Cannock Case (26,000 acres of open space in the Midlands)

Cannock Chase is a stunning National Landscape (the new name for ‘Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty) located in the West Midlands county of Staffordshire. It’s one of the most beloved outdoor spaces in the Midlands, and highly accessible due to being in the centre of England.

This peaceful retreat covers a whopping 26,000 acres of heathland, woodland and grassland. From rolling hills and ancient forests to open moorlands. It supports a wide range of rare plants and colourful wildflowers, as well as many birds (woodpeckers, skylarks, hawks).

The popular Chase Walk provides panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. While the Englefield Green loop is perfect for a less taxing trail.

If out walking, follow the Countryside Code to keep all creatures safe (learn how to upright an overturned sheep). Keep dogs away from steep banks, mushrooms, cliffs and toxic plants/trees.

Flash (England’s highest village!)

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Just a few miles away from Cannock Chase is Flash, England’s highest village. Situated on the moorlands of the Peak District, it stands on high green between several valleys and moorland areas.

Its buildings stand at around 1,500 feet above sea level, although individual parts of the settlement and surrounding roads vary in elevation. There are few tall trees here, instead the landscape is dominated by rough grasses, heather, bracken and open pasture.

Dry-stone walls divide fields and create a distinctive pattern across the hills. The lack of extensive woodland allows enormous views across the surrounding countryside.