Parks, Peace & Picnics: Green Escapes in East Staffordshire
East Staffordshire is blessed with a network of parks and open spaces that offer residents and visitors a rich variety of landscapes—ranging from riverside meadows and ancient woodland to formal gardens and wildlife‑rich wetlands. At the heart of Burton upon Trent lies Stapenhill Hollows, an urban green space that proves you don’t have to travel far from the town centre to enjoy nature. Managed as a wildlife corridor along the River Trent, the Hollows is known for its mature willows, swathes of wildflowers and a resident population of mute swans. The riverside footpath links seamlessly with Stapenhill Gardens—famous for its floral beds and giant swan sculpture—making it easy to combine a family picnic with a gentle stroll beside the water.
Stapenhill Hollows, Burton upon Trent
Staphenhill Gardens, Burton upon Trent
History
Whether you are seeking a peaceful riverside amble, an action‑packed afternoon with the children or simply a place to appreciate wildlife, East Staffordshire’s parks cater for every mood. From the urban tranquillity of Stapenhill Hollows to the far‑reaching views across the Washlands and the family‑friendly attractions of Bramshall Road Park and Outwoods, the borough’s green spaces invite exploration in every season—offering a reminder that nature and relaxation are never far away.
In 1933 Henry Goodger gave the land adjoining the former Stapenhill House and part of its garden as a pleasure ground in memory of his mother. The central portion of the ground was lost when the access road for St Peter’s bridge was laid out in 1985.
Facilities
Stapenhill Gardens consists of formal gardens, open grassland and woodland, plus a popular play area.
Access for All
Stapenhill Gardens has tarmac paths leading all around the grounds and disabled toilets operated via a RADAR key.
Click the link to explore this iconic East Staffordshire gem!
Branston Water Park, nr Burton upon Trent
Branston Water Park, nr Burton upon Trent
History
To the west of Burton, Branston Water Park provides a very different experience. Once a gravel pit, it has been transformed into a 40‑acre lake surrounded by reedbeds, wet grassland and woodland. Birdwatchers flock here year‑round to spot great crested grebe, pochard and the occasional osprey on migration, while the surfaced perimeter path and accessible bird hide make it a welcoming destination for all ages and abilities. Interpretation boards explain how the park forms part of the National Forest, connecting new woodland planting with long‑established hedgerows and meadows.
Facilities
Free Parking, Toilets with separate radar key controlled disabled toilet, café, small visitor centre, play area, picnic areas, level paths around site, disabled access throughout, benches, fishing through Burton Mutual Angling Association.
Access for All
Flat, level concrete pathways
Looking for a peaceful escape with lakeside views, woodland trails, and wildlife spotting?
Click the link to dive into the beauty of Branston Water Park!
Outwoods Park, Horninglow & Eton
Outwoods Park, Horninglow & Eton
History
Travelling north‑west towards Uttoxeter you’ll find Outwoods Park, a compact, tree‑lined recreation space that punches well above its weight in terms of facilities. A large children’s play area, summer splash pad, outdoor gym equipment and multi‑use games court ensure there is plenty to keep energetic families entertained. The park also hosts seasonal funfairs and community events, drawing visitors from surrounding villages such as Stramshall and Denstone.
Facilities
TBC
Access for All
TBC
Bramshall Road Park, Uttoxeter
Bramshall Road Park, Uttoxeter
History
Not far away is Bramshall Road Park, one of Uttoxeter’s best‑loved green lungs. Its wide lawns are perfect for ball games, while the sensory garden and ornamental borders offer quieter corners for relaxation. Two bowling greens sit alongside tennis courts, reflecting the site’s long history as a hub for outdoor recreation since Edwardian times.
On the 11th July 1921 an area of land covering just over 12 acres stretching from Bramshall Road to the North Staffordshire Railway Line was bought by Mr Charles Henry Elkes for £999. He asked the town to accept as a recreation ground. As a successful local businessman, he stated how few opportunities there had been for boys of his generation to use recreation facilities.
The linear nature of the park has a developed path network providing a reasonably long but leisurely walk. The different sections of the park maintain interest for those wishing to explore.
Facilities
Ample parking, play area, bowls green, tennis courts, skate park, multi use games area, football, benches, dogs allowed on the main field, picnic areas, disabled access and toilets including a radar key operated disabled toilet.
Access for all
Flat level, concrete pathways
From colourful flowerbeds to fun-filled play areas, Bramshall Road Park is perfect for a relaxing stroll or a family day out.
Click the link to explore everything Bramshall Road Park has to offer!
Brook Hollows, Rolleston on Dove
Brook Hollows. Photo credit Przemek Sel
History
East Staffordshire’s rural villages boast parks of their own. Rolleston‑on‑Dove’s Brook Hollows is a hidden gem: a two‑acre lake bordered by woodland that supports kingfishers and dragonflies in summer, and dramatic autumn colour later in the year. In Tutbury, Mill Fleam Park offers open views across the Dove Valley towards the castle, pairing heritage and countryside in one uplifting panorama. Meanwhile, Shobnall Leisure Complex in Burton caters to sports enthusiasts with athletics tracks, cycle trails and a popular skatepark, all set within a framework of mature trees and grassy banks.
Facilities
TBC
Access For All
TBC
Whether you’re unwinding under riverside willows, watching wildlife in peaceful wetlands, or enjoying family time in vibrant play parks, East Staffordshire’s green spaces offer something for everyone. These parks and open spaces are more than just beautiful places to walk—they’re vital community hubs that connect people with nature, heritage, and wellbeing.
Discover even more hidden gems and near by places to eat waiting to be explored—click below to find your perfect green escape in East Staffordshire.
Explore more parks and open spaces now on our Great Outdoors page.