Looking for an easy way to get the family outdoors? East Staffordshire is packed with beautiful green spaces where little legs can explore, wildlife can be spotted and every walk comes with a new adventure. Whether you’re searching for riverside trails, woodland sculptures, nature reserves or fantastic playgrounds, there’s a walk to suit every family.
Here are some our favourite family-friendly walks to enjoy throughout the year.
Washlands & Stapenhill Hollows | Riverside Adventures and Woodland Discoveries
Stapenhill Hollows, Burton upon Trent
If you’re looking for an easy, buggy-friendly stroll with plenty to keep children entertained, the Washlands and Stapenhill Hollows are hard to beat. Flat, surfaced paths wind alongside the River Trent, making this an ideal walk for families with young children, scooters and balance bikes.
As you explore, keep your eyes peeled for the delightful wooden sculptures hidden along the trails. Young adventurers will also love the woodland rubbing posts, where they can create nature-inspired artwork to take home. With wide open spaces for running, riverside views, and plenty of wildlife to spot, every visit offers something new to discover.
If you fancy extending your adventure, the route links easily with Stapenhill Gardens and Burton Mail Centenary Woodland, making it perfect for a longer family day out.
Ready for a riverside adventure? Pack a picnic, bring your walking shoes and see how many woodland sculptures your family can find along the way!
Branston Water Park Nature Reserve | Wildlife, Wonderful Views and a Well-Earned Treat
Branston Water Park Nature Reserve
Branston Water Park is the perfect destination for a relaxed family walk where nature takes centre stage. The level, accessible paths loop around a beautiful lake, making this an ideal choice for pushchairs, scooters and little explorers.
Along the route you’ll discover reedbeds, woodland and plenty of opportunities to spot ducks, swans and a variety of birds. Wildlife hides and interpretation boards help children learn more about the amazing creatures that call the reserve home, turning every visit into a mini outdoor adventure.
When it’s time to refuel, there’s no need to rush home. The on-site café is the perfect place to enjoy a coffee, lunch or sweet treat while soaking up the peaceful surroundings.
Wildlife, wonderful views and coffee at the finish? Branston Water Park has everything you need for a fantastic family day outdoors.
Burton Mail Centenary Woodland | A Woodland Full of Surprises
Burton Mail Centenary Woodlands
Nestled alongside the River Trent within the National Forest, Burton Mail Centenary Woodland is a wonderful place for families to reconnect with nature. Easy-to-follow trails weave through peaceful woodland, with glimpses of the river adding to the tranquil setting and creating the perfect backdrop for a family adventure.
Children will love discovering the striking woodland sculptures hidden amongst the trees, transforming every walk into an exciting treasure hunt. Throughout the seasons there’s always something new to see, from colourful spring flowers and butterflies to vibrant autumn leaves crunching beneath your feet.
Whether you’re enjoying a gentle stroll, spotting wildlife along the river or simply soaking up the fresh air, this beautiful woodland offers something for every generation.
Turn your next family walk into a woodland treasure hunt! Follow the trails, discover the sculptures and enjoy one of East Staffordshire’s hidden gems.
Jackson’s Bank | Ancient Woodland Magic
Jackson’s Bank, Hoar Cross
Step beneath the canopy of one of East Staffordshire’s most enchanting ancient woodlands and enjoy a peaceful family walk through Jackson’s Bank. This easy circular route is ideal for families wanting to experience the beauty of the National Forest.
The woodland comes alive throughout the seasons, from carpets of bluebells in spring to spectacular autumn colours later in the year. Along the route you’ll discover the impressive Needwood Noon Column, a unique oak sculpture that celebrates the area’s rich natural heritage and adds an extra touch of wonder to your woodland adventure.
Young explorers can let their imaginations run wild with plenty of natural spaces to build woodland dens, create hideaways and enjoy
imaginative outdoor play. After your walk, make the most of the on-site picnic area – the perfect spot to relax, enjoy lunch surrounded by nature and listen to the sounds of the woodland before heading home.
With birdsong, towering trees, den-building adventures and peaceful surroundings, it’s a walk the whole family will remember.
Escape into the woods and make lasting family memories. Wander beneath ancient trees, build a woodland den, enjoy a family picnic and experience one of East Staffordshire’s most magical walks.
Bramshall Road Park, Uttoxeter | Walk, Play and Relax
Bramshall Road Park, Uttoxeter
Sometimes the best family walks end with a fantastic playground, and Bramshall Road Park delivers exactly that. Wide, level paths meander through attractive green spaces and colourful planting, making this an easy and enjoyable stroll for all ages.
Once you’ve explored the park, little ones can burn off even more energy in the well-equipped playground, while older children can enjoy the sports facilities and open spaces. With plenty of room for picnics, games and relaxing together, it’s an ideal destination for a family afternoon outdoors.
Whether you’re stopping by for a quick walk or making a day of it, Bramshall Road Park offers something for everyone.
Why choose between a walk and a play day? Enjoy both at Bramshall Road Park, where family fun continues long after the walk is over!
Tucklesholme Nature Reserve | A Hidden Haven for Wildlife Lovers
Tucklesholme Nature Reserve, Branston
Tucked away on the edge of Burton upon Trent, Tucklesholme Nature Reserve is a peaceful escape where families can slow down, explore and get closer to nature. Recognised as a Staffordshire Wildlife Trust site, this special natural haven is home to a variety of habitats, including wetlands, woodland and grassland, creating the perfect environment for a wide range of wildlife.
Families can enjoy gentle walking routes through the reserve, with plenty of opportunities for young explorers to spot birds, butterflies and other local wildlife throughout the year. Keep little adventurers
entertained by listening for birdsong, searching for insects and discovering how the landscape changes with the seasons.
Whether you’re introducing children to nature for the first time or looking for a peaceful place to reconnect with the outdoors, Tucklesholme Nature Reserve offers a wonderful family-friendly escape full of wildlife and discovery.
Discover one of East Staffordshire’s hidden natural treasures! Grab your binoculars, pack a picnic and see what amazing wildlife you can spot on your next family adventure.
Blithfield Reservoir | Lakeside Walks and Wildlife Wonders
Bird Hide, Blithfield Walks
Set in the beautiful Staffordshire countryside near Abbots Bromley, Blithfield Reservoir is a peaceful place for families to enjoy fresh air, stunning views and a chance to connect with nature. The reservoir and surrounding landscape provide a wonderful backdrop for a countryside walk, with wide-open views across the water and plenty of wildlife to discover along the way.
The area is particularly popular with nature lovers, with the reservoir attracting a variety of birds throughout the year. Families can enjoy spotting wildlife, taking in the changing scenery and exploring
the quiet lanes and footpaths around this beautiful rural setting.
With its tranquil atmosphere, scenic views and plenty of opportunities for a picnic stop, Blithfield Reservoir is a great choice for families looking for a slower-paced countryside adventure away from the hustle and bustle.
Ready to discover a countryside escape? Pack a picnic, grab your binoculars and enjoy a relaxing family walk surrounded by beautiful views and wildlife at Blithfield Reservoir.
JCB Lake Walks | Peaceful Waterside Walking and Nature Discovery
Coffee with a Lakeside View
Located near Rocester, JCB Lake offers a peaceful countryside escape where families can enjoy a relaxing stroll surrounded by beautiful Staffordshire scenery. The paved lakeside walk provides an easy and accessible route for families, making it a great choice for pushchairs, younger walkers and those looking for a gentle outdoor adventure.
The circular route offers lovely views across the water, with plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife including water birds and other countryside creatures. The changing seasons bring something new to discover, from fresh spring growth and summer greenery to colourful autumn reflections across the lake.
After your walk, head to the Boathouse Café for a well-earned treat. It’s the perfect place to relax, enjoy refreshments and take in the peaceful lakeside setting, making JCB Lake a great destination for a full family day out.
With its calm setting, open views and accessible paths, JCB Lake is a wonderful place for a family walk, a picnic stop or simply some quality time outdoors together.
Make memories by the water! Enjoy an easy lakeside stroll, spot wildlife along the way and finish your adventure with a tasty treat at the Boathouse Café.
Start Your Next Family Adventure
From peaceful riverside paths and wildlife-filled nature reserves to magical woodlands and exciting playgrounds, East Staffordshire is full of places where families can make unforgettable memories together.
So, lace up your walking boots, pack a picnic and get ready to discover somewhere new. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or rediscovering a local favourite, your next great family adventure is waiting in East Staffordshire.