We are always on the look out for cheap family days out and things to do in Staffordshire with kids that don’t cost the earth. There are so many lovely days out in Staffordshire for all of the family to enjoy …. from pottery painting and museums to parks and lakes. We are always on the look out for days out for free family days out (or cheap) to inspire us on a weekend or holidays. I have put together a few indoor and outdoor activities for kids or family days out in Staffordshire that are free or extremely cheap, including free days out in Stoke-on-Trent.
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Cheap family days out and lots of free things to do in Staffordshire
Brampton Park
The award winning Brampton Park in Newcastle-under-Lyme is a lovely free kids day out. Here you will find a play park, sand pit, pond, sensory garden, and the Brampton museum – also free.
There is also Cheeky Monkeys indoor soft play and a miniature railway (admission fees apply)
Address – 9 Granville Ave, Newcastle-under-Lyme ST5 1JH
Cannock Chase
Cannock Chase forest is a beautiful setting and a lovely day out to enjoy a walk or take one of the cycle tracks. There is also an adventure playground for kids. You can also make a day of it and enjoy a cheap family day out by taking along a picnic for after that Sunday walk.
Address – Rugeley, WS15 2UQ
The Roaches
The Roaches in Staffordshire is an incredible place to explore with the kids.
The Roaches, is an absolute gem and loved by hikers and climbers, with its rugged landscape and breathtaking panoramic views. It is also home to mythical mermaids and gritstone clefts! You can reward yourself with a visit to the award winning Roaches tearoom and restaurant after a fabulous walk in the fresh air.
The Roaches, Leek, ST13 8TA
The Potteries Museum and Art Gallery
An ideal place to visit on a rainy day, The Potteries Museum and Art Gallery is free to visit, and allows visitors to travel back in time to discover the history of the Potteries. There is a secret garden where visitors can enjoy a moment of peace and quiet, or you can just sit back and enjoy a cuppa and Staffordshire oatcake in the museum café.
Address: Bethesda St, Hanley, Stoke-on-Trent, ST1 3DW
Rudyard Lake
Rudyard Lake is a lovely family day out in Staffordshire. Walk or cycle around the lake, spot the wildlife, or learn about the lake at the visitor centre. You can hire a row boat for 30 minutes* or take a boat trip (Easter to Oct). You can also ride on a steam train or take a picnic and enjoy the beautiful view of the lake.
*charges apply to some activities.
Rudyard Lake, Leek, ST13 8PP
Westport Lake
Westport Lake is one of the best places to visit in the area for bird watching and walking. It is run in partnership between Staffordshire Wildlife Trust and Stoke City Council. Westport Lake Visitor Centre is situated on the edge of Westport Lake and offers a welcoming cafe. There are regular family activities at the visitor centre during the school holidays and a play park next to the visitor centre.
Westport Lake Visitor Centre, Westport Lake Road, Stoke-on-Trent, ST6 4RZ.
Victoria Park, Stafford
Another favourite of ours, Victoria Park is an award winning park in Stafford, located on the banks of the River Sow. Take a stroll around the park, or head to the play area where you will find modern playground equipment, including a small trampoline, climbing frame, sand pit and splash park. There is also a skating area for the adventurous!
Facilities include toilets and parking nearby.
Victoria Park, Stafford, ST16 2QF
Keele Woods
We love to head out to explore the grounds of Keele University. We often take a stroll or take the scooters to Keele woods over a weekend. The kids love the rope swings and playing in the trickling stream.
Springpool Wood, Newcastle-under-Lyme, ST5 5BN
The Wolseley Centre, Stafford
A favourite of ours, Staffordshire Wildlife Trust’s HQ, The Wolseley Centre, is one of the county’s hidden gems and it’s completely free to visit . Here you will find the Wolseley Visitor Centre with a gift shop, cafe, and 26 acres of grounds to explore. There is also a sensory garden, the wildlife garden, and the play trail … all free.
The Wolseley centre – Staffordshire Wildlife Trust, Stafford, ST17 0WT
Middleport Pottery
Middleport Pottery is an award-winning visitor attraction in Stoke-on-Trent. Middleport Pottery’s visitor centre hosts regular family-friendly events and activities all year round, including fun days, craft workshops, exhibitions and artisan markets. Also, make sure you add the Christmas event to your diary to meet Father Christmas.
Middleport Pottery Stoke-on-Trent, ST6 3PE
Churnet Valley
Churnet Valley in Staffordshire is an area rich in history, spectacular scenery and wildlife. The Churnet Valley trail is a railway path following the River Churnet through woodland and meadow along the old railway line. We love to take the bikes to Churnet Valley. The railway line is a great place to cycle or take a stroll (particularly with kids). Churnet Valley Railway also offers a lovely family day out taking you on a journey through the beautiful Staffordshire countryside * payable.
Keep an eye out for the Churnet Valley Railway Christmas event.
So there you have a few ideas for things to do in Staffordshire this weekend. I love to hear what you get up to, please do let me know if you have any more ideas for family days out in Staffordshire that don’t cost the earth.
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Fab ideas – a couple of old faves I remember from my childhood!