Cannock Chase Trekking Centre

If you're after proper horse riding without the snobbery, Cannock Chase Trekking Centre delivers. It's a working trekking outfit on the edge of Cannock Chase, the sprawling heathland that dominates this corner of Staffordshire, and they'll put you on a horse and take you out across the trails whether you've ridden before or you haven't.

The centre caters to all abilities, from nervous beginners to people who actually know what they're doing. You're riding through genuine countryside - not a manicured yard, but actual forest and open heathland with proper views across the Chase. The horses are well-cared-for working animals, and the staff know their stuff. Most treks last a couple of hours, which is long enough to feel like you've done something but short enough that your legs don't completely betray you the next day.

It's excellent if you've got teenagers who've outgrown theme parks or families who want to do something active together. Kids as young as seven or eight can usually manage a trek with an adult, though much younger and you're looking at pony rides rather than proper trekking.

The location works well for a caravan holiday - you're minutes from Spring Paddock or Chase Camping at Tackeroo if you're based nearby, and Stafford's close enough for provisions. Cannock Chase itself is free to explore on foot, so you could combine a morning trek with an afternoon walk without spending much beyond the riding cost. Best to ring ahead and book, especially weekends.