Walking has grown massively in popularity over the last couple of years, and people have sought out short breaks where they can indulge in this healthy pastime. Don their walking boots, stride off into the unknown, immerse themselves in nature, whatever the weather and take in stunning views. It’s uplifting and it’s a great appetite builder!
Hotels, inns, and pubs with rooms in popular walking locations such as the Lake District, Yorkshire and Snowdonia are in great demand. So, we suggest you get off the beaten track and discover the delights and diversity of the Staffordshire countryside. Here at the Dog and Doublet Country Inn, we are surrounded by great walks, from straight out of our door to those just a stone’s throw away, to the National Parks and Areas of Outstanding Beauty to the north and south of us. Walk this way to discover steppingstones, winking rocky outcrops, vast forests, canals, woodland and parkland at the heart of the country.
On the doorstep
This 6 mile / 9.7km walk starts and ends right here at the Dog and Doublet with our famous hospitality. Take in the expansive views across Sandon Park, navigate your way through Sandon churchyard, past the top of Trentham Tower, (which was randomly relocated here from Trentham Hall), through the estate’s parkland, woodland, farmland and back via the Trent and Mersey canal towpath, under arched canal bridges to Sandon lock. Look out for farm animals, listen out for birdsong and dine out with us at the end of your walk!
Chase away the blues
Under 8 miles away is Seven Springs car park, the gateway to various walks that explore the northern part of Cannock Chase, a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Choose from forest walks, meander through the National Trust’s Shugborough Estate, walk riverside, traverse a towpath and stride out across the steppingstones. The Chase is vast and Forestry England’s visitor centre, Gruffalo trail and Go Ape high ropes courses can all be found slightly further south.
Babbling streams and doggie dreams
Another National Trust gem is just a stone’s throw away, on the other side of the nearby market town of Stone. A popular spot for dog walkers, there are wagging tails all-round the edge of The Downs on a 2.5mile / 4km walk, which takes you uphill and down dale and an easier 2 mile 3.2km walk, aside the babbling stream that runs through its centre.
Stride out to the Peaks
It’s an iconic photograph, the “Winking Man” in the Staffordshire Peak District is part of The Roaches a rock that is so friendly, it winks as you drive past it. This is the Staffordshire Moorlands, popular with climbers and hikers, enticed by Thors Cave, tales of escaped Wallabies and enchanting Mermaids. All within striking distance, 22 miles to the north of the Dog and Doublet.
The Dog and Doublet Country Inn is a cosy, centrally located walking base, renowned for great food and service. It’s where you can kick off those walking boots, take on some liquid refreshment in our well-stocked bar, sit alfresco or fireside and enjoy a quality bistro style meal together. Your dog is very welcome to join you on these walks and stay overnight with us, in our comfortable, well-appointed, dog-friendly rooms.
Arise, take in a hearty breakfast and prepare to go again as we lead the way to yet more walks in the Staffordshire countryside.