Slitting Mill Waterfall – A Mini Adventure in Cannock Chase

A waterfall, a woodland trail and a bit of history, Slitting Mill is basically a free nature day out with bonus fairy-tale vibes. Whether you’re after a chilled walk, a bike ride, or just an excuse to drag the kids outside, this spot ticks all the boxes.

What You Need to Know:

🚗 Parking – Park at Castle Ring car park (WS15 4QH). It’s free, there’s plenty of space, and you won’t have to parallel park (win-win)

🕰 The Walk – The Slitting Mill Heritage Trail takes about an hour if you’re walking like a normal human (longer if you stop to examine every stick like a toddler). It’s a proper scenic loop; woodlands, little bridges, and a waterfall at the halfway point to make you feel like you’re in a National Trust advert

🚴 Bikes? – Yep! The trails are great for cycling, with flat, well-maintained paths ideal for families, casual riders, and people who own bikes but don’t want to be gasping for air five minutes in

🧑‍🦽 Pushchair-friendly? – Mostly, yes. The main paths are buggy-approved, but if you’re heading to the waterfall, prepare for a few bumpy bits (and possibly some mild swearing)

💦 The Waterfall – Not exactly Niagara Falls, but definitely pretty, especially after it’s been chucking it down. A lovely little reward for making it halfway round the walk

🐶 Dog-friendly? – Absolutely. Expect muddy paws, wagging tails and your dog pretending they’re in a nature documentary

Basically, it’s a stress-free, easy-going adventure with just enough wildness to keep things interesting. Perfect for burning off energy (yours or the kids’) without having to climb a mountain.