Staffordshire, nestled in the heart of England, is renowned for Alton Towers, the nation's premier theme park. Yet, this county's charm extends far beyond its thrilling rides. It's a destination ripe with hidden treasures that offer a glimpse into England's quirky character and stunning landscapes. Opt for a cozy Staffordshire holiday cottage, plan an exhilarating day at Alton Towers, and then set off to explore these five lesser-known attractions that promise a memorable family getaway.
The Roaches, a striking formation within the Peak District National Park, beckons adventurers with its rugged terrain. This area, steeped in folklore, was once rumored to be home to wallabies, an Australian marsupial. The tale, rooted in truth, speaks of wallabies released during World War II from a local private zoo. Against the odds, they thrived for decades, with sightings persisting into recent years. Visitors to The Roaches might just catch a glimpse of these elusive creatures, hinting at a small surviving population in the wilds of the Peak District.
In the quaint market town of Cheadle, St. Giles Catholic Church stands as a testament to the genius of Augustus Pugin. Known affectionately as "Pugin's Gem," this church was commissioned over 150 years ago by the 16th Earl of Shrewsbury of Alton Towers. Pugin, famed for his collaboration on the Houses of Parliament, was tasked with creating an unrivaled place of worship. The result is a serene sanctuary and a crowning achievement of the Gothic Revival movement.
Rudyard Lake, nestled in a picturesque wooded valley, offers a serene escape with its two-mile expanse. This idyllic spot is perfect for a range of activities, from walking and cycling to boating and sailing. The lake also boasts a narrow-gauge steam railway that traces its eastern shore. A Victorian-era hotspot, it even hosted the legendary tightrope walker Blondin. The lake's romantic allure is said to have inspired the naming of Nobel laureate Rudyard Kipling, whose parents met on its banks.
Biddulph Grange Gardens is a horticultural odyssey, a Victorian creation that defies convention with its global inspirations. Visitors can wander through a Chinese temple, marvel at an Egyptian court, and traverse a replica of the Great Wall of China. This garden's eclectic design is a feast for the senses. While in the vicinity, don't miss the chance to visit Little Moreton Hall, a stunning example of England's timber-framed architecture.
Abbots Bromley, a village steeped in history, is the stage for the annual Abbots Bromley Horn Dance. This medieval tradition, performed each September, features a unique ensemble: six Deer-men, a Fool, Hobby Horse, Bowman, and Maid Marian, all dancing to the tunes of a melodeon player. The dance, which begins with the retrieval of the horns from the local church, weaves through the village, farms, and pubs, enchanting onlookers with its timeless rhythm.
For a curated selection of holiday cottages in Staffordshire, visit UK Cottages.
Interesting stats and facts about Staffordshire and its attractions are not commonly discussed. For instance, Alton Towers attracts around 2 million visitors annually, making it one of the UK's top tourist destinations (Statista). Meanwhile, the Peak District, home to The Roaches, is the second most visited national park in the world, with over 10 million visitors each year (Peak District National Park). The unique Biddulph Grange Gardens, managed by the National Trust, is a fine example of Victorian garden design and receives thousands of visitors eager to explore its global themes (National Trust).
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Discovering the Charms of Wiltshire: A Cottage Holiday Guide
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