Holiday rentals in Staffordshire

Nestled in the heart of the Midlands, the county of Staffordshire is sandwiched between two Areas of Outstanding National Beauty. And in between these beauties, you’ll discover bustling industrial centres, gothic masterpieces, and, arguably, the nation’s epicentre for fun. The county’s two main cities couldn’t be more different, with Stoke-on-Trent synonymous with pottery and a favoured destination for lovers of fine porcelain, while Lichfield is bursting with history and boasts one of the finest cathedrals on the planet. Hike, cycle, climb, or just amble through the forests of Cannock Chase (the southern AONB) or take a leisurely canal cruise along the waterways of the Peak District (the northern one, which straddles several counties). If all this travel has given you a thirst, then there are two brewing centres of excellence in the towns of Stoke and Burton upon Trent, where you’ll find the National Brewery Centre. And, of course, there is always Alton Towers, the UK’s biggest theme park, located 24 kilometres from Stoke.

As a county of contrasts, with vistas of bucolic countryside and theme park distractions, there is something to suit visitors to Staffordshire any time of year. But the autumn months are a particularly wondrous time to visit the glorious Peak District — swinging by the dramatic granite outcrops known as the Roaches is a must — or gleefully kicking up the leaves in Cannock Chase Forest.

Alton Towers

There are all the usual thrill rides and roller coasters at Alton Towers, the country’s largest theme park, including one particular ride that claims to have invented its own language. Plus there’s an entire section of the park designated for little ones, and a spa and golf course for those who wish to experience life at a slightly less extreme pace.

World of Wedgwood

Wedgwood is a name synonymous with fine porcelain, and this museum and interactive centre allows visitors to not only discover the history of the company but also to get their hands dirty and have a go on the potter’s wheel themselves. Looking to further pump up your pottery experiences? Visit the Gladstone Pottery Museum in Longton and the Potteries Museum & Art Gallery in Hanley.

Lichfield Cathedral

One of the country’s oldest places of worship, Lichfield Cathedral is the only medieval three-spired cathedral in the United Kingdom, and an absolute must-see. There has been a religious building on the site since at least 700 AD, with work on the current structure starting in 1085. That’s nearly a millennium of history packed into this breathtaking building that oozes tranquility and transcendence. Try to time your visit with a Choral Evensong service, which occurs every day except Saturday.