How Far Is Cannock Chase from Stafford?

Cannock Chase Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty sits directly south-east of Stafford, with its northern boundary located just 4 to 5 miles from the town centre and its main visitor hubs roughly 8 to 10 miles away. Depending on your exact destination within the protected landscape, the journey takes between 10 and 25 minutes by car. This guide breaks down the distances, key access points, driving routes, public transport links, and cycling options between Stafford and Cannock Chase.

Distance to Key Entry Points

Because Cannock Chase covers over 26 square miles, the exact distance depends on the area you plan to visit:

  • Milford Common (Northern Gateway): Approximately 4 miles (6.5 km) from Stafford centre. Driving time is roughly 10 minutes.
  • Brocton Coppice: Approximately 5.5 miles (8.8 km) from Stafford. Driving time is roughly 12 to 15 minutes.
  • Marquis Drive Visitor Centre: Approximately 8.5 miles (13.7 km) from Stafford. Driving time is roughly 18 to 20 minutes.
  • Birches Valley Forest Centre: Approximately 9 miles (14.5 km) from Stafford. Driving time is roughly 20 to 25 minutes.

Travelling by Car

Driving is the quickest way to reach Cannock Chase from Stafford:

  • To the North/West Chase (Milford, Brocton): Take the A34 south out of Stafford towards Weeping Cross, then join the A513 (Milford Road) directly to Milford Common.
  • To the Central Chase and Birches Valley: Follow the A34 south, turn onto the A513, and continue toward Rugeley before branching onto Penkridge Bank Road or Birches Valley Road.

Ample pay-and-display parking is available at major points such as Birches Valley and Marquis Drive, while smaller trailheads provide free or limited parking.

Public Transport Options

  • Bus: Local bus services connect Stafford to villages bordering the Chase, such as Milford and Brocton, taking around 15 minutes. Services travelling toward Rugeley or Cannock provide drop-offs along the outer edges of the area.
  • Train: There is no direct train station inside the central Chase. However, trains run from Stafford to Rugeley Trent Valley or Hednesford (via direct lines or single connections), from which you can walk, cycle, or take a short taxi ride into the landscape.

Cycling and Walking

For cyclists, Cannock Chase is highly accessible from Stafford. Leaving the town via the Baswich and Milford areas leads directly to bridleways and quiet lanes entering the northern side of the Chase. A bicycle ride from Stafford town centre to Milford Common takes approximately 20 to 25 minutes, with well-marked trails extending into the deeper woodland and mountain biking areas.