Cannock Chase Forest Mountain Biking

Cannock Chase in Staffordshire is the most-ridden MTB trail centre in the English Midlands — a Forestry England heathland forest on the southern edge of the Peak District, with a strong density of well-maintained red-graded trails. It’s the natural choice for riders within reach of Birmingham, Stoke or Sheffield wanting trail-centre quality without the journey to Wales.

What to expect

Two flagship trails. Follow the Dog (red, 12km) is a fast, rolling singletrack loop with technical rooty sections, short climbs and quick descents — the place most regulars start. The Monkey Trail (red, 8.5km) is steeper and more committing, with rockier descents and progressively harder features. Both link with the Family Cycle Trail (green) for families. A skills area near Birches Valley has a pump track and progression jumps.

Practical notes

Open year-round — the heathland soil drains well. Swinnerton Cycles at Birches Valley runs hire and a cafe. Forestry England parking fee applies. Cannock and Rugeley are the immediate towns; Lichfield is a 20-minute drive with better accommodation. Trails get busy on summer weekends — arrive early. Best as a strong half-day ride or a flying-weekend destination from elsewhere in the Midlands.

Getting there car-free

Cannock Chase's Birches Valley centre is well served by the Chase Line from Birmingham, with stations at Rugeley Town, Rugeley Trent Valley and Hednesford all close by; a short bus or taxi covers the last stretch to the forest.

Can you get to Cannock Chase without a car?

Yes. Take the Chase Line from Birmingham to Rugeley or Hednesford, then a short bus or taxi to Birches Valley. Its closeness to the Midlands rail network makes it an easy car-free ride.