Staffordshire, often overlooked between the big-hitters of the Peak District and the Cotswolds, is home to a wealth of landscapes, heritage sites and cultural experiences.

From river valleys where limestone ravines carve dramatic scenery, to the heartland of britain’s ceramics industry, the county has much to offer. Staffordshire makes for a great short break, with excellent road and rail connections. Here’s our pick of some of the county’s must-visit destinations.

Dovedale

Perhaps Staffordshire’s best-known natural attraction, Dovedale lies at the southern end of the peak district national park. This five-mile dale follows the river dove as it threads between steep banks and towering limestone crags.

The winding footpath is well-trodden but never feels crowded, even on a sunny bank holiday. You can cross the famous stepping stones at Milldale, pause to admire the sheer face of Thorpe cloud, or scramble up to lover’s leap for views of the surrounding moorland.

In spring and early summer, the dale is carpeted with wild garlic and bluebells. Birdwatchers might see herons, dippers and woodpeckers in the wooded hollows.

The Limestone Way ascends to nearby Ilam Park, offering longer walks through pastureland punctuated by ancient field barns and dry stone walls.

For a quintessential rural lunch, the Old Dog at Thorpe pub serves hearty pies and locally brewed ale, its beer garden overlooking the riverbank.

Middleport Pottery

No visit to Staffordshire would be complete without experiencing the county’s pottery heritage. Just a mile north of Stoke-on-Trent city centre, Middleport Pottery celebrates Staffordshire’s ceramic history.

Founded in 1888 and now lovingly restored, this working factory continues to produce Burleigh ware using traditional techniques. You can see the original Victorian bottle kilns, decorate your own mug and browse the factory shop stocked with classic Burleigh designs.

Lichfield

Lichfield is renowned for its rare trio of spired norman-gothic cathedral towers. In the cathedral close, you’ll find a statue of samuel johnson, the 18th-century lexicographer born in the city, and can visit his childhood home, preserved as a museum.

The cathedral itself houses a stunning medieval stained-glass window and hosts regular organ recitals.

Lichfield boasts independent bookshops, art galleries and tearooms clustered around beacon park. In spring, the park hosts lichfield festival, celebrating music, literature and family-friendly theatre.

Cannock Chase

A designated area of outstanding natural beauty, cannock chase sits at staffordshire’s northern border. Its mosaic of heathland, pine forest and bracken-clad hills are a habitat for rare bird species, deer and even nightjars in midsummer.

Over 75 miles of waymarked trails cater to walkers, cyclists and horse riders. The heart of england way weaves through panoramic viewpoints at Birches valley, while the gentler castle ring circuit encloses the remains of an iron age fort.

Alton Towers

While Alton Towers theme park draws thrill-seekers from across the UK, its gardens and historic estate often pass under the radar.

Originally landscaped by Capability Brown in the 18th century, the Grade 1-listed gardens feature serene canals, stately terraces and a magnificent grand fountain once powered by gravity alone.

If you’re taking a break between queues for the rollercoasters, it’s a surprisingly beautiful setting for a theme park.

Tutbury Castle And the River Dove

Tutbury castle stands above the river dove and offers one of the finest ruins in the region. Once a royal fortress where Mary, Queen of Scots was imprisoned, the castle commands views across the valley to Dovedale’s limestone outcrops.