Alton Towers

Alton Towers is the most popular theme park in the UK. It's location near the village of Alton in Staffordshire is the former house and country estate of the 15th Earl of Shrewsbury and his descendents.

The Gothic stately home was built in 1811 but now lies in ruins. The gardens however have survived and been well looked after by subsequent owners. In fact Alton Towers is fortunate  to have such a wonderful backdrop to its amusement park rides and entertainment. With over 2.6 million visitors a year Alton Towers offers a wide range of entertainment attractions to suit all ages.
 
In additon to all the well known rides there is the Alton Towers Hotel, Splash Landings Hotel, a Golf and Conference Centre and a Waterpark Spa. The current owners are Merlin Entertainments who also own famous brand names such as Madame Tussauds. They are the worlds largest entertainment company after Walt Disney Parks & Resorts.

Website: http://www.altontowers.com/

Uttoxeter

Uttoxeter in Staffordshire is an old historic Market town with a population of around 12,000. Close to the River Dove it is located near Stoke-on-Trent, Lichfield and Derby. It is probably most known for its association with JCB, the manufacturer of construction equipment whose headquarters are in Rocester nearby.

Uttoxeter is close to Alton Towers and the Peak District so this places it en-route for tourist traffic heading in that direction. The racecourse is also a major attraction which brings visitors to the town.

For more photographs of Uttoxeter click here or view on You Tube

Tamworth

Tamworth is a town in Staffordshire and is approximately 14 miles (23 km) north-east of Birmingham. Tamworth is named after the River Tame which passes through the town.

Tamworth Castle and Moat House is the main attraction for visitors along with the Snowdome indoor ski slope. Tamworth's close proximity to Drayton Manor Theme Park also means it benefits from tourist traffic heading in that direction.

Tamworth is an old town and a settlement has been here since the Saxon times. It was once larger than Birmingham and the centre of trade for the region. Traditionally it's main industries have included brick and tile manufacture as well as car production in the form of Reliant and Scimitar.

For more photographs of Tamworth click here or view on You Tube

Stafford

Stafford takes its name from the words 'ford' and 'staithe', the latter meaning landing place. Stafford Castle was built by the Normans and dates back to 1090. Stafford is famous for its shoe making which has since unfortunately ceased. It has also been home to some well known engineering companies. Perkins engines and Bostik adhesives operate from around and within Stafford.

Visitors should definately visit the castle and The Elizabethan High House which is the largest timber framed house in England. The Shire Hall was built in 1798 and served as a court house and Mayors office. Today it is home to an Art Gallery. It is a Grade II listed building.

Shugborough Hall is nearby and some 4 miles from the town centre. Once owned by the Earls of Lichfield it is now a National Trust property set in 400 acres of parkland. Weston Hall is also close by and holds many events throughout the year including a large vintage car rally and the V-Festival.

For more photographs of Stafford click here

Museum of Cannock Chase

The Museum of Cannock Chase occupies the old site of the Valley Colliery. Set in 30 acres on the edge of Cannock Chase it documents the story of the local industrial heritage, social history, famous people and domestic life. Hednesfield Hill Nature Reserve heathland is right next door and ideal for long walks across the Chase.

Entrance to the museum is free and there is a Visitor Information Point, a gift shop and a cafe. The building which houses the museum used to be the corn store where pit ponies were once kept. The museum provides a fascinating insight into local history, culture and tradition.


Museum of Cannock Chase, Valley Road, Hednesford, Cannock, Staffordshire, WS12 1TD. 

Tel: 01543 877666. 

For more photographs of Cannock Chase & the museum click here or view on You Tube