Events

Here is a list of future events. This section is contantly being updated so be sure to visit this page regularly. If you wish to be informed of new events by email, please register by completing the form on the right hand side of this screen.
 
For on-going information about the Phytophthora infection in Brocton Coppice and other areas of Cannock Chase, please see the leaflet here  and on Staffordshire County Council's website
 
Shugborough Programme for 2012 

   

See website for details of events
 
  Museum of Cannock Chase    

 

As well as permanent displays about Cannock Chase, coal mining, social history and toys & games from the past, the museum also hosts an exciting and ever-changing temporary exhibition programme throughout the year.  The programme of exhibitions provides an opportunity to view the work of local artists and touring exhibitions from around the country, as well as special displays created by the museum. For upcoming activities at half term see the website here
   
Cannock Chase Visitor Centre , Marquis Drive, Hednesford WS12 4PW Details of Events here
Birches Valley Forest Centre, Nr Rugeley, Staffs WS15 2UQ. see upcoming event details here
 
Wolseley Centre, Wolseley Bridge, A51 Rugeley - Stone, ST17 0WT Details of Events and Activities at half term here
 
Friends of Cannock Chase - Details of Walks & Events here
 
Milford Information Hut - Half term activities here

Event Name Summary
Guided Rides
20 February 2005
All Day Event
Birches Valley Forest Centre, Lady Hill, Rugeley, Staffordshire WS15 2UQ
Guided mountain bike rides in aid of Chase Trails volunteer group. Rides lead by qualified guides for ladies, lads 'n' dads, sports cyclists and veterans. Booking essential, contact Swinnertons Cycles, 01889 575170. Cost: £5/person including refreshments.
Cannock Chase AONB - Looking Back, Moving Forward
12 March 2005
10.00am - 4.00pm
Museum of Cannock Chase, Valley Road, Hednesford
Event to gain an insight into heathland habitats. Saturday 12th March 2005. Includes a coach trip to Sutton Park in the morning, a demonstration of heathland products and guided walk on Hednesford Hills in the afternoon. Places are limited and bookings are required via Cannock Chase AONB Unit (see contacts page for details)
Ranger Rambles
19 March 2005
8.00 am
Birches Valley Forest Centre, Lady Hill, Rugeley, Staffordshire WS15 2UQ. Tel: 01889 586593
Come and learn about the wildlife in the forest with wildlife rangers on these morning strolls. Waterproofs and sturdy footwear advised. Booking essential as numbers are limited. £4.50/person, includes bacon sandwich/veggie alternative.
Easter Egg Hunt
26 March 2005
12-3.00pm
Birches Valley Forest Centre, Lady Hill, Rugeley, Staffordshire WS15 2UQ. Tel: 01889 586593
Explore the forest in search of clues to win your chocolate surprise. Cost: £3/person
Easter Family Fun
30 March 2005
10.30 am - 12.00 noon
Birches Valley Forest Centre, Lady Hill, Rugeley, Staffordshire WS15 2UQ. Tel: 01889 586593
Join the Education team for a morning of seasonal crafts and activities. Cost: £3/person
Ranger Rambles
09 April 2005
8.00 am
Birches Valley Forest Centre, Lady Hill, Rugeley, Staffordshire WS15 2UQ. Tel: 01889 586593
Come and learn about the wildlife in the forest with wildlife rangers on these morning strolls. Waterproofs and sturdy footwear advised. Booking essential as numbers are limited. £4.50/person, includes bacon sandwich/veggie alternative.
Swinnerton's Demo Day
13 April 2005
All Day
Birches Valley Forest Centre, Lady Hill, Rugeley, Staffordshire WS15 2UQ.
Have a go on a Kona and Giant Bikes at the Swinnerton's Cycles demo day. Book yuo guided ride on 01889 575170. Cost: £2/person (funds in aid of Chase Trails)
Anzac Day of Remembrance
24 April 2005
9.30am
Meet at the Whitehouse Car Park, Penkridge Bank
Friends of Cannock Chase - a stroll to the Commonwealth Cemetery to witness this year's parade and service. Distance approximately 2 miles.
Rogation Sunday
01 May 2005
1.00pm
Community Centre, Colwich
Colwich Parish Council - 'Beating the Bounds'. Circular walk of the parish, approximately 5 1/2 miles, finishing back at the Community Centre at around 4.00pm. Further details from The Parish Centre 01889 882665.
Leisure Trail Launch
08 May 2005
10.00am
Birches Valley Forest Centre. Lady Hill, Rugeley, Staffordshire WS15 2UQ. Tel: 01889 586593
Come to the launch and official opening of the Green Leisure Trail, sponsored by Ridgeback Bikes. This trail suits all abilities with short and long distance loops.
Leisure Trail Launch
08 May 2005
10.00am
Birches Valley Forest Centre. Lady Hill, Rugeley, Staffordshire WS15 2UQ. Tel: 01889 586593
Come to the launch and official opening of the Green Leisure Trail, sponsored by Ridgeback Bikes. This trail suits all abilities with short and long distance loops.
Bluebells and Wild Garlic
14 May 2005
2.30pm
Piggot's Bottom Car Park, next to Beaudesert Grand Lodge, Upper Longdon
Friends of Cannock Chase - Guided walk, Distance 2-3 miles
Ranger Rambles
21 May 2005
8.00 am
Birches Valley Forest Centre, Lady Hill, Rugeley, Staffordshire WS15 2UQ. Tel: 01889 586593
Come and learn about the wildlife in the forest with wildlife rangers on these morning strolls. Waterproofs and sturdy footwear advised. Booking essential as numbers are limited. £4.50/person, includes bacon sandwich/veggie alternative.
Beaudesert Old Park
21 May 2005
2.30pm
Beadesert Old Park car park, Rugeley Road, Wandon
Friends of Cannock Chase - A ramble through the Old Park taking in Horsepastures Pool. Distance approximately 3 miles
Guided Walk with Friends of Cannock Chase
04 August 2005
7:30pm
Meet at Cannock Chase Visitor Centre, Marquis Drive
Guided walk in Brindley Heath, distance approximately 3 miles (moderate walk).
Animated Walk on Brindley Heath
21 August 2005
2.30pm
Cannock Chase Visitor Centre, Marquis Drive, Hednesford. Tel: 01543 871773
Meet the soldier and nurse of the former First World War hospital and the woodcutter. Easy level walking. £2 per person, children free.
Moths of Cannock Chase
26 August 2005
8:30pm
Cannock Chase Visitor Centre, Marquis Drive, Hednesford. Tel: 01543 871773
Wonder at the colour and markings of these beautiful creatures as they are enticed towards the moth trap by our experts. £2 per person, children free.
Beating the Boundary
04 September 2005
10.00am
Meet at the Walled Garden near Shugborough Park Farm. Walk led by Staffordshire County Council Ranger Service, contact 01543 871773
Stride out on a 5 mile walk taking in the varied scenery around the boundary of the Shugborough Estate. Multi-terrain, some gradients. Cost - £2 per adult, children free.
Acton Trussell 4-Mile Staffs Way Guided Walk
11 September 2005
2.00pm
Meet at the layby at Park Gate bridge on the Teddesley Road between Acton Trussell and Bednall. Walk led by Staffordshire County Council Ranger Service, contact 01543 871773
Join with a County Council Ranger on this history based walk across the fields and canals of Acton Trussell and Bednall. Multi-terrain, some gradients. Cost - £2 per adult, children free.
Mini Beast Hunt at Shugborough
11 September 2005
2.30pm
Meet at the Walled Garden near Shugborough Park Farm. Eventled by Staffordshire County Council Ranger Service.
Get in amongst the undergrowth and seek out the little beasties which live in this dark world. Children £2, Adults free! Prior booking is required by 10th September 2005 - contact County Council Ranger Service on 01543 871773.
Heathland Walk
14 September 2005
10:30am to 12 noon
Birches Valley Forest Centre, Lady Hill, Rugeley, Staffordshire WS15 2UQ. Tel: 01889 586593.
Come and learn more about the heathland on Cannock Chase with our Wildlife Ranger on this gentle stroll. Waterproofs and sturdy footwear is advised. Cost is £2 per person which includes soup and a roll. Booking essential
Shoal Hill Saunter
18 September 2005
2.30pm
Meet at Cocksparrow Lane Car Park, Shoal Hill, Cannock. Walk led by Staffordshire County Council Ranger Service, contact 01543 871773
A guided walk through heath and wood on this attractive common. Learn about the wildlife and managment of this wild space. Multi-terrain, some gradients. Cost - Adults £2, children free.
Walk the Ways
18 September 2005
10.00am
Meet at Milford Car Park. Walk led by Staffordshire County Council Ranger Service, contact 01543 871773
Follow part of the Staffordshire Way and the Way for the Millennium on this 5-mile walk, uphill, down dale and along the canal. Cost £2 per adult, children free.
Astronomical Evening on Cannock Chase
19 September 2005
8.00pm - 11.00pm approx.
Meet at Aspen Car Park, Camp Road, Cannock Chase. Contact Staffordshire County Council Ranger Service 01543 871773.
Now a popular and established event run by the Staffordshire Astronomical Society, be sure to come early to see the heavens, constellations, planets and other features of Cannock Chase AONB's skies. Powerful astronomical telescopes provided for your use with experts on hand. Easy level walking. Cost - £2 per adult, children free.
Swinnertons Challenge Ride
25 September 2005
All Day
Birches Valley Forest Centre, Lady Hill, Rugeley, Staffordshire WS15 2UQ.
Join the Swinnertons Challenge Ride. Choose from the 25 or 50 mile route starting and finishing from Birches Valley. Cost £5 per entry, booking essential on 01889 575170
Route to Health 2005
02 October 2005
11:00am to 4:00pm
Birches Valley Forest Centre, Lady Hill, Rugeley, Staffordshire WS15 2UQ. Tel: 01889 586593
This event gets better every year. Come and discover the sculptures hidden amongst the trees on the 2005 launch of this easy walking sculpture trail and discover what is new for this year. Free event.
Long Distance Ramble on Cannock Chase
02 October 2005
10.00am - 12.15pm or 1.00pm - 3.00pm
Meet at Cannock Chase Visitor Centre, Marquis Drive, Hednesford. Walk led by Staffordshire County Council Ranger Service, contact 01543 871773.
2 x 5-mile circular walks from Cannock Chase Visitor Centre, so do all 10 miles or either of the 5 miles. Bring packed lunch, all weather clothing, stout shoes/boots. Multi-terrain, some gradients. Cost - adults £2, children free.
Fungi in Brocton Coppice
22 October 2005
2.00pm
Meet at Coppice Hill Car Park (off Chase Road)
2-mile moderate walk led by the Friends of Cannock Chase.
Autumn Colours Walk
23 October 2005
10:30am
Birches Valley Forest Centre, Lady Hill, Rugeley, Staffordshire WS15 2UQ. Tel: 01889 586593
Join rangers on this moderate walk through Beaudesert Old Park, the southern end of Cannock Chase Forest. Climb up to Castle Ring to take in the views and discover the history of the kitchen garden. Waterproofs and sturdy footwear advised. Cost £3 per person. Booking essential.
Halloween Family Fun
25 October 2005
10:30am to 12 noon
Birches Valley Forest Centre, Lady Hill, Rugeley, Staffordshire WS15 2UQ. Tel: 01889 586593
Join the education team and prepare for the spooky weekend ahead. Bring along a pumpkin to make lanterns, masks and more. Cost £3 per person. Booking essential. (This event is also being held on 26th October 2005)
Halloween Walks
31 October 2005
6:30pm to 9:30pm
Birches Valley Forest Centre, Lady Hill, Rugeley, Staffordshire WS15 2UQ. Tel: 01889 586593
Dare you walk in the forest on Halloween night? Eerie happenings wait around every corner of our nocturnal trek. This event is not suitable for children under the age of 7. Cost £6 per person, includes food and parking. Tickets on sale in advance, book early to avoid disappointment.
Old Acre Valley
05 November 2005
2.00pm
Meet at the Glacial Boulder, Chase Road
2/3 mile moderate walk led by the Friends of Cannock Chase
Trail Blazers - Cycle Orienteering
06 November 2005
All Day
Birches Valley Forest Centre, Lady Hill, Rugeley, Staffordshire WS15 2UQ.
Join the Trailblazers cycle orineteering club for this cross-Chase event. Come on out and challenge both your brains and brawn! For boking information contact 01827 55195 or email mickt@trailblazers.freeserve.co.uk
Orienteering with Walton Chasers
13 November 2005
10:30am to 11:30am
Birches Valley Forest Centre, Lady Hill, Rugeley, Staffordshire WS15 2UQ.
If you have never orienteered, have tried and would like to do more or are an old hand wanting to keep your skills and fitness up to scratch this is the event for you. come and join Walton Chasers Orienteering Club for waht promises to be a great event. There will be a range of courses to suit all abilities and help on hand for beginners. Cost £5 adults, £3 children. For more information contact Walton Chasers on 01785 660133.
Christmas Family Fun
19 November 2005
10:30am to 12 noon
Birches Valley Forest Centre, Lady Hill, Rugeley, Staffordshire WS15 2UQ. Tel: 01889 586593
Prepare for the festive season ahead together by making cards, decorations and more. Materials provided. Cost £4 per person. Booking essential.
Christmas Decorations Workshop for Adults
20 November 2005
10:00am to 1:00pm
Birches Valley Forest Centre, Lady Hill, Rugeley, Staffordshire WS15 2UQ. Tel: 01889 586593
Make your own Christmas decorations out of natural forest materials. Materials and refreshments provided. Cost £8 per person. Booking essential.
Christmas Trees and Santa's Grotto
27 November 2005
9:00am to 6:00pm (open until 9:00pm late nights)
Birches Valley Forest Centre, Lady Hill, Rugeley, Staffordshire WS15 2UQ. Tel: 01889 586593
Christmas for all the family in Cannock Chase Forest. Choose from thousands of fresh Christmas trees, pick out some decorations, visit Father Christmas in his woodland grotto and soak up the atmosphere of a traditional Christmas. Open until 22nd December, late nights 9th, 12th-16th December.
Winter Visitors to the Chase
27 November 2005
2:00pm
Cannock Chase Visitor Centre, Marquis Drive, Hednesford, Staffordshire WS12 4PW
Come and identify the migrant and resident birds which flock to the feeding station at Cannock Chase Visitor Centre. Prior booking required by 25th November, contact Staffordshire County Council Ranger Service on 01543 871773. Cost - £2 per adult, children free.
Christmas Candlelit Evenings
29 November 2005
5:30pm to 9:30pm
Shugborough, near Stafford, the complete working historic estate. Book in advance on 01889 881388. Price - Adults £9 (£8 in advance), Concession/child £8 (£7 in advance), Family £24 (£22 in advance) Under 5's free.
Christmas at Shugborough. Christmas Food and Gift Shopping, Candlelit Mansion House, Street Entertainment and Carol Singing. This event is also on November 30th and 1st and 2nd December.
Christmas Trees and Santa's Grotto
30 November 2005
9am - 6pm
Birches Valley Forest Centre, Rugeley, Staffordshire WS15 2UQ, tel: 01889 586593.
Christmas for all the family in Cannock Chase Forest. Choose from thousands of fresh Christmas Trees, pick out some decorations, visit Father Christmas in his woodland grotto and soak up the atmosphere of a traditional Christmas.
Festive Christmas Days
03 December 2005
12:00 noon - 6:00pm
Shugborough, near Stafford, the complete working historic estate. Book in advance on 01889 881388, or visit www.shugborough.org.uk. Price - Adults £9 (£8 in advance), Concession/child £8 (£7 in advance), Family £24 (£22 in advance) Under 5's free.
Don’t Miss Shugborough’s NEW Festive Christmas Days, with Santa Train Ride, Magical Snow Showers, Entertainment & Carol Singers and Christmas Gift shopping. December 2rd to Dec 11th 12pm to 6pm. ,Don’t Miss Shugborough’s NEW Festive Christmas Days, with Santa Train Ride, Magical Snow Showers, Entertainment & Carol Singers and Christmas Gift shopping.
Christmas Trees and Santa's Grotto
12 December 2005
9am to 8pm
Birches Valley Forest Centre, Rugeley, staffs WS15 2UQ, 01889 586593
Christmas for all the family in Cannock Chase Forest. Choose from thousands of fresh Christmas Trees, pick out some decorations, visit Father Christmas in his woodland grotto and soak up the atmosphere of a traditional Christmas. This event is on every day up until 22nd December. Check with Forestry Commission staff for opening times on other days.
Christmas Tree Recycling
07 January 2006
10:00am to 4:00pm
Birches Valley Forest Centre, Lady Hill, Rugeley, Staffordshire WS15 2UQ. Tel: 01889 586593
Don't put your tree out for the bin men, bring it to the Birches Valley where we will chip it up and reuse it. After the excess of Christmas, there is nothing like a bit of recycling to make you feel good.
Get Fit After Christmas
08 January 2006
10.00am
Meet at Milford Common Car Park.
Burn off those excess calories on this 10 mile return trip to Cannock Chase Visitor Centre. Multi-terrain walk with some gradients. County Rangers led walk, cost £2 per adult, children free. Contact number for further details 01543 871773
Crafts in the Forest - Glass Painting
15 January 2006
10am - 1pm
Birches Valley Forest Centre, Lady Hill, Rugeley, Staffordshire WS15 2UQ, 01889 586593
Crafts in the Forest are a series of taster days for adults to try out new and creative ways to get through the winter months. Places are limited so booking is essential.
Cross Chase Walk and Ride
22 January 2006
10.00am
The Walled Garden, Shugborough Park Farm
Enjoy a 5-mile walk across Cannock Chase arriving at Cannock Chase Visitor Centre for lunchtime. Experience a trip in a landrover back over the Chase in the afternoon. Prior booking required by 21st January 2006, cost £5. contact Staffordshire County Council Ranger Service, 01453 871773 to book.
Crafts in the Forest - Basic Felt Making
22 January 2006
10am - 1pm
Birches Valley Forest Centre, Lady Hill, Rugeley, Staffordshire WS15 2UQ, 01889 586593
Discover how felt is made and have a go yourself. Jewellery, bags, pots and hats, the possibilities are endless! Cost, £7, which includes refreshments, materials and tuition. Booking essential.
Crafts in the Forest - Decoupage
29 January 2006
10am - 1pm
Birches Valley Forest Centre, Lady Hill, Rugeley, Staffordshire WS15 2UQ, 01889 586593
Decoupage, derived from the French word decouper, meaning to cut out, is the creative art of assembling, pasting and varnishing paper cut outs for decorating objects. Cost £7, which includes refreshments, materials and tuition. Booking essential.
The First World War Railway
05 February 2006
10.00am
Meet at Cannock Chase Visitor Centre, Marquis Drive, 01453 871773.
Follow the route of the Tackeroo Railway across Brindley Heath, on to the War Cemetaries. Staffordshire County Council Ranger Service led walk, multi-terrain, some gradients, cost £2/person, children free.
Crafts in the Forest - Hand Made Cards
05 February 2006
10am - 1pm
Birches Valley Forest Centre, Lady Hill, Rugeley, Staffordshire WS15 2UQ, 01889 586593
Get lots of new ideas for handmade cards and have a go a making some for yourself, you'll be in time for Valentines! Cost £7, which includes refreshments, materials and tuition. Booking essential.
Forest Volunteer Day
11 February 2006
All day
Contact Birches Valley Forest Centre, Lady Hill, Rugeley, Staffordshire WS15 2UQ, 01889 586593, for details of where to meet.
Join Forestry Commission Rangers working in the forest at Fairoak Valley to improve wildife habitats. Come and meet people, breathe some fresh air, learn something about the forest, stretch some muscels and do something worthwhile. Much more fun than going to the gyme - and it's free! Wear old, warm clothing and sturdy footwear, bring a packed lunch and flask. Places are limited, so booking is essential.
Forest Volunteer Day
11 February 2006
All day
Contact Birches Valley Forest Centre, Lady Hill, Rugeley, Staffordshire WS15 2UQ, 01889 586593, for details of where to meet.
Join Forestry Commission Rangers working in the forest at Fairoak Valley to improve wildife habitats. Come and meet people, breathe some fresh air, learn something about the forest, stretch some muscels and do something worthwhile. Much more fun than going to the gyme - and it's free! Wear old, warm clothing and sturdy footwear, bring a packed lunch and flask. Places are limited, so booking is essential.
Hedge Planting at Hazel Slade LNR
11 February 2006
All day event - 10th, not 11th!
Meet at Deavalls Farm Ranger Station, Hawks Green Lane, Cannock. Contact Countryside Services on 01543 450018 for further details.
Part of Cannock Chase Council Countryside Service autumn/winter volunteer programme. Hedge planting along a green lane on the site as part of access improvements. All tools, training and expertise will be provided, but you will need to bring your own lunch and boots (and warm clothing!)
Crafts in the Forest - Willow Weaving Day
12 February 2006
10am- 4pm
Birches Valley Forest Centre, Lady Hill, Rugeley, Staffordshire WS15 2UQ, 01889 586593
This day-long workshop will allow you not only to learn the basic skills of willow weaving, but also to take your creation home, plant it in the garden and watch it grow! Cost £30, to include lunch, refreshments, materials and tuition. Booking essential.
Bird Box Day
15 February 2006
10.30am - 12 noon
Birches Valley Forest Centre, Lady Hill, Rugeley, Staffordshire WS15 2UQ, 01889 586593
A family fund day for half term. Come along and build a bird box for you or a friend's garden. Cost £5 per box, booking essential.
Crafts in the Forest - Quilling
19 February 2006
10am - 1pm
Birches Valley Forest Centre, Lady Hill, Rugeley, Staffordshire WS15 2UQ, 01889 586593
Quilling or paper filligree is the art of rolling thin strips of paper into different shapes to form designs. Quilling has been around since the Renaissance age. Cost £7, which includes refrehsments, materials and tuition. Booking essential.
The Great War Trail
19 February 2006
2.00pm
Meet at Coppice Hill Car Park, Chase Road, Brocton. Contact the Ranger Service on 01543 871773 for details.
An opportunity to tread the path od the First World War soldier and learn about the military history of the Chase. Staffordshire County Council Ranger Service led walk, multi-terrain, some gradients. Cost £2 per adult, children free.
The Working Forest
08 March 2006
10am - 12.30pm, or, 1.30pm - 4pm
Birches Valley Forest Centre, booking essential, £5 per person, includes refreshments. Contact the Forestry Commission on 01889 586593.
Learn about the working forest and see the work in action. From planting to felling, visit an active site with a forester and have all your questions answered. Sturdy footwear, warm clothes and waterproofs are advised.
Put a Spring in Your Step
12 March 2006
10.00am
Meet at Seven Springs Car Park. Further details from the Ranger Service on 01543 871773
A 5-mile walk as the Chase wakes up for Spring. Staffordshire County Council Ranger led walk, multi-terrain, some gradients. Cost, £2 per adult, children free.
The Highlands and Wetlands of Shugborough
19 March 2006
10.00am
Meet at the Walled Garden, near Shugborough Park Far. Contact the Ranger Service for further details, 01543 871773.
Join the ranger in his search for the wildlife that inhabits the varied landscape of Shugborough Park in early Spring. Staffordshire County Council Ranger Service led walk, multi-terrain, some gradients. Cost £2 per adult, children free.
Spring Walks
25 March 2006
8.00am
Contact the Forestry Commission at Birches Valley Forest Centre for booking information, 01889 586593.
Come and learn about the emerging wildlife in the forest on a morning stroll with a wildlife ranger. Waterproofs and sturdy footwear are advised. Cost is £4.50 per person, includes bacon sandwich/veggie alternative.
Feathered Finery
02 April 2006
2.00pm
Cannock Chase Visitor Centre, Marquis Drive. Contact the Ranger Service for booking information on 01543 871773.
View the birds in their breeding plumage and see the migrants preparing for that long journey. Staffordshire County Council Ranger led event, cost £2 per adult, children free. Prior booking required by 1st April 2006.
Mifflins Valley and Jubilee Trail
08 April 2006
2.30pm
Meet at the lay-by on A460 Hednesford to Rugeley Road at the turn for Slitting Mill.
First of the new programme of walks and events with the Friends of Cannock Chase. Founder member Win Baines Memorial Walk. 3-4 mile walk.
Wild Woodland Week
11 April 2006
10.00am - 12.30pm
Birches Valley Forest Centre, Lady Hill, rugeley, Staffordshire WS15 2UQ.
A programme of 6 morning sessions for 7-11 year olds learning bush craft. Continues on 12th, 13th, 18th, 19th and 20th April. Cost for all 6 session is £50 per child, early booking essential. Contact the Forestry Commission, 01889 586593 for further details.
Easter Family Fun
12 April 2006
10.30am - 12 noon
Birches Valley Forest Centre, Lady Hill, rugeley, Staffordshire WS15 2UQ.
Join the education team for a morning of seasonal crafts and activities. Cost £3/person, booking essential. Contact the Forestry Commission for further details on 01889 586593.
Easter Eggstravaganza
14 April 2006
11am – 5pm
Shugborough, Milford, Nr Stafford, ST17 0XB. tel: 01889 881388. www.shugborough.org.uk
A family fun weekend with lively entertainment, a spring flower display in the Mansion house and other Easter activities, including egg hunts. In addition why not say hello to the spring lambs and newly hatched chicks. Ticket prices Adult £10.00 Concessions £7.00 Children £6.00 Family £25.00 Groups - £6.00 Season pass holders Free Ticket price also includes full access to all of Shugborough including Mansion House, Farm, Museum, Gardens and Working Servants’ Quarters (event continues on 15th - 17th April 2006)
Easter Egg Hunt
15 April 2006
12 noon - 3.00pm
Birches Valley Forest Centre, Lady Hill, rugeley, Staffordshire WS15 2UQ.
Explore the forest in search of clues to win your chocolate surprise. Cost £3/person, contact the Forestry Commission for further details on 01889 586593.
Annual Easter Sunday Spring Walk
16 April 2006
2.30pm
Meet at Coppice Hill Car Park, off Chase Road, Brocton.
Easter Sunday Heathlands and Woodlands walk over Cannock Chase AONB. Multi-terrain walk with some gradients. Cost £2/adult, children free. Staffordshire County Council Ranger Service-led walk, contact 01453 871773 for further details.
History and Wildlife of Milford Hills
17 April 2006
2.30pm
Meet at the Sister Dora Car Park, Milford.
Traditional Easter Monday walk around Milford Hills to look at both the history and wildlife of this area. Multi-terrain walk with some gradients. Cost £2/adult, children free. Staffordshire County Council Ranger Service-led walk, contact 01453 871773 for further details.
Spring Walk
22 April 2006
8.00am
Contact the Forestry Commission at Birches Valley Forest Centre for booking information, 01889 586593.
A second event giving the opportunity to come and learn about the emerging wildlife in the forest on a morning stroll with a wildlife ranger. Waterproofs and sturdy footwear are advised. Cost is £4.50 per person, includes bacon sandwich/veggie alternative.
Long Distance Ramble on Cannock Chase AONB
23 April 2006
10.00am or 1.00pm
Cannock Chase Visitor Centre, Marquis Drive, Hednesford.
2 x 5 mile circular walks from Cannock Chase Visitor Centre, so do all 10 miles or either of the 5 miles. Bring packed lunch, all-weather clothing, stout shoes/boots. This walk may include heavy going, mud, obstacles and steep gradients. Cost £2/adult, children free. Staffordshire County Council Ranger Service-led walk, contact 01453 871773 for further details.
Anzac Rememberance Day
23 April 2006
9.40am
Meet at the White House Car Park
The Friends of Cannock Chase annual walk to the Commonwealth Cemetery to witness the parade and service, on a patriotic and moving ocassion. 2 mile walk.
Dawn Chorus in Sherbrook
06 May 2006
4.30am
Friends of Cannock Chase Hut at Milford.
Expert Ray Jennett wll be on hand to identify the bird song as the guest of Friends of Cannock Chase. 2 mile moderate walk
First World War Rifle Ranges
13 May 2006
2.00pm
Meet at Penkridge Bank car park.
Friends of Cannock Chase 3-mile moderate walk looking at ranges known at E, F, G and H as well as a pistol range.
National Mills Weekend
13 May 2006
11.00am - 5.00pm
Shughborough Park Farm, Milford, Near Stafford ST17 0XB, tel: 01889 881388
Featuring a rare chance to see the giant waterwheel (6 tons, 20' high) from the top, plus meet the 1805 millers and see how grain is milled into flour. You can also meet the cook and see bread being made from the millers flour. In the dairy see Cheesemaking. Ticket price also includes full access to all of Shugborough including Mansion House, Georgian Farm and Walled Garden. Adults £10, Children £6, Concesssions £7, Family £25; Season Pass Holders and Under 5s Free.
Evening Walk on Brindley Heath
14 May 2006
7.00pm
Cannock Chase Visitor Centre, Marquis Drive, Hednesford.
Evening walk through the heathlands and woodlands in the shade of the evening. Multi-terrain walk with some gradients. Cost £2/adult, children free. Staffordshire County Council Ranger Service-led walk, contact 01453 871773 for further details.
Staffordshire Archaeology Day
20 May 2006
All Day Event
Staffordshire University, Beaconside Campus, Stafford. Contact Steve Dean at Staffordshire County Council for booking form (01785 223121) or Staffordshire Archaeology Forum, 48 Well Lane, Gillow Heath, Biddulph, Stoke-on-Trent ST8 6QX.
This annual Staffordshire Archaeology Day is a great opportunity for everyone to discover the results of recent archaeological research and fieldwork presented by members of the Staffordshire Archaeology Forum. Topics will include Romano-British Farmstead at Tollgate and the Great War Camps on Cannock Chase. Costs (including morning coffe and afternoon tea) adult £10, Full-time students £7.50, under 16 (to be accompanied by an adult £5.
The Natural History of Marquis Drive
21 May 2006
2.30pm
Meet at Cannock Chase Visitor Centre, Marquis Drive, Hednesford.
Seek out the wide variety of flora and fauna to be found amongst the different habitats surrounding Marquis Drive. Easy, level walking, suitable for younger children and people with disabilities. Cost £2/adult, children free. Staffordshire County Council Ranger Service-led walk, contact 01453 871773 for further details.
Trail Blazers Summer Series
23 May 2006
6.00pm
For booking and information contact 01827 55195 or mick@trailblazers.freeserve.co.uk or visit www.trailblazers-cycling.org.uk.
Join the Trailblazers cycle orineteering club and improve your map reading and trail riding with the experts. This is the first of a series of 2-hour evening sessions providing a great way to explore the Chase and hone your navigation and trail riding skills.
Natural History of Brocton Local Nature Reserve
04 June 2006
2:30pm
Bednall Belt Car Park. Contact SCC Ranger Service on 01543 871773 for further details
Wildfowl on the lake and wildlife of the surrounding woodlands and heathlands. Staffordshire County Council Ranger led walk, multi-terrain, some gradients. Cost £2 per adult, children free.
Summer Family Day
04 June 2006
12 noon - 4:00pm
Museum of Cannock Chase, Valley Road, Hednesford, Staffordshire WS12 1TD. Tel: 01543 877666
Celebrate the arrival of summer at the Museum of Cannock Chase. By popular request - the Music Man is back to help you make your own summertime music! From 12noon to4pm. Take a trip down memory lane - chat about wartime Britain with our 1940's housewife, Babs! Drop-in art and craft workshops 12noon to 4pm Get up close and personal with birds from Gentleshaw Wildlife Sanctuary Last chance to see '15 minutes' - an unusual and exciting exhibition of huge art works by Chris House Walks on Hednesford Hills Come and play in our Toy Gallery and Interactive Zone ALL ACTIVITIES ARE FREE!!!!!!!!
Trail Blazers Summer Series
06 June 2006
6:00pm
Birches Valley Forest Centre, Lady Hill, Rugeley, Staffordshire WS15 2UQ. For booking and information contact 01827 55195 or mick@trailbalzers.freeserve.co.uk or visit www.trailblazers-cycling.org.uk
Join the Trailblazers cycling orienteering club and improve your map reading and trail riding skills with the experts. This two hour evening session is a great way to explore Cannock Chase and hone your navigation and trail riding skills. Further sessions will be held on 20th June and 4th July.
Nightlife in the Forest
08 June 2006
9.00pm
Birches Valley Forest Centre, Ladyhill, Rugeley, Staffordshire WS15 2UQ. Tel: 01889 586593.
First in a series of walks on Thursday evenings throughout June and the first Thursday in July. Learn about the secret nightlife of Cannock Chase Forest with a Forestry Commission wildlife ranger as your guide. Wrap up warm and wear sturdy footwear. Cost £4 per adult, £2 per child. Booking essential
Nightlife in the Forest
15 June 2006
9:00pm
Birches Valley Forest Centre, Lady Hill, Rugeley, Staffordshire WS15 2UQ. Tel: 01889 586893
Learn about the secret nightlife of Cannock Chase Forest with a Forestry Commission wildlife ranger as your guide. Wrap up warm and wear sturdy footwear. Cost £4 per adult, £2 per child. Booking essential
Nightlife in the Forest
22 June 2006
9:00pm
Birches Valley Forest Centre, Lady Hill, Rugeley, Staffordshire WS15 2UQ. Tel: 01889 586593
Learn about the secret nightlife of Cannock Chase Forest with a Forestry Commission wildlife ranger as your guide. Wrap up warm and wear sturdy footwear. Cost £4 per adult, £2 per child. Booking essential
Butterflies and Moths of Cannock Chase
24 June 2006
10:30am
Cannock Chase Visitor Centre, Marquis Drive, Hednesford, Staffordshire WS12 4PW, Tel: 01543 871773
Join Lepidoptera expert Jim Cresswell to search for such species as Small Pearl Bordered Fritillary, Clouded Buff and Oak Eggars. Duration optional, maximum 4-5 hours. Bring food and drink. Staffordshire County Council Ranger led walk, multi-terrain, some gradients. Cost £2 per adult, children free. Staffordshire County Council Ranger led walk, multi-terrain, some gradients. Cost £2 per adult, children free.
Nightlife in the Forest
29 June 2006
9:00pm
Birches Valley Forest Centre. Lady Hill, Rugeley, Staffordshire WS15 2UQ. Tel: 01889 586593
Learn about the secret nightlife of Cannock Chase Forest with a Forestry Commission wildlife ranger as your guide. Wrap up warm and wear sturdy footwear. Cost £4 per adult, £2 per child. Booking essential
Cross Chase Walk & Ride
02 July 2006
10:30am-2:30pm
Punchbowl Car Park on A513, contact Staffordshire County Council Ranger Service for further details and booking on 01543 871773
Enjoy a 5-mile walk across Cannock Chase beginning at the Punchbowl and arriving at Cannock Chase Visitor Centre for lunctime. Experience a trip in a landrover back over the Chase in the afternoon. Prior Booking required by July 1st 2006. Staffordshire County Council Ranger led walk, multi-terrain, some gradients. Cost £5.
PICASSO: HISTOIRE NATURELLE
04 July 2006
10:00am - 5:00pm
Museum of Cannock Chase, Valley Road, Hednesford, Staffordshire, WS12 1TD,Tel 01543 877666
Picasso: Histoire Naturelle is a National Touring Exhibition from the Hayward Gallery. Considered by many to be one of Picasso's most important graphic productions, this set of 31 prints depicts animals, birds, insects and other creatures. Picasso created these images to accompany the classic 18th century text, Histoire Naturelle, by the eminent French naturalist, GeorgeLouis Leclerc de Buffon. Combining a wide variety of techniques, including liftground aquatint, etching and drypoint, Picasso produced images of great clarity, immediacy and beauty. The exhibition will be at the Museum of Cannock Chase until 9th July 2006.
Nighlife in the Forest
06 July 2006
9:00pm
Birches Valley Forest Centre, Lady Hill, Rugeley, Staffordshire WS15 2UQ. Tel: 01889 586593
Learn about the secret nightlife of Cannock Chase Forest with a Forestry Commission wildlife ranger as your guide. Wrap up warm and wear sturdy footwear. Cost £4 per adult, £2 per child. Booking essential
RAF Hednesford
09 July 2006
10:30am - 12.00 noon
Meet at Cannock Chase Visitor Centre, Marquis Drive, Hednesford, Staffordshire WS12 4PW, tel: 01543 871773.
Join ex-servicemen on an informal guided walk around the former camp site of RAF Hednesford. Staffordshire County Council Ranger-led walk, easy, level walking. Cost £2 per adult, children free.
Country Craft Day
16 July 2006
10.00am - 4.00pm
Cannock Chase Visitor Centre, Marquis Drive, Hednesford, Staffordshire WS12 4PW, tel: 01543 871773
This well-liked event returns by popular demand. Traditional country crafts on display with demonstrations and hands-on experience, try your hand and take home a souvenir. Crafts demonstrated: Spinning, Wattle Hurdle Making, Peg Making, Basket Making, Pottery, Besoms, Walking Stick Making, Bodging (Pole Lathe Turning).
Aquatic Mini Beasts
23 July 2006
2.30pm
Cannock Chase Visitor Centre, Marquis Drive, Hednesford, Staffordshire WS12 4PW
Dip your nets into the pond to find which creatures live below the waterline. Staffordshire County Council Ranger-led event, cost £2 per child, adults free!! Prior booking required by 22nd July 2006 - contact the Ranger Service on 01543 871773.
Family Fun
24 July 2006
10:30am - 12 noon
Forestry Commission, Birches Valley Forest Centre, Rugeley, Staffordshire WS15 2UQ, tel: 01889 586593.
A set of fun filled activities for all the family throughout the summer holidays. Activities may include pond dipping, mini beast hunting, shelter building and much more! Days and times from Monday 24th July to Wednesday 6th September: Mondays & Wednesdays - 10:30am - 12noon and 1:00pm - 2:30pm; Friday 10:30am - 12noon. £3 per person, booking essential.
Summer Fun Collage
26 July 2006
10-12noon and 1-3pm
Museum of Cannock Chase, Valley Road, Hednesford, Staffordshire WS12 1TD, tel: 01543 877666
First in a series of Summer Fun Art Workshops at the Museum of Cannock Chase. Make a 3D summer scene using a variety of exciting materials! Booking essential, suitable for children aged 7 - 11, cost £2 per workshop. These workshops are provided by Cannock Chase Council Arts Development.
Concertina Monsters
02 August 2006
10-12 noon, 1-3pm
Museum of Cannock Chase, Valley Road, Hednesford, Staffordshire WS12 1TD, tel: 01543 877666
Second in the series of Summer Fun Art Workshops at the Museum of Cannock Chase. Create a fiery dragon or scary monster that actually moves, using glitter, card and colourful bits and pieces! Booking essential, suitable for children aged 7 - 11, cost £2 per workshop. These workshops are provided by Cannock Chase Council Arts Development.
Dragons & Damsels
06 August 2006
2.30pm
Meet at Sister Dora Car Park, Milford Common. Contact the Ranger Service for more information on 01543 871773
See beautiful and varied Dragonflies and Damselflies on some of Cannock Chase AONB's pools. Staffordshire County Council Ranger-led event, easy level walking, cost £2 per adult, children free.
Potty Planters
09 August 2006
10-12 noon, 1-3pm
Museum of Cannock Chase, Valley Road, Hednesford, Staffordshire WS12 1TD, tel: 01543 877666
Third in the series of Summer Fun Art Workshops at the Museum of Cannock Chase. Make your own wild and wonderful creatures to live in your plants! Booking essential, suitable for children aged 7 - 11, cost £2 per workshop. These workshops are provided by Cannock Chase Council Arts Development.
The Bats of Cannock Chase
10 August 2006
7:15pm
Meet at Cannock Chase Visitor Centre, Marquis Drive, Hednesford, Staffordshire WS12 4PW.
A talk and walk on our local night flying mammals led by an expert from South East Staffordshire Bat Group. Note: if the weather is bad, this event will be cancelled. Staffordshire County Council organised event, multi-terrain walking, some gradients, cost £2 per adult, children free. Prior Booking required; contact the Ranger Service on 01543 871773.
Seven Springs and Haywood Warren
13 August 2006
2:30pm
Meet at Seven Springs Car Park. Contact Staffordshire County Council Ranger Service for further details, tel: 01543 871773.
Join one of Staffordshire County Council's Rangers and learn about the history and wildlife of this wooded area of Cannock Chase AONB. Multi-terrain walking, some gradients, cost £2 per adult, children free.
Mosaic Workshops
16 August 2006
10-12 noon, 1-3pm
Museum of Cannock Chase, Valley Road, Hednesford, Staffordshire WS12 1TD, tel: 01543 877666
Here's your chance to contribute to a mosaic that will be seen by thousands of people on the Route to Health Arts Trail at Birches Valley Forest Centre on Cannock Chase! You will work with a professional artist to create the mosaic, then in October you will be able to take your family and friends to see the work that you've done on show! This workshop will be repeated on Wednesday 23rd August at the same times. Booking essential, suitable for children aged 7 - 11, cost £2 per workshop. These workshops are provided by Cannock Chase Council Arts Development.
Aminated Walk on Brindley Heath
20 August 2006
2:30pm
Cannock Chase Visitor Centre, Marquis Drive, Hednesford, Staffordshire WS12 4PW, tel: 01543 871773
Meet the soldier and nurse of the former 1st World War hospital and the woodcutter. Staffordshire County Council Ranger-led walk, easy level walking, cost £2 per adult, children free.
Heathland Walk
23 August 2006
10am-12.30pm
Birches Valley Forest Centre, Rugeley, Staffordshire WS15 2UQ, tel: 01889 586593
Come and learn more about the heathland on Cannock Chase with a Forestry Commission wildlife ranger on this gentle stroll. Waterproofs and sturdy footwear is advised. Cost £4.50 including soup and a roll, booking essential.
Balmy Summer Evening Walk across Cannock Chase AONB
03 September 2006
7:00pm
Meet at the Glacial Boulder Car Park on Camp Road, Cannock Chase. Contact Staffordshire County Council Ranger Service for further details, 01543 871773
Enjoy the serenity of the heaths and woodlands on this 5-mile evening stroll across the Chase. Staffordshire County Council Ranger-led walk, multi-terrain, some gradients. Cost £2 per adult, children free.
Recycled Public Art - Contemporary Makes & Breaks, Forestry Commission
09 September 2006
10:00am - 3:00pm
Birches Valley Forest Centre, Rugeley, Staffordshire WS15 2UQ, tel: 01889 586593.
Discover new and exciting techniques using recycled materials such as rubber and plastic with talented textile artist, Sharon Porteous. Contribute to a collaborative artwork for the Route to Health Sculpture Trail. This is a 2-day workshop; the second day is Sunday 10th September at the same time. Cost £10, suitable for adults aged 17 or over, booking essential as there are only 15 places available.
Mini Beast Hunt on Cannock Chase AONB
10 September 2006
2:30pm
Meet at Cannock Chase Visitor Centre, Marquis Drive, Hednesford.
Get in amongst the heathland and trees to seek out the little beasties which live in this dark world, during heath week. Cost £2 per child, adults free! Prior booking required by 9th September, contact Staffordshire County Council Ranger Service for further details and to book, 01543 871773
Introduction to Raku for Young People
16 September 2006
10:00am - 3:00pm
Birches Valley Forest Centre, Rugeley, Staffordshire WS15 2UQ, tel: 01889 882613
Contemporary Makes & Breaks, The Forestry Commission. Work with ceramic artist Andrew Mason, learning about the Japanese ceramic art of Raku pottery and glazing techniques. There will be kiln firings during both morning and afternoon sessions. Contribute towards an artwork, which will be exhibited along the Route to Health Sculpture Trail. Cost £5 per child, suitable for children aged 8yrs-13yrs. Booking is essential as there are only 12 places available.
Introduction to Raku
17 September 2006
10:00am - 3:00pm
Birches Vally Forest Centre, Rugeley, Staffordshire WS15 2UQ, tel: 01889 586593
Andrew Mason will be holding a second ceramic workshop learning about the Japanese art of Raku pottery, this time the session will be more suitable for adults. Participants will spend a full day learning about glazing techniques. There will be kiln firings during both the morning and afternoon sessions. The work created will contribute towards a final piece of artwork, which will be exhibited along the Route To Health Sculpture Trail. Cost £5, booking essential, only 12 places available. Contemporary Makes and Breaks, Forestry Commission.
Shoal Hill Saunter
17 September 2006
2:30pm
Meet at Cocksparrow Lane Car Park, Shoal Hill, Cannock.
A guided walk through heath and wood on this attractive common. Learn about the wildlife and managment of this wild space. Multi-terrain walk, some gradients, cost £2 per adult, children free.
Walk the Ways
17 September 2006
10:00am
Meet at Milford Car Park. Contact Staffordshire County Council Ranger Service for further details, 01543 871773
Follow part of the Staffordshire Way and the Way for the Millennium on this 5-mile walk, up hill, down dale and along the canal. Staffordshire County Council Ranger-led walk, multi-terrain, some gradients, cost £2 per adult, chidren free.
Heathland at Park Hall Country Park
17 September 2006
10am
Park Hall Country Park Visitor Centre
Park Hall Country Park is a stronghold for Heathland, which is the most threatened habitat in Europe. Learn more about this precious landscape and it's conservation. Meet at the Visitor Centre. 10am - 12 noon Heathland Management 2pm Guided Walk
Astronomical Evening on Cannock Chase AONB
18 September 2006
8:00pm - 11:00pm
Meet at Aspen Car Park, Camp Road, Cannock Chase. Contact Staffordshire County Council Ranger Service for further details, 01543 871773
Now a popular and established event run by the Staffordshire Astronomical Society, be sure to come early to see the heavens, constellations, planets and other features of Cannock Chase AONB's skies. Powerful astronomical telescopes provided for your use with experts on hand. Easy level walking. Cost - £2 per adult, children free.
Heathland Management at Bagnall Road Wood LNR
18 September 2006
10.30am
Bagnall Road Wood LNR Highton Street entrance
Come along and help us to protect the important Heathland at this site. Learn more about this special habitat and practical management techniques.
Heather Cutting and Spreading at Whitfield Valley LNR
23 September 2006
10am
Ford Grenn Hall car park
Learn practical conservation skills by increasing the Heathland habitat at Whitfield Valley. Stout shoes, gloves and suitable clothing should be worn.
Tree-athlon 2006 London
23 September 2006
Morning
Battersea Park London www.tree-athlon.org
In addition to the 5km run there will be activities such as guided tree walks, tree identification competition as well as entertainment, face painting workshops and lots of prizes and give aways!
HEATHLAND HARVEST FESTIVAL
24 September 2006
10.00am until 4.00pm
Gentleshaw Common (opposite Ye Olde Windmill Public House on Commonside Rd)01543 308183
Come to Gentleshaw Common (opposite The Windmill Public House) for an action packed day where you can learn about how people relied on plants found on heathlands in the past. Discover a variety of uses and products of heathlands including workshops demonstrations, bee keeping & heather honey. Enjoy live entertainment such as face painting, balloon making, Singing, Morris dancing and Birds of Prey static displays.
Autumn Family Day
24 September 2006
12 noon until 4pm
The Museum of Cannock Chase, Valley Rd, Hednesford, Staffordshire
Fun activities for all the family - FREE Puppet shows at 1pm and 3pm
Public Consultation on the Management of Cannock Chase Country Park Heathlands
24 September 2006
All Day
Museum of Cannock Chase, Valley Rd, Hednesford 01543 877666
Come along and have your say on the way that Cannock Chase Country Park is managed. These sessions will provide you with the further information on heathland management and give you the opportunity to express your views.
Public Consultation on the Management of Cannock Chase Country Park Heathlands
24 September 2006
All Day
Milford Common Information Hut, Milford
Come along and have your say on the way that Cannock Chase Country Park is managed. These sessions will provide you with the further information on heathland management and give you the opportunity to express your views.
Public Consultation on the Management of Cannock Chase Country Park Heathlands
29 September 2006
All Day
Pye Green Shops, Broadhurst Green, Near Cannock
Come along and have your say on the way that Cannock Chase Country Park is managed. These sessions will provide you with the further information on heathland management and give you the opportunity to express your views.
Local History Fair
30 September 2006
11am-5pm Last admissions at 4.30pm Also taking place on Sunday 1st October
Organised by the Friends of Cannock Chase Museum. The Museum of Cannock Chase, Valley Rd, Hednesford
Stalls and displays covering all aspects of the history of the Cannock Chase area, including the surrounding villages. Listen to talks about the history of Hednesford and Cannock. Learn how to research your mining past with the "Routes to your Roots" exhibition. FREE ADMISSION
Public Consultation on the Management of Cannock Chase Country Park Heathlands
03 October 2006
All Day
Brocton Post Office, Pool Lane, Brocton
Come along and have your say on the way that Cannock Chase Country Park is managed. These sessions will provide you with the further information on heathland management and give you the opportunity to express your views.
Welcome to Rangoli - Contemporary Makes & Breaks, Forestry Commission
08 October 2006
11:00am - 4:00pm
Birches Valley Forest Centre, Rugeley, Staffordshire WS15 2UQ, tel: 01889 586593.
Ranbir Kaur is an international installation artist who uses a traditional technique called Rangoli (translation 'welcoming sign'). Historically, rice and coloured powders are used, but Ranbir will be using natural materials found in the forest, such as leaves, berries and acorns. This will be an exciting chance to see Ranbir create an exquisite work of art and also for you to have an opportunity of contributing to additional work, which will be made during the launch of the 'Route to Health' Sculpture Trail. It is hoped that following the creation of these pieces, the animals of Cannock Chase will 'feed' from the artworks and a photographic record will be made as it slowly disappears! This is a drop in session, free of charge, suitable for all ages.
Route to Health Arts Festival
08 October 2006
11:00am - 4:00pm
Forestry Commission, Birches Valley Forest Centre, Rugeley, Staffordshire WS15 2UQ, tel: 01889 586593
Come and celebrate the achievements of all involved in this community arts trail at this free arts and health event. Discover the artworks amongst the trees along this easy walking trail and soak up the festival atmosphere.
Route To Health
08 October 2006
11am
Forestry Commission Birches Valley Rugeley 01889 586593
Community Arts Trail All art works created by the local community Free activities for all the family This year's theme is
Tree-athlon 2006 Midlands
14 October 2006
Morning
Cannock Chase Forest www.tree-athlon.org
In addition to the 5km run there will be activities such as guided tree walks, tree identification competition as well as entertainment, face painting workshops and lots of prizes and give aways!
Half Term Halloween Fun - Batty Banners
23 October 2006
Workshops between 10am - 12pm and 1pm and 3pm
The Museum of Cannock Chase, Valley Rd, Hednesford, WS12 1TD. Bookings forms are available on a first come first served basis. Call 01543 877666 for further information.
7 to 11 year olds can take part in art workshops with a spooky theme at the Museum of Cannock Chase during the October half term holiday! On Monday 23rd October youngsters can make their own creepy Halloween banners. Sessions cost just £2
Half Term Halloween Fun - Mysterious Mobiles
24 October 2006
Workshops between 10am - 12pm and 1pm and 3pm
The Museum of Cannock Chase, Valley Rd, Hednesford, WS12 1TD. Booking forms are available on a first come first served basis. For more information please call 01543 877666
7 to 11 year olds can take part in art workshops with a spooky theme at the Museum of Cannock Chase during the October half term. On Tuesday 24th October youngsters will have the opportunity to create their own Mysterious Mobiles!! Sessions are just £2.
Half Term Halloween Fun - Ghostly Get Up
25 October 2006
Workshops between 10am - 12pm and 1pm and 3pm
The Museum of Cannock Chase, Valley Rd, Hednesford, WS12 1TD. Booking forms are available on a first come first served basis. Please call 01543 877666 for further information.
7 to 11 year old can take part in art workshoips with a spooky theme at the Museum of Cannock Chase during the October half term. On Wednesday 25th October youngsters will design and make their very own witch and wizard outfits at the Ghostly Get Ups workshop. Sessions cost just £2.
Halloween at Shugborough
27 October 2006
6pm
Shugborough, Near Stafford. Follow the brown signs from the M6 Junction 13. Call 01889 881388 for advance bookings
Dust down your broomstick and prepare yourself for the spookiest event of the year with Halloween hocus pocus in the haunted Mansion House and ghostly goings on in the ghoulish Servants' Quarters.
Halloween at Shugborough
28 October 2006
6pm
Shugborough, Near Stafford. Follow the brown signs from the M6 Junction 13. Call 01889 881388 for advance bookings
Dust down your broomstick and prepare yourself for the spookiest event of the year with Halloween hocus pocus in the haunted Mansion House and ghostly goings on in the ghoulish Servants' Quarters.
Christmas Fayre
18 November 2006
11am-4pm
The Wolseley Centre Wolseley Bridge Stafford ST17 0WT 01889 880100
Christmas Fair at the Wolseley Centre. A range of stalls offering a wide choice of gifts and handmade crafts
Christmas Fayre
19 November 2006
11am-4pm
The Wolseley Centre Wolseley Bridge Stafford ST17 0WT 01889 880100
Christmas Fair at the Wolseley Centre. A range of stalls offering a wide choice of gifts and handmade crafts
Orienteering Club training
25 November 2006
10.30am
Satnall Hills quarry car park For more information contact visit www.walton-chasers.co.uk or Jane Christopher on 01785 660133
Walton Chasers Orienteering Club are holding a small scale training event at Satnall Hills. Experienced club members will be there to help those who want to find out more about orienteering.
Christmas Family Day
03 December 2006
12 noon until 4pm
The Museum of Cannock Chase, Valley Road, Hednesford, Staffordshire. Tel: 01543 877666
Christmas Crafts for everyone to make and take home! ‘Christmas past, Christmas presents’ Share your memories of Christmas from the past. Visit our Coal Mine Santa! A Wartime Christmas. Make your own Christmas Music with the Music Man. Buy your gifts for Christmas. Festive Food. FREE ADMISSION FOR ALL!
Walton Chasers Mountain Bike Event
16 December 2006
See contact details
Pepperslade. Please contact Mark Stodgell on 01785 663888 for further details.
Come and join the Waltomn Chaser on Cannock Chase AONB for a unique Mountain Biking experience. Extra help and guidance will be available from coaches and more experienced members.
Orienteering Club training
17 December 2006
10am
Rifle Range at Pepperslade. For more information please visit www.walton-chasers.co.uk or contact Jane Christopher on 01785 660133
Walton Chasers Orienteering Club will be holding a small scale training event at Rifle Range at Pepperslade. Experienced club members will be there to help those who want to learn more about orienteering. Most courses last around 30 minutes.
Walton Chasers District Event
17 December 2006
10.30 am - 12.30pm
Pepperslade. Please contact Dave Brown on 01827 51380 for more details.
A medium scale event offering a full range of colour coded orienteering courses, varying in length and difficulty, with course suitable for all abilities.
Christmas Tree Recycling
06 January 2007
11am-4pm
Birches Valley Forest Centre Lady Hill Birches Valley Rugeley Staffordshire WS15 2UQ 01889 586593
Don't put your tree out for the bin men, bring it to Birches Valley where we will chip it up and re-use it
Christmas Tree Recycling
07 January 2007
11am-4pm
Birches Valley Forest Centre Lady Hill Birches Valley Rugeley WS15 2UQ 01889 586593
Don't put your tree out for the bin men, bring it to Birches Valley where we will chip it up and re-use it
Walton Chasers Local Event
13 January 2007
10.30am - 11.30am
Satnall Hills Contact Deb Ryde on 01785 664948 for more details.
A small scale event which offers a small number of courses varying in difficulty. This event is aimed at local newcomers and experienced coaches and club members will be on hand to offer advice.
Walton Chasers Regional Event
11 February 2007
10.30 am - 12.30pm
Sherbrook Please contact Rod Niven on 01785 662486 for more details.
A large scale event offering a range of badge courses, grading according to age and gender. Badge courses are usually pre entry only, so please contact the event organiser for more details.
Crafts in the Forest - Natural Paper Making
11 February 2007
10am-1pm
Birches Valley Forest Centre Lady Hill, Birches Valley, Rugeley, WS15 2UQ 01889 586593
Come and learn how to make paper using natural materials, ideal for card and book making. Open to all aged 16 years and over. The cost is just £8 per person, which includes all materials. Booking is essential on the number provided.
The Wildlife of Cannock Chase
15 February 2007
7.30pm
Rambler's Retreat, Red Road, Alton ST10 4BX
An illustrated talk by Philip Armshaw along with a children's competition. Please call 01538 702587 for more details.
Walton Chasers Local Event
17 February 2007
10.30am - 11.30am
Satnall Hills Please contact Deb Ryde on 01785 664948 for further details
A small scale orienteering event which offers a small number of courses of varying difficulty. If you are a newcomer to the sport of orienteering then this event is for you! Experienced club members and coaches will be on hand to give advice.
Crafts in the Forest - Willow Weaving Day
18 February 2007
10am-4pm
Birches alley Forest Centre, Lady Hill, Birches Valley, Rugeley, WS15 2UQ 01889 586593
This day long workshop will allow you not only to learn the basic skills of willow weaving but also to take your creation home and watch it grow! Open to all aged 16 years and above. The cost is just £45 including lunch and materials. Booking is essential, please call the number provided.
Bird Box Day
20 February 2007
10.30 - noon
Birches Valley Forest Centre Lady Hill, Birches Valley, Rugeley, WS15 2UQ 01889 586593
A family fun day for half term. Come along and build a bird box for your, or a friend's, garden. This event is open to all ages, however children under the age of 7 years be accompanied by an adult. The cost of the event is £5 per bird box. Booking is essential, please call the number provided.
Bird Box Day
21 February 2007
10.30 - noon
Birches Valley Forest Centre Lady Hill, Birches Valley Rugeley, WS15 2UQ 01889 586593
A family fun day for half term. Come along and build a bird box for your, or a friend's, garden. This event is open to all, however children under the age of 7 years must be accompanied by an adult. The cost of this event is £5 per bird box. Booking is essential, please call the number provided.
Crafts in the Forest - Basic Felt Making
04 March 2007
10am - 1pm
Birches Valley Forest Centre Lady Hill, Birches Valley Rugeley, WS15 2UQ 01889 586593
Discover how felt is made and have a go yourself! Jewlery, bags, pots and hats - the possibilities are endless! This event is open to those over 16 years old. This event cost £8 including refreshments and materials. Booking is essential, please call the number provided.
Walton Chasers Local Event
24 March 2007
10.30am - 11.30am
Satnall Hills Please contact Deb Ryde on 01785 664948 for more details
A small scale orienteering event which offers a small number of courses of varying difficulty. If you are a newcomer to the sport of orienteering then this event is for you! Experienced club members and coaches will be on hand to give advice.
Walton Chasers Mountain Bike Event
31 March 2007
Contact organiser for more details
Fairoak and Hednesford Camp Please contact Mark Stodgell on 01785 663888 for more information.
A low key orienteering event...with a difference! You will experience orienteering on your mountain bike! This event has fixed courses ranging from those suitable for novices to experienced mountain bikers and orienteers.
Kidz Only Forest Fun
02 April 2007
10.30 am - 12.30pm
Birches Valley Forest Centre Lady Hill, Birches Valley Rugeley WS15 2UQ 01889 586593
If you are aged between 8 and 11 years old and would like to spend part of your Easter holidays in the forest then this could be for you. Sorry parents, this is for children only! Learn how to use forest tools, make shelters, do some forest cooking, play games and make lots of new friends. Cost - £40 for all four mornings (2nd, 3rd, 4th and 5th April 2007) Numbers are limited so please book early.
Easter Egg Hunt
07 April 2007
noon - 3pm
Birches Valley Forest Centre Lady Hill, Birches Valley, Rugeley WS15 2UQ 01889 586593
Come along and explore the forest in search of clues to gain your chocolate surprise. Age - 2-12 all children should be accompanied by an adult. Cost - £3.50 per person
Wear your Wellies in the Wood!
11 April 2007
10.30 - noon
Birches Valley Forest Centre Lady Hill, Birches Valley Rugeley, WS15 2UQ 01889 586593
A morning of welly themed fun for all the family in the Easter holidays - make sure you wear yours! Children under 7 years of age must be accompanied by an adult. This event costs £3.50 per person. Booking is essential, please call the number provided.
Spring Walks
14 April 2007
8am
Birches Valley Forest Centre Lady Hill, Birches Valley Rugeley WS15 2UQ 01889 586593
Come and learn about the emerging wildlife in the forest on this morning stroll with a wildlife ranger. Cost - £5 per person including a bacon sandwich/veggie alternative. Booking is essential so please call the number provided.
Night life in the Forest
07 June 2007
9pm start
Birches Valley Forest Centre Lady Hill, Birches Valley Rugleley, WS15 2UQ 01889 586593
Learn about the secret night life of Cannock Forest. See thriving populations of bats and nightjars with an experienced ranger as your guide. Wrap up warm as you may be out in the forest for a couple of hours. Everyone is of course welcome to this event, however please be advised that is not geared towards children. Cost - £4 per person Booking is essential so please call the number provided.
Summer Family Day
10 June 2007
12 noon - 4 pm
Museum of Cannock Chase, Valley Road, Hednesford, Staffordshire WS12 1TD, tel: 01543 877666
Puppet fun for all the family, presented as part of the Dynamics 07 International Puppetry Festival in partnership with the Museum of Cannock Chase.
Night life in the Forest
14 June 2007
9pm start
Birches Valley Forest Centre Lady Hill, Birches Valley Rugeley WS15 2UQ 01889 586593
Learn about the secret night life of Cannock Forest. See thriving populations of bats and nightjars with an experienced ranger as your guide. Wrap up warm as you may be out in the forest for a couple of hours. Everyone is of course welcome to this event, however please be advised that is not geared towards children. Cost - £4 per person Booking is essential so please call the number provided
Night life in the Forest
21 June 2007
9pm start
Birches Valley Forest Centre Lady Hill, Birches Valley Rugeley WS15 2UQ 01889 586593
Learn about the secret night life of Cannock Forest. See thriving populations of bats and nightjars with an experienced ranger as your guide. Wrap up warm as you may be out in the forest for a couple of hours. Everyone is of course welcome to this event, however please be advised that is not geared towards children. Cost - £4 per person Booking is essential so please call the number provided
Nature Day on Cannock Chase
24 June 2007
11.00am - 3.00pm
Cannock Chase Visitor Centre, Marquis Drive, Hednesford, Cannock, Staffordshire WS12 4PW. Tel: 01543 871773
Join Staffordshire County Council Ranger Service for lots of fun including pond dipping, mask making, face painting and bug hunts. Cost £2 per child, adults free!
Night life in the Forest
28 June 2007
9pm start
Birches Valley Forest Centre Lady Hill, Birches Valley Rugeley WS15 2UQ 01889 586593
Learn about the secret night life of Cannock Forest. See thriving populations of bats and nightjars with an experienced ranger as your guide. Wrap up warm as you may be out in the forest for a couple of hours. Everyone is of course welcome to this event, however please be advised that is not geared towards children. Cost - £4 per person Booking is essential so please call the number provided
Cross Chase Walk & Ride
01 July 2007
10:30am - 2:30pm
Punchbowl Car Park on the A513.
Enjoy a 5-mile walk across Cannock Chase AONB beginning at the Punchbowl and arriving at Cannock Chase Visitor Centre at lunchtime. Experience a trip in a landrover back over the Chase in the afternoon. Prior booking required by 30th June 2007, cost £5. Contact Staffordshire County Council Ranger Service, 01543 871773
Mini Beast Hunt
08 July 2007
2.00pm
Cannock Chase Visitor Centre, Marquis Drive, Hednesford, Cannock, Staffordshire WS12 4PW.
Learn about the creepy crawlies and bugs that live on Cannock Chase AONB. Staffordshire County Council Ranger Service event, booking required by 7th July 2007, cost: children £2, adults free! Contact 01543 871773.
Folklore in the Forest
15 September 2007
11am - 1pm
Birches Valley Forest Centre Lady Hill, Birches Valley, Rugeley, WS15 2UQ 01889 586593
Come and discover the secrets of the forest through stories, recipes and amazing facts. This event is suitable for all, but is best suited to adults. Cost - £5 per person Booking is essential, please call the number provided.
Beginners Guide to Fungi
14 October 2007
11:00am
Meet at Satnall Hills Car Park.
A beginners guide to the fascinating world of fungi found on Cannock chase. This is not a picking walk. Enjoy the sights and sounds of Autumn. This is a Staffordshire County Council Ranger-led walk, which is multi-terrain with some gradients. Cost £2 per adult, children free. Contact 01543 871773 for further details.
Autumn Colours Walk
20 October 2007
10.30am
Beaudesert Car Park Cannock Wood, Rugeley WS15 4JJ 01889 586593
Join rangers on this moderate, 2 hour walk through Beaudesert Old Park, the southern end of Cannock Chase Forest. Climb up to Castle Ring to take in the views and discover the history of the Kitchen Garden. Cost - £3 per person Booking is essential so please call the number provided.
Crafts in the Forest - Natural Dyes
20 October 2007
10am - 1pm
Birches Valley Forest Centre Lady Hill, Birches Valley Rugeley WS15 2UQ 01889 586593
Onion skins, nettles and berries, not a witch's brew but all sources of natural dyes. Come and learn more. Age group - 16+ Cost - £8 including refreshments Booking is essential so please call the number provided
Cross Chase Walk & Ride
21 October 2007
10:30am - 2:30pm
Meet at the Punchbowl Car Park on A513.
Enjoy a 5 mile walk across Cannock Chase beginning at the Punchbowl and arriving at Cannock Chase Visitor Centre for lunchtime. Experience a trip in a landrover back over the Chase in the afternoon. Prior booking required by 20th October 2007. This is a Staffordshire County Council Ranger-led walk, which is multi-terrain with some gradients. Cost £5. Contact 01543 871773 for further details.
Halloween Family Fun
23 October 2007
10.30 - noon
Birches Valley Forest Centre Lady Hill, Birches Valley Rugeley WS15 2UQ 01889 586593
Come and join the education team in preparing for the spooky days ahead. Bring along a pumpkin to make a lantern, masks and more! Children under 7 years old must be accompanied by an adult. Cost - £3.50 per person Booking is essential, so please call the number provided.
Halloween Family Fun
24 October 2007
10.30 - noon
Birches Valley Forest Centre Lady Hill, Birches Valley Rugeley WS15 2UQ 01889 586593
Come and join the education team in preparing for the spooky days ahead. Bring along a pumpkin to make a lantern, masks and more! Children under 7 years old must be accompanied by an adult. Cost - £3.50 per person Booking is essential, so please call the number provided.
Halloween Horrors
31 October 2007
Various start times
Birches Valley Forest Centre, Lady Hill, Birches Valley Rugeley, WS15 2UQ 01889 586593
Dare you brave the forest in the dark on Halloween night? Eerie happenings await around every corner of this nocturnal trek. Tickets on sale in advance only. This event is not suitable for children under 7 years of age. The event costs £6.50 per person, this includes car parking and BBQ. Book early to avoid disappointment on the number provided.
The Trig-Points of Cannock Chase Country Park
04 November 2007
10:00am
Meet at the Whitehouse Car Park, Penkridge Bank Road.
Visit the high sopts either side of the Sherbrook Valley and enjoy the panoramas from these vantage points. This is a Staffordshire County Council Ranger-led walk, which is multi-terrain with some gradients. Cost £2 per adult, children free. Contact 01543 871773 for further details.
Winter Visitors to the Chase
25 November 2007
2.00pm
Meet at Cannock Chase Visitor Centre, Marquis Drive, Hednesford, Staffs.
Come and identify the migrant and residnet birds which flock to the feeding station at Cannock Chase Visitor Centre. Prior booking required by 24th November 2007. This is a Staffordshire County Council Ranger-led event, cost £2 per adult, children free. Contact 01543 871773 for further details.
Crafts in the Forest - Weaving
30 November 2007
10am - 1pm
Birches Valley Forest Centre Lady Hill, Birches Valley Rugeley WS15 2UQ 01889 586593
Discover the difference between warp and weft. Have a go at weaving techniques you could do at home to create beautiful things without lots of equipment and expense. Age group - 16+ Cost £8 including refreshments Booking is essential, so please call the number provided.
Christmas Tree Sales
01 December 2007
9am - 6pm
Forestry Commission, Birches Valley Forest Centre, Rugeley, Staffordshire WS12 2UQ. Tel: 01889 586593
Come along to the Forestry Commission's premier Christmas experience during December. Choose your forest fresh tree from the thousands of sustainably produced trees on show. Browse through a large variety of high quality decorations and gifts. Refreshments and free parking. Trees on sale until 22nd December.
Christmas Tree Sales
01 December 2007
11am - 3pm
Cannock Chase Visitor Centre, Marquis Drive, Hednesford, Staffordshire WS12 4PW. Tel: 01543 871773
Every Christmas Tree purchased helps to protect the future of Cannock Chase. Two free hot drinks from the Visitor Centre Cafe with every tree purchased. Weekday times 11:00am-3:00pm, Saturday & Sunday 10:00am-4:00pm.
Christmas Family Day
02 December 2007
12 noon - 4pm
Museum of Cannock Chase, Valley Road, Hednesford, Cannock, Staffordshire WS12 1TD Tel: 01543 877666
A variety of festive activities for all the family. The Museum is open for one day only and you will have a sneaky peak at the new extension. Admission for the event is free and there is no need to book. Activities include: · Crafty Christmas drop-in art workshop · Punch and Judy shows at 1pm and 3pm · Christmas Past, Christmas Presents exhibition of toys from days gone by · A Wartime Christmas – meet a 40s housewife as she prepares her front room for the festive period · Visit the Coal Mine Santa and Elf · Gifts galore – buy toys, books and souvenirs for Christmas As the Museum is currently undergoing refurbishment work, the Coffee Shop will not be open. Apart from the Christmas Family Fun Day, the Museum is currently closed for the refurbishment until Easter 2008.
Christmas at Shugborough
05 December 2007
5pm - 9pm
Shugborough, Milford, Stafford ST17 0XB
Step into a magical Christmas Card scene at Shugborough’s Famous Candlelit Christmas Evenings December 5, 6, 7, 8. Book online at Shugborough.org.uk or call the ticket hotline on 0845 225 6020
Management Plan Review Consultation
05 December 2007
1:30pm - 4:30pm
Walton Village Hall,Green Gore Lane, Walton on the Hill, Stafford. Contact Cannock Chase AONB Unit for for information on 01889 882613.
Have your say on Cannock Chase Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty Management Plan. Have you seen the management plan? Does it need changing? Does anything need to be added or removed? Come along to our consultation day and give us your views.
Healthy Hearts Walk
06 December 2007
10:45am (11am start)
Birches Valley Forest Centre, Rugeley, Staffordshire WS15 2UQ. Tel: 01889 586593
Join rangers on a gentle stroll from the forest centre. Regular gentle exercise can help reduce your chances of heart disease, reduce blood pressure, tone muscles and help control your weight. Meet new friends, learn about the forest, seasons and wildlife.
Christmas Tree Sales
07 December 2007
11am - 3pm
Cannock Chase Visitor Centre, Marquis Drive, Hednesford, Staffordshire WS12 4PW
Every Christmas tree purchased helps to protect the future of Cannock Chase. Two free hot drinks from the Visitor Centre Cafe with every tree purchased. Weekday opening 11am-3pm, weekends 10am-4pm.
Christmas Tree Sales
10 December 2007
9am - 6pm
Birches Valley Forest Centre, Rugeley, Staffordshire, WS15 2UQ. Tel: 01889 586593
Come along to the Forestry Commission's premier Christmas experience during December. Choose your forest fresh tree from the thousands of sustainably produced trees on show. Browse through a large variety of high quality decorations and gifts. Refreshments and free parking. Open daily 1st - 20th December, 9am - 6pm and until 8pm on 6th, 7th, 13th and 14th December
Christmas Tree Sales
20 December 2007
9am - 6pm
Birches Valley Forest Centre, Rugeley, Staffordshire WS15 2UQ. Tel: 01889 586593
Come along to the Forestry Commission's premier Christmas experience up to 20th December. Choose your forest fresh tree from the thousands of sustainably produced trees on show. Browse through a large variety of high quality decorations and gifts. Refreshments and free parking.
Christmas Tree Sales
20 December 2007
11am - 3pm
Cannock Chase Visitor Centre, Marquis Drive, Hednesford, Staffordshire WS12 4PW. Tel: 01543 871773
While stocks last, from 1st December. Two free hot drinks from the Visitor Centre Cafe with every tree purchased. Every Christmas Tree purchased helps to protect the future of Cannock Chase.
Get Fit After Christmas
06 January 2008
10:00am start, return 3:00pm
Meet at Milford Common Car Park, Milford, near Stafford
Burn those excess calories off on this 10 mile trip to Cannock Chase Visitor Centre. Staffordshire County Council Ranger led multi-terrain walk (some gradients). Cost £2 per adult, children free. Contact number for further details 01543 871773.
Orienteering on Cannock Chase
19 January 2008
10:30-11:30am start times
Satnall Hills, A513 Stafford to Rugeley Road, east of Shugborough main entrance.
Mini local event organised by Walton Chasers. Come and try or practice orienteering. Individual help and suitable courses for beginners. See www.walton-chasers.co.uk for further details.
Cross Chase Walk & Ride
20 January 2008
10:00am
Puncbowl Car Park on A513 between Milford and Wolseley Bridge. Telephone Staffordshire County Council Rangers to book on 01543 871773.
Enjoy a 5-mile walk across Cannock Chase beginning at the Punchbowl and arriving at Cannock Chase Visitor Centre for lunchtime. Experience a trip in a landrover back over the Chase in the Afternoon. Prior booking required by 19th January 2008. Walk is multi-terrain, with some gradients. Cost is £5.00.
Orienteering on Cannock Chase
09 February 2008
10:30-11:30am start times
A513 Stafford to Rugeley Road, east of Shugborough main entrance.
Mini local event organised by Walton Chasers. Come and try or practice orienteering. Individual help and suitable courses for beginners. See www.walton-chasers.co.uk for further details.
Bird Box Days - Forest Funday
12 February 2008
10:30am - noon
Birches Valley Forest Centre, Rugeley, Staffordshire WS15 2UQ. Tel: 01889 586593
A Family Fun day for half term. Come along and take part in this fun hands-on activity. Build a bird box, make bird cake and much more. Event on 13th also. Booking essential, £5 per box.
The Great War Trail
17 February 2008
2:00pm
Meet at Coppice Hill Car Park, Chase Road, Brocton.
An opportunity to tread the path of the First World War soldier and learn about the military history of the Chase. Staffordshire County Council Ranger Service led walk, multi terrain, some gradients. Cost £2 per adult, children free. Contact the Ranger Service on 01543 871773 for further details.
Management Plan Review Consultation
18 February 2008
2:00pm - 6:00pm
Huntington Community Centre, Stafford Road, Huntington, Cannock, Staffordshire. Contact Chase AONB Unit for information on 01889 882613.
Have your say on Cannock Chase Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty Management Plan. Have you seen the management plan? Does it need changing? Does anything need to be added or removed? Come along to our consultation day and give us your views.
Put a Spring in your Step
09 March 2008
10:00am
Meet at Cannock Chase Visitor Centre, Marquis Drive, Hednesford.
5 mile walk as the Chase wakes up for Spring. Staffordshire County Council Ranger Service led walk, multi terrain, some gradients. Cost £2 per adult, children free. Contact the Ranger Service on 01543 871773 for further details.
Annual Easter Sunday Spring Walk
23 March 2008
2:00pm
Meet at Coppice Hill Car Park, off Chase Road, Brocton.
Easter Sunday Heathlands and Woodlands walk over Cannock Chase. Staffordshire County Council Ranger Service led walk, multi terrain, some gradients. Cost £2 per adult, children free. Contact the Ranger Service on 01543 871773 for further details.
Easter Eggspedition!
24 March 2008
12 noon - 3pm
Birches Valley Forest Centre, Nr Rugeley, Staffs WS15 2UQ, tel: 01889 586593.
Bring the family and explore Cannock forest in search of hidden clues to win your chocolate surprise. Come anytine between 12noon and 3pm, cost £3.50 per person.
Easter Surprise!
26 March 2008
10:30am - noon
Birches Valley Forest Centre, Nr Rugeley, Staffs WS15 2UQ.
Forest Funday. Come and join the education team for a morning of fun seasonal crafts and activities. Booking essential, contact 01889 586593, cost £3.50 per person.
Grand Kids!
28 March 2008
10:30am - noon
Birches Valley Forest Centre, Nr Rugeley, Staffs WS15 2UQ, tel: 01889 586593
Forest Fun Day. A perfect morning for children and their Grandparents to discover the secrets of the forest. Take part in a woodland walk and meet one of our top Wildlife Rangers. Cost £3.50 per child.
Feathered Finery
30 March 2008
2:00pm
Meet at Cannock Chase Visitor Centre, Marquis Drive, Hednesford, Staffs WS12 4PW
View the birds in their breeding plumage and see the migrants preparing for that long journey. This is a Staffordshire County Council Ranger Service Event, cost £2 per adult, children free. Contact 01543 871773 for further information.
Wear Your Wellies in the Wood!
01 April 2008
10:30am - noon
Birches Valley Forest Centre, Nr Rugeley, Staffs WS15 2UQ.
Forest Funday. Come along and take part in lots of great forest activities. Explore the woods and prepare to get muddy! Forestry Commission event, cost £3.50 per child, contact 01889 586593 for further information.
Spring Walk
13 April 2008
10:30-11:30am
Birches Valley Forest Centre, Nr Rugeley, Staffs WS15 2UQ
Join a Forestry Commission Wildlife Ranger and learn about the emerging wildlife in the forest. Forestry Commission event, booking essential, cost £5 per person, contact 01889 586593.
Long Distance Ramble on Cannock Chase
20 April 2008
10:00am or 1:00pm
Meet at Cannock Chase Visitor Centre, Marquis Drive, Hednesford, Staffs WS12 4PW
2 x 5 mile circular walks from the Visitor Centre, so do all 10 miles or either of the 5 miles. Bring packed lunch, all weather clothing, stout shoes/boots. Staffordshire County Council Ranger Service led walk, multi-terrain, some gradients. Cost £2 per adult, children free. Contact the Rangers on 01543 871773 for futher details.
Cross Chase Walk & Ride
27 April 2008
10:30am - 2:30pm
Meet at the Punchbowl Car Par on A513, between Milford and Wolseley Bridge.
Enjoy a 5 mile walk across Cannock Chase beginning at the Punchbowl and arriving at Cannock Chase Visitor Centre for lunchtime. Experience a trip in a landrover back over the Chase in the afternoon. Staffordshire County Council Ranger Service led walk, multi-terrain, some gradients. Booking essential by 26th April 2008, Cost £5 per person. Contact the Rangers on 01543 871773 for futher details.
ROGATION SUNDAY 2008
27 April 2008
1:30pm
Meet at Shugborough Park Farm, Milford, Nr Stafford ST17 0XB
3 ½ mile circular walk. Open air church service, followed by sunflower seed planting for the children and free refreshments to be provided by The Granary, Shugborough Farm. Dogs welcome if kept on a lead. All children must be accompanied and supervised by a parent or guardian. Contact: 01889 882665
Wildlife Gardening Weekend
03 May 2008
11am - 5pm
The Wolseley Centre, Wolseley Bridge, Staffordshire ST17 0WT
3-day event from 3rd -5th May. Discover how to create a haven for wildlife in your own garden. Learn practical tips from a range of wildlife experts that can be used to benefit wildlife in your own back yard. For more information please call the Wolseley Centre Reception on 01889 880100.
Wildlife Gardening Weekend - Guided Walk
04 May 2008
11am - 5pm
The Wolseley Centre, Wolseley Bridge, Staffordshire ST17 0WT
Linked to the Wildlife Gardening Weekend, guided walk, £2 donation per person. Further details from The Wolseley Centre Reception on 01889 880100
Litter Pick
08 May 2008
9.30am - 12 noon
Starting from the John O'Leary Education Centre, Cannock Chase Visitor Centre, Marquis Drive, Hednesford, Staffs WS12 4PW
Following on from the successful Autumn Sweep, we will be joining one of Staffordshire County Council's Rangers to clear some of the litter which builds up on the Country Park. Litter picks, gloves and bags will be provided. Contact Emma at the AONB Unit for further information (01889 882613).
Canine Community Caring for Cannock Chase AONB
10 May 2008
11am - 4pm
Birches Valley Forest Centre, Near Rugeley, Staffordshire WS15 2UQ.
A fun and informative day for all canines and their owners. For more information contact the AONB Unit or see the leaflet on the publications, leaflet section on the website. Paper copies available from the AONB Unit.
Evening Walk on Brindley Heath
11 May 2008
7:00pm
Meet at Cannock Chase Visitor Centre, Marquis Drive, Hednesford, Staffs WS12 4PW
Evening Walk through the heathlands and woodlands in the shade of the evening.Multi terrain walk with some gradients. Staffordshire County Council Rangers led walk, cost £2 per adult. Contact 01543 871773 fr further details.
Chasewater Awareness Day
21 May 2008
9:30am - 4:00pm
Meet at Shugborough Car Park, then coach to Chasewater Innovation Centre.
Walk around the lake and bird box making with members of the Forest of Mercia Project Team. Learn more about this interesting site just outside the AONB boundary. £10 charge includes coach and lunch. Limited numbers, booking essnetial, contact Emma on 01889 882613.
Grand Kids! Forest Fun Day
28 May 2008
10:30am - noon
Birches Valley Forest Centre, Nr Rugeley, Staffordshire WS15 2UQ
Another chance for children and their Grandparents to discover the secrets of the forest. Take part in a woodland walk and meet one of the Forestry Commission's top Wildlife Rangers. Cost £3.50 per child. Further inforamtion contact 01889 586593
Natural History of Brocton Local Nature Reserve
01 June 2008
2:30pm
Meet at Bednall Belt Car Park
Wildfowl on the lake and wildlife of the surrounding woodlands and heathlands. Staffordshire County Council Ranger led walk, multi-terrain, some gradients. Cost £2 per adult, children free. Contact 01543 871773 for further details.
Wolseley Centre Food & Beer Festival
07 June 2008
11am-11pm
The Wolseley Centre, Wolseley Bridge, Stafford ST17 0WT
11am to 5pm - A unique opportunity to come and see what foods are on offer from local, organic and fair trade producers. 11am to 11pm - You can also sample a wide variety of speciality beers from around the country and relax in the 26 acres around the Wolseley Centre. Live music throughout the day and evening. £2 admission fee all day.
Nature Day on Cannock Chase
22 June 2008
11am - 3pm
Cannock Chase Visitor Centre, Marquis Drive, Hednesford, Staffordshire WS12 4PW
Join Staffordshire County Council Rangers for lots of fun including pond dipping, mask making, face painting and bug hunts. Cost £2 per child, adults free. Contact 01543 871773 for further details.
Pond Dipping
20 July 2008
2:30pm
Cannock Chase Visitor Centre, Marquis Drive, Hednesford, Staffs WS12 4PW
Welcome to the wonderful world of whirligigs, nymphs and newts! Children £2, adults free. Contact Staffordshire County Council Ranger Service on 01543 871773 for further details. Wellies recommended!
Farm Walk & Barbecue
21 July 2008
9:30am - 1:00pm
Beaudesert Park Farm, Beaudesert, Nr Rugeley, Staffs
Join us on a tour of this mixed cereal and cattle farm, which also includes historical parkland, designed by Humphrey Repton, woodland and arable fields. The tour will take approximately 2 hours and will be followed by a barbecue lunch. Cost £5 to cover lunch, booking essential, contact Emma at the AONB Unit for further details (01889 882613)
That’s the Way to Do It!
23 July 2008
10:00am to midday and 1pm to 3pm
Museum of Cannock Chase, Valley Road, Hednesford, Staffs WS12 1TD
Young artists will be getting creative at the Museum of Cannock Chase during this summer holiday taking part in a series of fun workshops. Workshops cost £3.00 per child and will be allocated on a first come first served basis. Each child can book for up to two workshops. For more information please contact Cannock Chase Museum on 01543 877666 between 11am and 4pm weekdays, or you can pick a form up at the museum. Booking forms can also be downloaded from the museum's website at www.cannockchasedc.gov.uk. Seven to 11-year-olds can attend up to two workshops and choose a morning session from 10am to midday or afternoon from 1pm to 3pm.
Summer Forest Fundays - Wear Your Wellies in the Woods event
28 July 2008
10:30am - noon
Birches Valley Forest Centre, Nr Rugeley, Staffordshire WS15 2UQ
A set of fun filled activities for all the family throughout the summer holidays on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 21st July to 1st September 2008. Pirate treasure hunts, dinosaur days and much more! Contact 01889 586593 for further details. Cost £3.50 per child.
Minibeast Safari - an event for the kids!
30 July 2008
2:00pm
Cannock Chase Visitor Centre, Marquis Drive, Hednesford, Staffs WS12 4PW
Learn about creepy crawlies and bugs that live on Cannock Chase. Contact Staffordshire County Council Ranger Service on 01543 871773 for further details.
Bug Rugs - Make 3D bug pictures using colourful material
30 July 2008
10:00am to midday and 1pm to 3pm
Museum of Cannock Chase, Valley Road, Hednesford, Staffs WS12 1TD
Young artists will be getting creative at the Museum of Cannock Chase during this summer holiday taking part in a series of fun workshops. Workshops cost £3.00 per child and will be allocated on a first come first served basis. Each child can book for up to two workshops. For more information please contact Cannock Chase Museum on 01543 877666 between 11am and 4pm weekdays, or you can pick a form up at the museum. Booking forms can also be downloaded from the museum's website at www.cannockchasedc.gov.uk. Seven to 11-year-olds can attend up to two workshops and choose a morning session from 10am to midday or afternoon from 1pm to 3pm.
Summer Forest Fundays - Wear Your Wellies in the Woods event
30 July 2008
10:30am - noon
Birches Valley Forest Centre, Nr Rugeley, Staffordshire WS15 2UQ
A set of fun filled activities for all the family throughout the summer holidays on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 21st July to 1st September 2008. Pirate treasure hunts, dinosaur days and much more! Contact 01889 586593 for further details. Cost £3.50 per child.
Summer Forest Fundays - Wear Your Wellies in the Woods event
01 August 2008
10:30am - noon
Birches Valley Forest Centre, Nr Rugeley, Staffordshire WS15 2UQ
A set of fun filled activities for all the family throughout the summer holidays on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 21st July to 1st September 2008. Pirate treasure hunts, dinosaur days and much more! Contact 01889 586593 for further details. Cost £3.50 per child.
A Beginners Guide to Damsels & Dragonflies
03 August 2008
2:30pm
Sister Dora Car Park, Milford Common
Join Staffordshire County Council Ranger Service for an informed strol around some of Cannock Chase's pools to see these beautiful insects. Also, a chance for children to design and make a dragonfly. Cost £2 per adult, children free. Contact the Rangers on 01543 871773 for further details.
Beautiful Butterflies - Creating bright and sparkly butterfly masks
06 August 2008
10:00am to midday and 1pm to 3pm
Museum of Cannock Chase, Valley Road, Hednesford, Staffs WS12 1TD
Young artists will be getting creative at the Museum of Cannock Chase during this summer holiday taking part in a series of fun workshops. Workshops cost £3.00 per child and will be allocated on a first come first served basis. Each child can book for up to two workshops. For more information please contact Cannock Chase Museum on 01543 877666 between 11am and 4pm weekdays, or you can pick a form up at the museum. Booking forms can also be downloaded from the museum's website at www.cannockchasedc.gov.uk. Seven to 11-year-olds can attend up to two workshops and choose a morning session from 10am to midday or afternoon from 1pm to 3pm.
Forestry Walk
07 August 2008
9:00am - 12:00 noon
Birches Valley Forest Centre, Nr Rugeley, Staffs WS15 2UQ
Come for a walk around Birches Valley and learn about the management of the area and the species that live there. There will be no cost for the day but there is a coffee shop at Birches Valley if you wish to purchase a drink following the walk. Contact Emma at the AONB Unit to book on 01889 882613.
The Bats of Cannock Chase
07 August 2008
7:15pm
Cannock Chase Visitor Centre, Marquis Drive, Hednesford, Staffs WS12 4PW
A talk and walk on our local flying mammals led by an expert from South East Staffordshire Bat Group. NOTE - if the weather is bad, this event will be cancelled. Prior booking essential, contact Staffordshire County Council Ranger Service on 01543 871773. Cost £2 per adult, children free.
Community Event
09 August 2008
11am - 4pm
Cannock Chase Visitor Centre, Marquis Drive, Hednesford, Staffordshire WS12 4PW
Come and join us at The Anniversary Community Fete, organised by the AONB team and The Friends of Cannock Chase. This is one of the events to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Cannock Chase being designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in 1958 and Friends of Cannock Chase's 60th Anniversary. The Community Fete is one of a range of celebratory events being held this year. Alongside the usual cake stalls, games and competitions there will be guided walks, craft demonstrations and competitions.
Anniversary Barn Dance
09 August 2008
8:00pm - 12 midnight
Cannock Wood & Gentleshaw Village Hall, Buds Road, Cannock Wood, Rugeley, Staffordshire WS15 4NB
Dance the night away at our Anniversary Barn Dance organised by Friends of Cannock Chase and the AONB Team. Tickets are £10 per adult, £5 per child and include a hog roast and for the adults a bottle of AONBeer, brewed by Titanic Brewery. Tickets are limited, so contact Emma or Anne at the AONB Office, 01889 882613 or email cannockchase@staffordshire.gov.uk
Seven Springs and Haywood Warren
10 August 2008
2:30pm
Meet at Seven Springs Car Park off A513 Milford to Wolseley Bridges.
Join Staffordshire County Council Rangers and learn about the history and wildlife of this wooded area of the Chase. Multi-terrain walk with some gradients. Contact 01543 871773 for further details.
Oriental Ornaments - Making decorative Japanese dolls
13 August 2008
10:00am to midday and 1pm to 3pm
Museum of Cannock Chase, Valley Road, Hednesford, Staffs WS12 1TD
Young artists will be getting creative at the Museum of Cannock Chase during this summer holiday taking part in a series of fun workshops. Workshops cost £3.00 per child and will be allocated on a first come first served basis. Each child can book for up to two workshops. For more information please contact Cannock Chase Museum on 01543 877666 between 11am and 4pm weekdays, or you can pick a form up at the museum. Booking forms can also be downloaded from the museum's website at www.cannockchasedc.gov.uk. Seven to 11-year-olds can attend up to two workshops and choose a morning session from 10am to midday or afternoon from 1pm to 3pm.
Photo Finish - Creating a miniature easel frame for your favourite photo
20 August 2008
10:00am to midday and 1pm to 3pm
Museum of Cannock Chase, Valley Road, Hednesford, Staffs WS12 1TD
Young artists will be getting creative at the Museum of Cannock Chase during this summer holiday taking part in a series of fun workshops. Workshops cost £3.00 per child and will be allocated on a first come first served basis. Each child can book for up to two workshops. For more information please contact Cannock Chase Museum on 01543 877666 between 11am and 4pm weekdays, or you can pick a form up at the museum. Booking forms can also be downloaded from the museum's website at www.cannockchasedc.gov.uk. Seven to 11-year-olds can attend up to two workshops and choose a morning session from 10am to midday or afternoon from 1pm to 3pm.
Canock Wood Country Fair
13 September 2008
11 am till 5pm
Cannock wood and Gentleshaw Village Hall
50th Anniversary Celebration
16 September 2008
10:30am till 3pm
Shugborough Hall - marquee
Exciting day at shugborough for people who celebrate their 50th birthday with the AONB. The day is packed with keynote speakers, presentations, buffet lunch, toasts to the AONB and a grande finale of a photograph of all the 50 years olds
Community Litter Pick
25 September 2008
9:30am till 11am
Beaudesert Scout Camp
Come and help the AONB eradicate the rubbish from the countryside. Meet at 9:30am at Beaudesert Scout Camp, Cannock Wood. park in the visitor car park
Two Valleys Walk
05 October 2008
10:30am
Meet at Chase Road Corner Car Park, off Camp Road, Cannock Chase
a 7.5 mile walk over the Oldacre and Sherbrook Valleys. Enjoy spectacluar views and the natural history as well! Staffordshire County Council Ranger-led walk, multi-terrain, some gradients. Cost £2 per adult, children free. Contact the Rangers on 01543 871773 for further details
Beginners Guide to Fungi
12 October 2008
11:00am
Meet at the Punchbowl Car Park (A513 Milford to Wolseley Bridge Road)
A beginners guide to the fascinating world of fungi found on Cannock Chase. This is not a picking walk. Enjoy the sights and sounds of autumn. Staffordshire County Council Ranger-led walk, multi-terrain, some gradients. Cost £2 per adult, children free. Contact the Rangers on 01543 871773 for further details
Hallowe'en Horrors
27 October 2008
10:00am to midday and 1pm to 3pm
Museum of Cannock Chase, Valley Road, Hednesford, Cannock, Staffs WS12 1TD
First of the 'Happy Hallowe'en Half Term Workshops at the Museum. Make Everything you need for a hair-raising Hallowe'en. Workshops are suitable for children aged 7 to 11 and are £3 per head. Booking essential, contact the Museum for a booking form (01543 877666), or download from their website at www.cannockchasedc.gov.uk/museum. Maximum of 2 workshops per child.
Batty Banners
28 October 2008
10:00am to midday and 1pm to 3pm
Museum of Cannock Chase, Valley Road, Hednesford, Cannock, Staffs WS12 1TD
Second of the 'Happy Hallowe'en Half Term Workshops at the Museum. Create spooky Hallowe'en banners decorated with bats, cats, ghosts and pumpkins. Workshops are suitable for children aged 7 to 11 and are £3 per head. Booking essential, contact the Museum for a booking form (01543 877666), or download from their website at www.cannockchasedc.gov.uk/museum. Maximum of 2 workshops per child.
Bouncing Bats
29 October 2008
10:00am start, return 3:00pm
Museum of Cannock Chase, Valley Road, Hednesford, Cannock, Staffs WS12 1TD
Third of the 'Happy Hallowe'en Half Term Workshops' at the Museum. Make blood curdling bouncing bat mobiles to hang around the house. Workshops are suitable for children aged 7 to 11 and are £3 per head. Booking essential, contact the Museum for a booking form (01543 877666), or download from their website at www.cannockchasedc.gov.uk/museum. Maximum of 2 workshops per child.
Windy Ghosts & Light Up Lanterns
30 October 2008
10:00am to midday and 1pm to 3pm
Museum of Cannock Chase, Valley Road, Hednesford, Cannock, Staffs WS12 1TD
Fourth of the 'Happy Hallowe'en Half Term Workshops' at the Museum. Make a spooky windsock ghost to hang in the breeze and scary Hallowe'en lanterns. Workshops are suitable for children aged 7 to 11 and are £3 per head. Booking essential, contact the Museum for a booking form (01543 877666), or download from their website at www.cannockchasedc.gov.uk/museum. Maximum of 2 workshops per child.
HALLOWEEN SPOOKTACULAR
31 October 2008
5pm - 9pm
Shugborough, Milford, Nr Stafford ST17 0XB
Dust down your broomstick and join us for a wizard of an evening with a night of Halloween ‘hocus pocus’ in the Mansion House and Servants’ Quarters. ADVANCE Ticket Prices: Adult £9.00 Seniors/Children/Concessions £7.00 Family £26.00 One Adult & One Child £13 UNDER 5s FREE On the night prices are £1 more so make sure you get you tickets in advance - TICKET HOTLINE 0845 126 0797, or buy online - http://shugborough.cmhosts.net/Halloween-110
Sherbrook Saunter of Autumn
02 November 2008
10:00am
Meet at the Whitehouse Car Park, Penkridge Bank Road
Enjoy the sights and sounds along the Sherbrook Valley. Staffordshire County Council Ranger-led walk, multi-terrain, some gradients. Cost £2 per adult, children free. Contact the Rangers on 01543 871773 for further details
Shugborough Visit
11 November 2008
2pm till 4pm
Shugborough Hall
2pm Arrival 20 mins Schoolroom (Grab your slate and don’t be late as our Victorian school teacher takes you to task in the authentic Shugborough classroom) 20 mins Brewhouse with samples (Meet the Victorian brewer and find out how staff on the estate once receive eight pints a day as part of their wages. Try the historically brewed ale made at the estate today) Cream tea (enjoy a delicious home made cream tea made using locally sourced produce) 4pm Finish. The cost of the day will be £5. Please contact Emma on 01889 882613 or email emma.beaman@staffordshire.gov.uk to book a place
Shugborough Christmas Craft & Food Show
15 November 2008
10:00 am to 5:00pm
Shugborough, Milford, Nr Stafford ST17 0XB
Experience a festive celebration of the very best in crafts, gifts and fine food and wine. You’re sure to find that unique gift, whether it be a special present or simple stocking filler. There entertainment for the kids too including a small fun fair. Adult £5, Children £2, Family £15. Tickets can be purchased online at http://shugborough.cmhosts.net/events-66, then follow the link. This is a 2-day event on the weekend of 15th & 16th November
Winter Visitors to the Chase
23 November 2008
2:00pm
Meet at Cannock Chase Visitors Centre, Marquis Drive, Hednesford
Come and identify the migrant and resident birds which flock to the feeding station at Cannock Chase Visitor Centre. Staffordshire County Council Ranger-led walk, multi-terrain, some gradients. Cost £2 per adult, children free. Contact the Rangers on 01543 871773 for further details
Christmas Family Fun
24 November 2008
10:30am - noon
Birches Valley Forest Centre, Rugeley, Stafordshire WS15 2UQ
Prepare for the festive season ahead together by making cards, decorations and much more. Materials provided. Suitable for all ages but children under 7 must be accompanied by an adult. Cost £4 per person. Booking essential on 01889 586593.
Cannock Chase Wood Turners
01 December 2008
10:00am - 4:00pm
Chasewater Innovation Centre, Chasewater Country Park, Pool Road, Brownhills, WS8 7NL
We are pleased to welcome back the Cannock Chase Wood Turners who will have a selection of work on display throughout the first week in December, The wood turners will be on site at various times throughout the week offering demonstrations and advice. On Saturday 6th and Sunday 7th December between 10.00am and 4.00pm there will be demonstrations and a chance to join in. So come along and find that extra special handmade gift in time for Christmas. For further details contact the Innovation Centre on 01543 370730
Shugborough Candlelit Christmas Evenings
03 December 2008
5pm - 9pm
Shugborough, Milford, Nr Stafford ST17 0XB
The estate is transformed into a magical winter wonderland as the Mansion House and Servants quarters are candlelit and decorated with real flowers, holly and traditional trimmings. Costumed characters will tell the story of Christmases past plus there will be brass bands, carol singers, snow showers, entertainers and a large gift and food marquee. ADVANCE PRICES Adult £10, Concession £7.50, Child £5, Family £28, 1 Adult & 1 Child £13. Season Pass Holders can get 50% off the above prices if tickets are purchased in advance from our box office on 0845 126 0797. On the night prices for everyone are £2 more. This is a 4-night event from 3rd to 6th December.
Christmas Carols at Chasewater Innovation Centre
05 December 2008
11:00am - 12:00noon
Chasewater Innovation Centre, Chasewater Country Park, Pool Road, Brownhills, WS8 7NL
Why not get in the festive spirit early, join us as we celebrate Christmas with a medley of Christmas Carols performed by Norton Canes Primary School Choir. (The event will take place just outside The Innovation Centre, so don’t forget your winter coat!) Contact the Innovation Centre on 01543 370737 for further details.
Festive Fun Day
06 December 2008
1:00pm to 4:00pm
The Wolseley Centre, Wolseley Bridge, Stafford ST17 0WT
Staffordshire Wildlife Trust invites you to their Festive Fun Day. Wrap up warm for outdoor activities including tree dressing, glass painting, natural Christmas decorations and more! Cost £2 per child, children need to be accompanied by adults. Contact Jo or Graham on 01889 880100 for further details.
Carols by Latern Light
06 December 2008
4:15pm
The Wolseley Centre, Wolseley Bridge, Stafford ST17 0WT
Join Staffordshire Wildlife Trust for traditional carols and readings led by Revd Mark Davys from St Michael and All Angels Church, Colwich. The journey starts at the Visitor Centre, then a walk around the grounds of the Wolseley Centre, walking on all ability paths. This will take about 1 hour with drinks and mince pies served on your return. All are welcome, please bring a torch and wear suitable warm clothing and appropriate footwear. If the weather is unsuitable, the carol service will be indoors at the Wolseley Centre. So that enough mince pies are provided, please contact Alison on 01889 880100.
Christmas Family Day
07 December 2008
12 noon - 4pm
Museum of Cannock Chase, Valley Road, Hednesford, Staffs WS12 1TD
Free Admission - No need to book! Festive family fun for all! Fabulously Festive Crafts - Drop-in Art Workshops The Snow Queen- Puppet Shows at 1pm and 2.30pm Christmas Balloon Modelling with Jolly Polly! Find out what's on at Cannock Chase for Christmas…Displays, stalls and activities from local organisations and visitor attractions. Visit our ever-popular Coal Mine Santa and his assistant Elf! Cannock Chase Council Play Rangers - Festive family fun and games! 1940s Yuletide See our wartime front room decorated for Christmas. Gifts Galore - Buy your stocking fillers, local books and souvenirs for Christmas.
Santa at the Farm
13 December 2008
10:00am - 4:00pm
Shugborough Park Farm, Milford, Nr Stafford ST17 0XB
Visit Santa at the fireside in the farmhouse kitchen and receive a small Christmas Decoration made by Santa's elves. See the decorated farm house with roaring fires the nativity scene with pudding the donkey. Train rides available. Ticket prices: Adults £3.50, Child £5, Babes In Arms Not Visting Santa are Free. No other concessions or discounts for SP holders. For telephone ticket orders contact the box office on 0845 126 0797 or buy on-line at http://shugborough.cmhosts.net/events-66 then follow the link. This is a 2-day event on the weekend of 13th and 14th December.
Milford & Shugborough - Festival of Winter Walks
28 December 2008
10:00am
Hednesford - contact walk leader June on 01543 671720 for meeting point details.
The Chase & District Group of the Ramblers Association are organising a 7 mile post Christmas Walk starting from Hednesford.
Milford & Shugborough - Festival of Winter Walks
02 January 2009
9:30am start
Meet at The Wildwood Car Park, Cannock Road, Stafford (Grid Ref: SJ972211)
Mid-Staffordshire Branch of The Ramblers will be leading a 6 mile walk. Please note that our 'Start gridref' should only be used to find the walking area. The Leader may need to change the start point/walk, so if you intend to go direct to the start you must contact the Leader beforehand. Otherwise go to the meeting place for directions to start and car sharing.Website: http:/ /homepage.ntlworld.com/ brian.benn/ ra/ or contact 01785 603646.
Get Fit After Christmas
04 January 2009
10:00am start, return 3:00pm
Meet at Milford Car Park, Milford, Nr Stafford
Burn off those excess calories off on this 10 mile trip to Cannock Chase Visitor Centre and return. This is a multi-terrain walk with some gradients, led by Staffordshire County Council Ranger Service. Contact 01543 871773 for further details. Cost is £2 per adult, children free.
Christmas Tree Recycling
11 January 2009
10am - 2pm
Birches Valley Forest Centre, Nr Rugeley, Staffordshire WS15 2UQ
Bring your tree to be recycled at the Forestry Commission site.
APPLE TREE WASSAILING
11 January 2009
3:00pm - 5:00pm
At Wolseley Orchard, Wolseley Centre, Wolseley Brdge, Nr Stafford ST17 0WT (Staffordshire Wildlife Trust Centre)
Come along and celebrate this traditional festival at the turning of the year. Join in the ceremony to awaken the apple trees and scare away evil spirits to ensure a good harvest of fruit in the Autumn. Lichfield Morris Dancers, Armitage Mummers and Beggars Oak Cloggers will be joining in the celebrations. For further details contact Reception on 01889 880100 or email: info@staffs- wildlife.org.uk
Cannock Chase AONB Management Plan Public Consultation
14 January 2009
10:00am - 4:00pm
The Gatehouse, Wolseley Centre, Wolseley Bridge, Stafford ST17 0WT
Come along anytime during the day to this drop in session to have your say on the new Management Plan for 2009-14. The draft text is available as a download on the Management Plan Reviw page on this website. If you would like more information, please contact the AONB Unit via the 'contact' button at the top of the page.
Nest Box Building
18 January 2009
2:00pm
Cannock Chase Visitor Centre, Marquis Drive, Hednesford, Staffordshire WS12 4PW.
Come and try your hand at building nest boxes for the new breeding season. Either take the box away with you or donate it to the rangers to put up around the visitor centre. £5.00 per box. Staffordshire County Council Rangers led event. Contact 01543 871773 for further information.
Myths and Mysteries Walk
25 January 2009
to be confirmed
Shugoborough Estate, Milford, Nr Stafford ST17 0XB
The first of a series of New Year Sunday Walks. Enjoy any of our highly entertaining and fascinating guided walks led by expert Shugborough staff, including a lunch. Further details on cost and booking information call us on 01889 881388.
Cannock Chase AONB Management Plan Public Consultation - 2
28 January 2009
10:00am - 4:00pm
Shugborough, Milford, Nr Stafford ST17 0XB
A second opportunity to have your say on the new Management Plan for 2009-14. The draft text is available as a download on the Management Plan Reviw page on this website. If you would like more information, please contact the AONB Unit via the 'contact' button at the top of the page.
Brindley Heath Walk
01 February 2009
2:00pm
Meet at Cannock Chase Visitor Centre, Marquis Drive, Hednesford, Staffordshire WS12 4PW
Learn about the military, industrial and natural history of this scenic part of Cannock Chase. Staffordshire County Council Rangers led event, multi terrain walking with some gradients. Cost £2 per adult, children free. Contact 01543 871773 for further information.
History of the Gardens
08 February 2009
Time to be confirmed
Shugoborough Estate, Milford, Nr Stafford ST17 0XB
The second of a series of New Year Sunday Walks. Enjoy any of our highly entertaining and fascinating guided walks led by expert Shugborough staff, including a lunch. Further details on cost and booking information call us on 01889 881388.
February Fun half Term Workshops -
17 February 2009
10:00am to midday and 1pm to 3pm
Museum of Cannock Chase, Valley Road, Hednesford, Staffordshire WS12 1TD
'Punch & Judy's Puppet Factory' Be inspired by our Punch & Judy exhibition and make your own fabulous hand puppets with Leon. Workshops are suitable for children aged 7 to 11 and take place at 10am to 12noon and 1pm to 3pm (choose a morning or afternoon workshop). Please note that the Puppet Factory workshop will last 15 minutes longer than usual and will therefore end at 12.15pm and 3.15pm. All workshops cost £3 per child and are allocated on a first come, first served basis. To book your workshops, please return a booking form to the Museum as soon as possible. We cannot take bookings over the phone. For a booking form please call the Museum between 11am and 4pm, Monday to Friday or download it at www.cannockchasedc.gov.uk/museum. Also, during half-term the Museum will be going puppet mad with free hourly Punch & Judy shows on Wednesday 18th February (first show at 1.30pm) Thursday 19th February (first show at 11.30am). No need to book but numbers are limited so come early! Don't forget to visit the fantastic Punch & Judy exhibition! Puppets to handle, have a go puppet theatre to perform your own show and lots more!
February Fun half Term Workshops
18 February 2009
10:00am to midday and 1pm to 3pm
Museum of Cannock Chase, Valley Road, Hednesford, Staffordshire WS12 1TD (Tel: 01543 877666
'Jazzy Junk Creations' Create cool pictures out of recycled bits and pieces, with Ellen. Booking details as 17th February, 'Punch & Judy's Puppet Factory'.
February Fun half Term Workshops
19 February 2009
10:00am to midday and 1pm to 3pm
Museum of Cannock Chase, Valley Road, Hednesford, Staffordshire WS12 1TD (Tel: 01543 877666)
'Pop-up Puppets' More puppet pandemonium! Make exciting pop-up puppets to surprise your friends, with Jan. Booking details as 17th February, 'Punch & Judy's Puppet Factory'.
Put a Spring in your Step
01 March 2009
10:00am
Meet at Cannock Chase Visitor Centre, MArquis Drive, Hednesford, Staffs WS12 4PW
Join Staffordshire County Rangers on a 5 mile walk as the Chase wakes up for Spring. Multi-terrain walk with some gradients, cost £2 per adult, children free. Contact the Rangers on 01543 871773 for further details.
Reptile Ramble
18 March 2009
10:00am
Birches Valley Forest Centre, Rugeley, Staffordshire WS15 2UQ
Discover fascinating reptile facts of Cannock Chase with a Forestry Commission Wildlife Ranger. This includes a talk and walk. Cost £3.50 per person. This is an outdoor event please wear suitable footwear and clothing for weather conditions. Booking is essential, please contact 01889 586593 to book your place. Sorry, but no dogs are allowed for this event.
Shugborough 2009 Opening
20 March 2009
11am - 5pm
SHUGBOROUGH ESTATE, Milford, Near Stafford, ST17 0XB
Shugborough will be open from this Friday (Mar 20) for regular day visits and will then be open every day 11am until 5pm from to OCTOBER 29th 2009. See the website for entrance prices and further event information.
Feathered Finery
29 March 2009
2:00pm
Meet at Cannock Chase Visitor Centre,Marquis Drive, Hednesford, Stafforshire WS12 4PW
View the birds in their breeding plumage and see the migrants preparing for that long journey. Multi-terrain walk with some gradients, cost £2 per adult, children free. Contact the Rangers on 01543 871773 for further details.
Easter Eggstravaganza
10 April 2009
10:00 am to 5:00pm
Staffordshire Wildlife Trust Headquarters, The Wolseley Centre, Wolseley Bridge, Stafford, ST17 0WT (01889 880100)
Weekend Event from 10th to 13th April. An action packed weekend of activities, displays and shows at the Wolseley Centre. Explore the grounds of Wolseley and take part in the Easter Treasure Hunt. Admission free, £1 per Treasure Map, receive an Easter Egg on completion (available while stocks last).
Annual Easter Sunday Spring Walk
12 April 2009
2:00pm
Meet at Coppice Hill Car Park off Chase Road, Brocton.
Join Staffordshire County Council Rangers on an Easter Sunday Heathlands and Woodlands walk over Cannock Chase. Multi-terrain walk with some gradients, cost £2 per adult, children free. Contact the Rangers on 01543 871773 for more details.
The Great Eggscape
13 April 2009
11:00am
Meet at Cannock Chase Visitor Centre, Marquis Drive, Hednesford, Staffordshire WS12 4PW.
Solve the clues to find the eggscapees! Staffordshire County Council Ranger Service event, contact 01543 871773 for further details.
Heritage Trail Opening
19 April 2009
11:00am
Meet at Cannock Chase Visitor Centre, Marquis Drive, Hednesford, Staffordshire WS12 4PW.
To celebrate the opening of this cycle route come and join Staffordshire County Council Rangers on a family bike ride partly over the trail and partly on the Chase and after lunch the children can try the Squirrel Scurry orienteering trail! Contact the Rangers on 01543 871773 for further details.
Open Weekend at the Great War Hut
25 April 2009
10:00am - 4:00pm
Cannock Chase Visitor Centre, Marquis Drive, Hednesford, Staffs WS12 4PW
A special celebration event where visitors will be able to see military re-enactments, experience a tented camp and quiz experts on what life was really like for World War One soldiers. Military displays, including vehicles and cavalry, will take place at 1pm each day (Saturday 25th and Sunday 26th April)
Wildlife Gardening Day
04 May 2009
11am - 5pm
The Wolseley Centre, Wolseley Bridge, Stafford ST17 0WT (O1889 880100)
Discover how to create a haven for wildlife in your own garden at the Wolseley Centre. Guided Walk at 2pm, £2 donation.
Dog Activity Day
09 May 2009
11:00am - 4:00pm
Birches Valley Forest Centre, Nr Rugeley, Staffs WS15 2UQ (Concert Arena)
Funpacked day for all the family and the dogs, watch dog displays, enter competitions and get involved in the dog agility and activities. For more information contact Sara on 01889 882613 or email cannockchase@staffordshire.gov.uk or see the leaflet on this website (http://www.cannock-chase.co.uk/page.asp?pid=37)
A Beginners Guide to Reptiles
10 May 2009
10:30am
Meet at the Glacial Boulder Car Park on Chase Road.
Adder nuff of being frightened of snakes? Come and walk over the Chase to see the reptiles basking on the heathlands. Staffordshire County Council Ranger-led event, cost £2.00 per adult, children free. Numbers limited - prior booking required by 9th May. Contact the Ranger Service on (01543) 871773. Unfortunately we are unable to accommodate dogs on this event.
Birding on the Cheep
14 May 2009
11am - 3pm
The Innovation Centre, Chasewater Country Park, Pool Road, Brownhills, WS8 7NL
As part of Adult Learners Week, find out more about birds at Chasewater. The Forest of Mercia Team in association with members of Chasewater Wildlife Group will be hosting a bird watch walk including a chance to see resident birds feeding and lessons in making a simple bird nesting box. For more information or to book a place contact: 01543 370737
Map Reading for Beginners
17 May 2009
10:30am
Cannock Chase Visitor Centre, Marquis Drive, Hednesford, Staffs WS12 4PW
Instead of getting lost on the Chase, let the rangers tell you how to use a compass, read maps and much more. There is also a chance to practice your skills in the great outdoors! Staffordshire County Council Rangers-led event. Prior booking required by Friday 15th May 2009, cost £2.00 per adult, children free. Contact the Rangers on 01543 871773 to book.
Bluebell Walk
18 May 2009
9:30am
Beaudesert Park Campsite, Cannock Wood, Rugeley, Staffordshire, WS15 4JJ
Join Mike Street, Chairman of Beaudesert Trust, on a walk in the grounds to see the wonderful display of bluebells. Booking essential, contact the AONB Unit for further details.
It Came From the Depths
31 May 2009
11am - 3pm
Cannock Chase Visitor Centre, Marquis Drive, Hednesford, Staffs WS12 4PW
Come and see what lives in the ponds on the Chase and try your hand at catching mini beasts in the woods. Staffordshire County Council Rangers-led event, contact 01543 871773 for more details. Cost £2.00 per adult, children free.
Wolseley Centre Food & Beer Festival
06 June 2009
Starts at 11:00am
The Wolseley Centre (Staffordshire Wildlife Trust), Wolseley Bridge, ST17 0WT (01889 880100)
A unique opportunity to come and see what local foods and drinks are on offer, from organic and fair trade producers, from organic beef to local cheeses, pickles, breads and wines. Produce will be available to taste and buy, so come and enjoy the tastes of Staffordshire at its finest. 11am-11pm. You can also sample a wide variety of speciality beers from around the country and relax in our 26 acres. Live music throughout the entire day and evening for your entertainment. Lager, wine, cider, soft drinks and food also available. Admission to Festival: £2.50pp all day.
Natural History of Brocton Local Nature Reserve
07 June 2009
2:30pm
Meet at Bednall Belt Car Park, Camp Road (map ref: SJ972183)
Wildfowl on the lake and wildlife of the surrounding woodlands and heathlands. Staffordshire County Council Ranger-led walk, multi-terrain, some gradients. Contact 01543 871773 for more information. Please note that there is no parking at the Reserve itself.
Nightlife in the Forest
11 June 2009
9:00pm
Meet at Birches Valley Forest Centre, Nr Rugeley, Staffs WS15 2UQ
Forestry Commission Ranger-led walk. Learn about the secret nightlife of Cannock Chase Forest with a Wildlife Ranger as your guide. Wrap up warm! Cost £4 per person, booking essential on 01889 586593. This event will also be held on 18th June 2009, same time, same venue.
Nightlife in the Forest
18 June 2009
9:00pm
Birches Valley Forest Centre, Nr Rugeley, Staffordshire WS15 2UQ
Learn about the secret nightlife of Cannock Forest. See thriving populations of bats and nightjars with an experienced Forestry Commission Ranger as your guide. Wrap up warm as you may be out in the forest for a couple of hours. All welcome, however this event is not geared towards children. Cost £4 per person, booking essential. contact The Forestry Commission on 01889 586593
Steam Fair
27 June 2009
10:00 am to 5:00pm
The Hall Field, Shugborough, Milford, Nr Stafford ST17 0XB
This a a 2-day event over the weekend and will have steam vehicles including vintage tractors, musical organs and utility vehicles. Other attractions include a dancing JCB, flying vulture display, fairground and craft marquee. Ticket prices are £6 for adults, concessions £5, children £4 under 5's free. Entry to other parts of the Shugborough Estate is an optional extra. See www.shugborough.org.uk for further details.
PETS & PEOPLE SHOW
11 July 2009
10:00 am to 5:00pm
Shugborough, Milford, Nr Stafford ST17 0XB
If you love pets you will love this show. From advice about those weird and wonderful pets to the information on how to train your dog- you will find it at the show. You will be amazed at the array of pets and animals at the show. Sit back and enjoy our action packed arena with Cheshire Canine display team, Jive Pony, Amazing Flying Vulture and Loads more. Ticket Prices: Adult £7.00, Concession £6.00 Child £5.00 Under 5’s go free.
Country Craft Day
12 July 2009
10:00am - 4:00pm
Cannock Chase Visitor Centre, Marquis Drive, Hednesford, Staffs WS12 4PW
This well-liked event returns by popular demand. Traditional Country Crafts on display with demonstrations and hands-on experience, try your hand and take home a souvenir. Spinning, Wattle Hurdle Making, Peg Making, Basket Making, Pottery, Besoms, Walking Stick Making, Bodging (Pole Lathe Turning). For further information contact Cannock Chase Visitor Centre, 01543 876741
Pets and People, Day 2
12 July 2009
10:00 am to 5:00pm
Shugborough, Milford, Nr Stafford ST17 0XB
If you love pets you will love this show. From advice about those weird and wonderful pets to the information on how to train your dog- you will find it at the show. You will be amazed at the array of pets and animals at the show. Sit back and enjoy our action packed arena with Cheshire Canine display team, Jive Pony, Amazing Flying Vulture and Loads more. Ticket Prices: Adult £7.00, Concession £6.00 Child £5.00 Under 5’s go free.
Water Shrew Survey
19 July 2009
10:00am - 4:00pm
Meet at Seven Springs Car Park, off the A513 between Milford and Wolseley Bridge (map ref SK 005206)
Join experts from The Mammal Group in this survey, which is part of a 2 year project funded through the Sustainable Development Fund. Booking essential, please contact Staffordshire Wildlife Trust on 01889 880100.
Pond Dipping
19 July 2009
2:30pm
Meet at Cannock Chase Visitor Centre, Marquis Drive, Hednesford, Staffs WS12 4PW
Welcome to the wonderful watery world of whirligigs, nymphs and newts! Children £2.00, adults FREE!!! Staffordshire County Council Rangers event, contact 01543 871773 for further information.
Mini Beast Safari - an event for the kids!!!
26 July 2009
2:00pm
Meet at Cannock Chase Visitor Centre, Marquis Drive, Hednesford, Staffs WS12 4PW
Learn about the creepy crawlies and bugs that live on the Chase. Staffordshire County Council Ranger-led event, £2 per adult, children free. Contact 01543 871773 for further information.
Summer Family Day
02 August 2009
12 noon - 4pm
Museum of Cannock Chase, Valley Road, Hednesford, Staffs WS12 1TD
With all activities totally FREE, it’s a fantastic recession-busting day out for all the family! Enjoy puppet shows, drop in art activities, displays, willow weaving workshops, balloon modelling and loads more! No need to book – just drop in from 12noon onwards!
A Beginners Guide to Dragons & Damsels
02 August 2009
2:30pm
Meet at Sister Dora Car Park, Milford Common.
An informal stroll around some of Cannock Chase’s pools to see these beautiful insects. Staffordshire County Council Ranger-led event, easy walking route. Cost £2 per adult, children free. Contact the Rangers on 01543 871773
Green Festival
05 August 2009
11:00am - 4:00pm
At the Wolseley Centre (Off the A51, 1.5 miles North of Rugeley)
Help Staffordshire Wildlife Trust celebrate their 40th Birthday. A Family fun day jam packed full of activities for all the family including: Mini Beast Hunts; Earth Walks; Pond Dipping; Natural Art; Willow Weaving; Badge Making and a big friendly caterpillar bouncy castle! Free Admission. BBQ, Ice-Cream and Refreshments for sale! In association with National Playday, Supported by Rugeley Community and Learning Partnership. For further information contact the Wolseley Centre reception on 01889 880100.
The Bats of Cannock Chase
06 August 2009
7:30pm
Meet at Cannock Chase Visitor Centre, Marquis Drive, Hednesford, Staffs WS12 4PW
A talk and walk on our local night flying mammals led by an expert from South East Staffordshire Bat Group. NOTE - if the weather is bad this event will be cancelled. Staffordshire County Council Ranger organised event, cost £2 per adult, children free. PRIOR BOOKING REQUIRED. TEL: RANGER SERVICE ON (01543)871773.
Seven Springs and Haywood Warren
09 August 2009
2:30pm
Meet at Seven Springs Car Park.
Join Staffordshire County Council ranger and learn about the history and wildlife of this wooded area of the Chase. Multi-terrain walk with some gradients. Cost £2 per adult, Children free. Contact the Rangers on 01543 871773 for further details.
Junior Nature Detectives
06 September 2009
2:00pm
Cannock Chase Visitor Centre, MArquis Drive, Hednesford, Staffs WS12 4PW
Find the hidden signs, tracks and trails of the Chase wildlife. Staffordshire County Council Ranger-led event, cost £2 per child, adults free! Contact the Ranger on 01543 871773 for further details.
Walk the Ways
13 September 2009
10:00am
Meet at Milford Common Car Park
Follow part of the Staffordshire Way and the Way for the Millennium on this 5 mile walk, uphill, down dale and along the canal. Staffordshire County Council Ranger-led event, multi-terrain walk with some gradients. Cost £2 per adult, children free. Contact the Rangers on 01543 871773 for more details.
10th Annual Heather Hike
13 September 2009
10:00- 10:30am start
Starting from Cannock Chase Visitor Centre, Marquis Drive, Hednesford, Staffs WS12 4PW
Staffordshire Wildlife Trust's annual sponsored walk, over glorious Cannock Chase. Route fully marshalled and signposted. Registration £4 per adult, £2 per child. Registration forms available from the Wolseley Centre Reception, contact 01889 880100 for further information. All profits from this event go directly to the Trust to fund conservation work for wildlife and the environment.
Astronomical Evening on Cannock Chase
14 September 2009
8:00pm
Meet at Aspen Car Park, Camp Road, Cannock Chase
Now a popular and established event run by the Stafford Astonomical Society, be sure to come early to see the heavens, constellations, planets and other features of Cannock Chase’s skies. Powerful astronomical telescopes provided, with experts on hand. Contact Staffordshire County Council's Rangers on 01543 871773 for further details.
Willow Weaving Day
17 September 2009
9:00am-3:00pm
Walled Garden, Shugborough, Milford, Nr Stafford ST17 0XB
During this day will undertake the following: Riverwoods talk on the need for sustainable woodland management; Willow weaving - creating a traditional hurdle, willow bird feeders; Wood turning, cleaving and carving; Tree planting - continuation of the Riverwoods Hazel Coppice. The cost will be £10 for the day, including all refreshments and lunch. Booking essential as places are limited. Contact the AONB Office on 01889 882613 or email anne.walker@staffordshire.gov.uk.
Two Valleys Walk
20 September 2009
start 10:30am
Meet at Chase Road Corner Car Park, off Camp Road, Cannock Chase.
A 7 ½ mile walk over the Oldacre and Sherbrook Valleys. Enjoy spectacular views and the natural history as well! This is a Staffordshire County Council Ranger-led walk, multi-terrain with some gradients. Cost is £2 per adult, children free. Contact the Rangers on 01543 871773 for more information.
Cannock Chase BHS Staffs Autumn Pleasure Ride
27 September 2009
Start times between 10 am and 12 noon
Cannock Chase Visitor Centre, Marquis Drive, Hednesford, Staffs WS12 4PW
Introduction to routes for horse riders across Cannock Chase. Contact Lesley Simmons on 01785 665670 or at simmons@simmons928.fsnet.co.uk for further details.
Autumn Leaves
04 October 2009
11:00am
Meet at Punchbowl car park off the A513 (Milford to Wolseley Bridge Road)on Cannock Chase.
Enjoy the autumnal colours and fascinating facts about the variety of trees of the Chase. Staffordshire County Council Ranger-led walk, multi-terrain, some gradients. Cost is £2 per adult, children free. Contact the Rangers on 01543 871773 for more information.
Litter Pick
07 October 2009
9:30am - 12:00noon
TBC
Our local community volunteers get together with us a couple of times a year to pick up litter. It's a dirty job, but someone's got to do it! Litter picks, gloves and bags provided. Contact the AONB Unit on 01889 882613 or email anne.walker@staffordshire.gov.uk for more details.
Beginners Guide to Fungi
11 October 2009
11:00am
Meet at Satnall Hills Car Park, Off A513 Milford to Wolseley Bridge Road.
A beginners guide to the fascinating world of fungi found on Cannock Chase. This isn’t a picking walk. Enjoy the sights & sounds of Autumn. Staffordshire County Council Ranger-led walk, multi-terrain with some gradients. Cost £2 per adult, children free. Contact the Rangers on 01543 871773 for more information.
Autumn Forest Foray
18 October 2009
10:00am
Meet at The Park Gate Inn - Cannock Wood (postcode WS15 4RN)
Join a Forestry Commission Ranger for a moderate walk through Beaudesert Old Park. Taking in the colourful views, different trees and wildlife at this visually spectacular time on year. Booking essential, cost £3.50 per person. Contact the Forestry Commission on 01889 586593 to book.
Cannock Chase AONB Annual Conference
23 October 2009
10:00am - 4:00pm
The Barns, Cocksparrow Lane, Huntington, Cannock, Staffs WS 12 4PB
The theme of this year's conference is Access and Recreation. It will be chaired by Roger Owen from Natural England. Further details will be available over the summer, but if you would like to register an interest, email cannockchase@staffordshire.gov.uk.
Sherbrook Saunter of Autumn
01 November 2009
10:00am
Meet at Whitehouse Car Park, Penkridge Bank Road.
Enjoy the sights and sounds along the Sherbrook Valley. Staffordshire County Council Ranger-led walk, multi-terrain, some gradients. Cost £2 per adult, children free. Contact the Rangers on 01543 871773 for further details.
Winter Visitors to the Chase
22 November 2009
2:00pm
Meet at Cannock Chase Visitor Centre, Marquis Drive, Hednesford WS12 4PW
Come and identify the migrant and resident birds which flock to the feeding station at Cannock Chase Visitor Centre. Staffordshire County Council Ranger-led event, cost £2 per adult, children free. Contact 01543 871773 for further information.
Winter Wonderland Event 2009
22 November 2009
11am - 3pm
Museum of Cannock Chase, Valley Road, Hednesford, Staffs WS12 1TD
*Drop in nature and art activities *View the museum galleries *Early bird Christmas shopping
10th Anniversary Wildlife & conservation Awards Evening - Rural Policing Liaison Group
26 November 2009
7:30pm
Moat House, Acton Trussell
Come and enjoy an evening meal in a lovely rural setting, meet some amazing people and hear about the work that is making a huge difference in the world of wildlife and conservation. After Dinner Speaker is Chief Inspector Ian Briggs (Special Operations Unit) RSPCA. Tickets are £20 each, booking through Faye on 0797 366 5996.
Special Christmas Open Evening 2009
26 November 2009
11am-8pm
Museum of Cannock Chase, Valley Road, Hednesford, Staffs WS12 1TD
*Enjoy the galleries and displays, Christmas decorations and do some Christmas shopping! This event is repeated on Thursday 10th December
Staffordshire County Council Christmas Tree Sales
28 November 2009
12 noon - 4pm
Cannock Chase Visitor Centre, Marquis Drive, Hednesford, Staffs WS12 4PW
Santa will be launching this year's Christmas Tree Sales and swapping his sleigh for a fire engine when he arrives at the Visitor Centre with the Blue Watch team from Cannock Fire Station. The event will also celebrate the opening of the festive shop. The trees will be on sale from 11am-3pm on weekdays and from 10am-4pm on the weekend. Santa will be there from midday-4pm each Saturday and Sunday in the run up to December 25. Contact the Visitor Centre for more informaiton on 01543 876741
Forestry Commission Christmas Tree Sales
29 November 2009
9am - 6pm
Birches Valley Forest Centre, Nr Rugeley, Staffordshire WS15 2UQ
Grand Opening with the arrival of Santa and his reindeer at 11:00am. Open every day until 21st December 2010, contact 01889 586593 for further details or check out the website http://www.forestry.gov.uk/cannockforest
Christmas Crafts
05 December 2009
1:00pm to 5:00pm
The Wolseley Centre, Wolseley Bridge, Nr Rugeley Staffs ST17 0WT
Family event making natural crafts for the festive season including lanterns. For more information contact 01889 880100
Christmas Carols
05 December 2009
6:00pm
The Wosleley Centre, Wolseley Bridge, Nr Rugeley, Staffs ST17 0WT
Join Staffordshire Wildlife Trust and walk around the Wolseley Centre grounds singing Christmas carols, refreshments provided. For more details please contact The Wolseley Centre on 01889 880100 or info@staffs-wildlife.org.uk
Christmas Family Day 2009
06 December 2009
12 noon - 4pm
Museum of Cannock Chase, Valley Road, Hednesford, Staffs WS12 1TD
*Puppet Shows *Christmas Balloon Modelling *Coal Mine Santa *Wartime Christmas Stalls and *Displays from local attractions *Make Festive Music with the Music Man *Christmas Shopping
Special Christmas Open Evening 2009
10 December 2009
11am-8pm
Museum of Cannock Chase, Valley Road, Hednesford, Staffs WS12 1TD
Enjoy the galleries and displays, Christmas decorations and do some Christmas shopping!
Merlin’s Magical Christmas show
22 December 2009
11:00am - 12:45pm and 1:00pm -2:45pm
Springslade Lodge Cafe, Camp Road, Broadhurst Green, Cannock, Staffs WS12 4PT
Springslade Lodge are hosting a special children’s event called Merlins Magical Christmas. It is a show about a wizard and a badger that helps Santa get all his presents ready to take out to all the children. Cost £15.00 per child to include show, present and afternoon tea, £10.00 adult to include show and afternoon tea. Booking essential on 07808500330, or see the website: ww.springsladelodge.co.uk
Get Fit After Christmas
03 January 2010
10:00am
Meet at Cannock Chase Visitor Centre, Marquis Drive, Hednesford, WS12 4PW
Burn off those excess calories off on this 5 mile trip to Cannock Chase Visitor Centre. Staffordshire County Council Ranger-led walk, multi terrain, some gradients. Cost £2 per adult, children free. contact the Rangers on 01543 871773 for further detail.
Apple Tree Wassailing
10 January 2010
3.30pm-5pm
At Wolseley Orchard, The Wolseley Centre, off the A51, 1.5 miles north of Rugeley (ST17 0WT)
Come along and celebrate this traditional festival at the turning of the year. Join in the ceremony to awaken the apple trees and scare away evil spirits to ensure a good harvest of fruit in the Autumn. with performances from Lichfield Morris Dancers, Armitage Mummers and Beggars Oak Cloggers. Admission Free, for more information please contact Staffordshire Wildlife Trust on 01889 880100 or email: info@staffs-wildlife.org.uk
Brindley Heath Walk
31 January 2010
2:00pm
Meet at Cannock Chase Visitor Centre, Marquis Drive, Hednesford, WS12 4PW
Learn about the military, industrial and natural history of this scenic part of the Chase. Staffordshire County Council Ranger-led walk, multi terrain, some gradients. Cost £2 per adult, children free. Contac the Rangers on 01543 871773 for more details.
Litter Pick
11 February 2010
10:00am - 12 noon
tbc
Join Emma, Anne and our dedicated volunteers on one of our regular clear up tasks. Bags, gloves and litter pickers provided. Contact the AONB Unit on 01889 882613 for further details.
Natural History of Brocton Local Nature Reserve
14 February 2010
2:30pm
Meet Bednall Belt Car Park. NO parking at reserve itself.
Join Staffordshire County Council Ranger Service on this walk to Brocton Local Nature Reserve to view the wildfowl on the lake and wildlife of the surrounding woodlands and heathlands. Cost £2 per adult, children free. Contact the Ranger Service for more information on 01543 871773.
Wolseley Craft Fayre
27 February 2010
10:00am - 4:00pm
Wolseley Centre, Wolseley Bridge, between (Stafford & Rugeley) ST17 0WT
Back by popular demand after the success of the Christmas Fayre! Come along to treat yourself (or buy early for Mother's Day!) A range of stalls covering the whole ground floor of the Visitor Centre, selling unique and handmade craft items. £1.00 admission.
Put a Spring in your Step
28 February 2010
2:00pm
Meet at Cannock Chase Visitor Centre, Marquis Drive, Hednesford WS12 4PW
Join Staffordshire County Council Ranger Service on a 5 mile walk as the Chase wakes up for Spring. Cost £2 per adult, children free. Contact the Ranger Service on 01543 871773 for further details.
Canal Visit
15 March 2010
9:30am and 1:00pm
Trent & Mersey/Staffs & Worcester Canal
Join Emma/Anne on a morning or afternoon awareness visit along the canal from Shugborough to Milford. We will be joined by an expert to explain the importance of the canal environment for local wildlife and visitors. Booking essential as places are limited, cost £30 per person to include lunch. Contact the AONB Unit on 01889 882613 or cannockchase@staffordshire.gov.uk to book.
Feathered Finery
29 March 2010
2:00pm
Meet at Cannock Chase Visitor Centre, Marquis Drive, Hednesford, Staffs WS12 4PW
Join Staffordshire County Council Ranger Service and view the birds in their breeding plumage and see the migrants preparing for that long journey. Cost £2 per adult, children free. Contact the Ranger Service on 01543 871773 for further details.
Annual Easter Sunday Spring Walk
04 April 2010
2:00pm
Meet at Coppice Hill Car Park off Chase Road, Brocton.
Easter Sunday Heathlands and Woodlands walk over Cannock Chase. Staffordshire County Council Ranger-led walk, multi-terrain, some gradients. Cost £2 per adult, children free. Contact the Rangers on 01543 871773 for further information.
Teddy Gets A New Coat
06 April 2010
1:00pm to 4:00pm
Chasewater Innovation Centre, Chasewater County Park, Nr Brownhills, WS8 7NL
A workshop with Kirsty Smith. Does your teddy bear need a new wardrobe, then why not come along and bring teddy with you. Whether you want your bear to wear a coat with your favourite football team colours or just want him or her to have a cool new outfit, come along and join in the fun. (suitable for bears up to 30cms tall). Suitable for children aged 6-12. Booking required for all workshops. To book a place or for further information on these or similar events: Tele: 01543 370737. Cost of workshops £2 per child. Please note parents/carers need to accompany their children at all times.
K’nex – Robot Wars – A workshop with Nigel Moore
08 April 2010
2:00pm - 4:00pm
Chasewater Innovation Centre, Chasewater Country Park, Pool Road, Brownhills, WS8 7NL.
Get involved with the rapidly growing, exciting world of... Fighting Robots. Using a standard k’nex powered base unit in this practical robotics workshop you and your team-mate(s) will design, build, and fight your very own K’nex robot against other competitors in the battle arena…will you be the ‘last robot standing’ when the final whistle blows? Booking required for all workshops. To book a place or for further information on these or similar events: Tele: 01543 370737. Cost of workshops £2 per child. Please note parents/carers need to accompany their children at all times.
Potty About Easter – A workshop with Sarah Grateley
09 April 2010
1:00pm to 4:00pm
Chasewater Innovation Centre, Chasewater Country Park, Pool Road, Brownhills, WS8 7NL
Delight your friends and family, come and join in the fun making wild and whacky and delightful potted Easter trees. Suitable for Ages 6 years and above, Booking required for all workshops To book a place or for further information on these or similar events: Tele: 01543 370737. Cost of workshops £2 per child. Please note parents/carers need to accompany their children at all times.
Mini-beasts – Along came a spider!
12 April 2010
1.00pm – 2.00pm, 2.00pm - 3.00pm and 3.00pm - 4.00pm
Chasewater Innovation Centre, Chasewater Country Park, Pool Road, Brownhills, WS8 7NL
A workshop with Kirsty Smith, suitable for Ages 6 to 12 years. Make mini-beast out of felt and impress your friends.Booking required for all workshops To book a place or for further information on these or similar events: Tele: 01543 370737. Cost of workshops £2 per child. Please note parents/carers need to accompany their children at all times.
Cannock Chase - an evolving landscape
17 April 2010
2:30pm
Meet at the Punchbowl Car PArk, off A513 Milford, Staffs
Friends of Cannock Chase led walk - Leader will be Trevor. This 4-5 mile walk will look at how Cannock Chase landscape evolved from desert and swamp.
Brindley Heath Walk
20 April 2010
2:00pm
Meet at Cannock Chase Visitor Centre (car parking charge), Marquis Drive, Hednesford WS12 4PW
Friends of Cannock Chase walk, led by June Perry. Distance approx 3 miles.
Great War Weekend
24 April 2010
10:00am - 4:00pm
Meet at Cannock Chase Visitor Centre, Marquis Drive, Hednesford.
A free event to coincide with Anzac day. Learn about the crucial role played by Cannock Chase in the Great War. Experience life as a soldier, training on the Chase in a genuine barrack hut with experts on hand providing information and answering questions. There is also an encampment and displays from Manchester, Leicester and Birmingham Pals Living History Groups.
Nature Day on Cannock Chase
03 May 2010
10:00am - 4:00pm
Meet at Cannock Chase Visitor Centre, Marquis Drive, Hednesford.
The Cannock Chase Rangers in conjunction with the Rural Policing Liaison Group are hosting a Nature Day. The event, to be held at the John O'Leary Education Centre, is part of the national ‘Discovering Places’ initiative for the London 2012 Cultural Olympiad and includes activities such as pond dipping, bug hunts, mask making and much more.
Wildlife Gardening Day
03 May 2010
11am - 5pm
The Wolseley Centre, Wolseley Bridge, Nr Stafford ST17 0WT
An action packed day is planned full of family activities including seed planting, wildlife trails and expert advice on wildlife gardening. For further information contact Staffordshire Wildlife Trust on 01889 880100 or email marketing@staffs-wildlife.org.uk
Pond Dipping
09 May 2010
11:00am & 2:00pm
Meet at Cannock Chase Visitor Centre, Marquis Drive, Hednesford.
Come and try youtr hand at catching bugs and beasts that live in the ponds at Marquis Drive. Two sessions during the day at 11.00am and 2.00pm. £2 per child, adults free!
Dawn Chorus Walk for Early Birds
09 May 2010
4:30am
Shugborough Estate, Milford, Nr Stafford ST17 0XB
For the first time ever, a dawn chorus walk is being led around the Shugborough Estate. The walk will be led by Roger Broadbent from West Midland Bird Club. The tour around the estate will finish with breakfast in the Lady Walk Tearooms. Booking is essential as places are limited. Cost is £10 per person (includes breakfast), contact the Sales and Promotions Team on 01889 881388 to book a place.
Coffee Morning
14 May 2010
10:00am - 12 noon
The Wolseley Centre, Wolseley Bridge, Nr Stafford ST17 0WT
Come and meet Staffordshire Wildlife Trust's Conservation Officer, Kate Dewey, who will answer all your wildlife queries. There will also be a stall selling cakes and second hand books. £1.00 admission which includes tea/coffee (50p per extra drink). All proceeds will go towards the conservation of wildlife in Staffordshire. Contact SWT on 01889 880100 for further information.
Map Reading for Beginners
16 May 2010
10:30am
Meet at Cannock Chase Visitor Centre, Marquis Drive, Hednesford.
Instead of getting lost on the Chase, let the rangers tell you how to use a compass, read maps and much more. There is also a chance to practice your skills in the great outdoors!. PRIOR BOOKING REQUIRED BY 15th MAY. CONTACT RANGER ON (01543) 871773. Cost £2 per person
A Beginners Guide to Reptiles
23 May 2010
10:30am
Meet Cannock Chase Visitor Centre, Marquis Drive, Hednesford, Staffs WS12 4PW
Adder nuff of being frightened of snakes? Come and walk over the Chase to see the reptiles basking on the heathlands. NUMBERS LIMITED - PRIOR BOOKING REQUIRED BY 22nd MAY. CONTACT RANGER SERVICE ON (01543) 871773. Cost £2 per adult, children free. Due to the nature of this walk, no dogs allowed.
Cannock Chase AONB Annual Conference
26 May 2010
8:45am - 4:30pm
Study Tour to Peak District National Park
This will be a bit of a departure for us looking at how another protected landscape deals with some of the challenges that we also face. There will be a charge of £10 per head to cover costs. Booking essential as places will be limited. For more information contact Emma or Anne on 01889 882613 or email cannockchase@staffordshire.gov.uk
Bluebell Walk
27 May 2010
10:30am
Beaudesert Scout and Guide Camp
Postponed from 17th May - Bluebells weren't out! Come and join the AONB Team and Mike Street on a walk to see Beaudesert's fabulous Bluebell Woods. The site isn't usually open to the public, but we are pleased that Mike has agreed to guide us around the site. Also included in the visit will be the newly installed Toposcope, part funded through our Sustainable Development Fund. Booking essential for this visit, please contact Emma on 01889 882613 or email cannockchase@staffordshire.gov.uk
Catch the Creepy Crawlies
30 May 2010
1:30pm
Meet at Cannock Chase Visitor Centre, Marquis Drive, Hednesford, Staffs WS12 4PW
Try your hand at catching mini beasts in the woods and the grass. Staffordshire County Council Ranger-led event, contact 01543 871773 for more information. Cost £2 per child, adults free!
The Great War Trail
06 June 2010
2:00pm
Meet at Coppice Hill Car Park, off Chase Road, Brocton
An opportunity to tread the path of the 1st World War soldier and learn about the military history of the Chase. Staffordshire County Council Ranger-led walk, cost £2 per adult, children free. Contact the Rangers on 01543 871773 for more information.
Dog Walk and Talk
29 July 2010
10:00am
Starting from the Museum of Cannock Chase, Valley Road, Hednesford, WS12 1TD
Come and join in a two hour walk led by Phil Armshaw, Cannock Chase District Council Countryside Officer. The walk will look at heathland management, ground nesting birds, nutrient enrichment and stock grazing around Hednesford Hills. We hope you and your canine friends can join us. For more information contact Emma on 01889 882613, or email cannockchase@staffordshire.gov.uk or visit us on our Facebook page - fredas footsteps. Cannock Chase AONB Canine Project is sponsored by Arden Grange.
Willow Weaving Day
10 August 2010
9.30am - 3.30pm
The Bothys, Shugborough Estate, Milford ST17 0XB
Join Emma and Riverwoods learning about green wood crafts. Cost is £10.00 per person, including lunch – booking essential. Contact Cannock Chase AONB Unit to book a place (01889 882613 or email cannockchase@staffordshire.gov.uk) This event is fully booked
Family Bike Ride
12 August 2010
2:00pm
Meet at Cannock Chase Visitor Centre, Marquis Drive, Hednesford, Staffordshire WS12 4PW.
Bring your bikes and go on a leisurely ride around Cannock Chase with Staffordshire County Council Rangers. Approximately 4 miles, fairly gentle terrain. Contact the Ranger on 01543 871773 for more details.
Dog Walk and Talk
14 August 2010
10:00am
Starting from Hazel Slade Local Nature Reserve, Hazel Slade, Hednesford, Staffs
Come and join in a two hour walk led by Phil Armshaw, Cannock Chase District Council Countryside Officer. The walk will look at heathland management, ground nesting birds, nutrient enrichment and stock grazing from Hazel Slade to Castle Ring. We hope you and your canine friends can join us. For more information contact Emma on 01889 882613, or email cannockchase@staffordshire.gov.uk or visit us on our Facebook page - fredas footsteps. Cannock Chase AONB Canine Project is sponsored by Arden Grange.
Meet the Artist at the Museum of Cannock Chase
28 August 2010
11:30am-4:30pm
Museum of Cannock Chase, Valley Road,Hednesford, Staffordshire WS11 1TD
Sue Prince, the artist behind the current exhibition Painted Tales, will be on hand to meet visitors at the Museum of Cannock Chase and talk about her unique artworks. Sue will be working on her latest painting in the gallery, as well as demonstrating how she makes the organic paint she uses. This is a fantastic opportunity to meet the artist and find out what goes into creating her highly unique artworks.
Bat Walk
28 August 2010
8:00pm
The Wolseley Centre, Wolseley Bridge, Nr Rugeley Staffordshire ST17 0WT
Meet at the Gatehouse at the entrance to the site. Booking essential on 01889 880100. Adults £2, pay on the night, children and Bat Group members free.
Wildlife Fun Day
30 August 2010
10:00am - 4:00pm
Cannock Chase Visitor Centre, Marquis Drive, Hednesford, Staffs WS12 4PW (01543 871773)
An event run in conjunction with Staffordshire County Council Rangers and the Rural Policing Liaison Unit - there will be a wide array of activities to do including face painting, pond dipping, fish feeding, bug hunts, wildlife displays and much more! Free entry but a small charge for some activities may apply.
Pond Dipping
05 September 2010
11:00am & 2:00pm
Cannock Chase Visitor Centre, Marquis Drive, Hednesford, Staffs WS12 4PW
Come and try to catch some of the bugs and beasts that live in the ponds at Marquis Drive. Two sessions during the day at 11.00am and 2.00pm. £2 per child, adults free! Staffordshire County Council Ranger-led event, contact 01543 871773 for more details.
Family Bike Ride
12 September 2010
2:00pm
Meet at Cannock Chase Visitor Centre, Marquis Drive, Hednesford, Staffordshire WS12 4PW
Bring your bikes and go on a leisurely ride around Cannock Chase with Staffordshire County Council Rangers. Approximately 4 miles, fairly gentle terrain.
Litter Pick
23 September 2010
9:30am - 12:00noon
Essex Bridge, Shugborough
Postponed from 16th September. Joint Emma, Anne and our dedicated volunteers to tidy up the area by Essex Bridge close to the bridlepath. Litter picks, gloves and bags will be provided. Contact the AONB Unit to let us know if you are coming along on 01889 882613, or email cannockchase@staffordshire.gov.uk
Canal Visit
28 September 2010

Postponed to a later date to be advised.
Farm Walk
04 October 2010
10:00am
Beaudesert Park Farm
Run by the Cope family for four generations, the farm is a mixed landscape of historical parkland, woodland and arable fields. Remnants of an 11th century deer enclosure and also medieval ridge & furrow are still evident. The walk will last around 2 hours and will end with a local produce lunch in the new classroom. Cost is £5 per person, booking essential, contact Emma or Anne on 01889 882613 or email cannockchase@staffordshire.gov.uk for more details.
Murder Mystery Dinner Show
16 October 2010
7:00pm
Shugborough, Milford, Nr Stafford ST17 0XB. www.shugborough.org.uk
Enjoy a superb dinner as the mystery unfolds over three courses. £24.95 per person. Call 01889 881 388 for details or see the website.
Horrible Hallowe’en Hand Puppets
25 October 2010
12 noon - 3pm
Museum of Cannock Chase, Valley Road, Hednesford, Staffs WS12 1TD
Drop-in workshop - Drop in and create a spooky puppet. £1 entry per child. Adults free. Just turn up!
Wildplay at Wolseley
25 October 2010
10:00am - 4:00pm
The Wolseley Centre, Wolseley Bridge, ST17 0WT (on A51 between Rugeley-Stafford)
Join Staffordshire Wildlife Trust on one of their exciting Play Days. Suitable for 8-13yrs, cost £5 per day (repeated on 26th October). Booking essential on 01889 880100
Ghostly Goings On!
26 October 2010
10:00am to midday and 1pm to 3pm
The Museum of Cannock Chase, Valley Road, Hednesford, Staffordshire, WS12 1TD. 01543 877666 www.cannockchasedc.gov.uk/museum
Make wicked witch puppets, ghostly wind socks and Jack O' Lantern pouches. £3 per child. Pre-booked workshops take place from 10am - 12noon or 1pm - 3pm (choose a morning or an afternoon workshop) and are for 5 – 11 year olds. To book, please call us for a booking form or download one from our website, then complete & return it to the museum. Sorry, but we can’t take bookings by phone. Pay on the day
Hallowe’en Spooktacular!
27 October 2010
12 noon - 3pm
The Museum of Cannock Chase, Valley Road, Hednesford, Staffordshire, WS12 1TD. Tel: 01543 877666
Drop-in workshop - Drop in and make all you need for a hair-raising Hallowe’en party - barmy banners, creepy decorations, ghoulish ghosts and spooky spiders! Plus… Fun & Games with the Play Rangers – become a mummy, bob for an apple and get your face painted to frighten your friends!! £1 entry per child. Adults free. Just turn up!
Wildplay at Wolseley
27 October 2010
10:00am - 4:00pm
The Wolseley Centre, Wolseley Bridge ST17 0XB (on A51 between Rugeley-Stafford)
Join Staffordshire Wildlife Trust on one of their exciting Play Days. Suitable for 4-7years, cost £5 per day. Booking essential on 01889 880100
Creepy Crafts & Spooky Snacks!
28 October 2010
10:00am to midday and 1pm to 3pm
The Museum of Cannock Chase, Valley Road, Hednesford, Staffordshire, WS12 1TD. www.cannockchasedc.gov.uk/museum.
Create creepy paper pumpkins & spine chilling spiders - then enjoy some fiendish food - tasty deadman’s finger sandwiches and worms in dirt! £3 per child. Pre-booked workshops take place from 10am - 12noon or 1pm - 3pm (choose a morning or an afternoon workshop) and are for 5 – 11 year olds. To book, please call us for a booking form or download one from our website, then complete & return it to the museum. Sorry, but we can’t take bookings by phone. Pay on the day.
Halloween Spooktacular
30 October 2010
5pm - 9pm
Shugborough, Milford, Nr Stafford ST17 0XB. www.shugborough.org.uk
Dust down your broomstick and prepare yourself for the spookiest event of the year with Halloween ‘hocus pocus’ in the Mansion House and Servants’ Quarters. Ticket prices Adult £10.00 (£9.00 in advance) Concession £8.00 (£7.00 in advance) Child £8.00 (£7.00 in advance) Family (2A+3C) £30.00 (£26.00 in advance) 1 Adult 1 Child Family £15.00 (£13.00 in advance) Buy your tickets in advance and SAVE through our box office 0845 459 8900 or book online through the website.
Wicked Wolseley
30 October 2010
12 noon - 7pm
The Wolseley Centre, Wolseley Bridge ST17 0WT. 01889 880100
Staffordshire Wildlife Trust event. Come and join the dark side for a terrifying fun day of Pumpkin Carving, Crafty Bat Cave & Bat Discovery, Spooky Games & Activities, Fancy Dress Competition, Ghost Stories Plus a special 'After Dark' Trail. £5 entry
Autumn Wildlife
31 October 2010
10:30am
Meet at Chase Vista Car Park off Chase Road.
Join Staffordshire County Council Ranger Service to enjoy the sounds and sights of wildlife in this busy part of the natural year. Cost £2 per adult, children free. Contact Staffordshire County Council Ranger Service on 01543 871773 for more details.
Hero dogs remembered on Armistice Day
11 November 2010
2:00pm
Freda's Grave, Chase Road, Brocton, Stafford
A special service to celebrate working dogs is taking place at Cannock Chase Cannock Chase Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is inviting working dogs and their owners to a special service this Armistice Day. The service has been inspired by Freda, a Dalmatian-type dog that was the New Zealand Rifles’ mascot, when the regiment was stationed on Cannock Chase during the First World War. She died in 1918 while the regiment was training on Cannock Chase, and is buried there. In memory of Freda, and dogs like her, the AONB is holding a service at her grave. Contact the AONB Unit for more details.
Wolseley Christmas Fayre
20 November 2010
10.30am-4pm
The Wolseley Centre, Wolseley Bridge, Stafford/Rugeley ST17 0WT 01889 880100
Staffordshire Wildlife Trust invites you to come and get your Christmas Pressies early. A selection of unique stalls and crafts on offer. Mulled Wine & Mince Pies, £1 admission
Trees in Winter
21 November 2010
10:30am
Meet at the Punchbowl Car Park on A513, Milford.
Ever wondered how to tell your oaks from your ashes? Your birch from your beech? Take a walk round the Chase with Staffordshire County Council Ranger Service to help you tell the difference and how to identify trees from twigs and buds. Cost £2 per adult, children free. Multi-terrain walk, suitable footwear and warm clothing recommended!
Shugborough Awareness Visit
23 November 2010
10:00am
Shugborough, Milford, Nr Stafford ST17 0XB
Enjoy an exclusive tour of Shugborough’s mansion house when it is under wraps for the winter. See some of the house’s secrets revealed as estate staff show you some of the hidden gems of the beautiful mansion which most visitors never get to see. Find out about the estate’s exciting plans for March 2011 which will see the private apartments opened for the first time to the public, followed by a cream tea. Booking essential, contact Emma or Anne on 01889 882613, email cannockchase@staffordshire.gov.uk Sorry - but this is now fully booked.
Christmas Crafts
04 December 2010
1:00pm to 4:00pm
The Wolseley Centre, Wolseley Bridge, Stafford/Rugeley ST17 0WT 01889 880100
Craft show at Staffordshire Wildlife Trust Centre followed by Carols by Candlelight at 4pm. See Wolseley Centre website for more details.
Christmas Family Day
05 December 2010
12 noon - 4pm
The Museum of Cannock Chase, Valley Road, Hednesford, Staffordshire, WS12 1TD
Festive fun for all the family! Christmas craft workshops, Pinocchio puppet shows, Coal mine Santa, shopping, Christmas carols, balloons, refreshments and Christmas storytelling! £2 per car. Come on foot and get in free! All money collected at these events will go to directly support and improve the museum and help us to offer family events in future. Your donations are very welcome. EVENT CANCELLED DUE TO THE ICY CONDITIONS IN VALLEY ROAD.
Fixed Point Photography Meeting
09 December 2010
10:00am
Poplars Landfill Site Visitor Centre
Calling all Fixed Pointers! Emma has arranged a meeting at the end of the year to let you know about the next stage in the monitoring process. To book a place contact Emma on 01889 882613, or email cannockchase@staffordshire.gov.uk
Winter Sunset Walk
18 December 2010
3:00pm - 4.45pm
Ye Olde Windmill Pub, Gentleshaw WS15 4NF
Wrap up warm and join Lichfield District Council Countryside Services on a magical sunset walk on Gentleshaw Common. The walk will be a good opportunity to see the sun setting over the beautiful heathland panoramic view. Chris Walsh will lead the walk and recommends that you bring a torch, wear warm clothing and walking boots or shoes. The walk will include tea/coffee and a mince pie. Cost is £3 and can be booked with Denice Deverall on 01543 308183, or email denice.deverall@lichfielddc.gov.uk by Friday 17th December.
Wassailing at Wolseley
09 January 2011
3.30pm-5pm
Wolseley Centre, Wolseley Bridge (A51 between Rugeley & Stafford) ST17 0WT
Help Staffordshire Wildlife Trust encourage the health and productivity of our Orchard Trees and wake them from their winter slumber, with the traditional folk custom of Wassailing. Admission Free.
Winter Wander
23 January 2011
10:30am - noon
Georges Hayes Reserve, Gentleshaw
Wear off your Christmas excess with a lively and informative walk around Staffordshire Wildlife Trust's Georges Hayes reserve. For more information contact Claire on 01889 880113
Craft Fayre
26 February 2011
10am-4pm
Wolseley Centre, Wolseley Bridge (A51 between Rugeley & Stafford) ST17 0WT
A range of stalls selling unique and handmade crafts. Treat yourself or buy the perfect gift for Mothers Day. £1 Admission.
Shugborough Game Fair
05 March 2011
9:00am - 6:00pm
Shugborough, Milford, Nr Stafford ST17 0XB
This exciting fun packed weekend for all the family brings Midland Airgun Clubs including world champion action, gundog scurry, lurchers, terriers, birds of prey, fly casting and much more. There will also be around 200 stalls of various trades, crafts and antiques and a fun fair for the little ones. Mansion house, servants quarters, farm and walled garden are closed.Ticket prices Adult - £ 10.00, Concession - £ 5.00, Child (under 16) - £ 5.00, Full Car (Up to 5), £ 20.00 This is a weekend event on 5th & 6th March 2011.
Litter Pick
16 March 2011
9:30am - 11:30am
To be arranged
Join Emma, Anne and our hardy band of community volunteers in a litter pick at Cannock Chase AONB. Contact Emma on 01889 882613 to let us know if you're able to come along.
Moth Trapping
14 April 2011
8:30pm - late
Christian Fields Local Nature Reserve, Lichfield
This event takes place outside the AONB boundary, but is hosted by one of our local authority partners. Chris Walsh, Biodiversity Officer from Lichfield District Council's Countryside Team, is leading this moth trapping for identification event and the newly designated Local Nature Reserve. Cost is £2.50 per person and includes tea/coffee. To reserve a place, contact the Countryside Team on 01543 308183 or email denice.deverall@lichfielddc.gov.uk.
Willow Weaving Day
28 April 2011
9.30am - 3.00pm
The Bothy's, Shugborough, Milford, Nr Stafford ST17 0XB
Come and enjoy a fun day with Riverwoods learning how to be creative with willow. The cost of the day is £12 and includes lunch. There are only 15 places available so the event will be on a first come first served basis. Please email emma at emma.beaman@staffordshire.gov.uk to book a place.
Bluebell Walk
04 May 2011
11:00am - 1:00pm
Beaudesert Scout & Guide Camp, Cannock Wood, Staffordshire WS15 4JJ
PLEASE NOTE AMENDED DATE - THE BLUEBELLS ARE OUT EARLY!!!! Join the Chairman of Beaudesert Trust on a walk around the spectacular Bluebell Woods. Booking essential, contact Emma on 01889 882613 or email cannockchase@staffordshire.gov.uk to book a place.
Volunteers' Barbeque
14 May 2011
12:00noon - 2:00pm
To be confirmed
This event has been arranged as part of the Visitor Survey and is open only to our volunteers. Please contact Emma or Anne if you would like to join us. Tel: 01889 882613 or email cannockchase@staffordshire.gov.uk
Waterways of Cannock Chase
14 May 2011
2:30pm
Meet at Seven Springs Car Park, off A513 between Milford and Wolseley Bridge
This is a Friends of Cannock Chase walk led by Jillian. Advertised as a 'longer more difficult' walk, you will cover 5-6 miles around the area and it is recommended that you wear suitable footwear for the terrain.
Summertime in Sherbrook
11 June 2011
2:30pm
Meet at the Glacial Boulder off Camp Road, Brocton
Friends of Cannock Chase walk, led by June. Advertised as a 'longer more difficult' walk, you will cover approximately 4 miles around the area and it is recommended that you wear suitable footwear for the terrain. Contact either 01785 665440 or 01543 571241 for direction to the meeting point.
Guided Walk with June Jukes MBE
13 June 2011
10:30am - 12:30pm
Meet at Seven Springs Car Park, A513 between Milford and Wolseley Bridge
Circular 4 mile walk from Seven Springs via Dick Slee's cave. Contact Emma or Anne on 01889 882613 or email cannockchase@staffordshire.gov.uk for more details.
Litter Pick
02 July 2011
10:00am - noon
Cannock Chase Visitor Centre, Marquis Drive, Hednesford WS12 4PW
Join Friends of Cannock Chase on a litter pick around this popular visitor centre. Bags and litter pickers provided.
Teddy Bear's Picnic
17 July 2011
12:00noon
Meet at Cannock Chase Visitor Centre, Marquis Drive, Hednesford WS12 4PW (01543 876741). PT ARR 351,352 to Moors Gorse 1½ mile walk to Marquis Drive
Bring your favourite Teddy (and a picnic for you and the bear!) Build a shelter in the woods for your bear to sit in and have a go at forest art as well. £2 per child – bears free! Staffordshire County Council Ranger Service event.
Guided Walk at Gentleshaw Common
19 July 2011
10:00am - 12 noon
Meet at Ye Olde Windmill Inn, Windmill Lane, Gentleshaw, Nr Rugeley WS15 4NF
Lichfield District Council's Countryside Officers will be leading a walk around the common highlighting the recent heathland management work. Contact Emma or Anne on 01889 882613 or email cannockchase@staffordshire.gov.uk to book a place.
Beach Party
28 July 2011
11am, 1pm & 3pm
Chasewater Innovation Centre, Chasewater Country Park, Pool Road, Brownhills WS8 7NL
Summer Holiday Activity - family fun event, seaside arts and crafts, Punch and Judy 11.00am, 1.00pm and 3.00pm
The Bats of Cannock Chase
06 August 2011
7:30pm
Meet at Cannock Chase Visitor Centre, Marquis Drive, Hednesford WS12 4PW
A talk and walk on our local night flying mammals led by an expert from South East Staffordshire Bat Group. NOTE - subject to the weather. Prior booking required. Tel: 01543 876741. Staffordshire County Council Rangers event.
Wildlife Fun Day
29 August 2011
10:00am - 4:00pm
Cannock Chase Visitor Centre, Marquis Drive, Hednesford, Staffordshire WS12 4PW
An event run in conjunction with Staffordshire County Council Rangers and the Rural Policing Liaison Unit. There will be a wide array of activities to do including face painting, pond dipping, fish feeding, bug hunts, wildlife displays and much more! Free entry but a small charge for some activities may apply.
Litter Pick
03 September 2011
10:00am - noon
Cannock Chase Visitor Centre, Marquis Drive, Hednesford WS12 4PW
Join Friends of Cannock Chase on a litter pick around this popular visitor centre. Bags and litter pickers provided.
Forest Discovery Day
11 September 2011

Birches Valley Forest Centre, Nr Rugeley, Staffordshire WS15 2UQ (Tel: 01889 586593)
Join the Forestry Commission at Cannock Chase on Sunday 11 September for Forest Discovery Day, a spectacular celebration to mark the 2011 International Year of Forests. Why not come along have fun and show your love for your local woodland! There will be plenty of fantastic free activities for both children and adults. See website for more information http://www.forestry.gov.uk/website/forestry.nsf/byunique/INFD-8KKDGK
Kit Bag Hill & RAF Hednesford
17 September 2011
2:30pm
Meet at Cannock Chase Visitor Centre, Marquis Drive, Hednesford WS12 4PW
Four mile walk with Trevor from Friends of Cannock Chase. Please note car parking charges at the Visitor Centre.
Drop-In Session
23 September 2011
10:00am - 12 noon
Cannock Fire Station
Come along and have your say at the mid-point of our Management Plan. Tell us your Wonders, Woes and Wants. We can't promise to grant all your wishes, but we hope we can explain why!
Guided Walk to Haywood Cliffs
19 October 2011
10:00am - 12 noon
Meet at Cannock Chase AONB Unit, Shugborough Park Farm, Milford, Stafford ST17 0XB
Join AONB Staff and a National Trust guide on this informative walk from Shugborough to Haywood Cliffs. Suitable footwear required for mix of terrain. Contact Anne or Emma to book a place on 01889 882613 or email cannockchase@staffordshire.gov.uk
Heathland Management
22 October 2011
10:00am - noon
Meet at the Military Cemetery, off Camp Road (follow brown tourist signs)
Join Friends of Cannock Chase on one of their regular task days. Tools provided.
Armistice Day
11 November 2011
2:00pm
Freda's Grave, off Chase Road
Due to popular request, we will be holding our second commemoration for service and support animals. For more information contact the AONB Unit on 01889 882613 or email cannockchase@staffordshire.gov.uk
Chilly November Walk
16 November 2011
10:30am - 12:30pm
Shugborough, Milford, Stafford ST17 0XB
Join us on a walk around the arboretum created by Lord Lichfield. This will be followed by a warming bowl of soup in the Lady Walk Tea Room. Booking essential, contact Emma or Anne on 01889 882613 or email cannockchase@staffordshire.gov.uk. Cost £3.50 per head for non-members, members free.
Winter Wonderland
20 November 2011
12:00noon - 3:00pm
Museum of Cannock Chase, Valley Road, Hednesford, Staffs, WS12 1TD, 01543 877666
Experience the winter wonderland of Hednesford Hills with family craft activities at the Museum of Cannock Chase The special Sunday opening will feature nature and craft drop-in activities throughout the afternoon for the whole family to enjoy. Crafts cost £1.00 per child, adults go free and all children must be accompanied by an adult.
Trees in Winter
20 November 2011
10:30am
Meet at the Punchbowl Car Park on A513 Stafford - Wolseley Bridge
Ever wondered how to tell your oaks from your ashes? Your birch from your beech? Take a walk round the Chase with a Staffordshire County Council Ranger to help you tell the difference and how to identify trees from twigs and buds. Multi-terrain walk, cost £2 per adult, children free. Contact the Rangers on 01543 871773 for further details.
Heathland Management
26 November 2011
10:00am - 12:00noon
Meet at the Military Cemetery, Camp Road, Hednesford WS12 4PT
Join Friends of Cannock Chase volunteers as they continue their Autumn/ Winter programme of heathland management. Tools will be provided!
Drop-In Session
30 November 2011
1:30pm - 3:30pm
Rugeley Rose Centre, Taylors Lane, Rugeley
Member of Cannock Chase AONB Partnership will be on hand to discuss issues relating to the AONB which will be fed into the review of the current Management Plan. Contact the AONB Unit on 01889 882613 for further details. PLEASE NOTE THIS EVENT HAS BEEN POSTPONED TO A LATER DATE.
Winter Walk
07 December 2011
10:00am - 12:00noon
Brocton Coppice, meet at Brocton Coppice Car Park, off Camp Road.
Walk led by Andy Goode from Staffordshire County Council around this semi-natural ancient woodland. Contact Emma or Anne to book a place, email cannockchase@staffordshire.gov.uk or telephone 01889 882613.
Solstice Walk
22 December 2011
10:30am
Meet at Coppice Hill Car Park off Chase Road, Brocton.
Join the Staffordshire County Council Ranger Service on a walk to celebrate the Winter Solstice, and see Cannock Chase in the depths of Winter. Contact the Rangers on 01543 871773 for further details.
Walk around Chasewater
23 January 2012
10:00am - 12:00noon
Chasewater Country Park, Pool Road, Brownhills WS8 7NL
Wrap up warm and enjoy a winter walk around Chasewater led by Forest of Mercia staff. Contact Emma on 01889 882613 or email cannockchase@staffordshire.gov.uk for further details.
Cannock Chase AONB Roadshow
27 January 2012
11:00am - 1:00pm
Walton Village Hall, Nr Stafford
Open consultation on review of the Management Plan. This is a drop-in session for members of the local community to have their say on the current management plan and what could be included in the next. Contact the AONB Unit for more details on 01889 882613 or email cannockchase@staffordshire.gov.uk
Heathland Management
11 February 2012
10:00am - 12:00noon
Meet at the Military Cemetery, Camp Road, Broadhurst Green
Join Friends of Cannock Chase volunteers as they undertake a couple of hours of heathland management. Tools provided.
Bird Box Bonanza!
23 February 2012
10.30 - 12 noon
Birches Valley Forest Centre, Nr Rugeley, Staffordshire
Come along to Birches Valley Forest Centre and enjoy a morning of bird themed activities, perfect for 4 - 11 year olds. Make bird cake, build your very own bird box and meet with our Wildlife Ranger to discover the birds of Cannock Chase. Booking essential. Cost £5 per child (excluding parking). For further information contact the education team on 01785 777002.
Heathland Management
24 February 2012
10:00am - 2:00pm
Shoal Hill Common, meet at Cocksparrow Lane Car Park
Come and join the team and other volunteers helping to manage the heathland. Tools and equipment will be provided, suitable footwear and warm clothing should be worn.
Cannock Chase AONB Roadshow
01 March 2012
10:00am - 12:00noon
The Park Gate Inn, Park Gate Road, Cannock Wood, WS15 4RN
Drop in and see Emma or Anne to discuss the review of Cannock Chase AONB Management Plan. For further details, contact us on 01889 882613 or email cannockchase@staffordshire.gov.uk
Heathland Management
03 March 2012
10:00am - 12:00noon
Meet at the Military Cemetery, Camp Road, Broadhurst Green
Join Friends of Cannock Chase volunteers as they undertake a couple of hours of heathland management. Tools provided.
Cannock Chase AONB Roadshow
17 March 2012
10:00am - 2:00pm
Information Hut, Milford Common, Nr Stafford ST17 0UH (next to the Little Fawn Cafe)
Drop in and see Emma or Anne to discuss the review of Cannock Chase AONB Management Plan. For further details, contact us on 01889 882613 or email cannockchase@staffordshire.gov.uk
Litter Pick
21 March 2012
10:00am - 12:00noon
Dinah's Knob, Pear Tree Estate, Rugeley (Off A460 Rugeley to Hednesford Road, then follow signs for Chase View Primary School)
Join the team to tidy up one of the popular sites on the Chase. Contact Emma on 01889 882613 or email cannockchase@staffordshire.gov.uk for further details.
Heathland Management
22 March 2012
10:00am - 12:00noon
Meet at the Museum of Cannock Chase, Valley Road, Hednesford WS12 1TD
Come and join the Cannock Chase Council's Countryside team and other volunteers helping to manage the heathland. Tools and equipment will be provided, suitable footwear and warm clothing should be worn.
Litter Pick
02 April 2012
10:00am - 12:00noon
Dinah's Knob, Pear Tree Estate, Rugeley (Off A460 Rugeley to Hednesford Road, then follow signs for Chase View Primary School)
Join the team on a second visit to tidy up this site. Contact Emma on 01889 882613 or email cannockchase@staffordshire.gov.uk for further details.
Activities for Children at Easter
04 April 2012
11:00am - 2:00pm
Cannock Chase Visitor Centre, Marquis Drive, Hednesford WS12 4PW
Emma and Anne will set a rabbit trail for the younger members of our local community to follow. You'll need to bring a grown up with you though as you have to cross the road to Brindley Heath from the visitor centre. Staffordshire County Council Rangers will also be on hand to demonstrate some of the practical tasks they get up to, such as bird and bat box making.
Mifflins Valley and Jubilee Trail
12 April 2012
10:00am - 12:00noon
Meet at the slip road on A460 Hednesford - Rugeley Road opposite the Slitting Mill junction
Join June Jukes MBE from Friends of Cannock Chase who will be leading a 3.5 mile (approx) walk from Mifflins Valley up onto the Jubilee Trail. For further infomation, contact Anne or Emma on 01889 882613, or email cannockchase@staffordshire.gov.uk
Heathland Management
19 April 2012
10:00am - 1:00pm
Gentleshaw Common
Join Lichfield District Council Countryside Services to undertake tree clearance work and heathland management followed by a led walk around the site at 1pm. Contact Emma for more details on 01889 882613 or email cannockchase@staffordshire.gov.uk
Wildflower Walk
10 May 2012
2:30pm
Piggotts Bottom, Horsey Lane, Upper Longdon
Join Friends of Cannock Chase on a wildflower walk through this ancient woodland. Distance is 2-3 miles of moderate walking, led by June Jukes.
Bluebell Walk
12 May 2012
10:00am - 12:00noon
Beaudesert Scout & Guide Camp
The planned guided walk has been postponed. Unfortunately the bluebells in the woodland are not yet out, they are always later than anywhere else in the area. Please contact Emma or Anne on 01785 619185 if you want to be included on the alert list when this walk is rearranged.
Dawn Chorus
13 May 2012
4:45am
Friends of Cannock Chase Hut, Milford
Join Friends of Cannock Chase for a short walk and to listen to and identify the different birds. Leader is Andy. Contact the Friends of Cannock Chase via their website for further details http://www.friendsofcannockchase.btck.co.uk/
Visit Cannock Chase AONB's New Office
17 May 2012
10:00am - 2:00pm
Stafford Borough Council, Civic Centre, Riverside, Stafford ST16 3AQ (tel: 01785 619185)
This spring, the Cannock Chase AONB team moved from their offices in the grounds of Shugborough Park Farm to a new office in Stafford’s Civic Centre. To help you find out more about the work of the AONB team and their volunteers, you are invited to pop in for tea and cake anytime from 10:00am to 2:00pm in The Sheridan Room at the Civic Centre.
Heathland Managment
18 May 2012
10:00am - 2:00pm
Shoal Hill Common, Cocksparrow Lane, Huntington
We have a number of volunteers who help out at various sites around the AONB to ensure that we have healthy heathlands. Tools and equipment are supplied, but you will need to wear suitable clothing and footwear and bring a packed lunch with you if you intend to stay for the 4 hours. At the end of the work session, Bob the Ranger will lead a guided tour of the site.
Guided Walk around Oldacre Valley
19 May 2012
2:30pm
Meet at the Glacial Boulder Stone on Chase Road
Join Ann-Marie from Friends of Cannock Chase on a 3 mile moderate walk around Oldacre Valley and Brocton Pool.
Wet Noses and Waggy Tails
20 May 2012
11:00-4:00pm
Chasewater Country Park, Pool Road, Burntwood, Staffordshire WS8 7NL (off A5)
Lichfield District Council Park Rangers are holding a fun canine awareness day. Events will include Good Citizens Display, Heelwork to Music, Agility and Flyball, Have-A-Go Agility for dogs and their owners, Greyhound Training Display, Guided Walk around Anglesey Basin and a Novelty Competition. Contact the Park Rangers on 01543 370607, or email chasewater@lichfield.gov.uk for further information.
Valley Woodland Trail
24 May 2012
10:00am - 12:00noon
Beaudesert Scout & Guide Camp, Cannock Wood
The bluebells have been reluctant to show themselves this year, so we're off on a walk around the newly restored Valley Woodland Trail. If you'd like to join us, contact Emma or Anne on 01785 619185.
Gentleshaw Common Walk
15 June 2012
10:00am - 12:00noon
Meet at Gentleshaw Common, by the Windmill Pub
Chris Walsh from Lichfield District Council will lead a walk around this lovely spot on the south west of Cannock Chase AONB. For more details contact Emma or Anne on 01785 619185 (please note new telephone number) or email cannockchase@staffordshire.gov.uk.
Spring Hill and the Punchbowl
16 June 2012
2:30pm
Meet at Milford Common
Jillian from Friends of Cannock Chase will be leading a 3 mile walk to these two popular sites. Please note there are car pakring charges at Milford Common.
Himalayan Balsam Removal
20 June 2012
10:00am - 12:00noon
Shugborough, Milford, Nr Stafford ST17 0XB (meet on the main car park)
Although this plant may look pretty, it is an invasive species that can easily get out of hand. Come and join our volunteers to remove this pesky plant! For more details contact Emma or Anne on 01785 619185 (please note new telephone number) or email cannockchase@staffordshire.gov.uk.
Brocton and Oldacre Valley
27 June 2012
10:00am - 12:00noon
Meet at Chase Vista Car Park, off Chase Road
Glynis Ward MBE will be leading this walk around the lovely Oldacre Valley and Brocton. For more details contact Emma or Anne on 01785 619185 (please note new telephone number) or email cannockchase@staffordshire.gov.uk.
Butterfly Walk
28 June 2012
2:30pm
Meet at the Cadet Hut, Rifle Range Corner, off Penkridge Bank Road.
Friends of Cannock Chase are leading a 3 mile walk to look for native butterflies. Walk leader is Rob.
Grassland Management
29 June 2012
10:00am - 2:00pm
Gentleshaw Common
Chris Walsh from Lichfield District Council will be leading a grassland management task on Gentleshaw Common. Tools and equipment will be provided, you will need suitable clothing/shoes and bring a packed lunch. For more details contact Emma or Anne on 01785 619185 (please note new telephone number) or email cannockchase@staffordshire.gov.uk.
Beaudesert Park
07 July 2012
2:30pm
Meet at Beaudesert Old Car Park, Rugeley Road
Rob from Friends of Cannock Chase will lead a more challenging 3 mile walk around Beaudesert Old Park.
Guided Walk, Deavalls Farm
19 July 2012
10:00am - 12:00noon
Deavalls Farm Ranger Station, Off Hawks Green Lane, Cannock WS11 2LP
Simon Siddle from Cannock Chase Council's Countryside Services will lead a walk around the site to look at the work that has been done on establishing an orchard and the grazing project with Dexter cattle. For more details contact Emma or Anne on 01785 619185or email cannockchase@staffordshire.gov.uk.
Ragwort Removal
20 July 2012
10:00am - 12:00noon
Meet at Bednall Belt Car Park, off Camp Road
Although Ragwort is poisonous for horses, it provides a good food source for the caterpillars of the Cinnabar Moth. Join Emma, Anne and other willing volunteers on this challenging task to remove plants from bridleway areas whilst ensuring that there is enough left for the caterpillars. Contact us at cannockchase@staffordshire.gov.uk for further details.
Litter Pick
28 July 2012
10:00am - 12:00noon
Milford Common Car Park
Friends of Cannock Chase are organising a litter pick around this popular site. Litter picks, bags, etc, will be provided.
Looking at Bees
02 August 2012
2:30pm
Staffordshire Wildlife Trust, The Wolseley Centre, Wolseley Bridge, off A51 ST17 0WT
Friends of Cannock Chase will be leading a 2 mile walk to include information about bees.
The Fernery at The Wolseley Centre
04 August 2012
2:30pm
Staffordshire Wildlife Trust, The Wolseley Centre, Wolseley Bridge, off A51 ST17 0WT
Friends of Cannock Chase will lead a moderate 2 mile walk around the Wolseley Centre and the fernery planted in memory of former committee member, Margaret Kingston.
Activity Day
08 August 2012
10:00am - 2:00pm
Cannock Chase Visitor Centre, Marquis Drive, Hednesford, Staffs WS12 4PW
Emma and Anne from Cannock Chase AONB Unit and Staffordshire County Council Rangers will be outside the Visitor Centre doing a range of activities for the younger members of the community. A rabbit trail, bird and bat box making will be available to keep the children occupied - weather permitting!!!
Cannock Chase Military History Weekend
18 August 2012
10:00am - 4:00pm
Cannock Chase Visitor Centre, Marquis Drive, Hednesford WS12 4PW
Into its 3rd year, this event commemorates the area’s military connections, past and present. Static and arena displays, collections and lots of hands on activities. Veterans, re-enactors and enthusiasts will be on hand to help you to explore history, from Anglo-Saxon, through to modern warfare. Cannock Chase Visitor Centre, Marquis Drive. Hednesford. WS12 4PW. Call for more details, 01782 632350.
Heathland Management
24 August 2012
10:00am - 2:00pm
Shoal Hill (Car Park off Cocksparrow Lane)
One of our regular tasks to continue to keep this heathland site managed. Suitable footwear and clothing is required for this outdoor task. Contact Anne at the AONB Unit for more information on 01785 619185 or email cannockchase@staffordshire.gov.uk
Litter Pick
07 September 2012
10:00am - 12:00noon
Meet at Cannock Chase Visitor Centre Car Park, Marquis Drive, Hednesford, WS12 4PW
Emma will be leading volunteers to clear litter around the visitor centre area and the car park at the atart of the TocH trail. Litter picks, gloves and bags will be provided. Contact Emma for more information on 01785 619186 or email cannockchase@staffordshire.gov.uk
Brindley Valley Heather Walk
08 September 2012
2:30pm
Meet at Cannock chase Visitor Centre, Marquis Drive, Hednesford WS12 4PW
Friends of Cannock Chase will be leading a 3 mile moderate walk around Brindley Heath. Suitable footwear and outdoor clothing is recommended. Leader will be Steve.
Heathland Management
27 September 2012
10:00am - 2:00pm
Meet at Cannock Chase Visitor Centre, Marquis Drive, Hednesford WS12 4PW
Karen from Staffordshire County Council Rangers Service will be leading the volunteers as they undertake a couple of hours of heathland management work. Tools and equipment will be provided, please were suitable footwear and outdoor clothing. Contact Emma or Anne for further details on 01785 619185 or email cannockchase@staffordshire.gov.uk
Heathland Management
29 September 2012
10:00am - 12:00noon
Meet at the Military Cemetery, Broadhurst Green, Cannock Chase
Friends of Cannock Chase are organising a couple of hours of work and will provide the tools and equipment you will need for the task. Please wear suitable footwear and outdoor clothing.
Connecting Cannock Chase - Heathland Managment
10 October 2012
10:00am - 1:00pm
Meet at The Whitehouse Car Park, Penkridge Bank Road, Cannock Chase WS12 4PR
Staffordshire Wildlife Trust are leading work on heathland management and creation to link areas on Cannock Chase. There's lots of work to be done, so we'll be revisiting the area a number of times over the next few years. Tools and equipment will be provided, but please wear suitable clothing and footwear for outdoor work. Contact Anne at the AONB Unit for further details or email cannockchase@staffordshire.gov.uk
Moors Gorse and Rainbow Valley
13 October 2012
2:30pm
Meet at Moors Gorse, off A460 Hednesford to Rugeley Road
3-4 mile guided walk led by Jillian from Friends of Cannock Chase. This is a walk that includes some sharp gradients through woodland areas. It is recommended that you wear suitable footwear and clothing (especially if it rains!)
Heathland Management
18 October 2012
10:00am - 2:00pm
Meet at The Museum of Cannock Chase, Valley Road, Hednesford WS12 1TD
Join our regular group of volunteers as we tackle invasive birch and pine saplings. Tools and equipment will be provided, but please wear suitable clothing and footwear for outdoor work. Contact Anne at the AONB Unit for further details or email cannockchase@staffordshire.gov.uk
Heathland Management Plus
22 October 2012
10:00am - 2:00pm
Meet by the Windmill Pub, Gentleshaw Common
Chris from Lichfield Countryside Services will be leading this task to clear invasive saplings from Gentleshaw Common. The 'Plus' bit will come towards the end of the activity. Tools and equipment will be provided, but please wear suitable clothing and footwear for outdoor work. Contact Anne at the AONB Unit for further details or email cannockchase@staffordshire.gov.uk
Connecting Cannock Chase Heathland Managment
07 November 2012
10:00am - 2:00pm
Meet at Whitehouse Car Park, Penkridge Bank Road, Cannock Chase
Join Bernadette from Staffordshire Wildlife Trust who is leading the Connecting Cannock Chase Project. We will be undertaking scrub clearance on one of three areas of Forestry Commission land to help connect heathland corridors. Tools and equipment will be supplied, but please wear suitable footwear and clothing for this task.
Armistice Day at Freda's Grave
09 November 2012
2:00pm
Freda’s grave is 0.6 miles south east of Brocton Village, near Stafford. Marked ‘Meml’ on the Ordnance Survey Explorer Map 244 – Cannock Chase grid reference SJ978188
Whether you are remembering the bravery of a military or police dog, or a missed service dog, everyone is welcome to come to this short service. We are also keen for any working dogs to be there, and we’re sure they will enjoy a walk in the beautiful surroundings of Cannock Chase. The service will be led by Rev Jane Nash and will include readings and poems and laying a wreath.
Heathland Management
23 November 2012
10:00am - 1:00pm
Meet at Shoal Hill Common Car Park, off Cocksparrow Lane, Huntington
Bob, the Shoal Hill Common Warden, will lead one of the regular tasks to remove scrub invasion on this lovely heathland site. Tools and equipment will be provided, but please wear suitable footwear and clothing.
Signs and Waymarkers Survey
10 December 2012
10:00am - 3:30pm
Meet at Milford Cricket Club, Main Road, Milford
We are working with Staffordshire County Council and the Forest of Mercia Project Team to assess the condition of signs and waymarkers on public rights of way around the AONB. This first session will provide training for volunteers so that they know what to look out for. Places are limited to 15, but if you want to join us, please book a place by contacting Anne at cannockchase@staffordshire.gov.uk. The day will include a site visit, so bring warm clothing and suitable footwear. Refreshments and lunch will be provided.
Heathland Management
13 December 2012
10:00am - 2:00pm
Meet at the Museum of Cannock Chase, Valley Road, Hednesford, Staffs WS12 1TD
Our last heathland management task of 2012! Join Simon and the team from Cannock Chase Council Countryside Services to remove invasive species from Hednesford Hills. Tools and equipment will be provided, but make sure you wear suitable footwear and clothing - it'll be cold! Contact Anne at cannockchase@staffordshire.gov.uk if you want to come along on this task. More heathland management has been arranged for 2013.
Launch of Walk Leaflets
29 December 2012
10:15am
Meet at Cannock Chase Visitor Centre, Marquis Drive, Hednesford WS12 4PW
Why not blow away the post Christmas cobwebs with a 5 mile walk around the beautiful countryside of Cannock Chase. The Walsall branch of the Ramblers has produced a series of walk leaflets, sponsored by Decathlon Wednesbury and our own Sustainable Development Fund. The leaflets will be on sale at the Visitor Centres after the launch, priced at 30p each, which will go towards reprints. Contact Anne on 01785 619185 (or 07773 792395 on the day) for further information.
Winter Walk on Shoal Hill Common
29 December 2012
2pm
Meet at Cocksparrow Lane Car Park, Huntington
Friends of Cannock Chase are leading a 2 mile walk around the Common. For more details see their website (link above)
Woodland Management
10 January 2013
10:00am - 2:00pm
Norton Bog, meet at the car park, Chasewater Heaths Station cafe car park (just off Burntwood Bypass)
We're straying a little bit out of our area to work on the north end of Chasewater at Norton Bog with Staffordshire County Council Ranger Service. tools and equipment will be provided, but please wear suitable footwear and clothing for this woodland management task. Please contact Anne on 01785 619185 or email cannockchase@staffordshire.gov.uk for further information.
Scrub Control for heathland development
22 January 2013
10:00am - 2:00pm
Meet at The Whitehouse Car Park, Penkridge Bank Road, Cannock Chase
Bernadette from the Connecting Cannock Chase Project will be leading this task to continue the work on managing the heathland on Forestry Commission land. tools and equipment will be provided, but please wear suitable footwear and clothing for this heathland management task. Please contact Anne on 01785 619185 or email cannockchase@staffordshire.gov.uk for further information.
Heathland Management at Hednesford Hills
07 February 2013
10:00-2:00pm
Meet at the Museum of Cannock Chase, Valley Road, Hednesford, WS12 1TD
Join Cannock Chase Council Countryside Service to rid the heathland of invasive trees and scrub. Tools and equipment will be provided, but please wear suitable footwear and clothing for this heathland management task. Please contact Anne on 01785 619185 or email cannockchase@staffordshire.gov.uk for further information.
Heathland Management at Shoal Hill
22 February 2013
10:00am - 2:00pm
Shoal Hill Common, Cocksparrow Lane Car Park, Huntington
Join Bob the Warden at Shoal Hill to do some more managment of this lovely bit of heathland. Tools and equipment will be provided, but please wear suitable footwear and clothing for this practical task. Please contact Anne on 01785 619185 or email cannockchase@staffordshire.gov.uk for further information.
Connecting Cannock Chase Project
07 March 2013
10:00am - 2:00pm
Meet at the Whitehouse Car Park, Penkridge Bank Road
We're paying a return visit to this site and hopefully it won't be cancelled due to the snow! We're working on Forestry Commission land to control invasive scrub for the benefit of the heathland. Bernadette from Staffordshire Wildlife Trust will be leading this task and will provide all tools and equipment, but please wear suitable footwear and clothing for this heathland management task. Please contact Anne on 01785 619185 or email cannockchase@staffordshire.gov.uk for further information.
Field Preparation for Grazing
16 April 2013
10:00am - 2:00pm
Meet at the Steam railway café, North shore Chasewater
This is a bit of a different task for us, we'll be preparing a field ready for the grazing cattle on the heathland at Chasewater. The task is being led by Chris Walsh from Lichfield District Council. Tools and equipmwnt will be supplied, but please wear suitable footwear and clothing for this task which will include fence repairs. For more details contact Anne on 01785 619185, or email cannockchase@staffordshire.gov.uk
Litter Pick
25 April 2013
10:00am - 12noon
Mill Green, Lichfield Road, Cannock
We're helping Simon Siddle and the Countryside Services staff from Cannock Chase District Council to help tidy up this special green space just outside Cannock. Gloves, litter picks and bags all provided, as usual make sure you have suitable footwear and clothing for this task. For more information, contact anne on 01785 619185 or email cannockchase@staffordshire.gov.uk
Make, Do and Mend
30 April 2013
10:00am - 3:00pm
Unit 12, Tixall Heath Farm, Tixall, Stafford ST18 0XX
Local artisit Jennifer Collier worked with a local school on an art project linked to Cannock Chase AONB and it was so successful, we thought that it would appeal to grown ups! Examples of Jennifer’s work can be found on her website, www.unittwelve.co.uk. Places are limited to 15, although if there is a large take up, I’ll arrange another session in May. This event will be free to members, £15 for non-members and will include all materials and lunch. For more information contact Anne on 01785 619185 or email cannockchase@staffordshire.gov.uk

 

Cannock Chase AONB Unit
Shugborough Park Farm, Main Road, Milford, Stafford ST17 0XB.Tel: 01889 882613 Fax: 01889 883912
Email: cannockchase@staffordshire.gov.uk