stafford?

Car Bus Train Coach As part of organised tour Other [please specify below]

Did you visit…?

On your own With friends or family As part of an organised group How many people were in your party?

Please send your completed form to Stafford Visitor Guide 2010 Stafford Best Value, FREEPOST, Stafford ST16 3AQ Entries must be received by 1st December 2010 Name Address

Adults [18+] Children [up to 17] Overall, was your visit…?

Relaxing Welcoming

Postcode

Thank you for taking the time to fill in this questionnaire. The information will be used to ensure that high standards are encouraged and maintained in our accommodations and attractions. Would you like us to keep your details on our Leisure Services mailing list to receive details of future events and activities? YES NO

38 www.visitstafford.org

✁

Interesting Pleasant

Stafford Market, Earl Street, Stafford ST16 2DF 01785 245 935 email staffordmarket@btconnect.com

TUE & THU 9am - 4.30pm, FRI & SAT 9am - 5pm

Stafford's indoor market has an unbeatable combination of choice, quality and value! With everything from hardware to fresh food, clothing and footwear to toys and cards, there’s something for the whole family. Enjoy shopping in the warm, friendly atmosphere then relax with a cup of coffee and a bite to eat in the market cafÊ.

Regeneration | www.staffordbc.gov.uk

39

Stafford Tourism Bureau

First set up in 1986 the Tourism Bureau is a private / public sector membership organisation.

Members include tourist attractions, accommodation providers, shops, restaurants and pubs all contributing towards boosting the local economy and creating an interesting and exciting destination.

For more information on the Tourism Bureau or membership rates and application form, please call Lisa Heaton on: 01785 619 000 or email lheaton@staffordbc.gov.uk

40 www.visitstafford.org

Stafford Bingley Hall

QUALITY 3 DAY ANTIQUES FAIRS 2010 Stafford Showground 12, 13, 14 March 18, 19, 20 June 13, 14, 15 August 1, 2, 3 October 10, 11, 12 December

Bowman Antiques Fairs Tel 01274 588 505 www.antiquesfairs.com

41

Accommodation in & around Stafford Newcastle-under-Lyme

A52

A53

A5001

A525

A521

B5032

Cheadle

A520

B5032

J15

Trentham

A5182

2

A53

B5030

Barlaston

A51

Swynnerton M6

B5026

A50

Burston Sandon

A34

Woodseaves

A518

Beaconside

Stafford

4

A519

Ingestre

Haughton

Milford

A518

A518

J13

Bradley

Church Eaton

Little Onn

A449

B5066

Amerton Weston

A513

J14

Ranton

B5405

Salt

Marston

A51

Abbots Bromley

Admaston Great Haywood B5013

B5234

Little Haywood Shugborough Wolseley Bridge Brocton A513 Colton

Acton Trussell

Yoxall Armitage Kings Bromley

Penkridge Pottal Pool

6

B5314

A41

Tea/coffee En-suite Hot/cold water TV Central heating Telephone Licensed Restaurant Evening meals P Parking/garage

A51

A515

A460

Wheaton Aston Stretton A5

B5014

Rugeley

A34

M6

B5017

A518

Chebsey A5013

5

Loxley B5066

Eccleshall

Gnosall

B5027

A51

Pershall

Newport

Uttoxeter

Milwich

Slindon

Norbury

B5030

Stone

A519

Adbaston

A522

A50

Moddershall

Oulton

Fairoak

3

Fulford

A520

Tittensor

Croxton

F

E

Leek

Stoke-on-Trent

Brewood

Lichfield A5

J12

Lounge Children welcome Dogs by arrangement Disabled Conference facilities Foreign language spoken Credit cards Special rates Linen Indoor pool

42 www.visitstafford.org

Cannock

A5190

Caravan hire Caravan pitches Walkers welcome No smoking Smoking Area Wi-Fi

Internet Access Stafford Tourism Bureau

AA Visit Britain

A5192

In Town Out of Town Self Catering

Quality at Heart

Servicemark Gold Award Quality at Heart Servicemark Silver Award

The grades awarded to accommodation providers featured in this guide have all been checked for authenticity with the relevant organisations. And, although our policy is not to recommend, this is the only accommodation recognised by Stafford Borough Council.

This map is based upon Ordnance Survey material with the permission of Ordnance Survey on behalf of the Controller of Her Majesty's Stationary Office Š Crown Copyright. Unauthorised reproduction infringes Crown Copyright and may lead to prosecution or civil proceedings. 100018205 [2009].

1

D

C

A

B

Each accommodation provider has a map grid reference preceded by MR.

THE ABBEY HOTEL

MR C4

65 - 69 LICHFIELD ROAD, STAFFORD ST17 4LW TEL 01785 258 531 FAX 01785 246 875 WWW. abbeyhotelstafford.co.uk

“ Our desire is that every guest should receive entire satisfaction during their stay at the Abbey.”

The Abbey is a family run hotel offering a warm, friendly atmosphere.

Originally private residences built in the late 1880s, which have been tastefully and comprehensively converted into high standard accommodation.

Our ongoing refurbishment programme is sympathetic to the building’s character. Single, double, twin and family rooms, all en suite. Children very welcome. All rooms with flat screen digital TV (free view), telephone, tea and coffee, and WiFi. Elegant restaurant offering a varied range of meals. Comfortable lounge bar also serving bar meals.

Cold buffets to à la Carte for any small function or gathering.

Large private car park. Within walking distance from Town Centre. Easy access to M6, County Showground, Shugborough and Cannock Chase.

P HH

43

THE BAILEY HOTEL

MR C4

SPITTAL BROOK

MR C4

LICHFIELD ROAD, STAFFORD ST17 4LL TEL 01785 214 133

106 LICHFIELD ROAD, STAFFORD ST17 4LP Mr Turner TEL 01785 245 268

Prices from £18 pppn single, with double and large family rooms also available, with full English breakfast. Tea and coffee making facilities.

Rooms from £38pppn. Fully refurbished and comfortable rooms, with tea and coffee making facilities, all en-suite.

Originally a farmhouse, the Spittal Brook began trade in 1834. Now one of Stafford’s finest award winning ale houses. Great selection of real ales and cider always available. Reasonably priced traditional pub grub, freshly cooked to order. Close to Stafford Town Centre. Private parking.

Heated smoking shelter in the beer garden and welcoming coal fires in the lounge and bar.

Within walking distance of the town centre and on a main bus route to and from the train station. Car parking.

P

AWARD PENDING

CEDARWOOD

MR C4

46 WEEPING CROSS, STAFFORD ST17 0DS Mrs Fern Welsby TEL 01785 662 981 Prices from £25 pppn. 3 rooms - single, twin and double, all with private facilities. Excellent accommodation with disabled access and two bedrooms on the ground floor. Guests lounge. Parking in own grounds.

Situated approx. 2 miles from Stafford town centre on the main bus route to the station. Within easy reach of Shugborough, Staffordshire University, Alton Towers, County Showground, Wedgwood and M6 Junction 13.

P

44 www.visitstafford.org

HHHH SILVER AWARD

FAIRFIELD GUEST HOUSE

MR C4

70 LICHFIELD ROAD, STAFFORD ST17 4LP TEL 01785 252 854 EMAIL fairfieldguesthouse@hotmail.co.uk Prices from £16 pppn 10 rooms. Single, double and large family rooms available with full English breakfast.

Tea and coffee making facilities in every room. Within walking distance of town centre and on the main bus route to and from the train station. Car park at the rear.

Satellite TV.

P

45

LEONARDS CROFT

MR C4

WYNDALE GUESTHOUSE

MR C4

80 LICHFIELD ROAD, STAFFORD ST17 4LP TEL 01785 223 676 WWW. leonardscroft.co.uk EMAIL leonardscroft@hotmail.com

199 CORPORATION ST, STAFFORD ST16 3LQ TEL 01785 223 069 EMAIL wyndale@aol.com WWW. wyndaleguesthouse.co.uk

Prices from £28 pppn. 9 rooms - single, twin, double and family, all en-suite. Large Victorian house offering first class accommodation and breakfast; a few minutes walk from Stafford Town centre. Easy access to M6 and close to the County Showground, Shugborough and attractions of the potteries area. All rooms with digital T.V., WiFi, tea, coffee etc. Drinks and evening meals available on request.

Prices from £33 pppn 8. rooms - single, twin, double and family. 5 rooms en-suite. The warm welcome from the family owned Wyndale Guesthouse will make you feel comfortable and at home. Easy walking distance from Stafford Town Centre and the Railway Station. En route to County Showground, Hospital, University and most major Industrial Estates. Evening meals available on request.

P HHH

HHH

COLTON HOUSE

MR E5

COLTON, RUGELEY, STAFFORDSHIRE WS15 3LL Mr and Mrs Lawrence TEL 01889 578 580 EMAIL mail@coltonhouse.com

WWW.

coltonhouse.com

Prices from £33 pppn. Twin / double en-suite. With awards for their breakfasts, service to customers, winner of the Best B&B for the region in 2009, and classed as a National Treasure by The Independent, Colton House is ‘the’ place to stay. Sited in a pretty village on the Staffordshire Way, with two pubs within walking distance this AA Premier Selected, Visit Britain 5 star gold rated restored Georgian home has all the facilities of a boutique country house hotel. Rooms are individually designed with your comfort in mind, you can choose from a four poster, rooms with beamed ceilings or with views over the 1.5 acre garden to Cannock Chase. You can sit on the south facing patio with a drink from the licensed bar before dinner which is generally made with freshly prepared organically grown vegetables from the garden. Enjoy the Egyptian fluffy towels, power showers and Ron and Gay’s dedication to ensuring that you have an enjoyable stay.

P GOLD AWARD

HHHHH BREAKFAST AWARD

46 www.visitstafford.org

HHHHH WINNER BEST B&B IN THE HEART OF ENGLAND REGION 2008

DAIRY COTTAGE

MR D4

FIELD HOUSE

MR C3

WESTON ROAD, STAFFORD ST18 0BD TEL 01785 240 257 EMAIL parkfarm12@hotmail.com WWW. parkfarmstafford.com

STAFFORD ROAD, STONE ST15 0HE Cindy Busfield TEL FAX 01785 605 712 EMAIL fieldhouse@ntlworld.com WWW. http://homepage.ntlworld.com/fieldhouse

2 bedroom barn, sleeps 4. Prices from £180 per week.

Comfortable converted barn with 2 double en-suite bedrooms. Set in peaceful countryside. Ideally situated for Staffordshire Technology Park, University or Stafford Town Centre. Short or long term lets available.

Prices from £50 per room. 3 rooms single, double, double en-suite and family. Listed Georgian house offers style and comfort. Situated within easy walking distance of canal and town centre where you will find a variety of restaurants and wine bars to tempt your palate. Easy access to the M6 and Staffordshire tourist attractions.

P

P HHH

HAYWOOD PARK FARM

MR D5

THE LEYS HOUSE

MR B5

SHUGBOROUGH, STAFFORD ST17 0XA TEL 01889 882 736 EMAIL haywood.parkfarm@btopenworld.com WWW. haywoodparkfarm.co.uk

QUARRY LANE, GNOSALL, ST20 0BZ TEL 01785 822 532 / 07971 800 230 EMAIL theleyshouse@hotmail.co.uk WWW. theleyshouse.co.uk

Prices from £37.50 pppn. 1 en-suite with king size bed and 1 twin room both with private bathrooms. Guest sitting room. Something special! Stunning manor house, part of the Shugborough Estate, right on Cannock Chase. Beautiful, comfortable bedrooms, opulent bathrooms, farmhouse breakfasts. TV/video, teatrays, fresh flowers, shortbread, warm welcome. Private and tranquil. 10 mins to Stafford.

Prices from £30 pppn. 1 twin en-suite and 2 doubles, 1 ensuite, 1 with private bathroom. A warm welcome awaits you at this lovely Victorian smallholding, beautifully furnished with log fires. Local and homemade produce for breakfast. Shropshire Union canal 50 yds and within walking distance of the 4 village pubs. Ideal for Potteries, Peak District and Ironbridge.

P HHHH HIGHLY COMMENDED

P HHHH

47

MAYFIELD HOUSE

MR C3

OFFLEY GROVE FARM

MR A4

ADBASTON, NR ECCLESHALL, STAFFS ST20 0QB TEL 01785 280 205 EMAIL enquiries@offleygrovefarm.co.uk WWW. offleygrovefarm.co.uk

112 NEWCASTLE ROAD, STONE, STAFFS ST15 8LG Mrs K Green TEL 01785 811 446 Prices from £22.50. 3 bedrooms, 2 are en-suite. An Edwardian house that backs on to the Trent and Mersey Canal. Situated on Newcastle Road within walking distance of Stone town centre with pubs and restaurants. Within easy reach of M6 J14 and J15, Stafford, Shugborough, the Potteries, Wedgwood, Gladstone Museum, Cannock Chase and Alton Towers.

Prices from £28. 2 rooms, double and twin/family, both en-suite. Reductions for children. Traditional farmhouse and buildings surrounded by beautiful tranquil countryside. Tastefully furnished, spacious accommodation with a homely atmosphere. Excellent breakfasts. Self catering cottages are available. Brochure on request. Now licensed for Civil Ceremonies.

P P

HHH

THE OLD SCHOOL

MR B5

ROOKS NEST FARM

HHH

MR D4

NEWPORT RD, HAUGHTON, STAFFORD ST18 9JH Mrs J Jenks TEL FAX 01785 780 358 EMAIL info@theoldsc.co.uk WWW. theoldsc.co.uk

WESTON BANK, WESTON, STAFFORD ST18 0BA Mrs Jackie Williams TEL 01889 270 624 EMAIL info@rooksnest.co.uk WWW. rooksnest.co.uk

Prices from £25 pppn Single, double and twin. Grade ll listed building, built 1841, tastefully converted. Situated in the centre of a quiet pretty village 3 miles west of Stafford on the A518. Within easy reach of J13/14 (M6). Attractive well-maintained rooms. Parking available. Two pubs in walking distance serving excellent evening meals.

Bed and Breakfast from £27.50 pppn sharing. 2 rooms double / twin en-suite. A modern farmhouse with comfortable accommodation and far reaching views over the Trent Valley. Close to Weston Hall and County Showground. Easy access to all Staffordshire attractions.

P HHH

48 www.visitstafford.org

P HHH

PARK FARM

MR D4

PARK FARM

MR E5

ARMITAGE LANE, ARMITAGE, RUGELEY STAFFS WS15 1PS Mrs Lewis TEL 01889 583 477 Prices from £25 - £28 pppn. B&B. 2 family rooms both en-suite. Old house with oak beams and inglenook fireplace on 100 acre stock farm. Close to Trent and Mersey Canal and River Trent, large garden overlooking Cannock Chase.

Full English breakfast included. Stafford 10 miles, Lichfield 6 miles, Rugeley 2 miles.

P

WESTON ROAD, STAFFORD ST18 0BD Mrs Julie Williams TEL 01785 240 257 EMAIL parkfarm12@hotmail.com WWW. parkfarmstafford.com Bed and breakfast from £25 - £35 pppn. Family, double and twin rooms all en-suite. Our traditional farmhouse is set in 100 acres of farmland by the County Showground. Rooms have TVs and teatrays with lovely views over surrounding countryside. Ideally placed for Staffordshire University, Technology Park and Shugborough.

ADVERTISE HERE in the 2011 Visitor Guide…

Please call, Lisa Heaton on: 01785 619 000 or email lheaton@staffordbc.gov.uk

P HHH

BLITHFIELD LAKESIDE BARNS

MR E4

ST STEPHENS HILL FARM, ADMASTON NR RUGELEY WS15 3NQ Mrs M Brown TEL 01889 500 234 EMAIL blithfield.barns@hotmail.co.uk WEB blithfieldlakesidebarns.co.uk 6 luxury en-suite cottages, sleeping from 2-10 people.

Weeks from £195 - £990. Short breaks from £140 - £570.

Superb lakeside barn conversions in a peaceful location on our organic dairy farm overlooking Blithfield Reservoir.

Abbots Bromley 2 miles. Breathtaking views of the water, lakeside patios and oak beams. Trout and carp fishing and walking on site, cycling and riding nearby.

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DALRADDY COTTAGE

MR C6

POTTAL POOL, TEDDESLEY HAY ST19 5RR TEL 07949 721 677 WWW. dalraddycottage.com EMAIL mailto:sonia@dalraddycottage.co.uk Short breaks from £100. Weekly holidays from £150.

Inclusive of linen/towels and fuel. Open all year. Short and long lets available. Luxurious detached 2 bedroom cottage sleeping 4, set within the grounds of Pottal Pool House on Cannock Chase Country Park, an area of outstanding natural beauty. Light oak floors, quality furniture, fresh flowers and welcome pack. Sunny patio. Friendly goats. Golf and riding nearby.

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FAIROAK GRANGE BARNS

MR A3

FAIROAK, NR ECCLESHALL, STAFFORD ST21 6NT TEL 07969 350 083 EMAIL fairoakbarns@yahoo.co.uk WWW. fairoakbarns.co.uk 4 cottages sleeping 2 - 4/5 people. Extra annexe bedrooms available on request. Self-catering - inclusive of linen/ towels. Welcome pack available. Short breaks from £100.

Weeks from £130 - £550. Stone built barn conversion in a tranquil area, ideal for calm and relaxing holidays.

Luxurious fittings throughout, separate games/conference room available, cycle lock-up, easy or adventurous walks with outstanding views, private fishing on request, wide selection of local restaurants. Flexible arrival dates.

LITTYWOOD MANOR

MR B5

Bradley, Stafford ST18 9DW TEL 01785 780 234 EMAIL a.bradshaw3@btinternet.com WWW. littywoodmanor.co.uk Prices from £40pppn including breakfast. 2 double rooms, one en-suite, one with private bathroom. Also a great venue for weddings and conferences. Littywood is a beautiful 14th Century double moated manor, set in its own grounds, secluded yet easy access to the M6 motorway. Both rooms have antique furniture and tapestries. There is also a licensed bar and lounge, and ample parking outside the house.

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SILVER TREES HOLIDAY PARK

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MR D6

SUMMERHILL FARM APARTMENTS MR D3

2009

STAFFORD BROOK RD, PENKRIDGE BANK RUGELEY WS15 2TX TEL 01889 582 185 EMAIL info@silvertreesholidaypark.co.uk WWW. silvertreesholidaypark.co.uk

MILWICH, STAFFORD ST18 0EL Mrs Milward TEL 01889 505 546 EMAIL p.milward@btinternet.com WWW. summerhillfarmapartments.co.uk

Short breaks from £119. Weeks from £249. Selection of holiday homes available for sale. No all male/female groups.

Aimed at those seeking quiet relaxation, deer roam freely through the park during your stay in our modern hire fleet of caravans. Indoor swimming pool. Part of Cannock Chase Country Park with 3500 acres, within minutes of the M6.

Prices from £165 - £465 per week. 2 and 3 bedroom self catering apartments sleeping 4 - 5 persons. Large extremely comfortable barn conversion set in quiet countryside. Close to Alton Towers, Shugborough, Wedgwood, County Showground, Peak District and Trentham. Short and longer lets.

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Their names will live for evermore...

• Site of the Armed Forces Memorial – the nation’s memorial to those lost in conflict since the end of WWII. • More than 150 major memorials, together with over 50,000 trees, many individually dedicated.

• Far East Prisoner of War (FEPOW) Memorial Building.

• Events programme.

• The inspirational Millennium Chapel of Peace and Forgiveness where the silence is observed daily at 11.00 a.m.

• Group visits and coaches welcome, advance booking essential.

• Talks to local groups can be organised.

• Large Pay & Display car park.

• Visitor Centre with café, gift shop, toilets.

• Facilities for visitors with disabilities.

• Function room available for conferences, events and private parties.

• Education programme for school visits linked to the National Curriculum with focus on remembrance, conflict, Britishness and the environment.

• Venue for wedding receptions and civil ceremonies.

• Site of varied wildlife and habitat interest.

The National Memorial Arboretum is supported by

Croxall Road, Alrewas, Staffordshire DE13 7AR National Arboretum Tel: 01283 792333 Fax: Memorial 01283 792034 Croxall Road, Alrewas www.nationalmemorialarboretum.co.uk Staffordshire. DE13 7AR Charity No. 1043992

Phone: 01283 792333 Fax: 01283 792034 Email: info@thenma.org.uk Web: www.thenma.org.uk Charity No. 1043992 The National Memorial Arboretum Company Limited is part of the Royal British Legion Group

self catering < 51

52 www.visitstafford.org