Rakeway Head

Dense woodland spreads across this elevated patch of Staffordshire countryside, offering proper forest walking just a short drive from Stoke-on-Trent. The trees here are mainly mixed deciduous - oak, ash and birch creating a lovely canopy that's particularly spectacular in autumn.

You'll find several informal paths winding through the woods, though none are waymarked so bring your OS map if you're planning anything ambitious. The terrain is fairly gentle, making it suitable for families with older children, though pushchairs would struggle on the rougher tracks. Dog walkers absolutely love it here - plenty of space for off-lead exercise away from traffic.

What strikes you most is how quiet it gets once you're properly into the trees. The traffic noise from nearby roads fades quickly, leaving just birdsong and the crunch of leaves underfoot. It's not dramatic scenery by any stretch, but there's something properly restorative about wandering these paths for an hour or so.

For families staying at nearby sites like Hales Hall or Springfields Countryside parks, it makes a good alternative to more crowded attractions. Allow a couple of hours if you want to explore thoroughly, though you could easily spend a pleasant morning here. Best avoided after heavy rain when the paths get muddy.