Cannock Forest

Welcome to Cannock Forest in Staffordshire! Cannock Forest sits on Cannock Chase, the smallest Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty on mainland Britain.

Cannock Chase is best known for its open heathland and pine forest and its mining and military history which stretches back several hundred years and still effects how the land is managed today. The Forestry Commission started planting woodland on the Chase in the 1920s when World War 1 had resulted in a shortage of home grown timber. The Forestry Commission has come along way from the early days of intensive timber production and now manage the forest by balancing the needs of wildlife, recreation and the local timber markets.

Cannock Chase is a popular destination for people seeking fresh air, peace and exercise with Fairoak Valley amongst the most popular areas for walking and cycling. Please come and enjoy the forest whilst showing consideration for other users.

Please also remember that this is still a working forest and pay careful attention to operations signs that you see.

Cannock Chase is home to large populations of nocturnal animals, therefore we ask that you enjoy the forest and its surroundings throughout the year, but please be aware that the wildlife need to recuperate without disturbance.

as i was walking a dog up by seven springs, when the dog did his business i put it in a bag but then could not find a bin on at least a 2 mile walk.if you want people to clean up after their animals you should provide bins to place the bags in.thank you for your cooperation.

Great for offroad cycling over natural trails. Much better than the man made obstacle courses a lot of cycle trail centres seem to offer.

Has the follow the dog trail been seriously altered? Compared to 7stanes, Welsh trail centres and Dalby, I'd call it a low red grading! Great fun though. But no where near extreme.

And, yes to agree with some of the other comments, the best way forward is for all users of the outdoor to give each other a bit of respect & not get shirty about trail damage. Trails can be maintained.

Conflict just ends up with everyone losing out.