Stafford Area Guide

History and Geography

It's believed that Stafford was founded in around 700AD by Bertelin, a Mercian prince. The Borough of Stafford was created in 1206 by King John and during the medieval era it was a market town that primarily dealt in wool and cloth.

During the late 18th century, the town established a mechanised shoe industry which was prevalent for over a century. The creation of the Grand Junction Railways line between Warrington and Birmingham happened in 1837. This linked with the Liverpool to Manchester line in the town and connected Stafford to London while also attracting more industry. This promoted increased growth and expansion.

Property Types & Demographics

There is an extensive variety of property to pick from in Stafford, suiting all budgets and tastes. There are a number of new build developments in the area too.

Schools

Stafford and its surrounding area benefit from some outstanding state schools as well as well-respected independent schools. This includes Stafford Grammar School.

Some local schools are also well known for their specialist provision, including Weston Road Academy for Computing and Mathematics and Walton High for Science.

Local Attractions

Amerton Railway

One popular family attraction near Stafford is the Amerton Railway. Winding for a mile through the gorgeous local countryside, this steam train ride is perfect for children. There are also diesel train rides to enjoy on this railway line.

Ancient High House

This fascinating historical house in the heart of the town dates back to the Elizabethan era. Inside, visitors can enjoy hands-on activities, quizzes and games as well as workshops and events. There are interesting displays too by local artists as well as a heritage exhibition where artefacts can be seen.

Lower Drayton Farm

A perfect day in the great outdoors, Lower Drayton Farm offers fun for all the family. There in an onsite adventure play area for the youngsters as well as an assault cause and woodland trail. Meanwhile, there are plenty of friendly farm animals to meet.

Izaak Walton's Cottage

This lovely cottage dating back to the 16th century was once lived in by the Compleat Angler's author Izaak Walton. Located in glorious countryside close to Stafford, it offers a tranquil and peaceful environment in which to enjoy the splendour of nature. Here, visitors can learn more about one of Stafford's most famous sons and get an insight into fishing and its heritage.

Mill Meece Pumping Station

History fans will love to go back in time to experience the sights, smells and sounds of these powerful steam engines of the past. This pumping station has provided water for the local communities since 1914. Although they were replaced in 1979 by electric pumps, the steam giants have been preserved for new generations to enjoy and discover.

Shugborough Estate

Located in 900 acres of riverside gardens and parkland, the estate features an elegant mansion house along with a walled garden, mill, dairy, and Georgian-era farm. Living history costumed characters bring history to life, telling stories about the past. Visitors can explore the private rooms that once belonged to Lord Lichfield and see opulent interiors.

National Memorial Arboretum

This famous attraction is a year-round Remembrance Centre for the UK. Spiritually uplifting, this place is designed to honour the fallen, recognising sacrifice and service and fostering patriotic pride. Here, visitors can see more than 360 memorials amongst 30,000 trees.

Stafford Castle

This ancient castle is a popular attraction for residents and visitors alike. The site dates back to the Norman era and visitors can learn more about its heritage through the medieval age, Civil War and to the modern-day. There are 26 acres of land to discover including the keep, outer and inner baileys, woodland, visitor centre and herb garden.

The Wolseley Centre

This centre is the HQ of Staffordshire's Wildlife Trust. Located on 26 acres of grounds and gardens, it was once the Wolseley family's ancestral home. Today, visitors can take a circular walk along the River Trent and Stafford Brook and see wetland and woodland habitats.

Shopping

Stafford's town centre boasts an eclectic mix of independent traders and well-known retail chains. It is also home to the indoor town market where shoppers can browse the stalls at leisure. There is also an out-of-town retail park, while the Riverside shopping centre includes major big-name outlets.

Leisure

Cinema & Theatre

Stafford has its own multiplex Odeon cinema where film lovers can see all of the latest movies. The gatehouse theatre in Stafford is the primary cultural and entertainment venue in the town. Inside it is the Met Studio where live alternative music and stand up comedy can be enjoyed.

Eating Out

Stafford is home to some fantastic eateries, including the 300-year-old Soup Kitchen which was once a coaching inn but which is now a popular café. There are many local pubs for casual dining as well as famous chain restaurants and independent dining spots serving up a host of different cuisines.

Gym & Health

Fitness fans will appreciate the excellent gym facilities at Stafford Leisure Centre as well as those at other gyms in the area.

Entertainment

Stafford offers a host of fun entertainment options for all the family including ten pin bowling and skating.

Golf Clubs

Stafford Castle Golf Club is just a mile outside the centre of town and boasts an attractive 9-hole course, with one of the highest course and slope ratings in the area!

Upcoming Developments

Stafford and its surrounding areas have proved to be very popular with property developers over recent years and a host of new build projects have commenced. The new projects offer homes with between 1 and 5 bedrooms to suit the needs of all types of buyers, from professional singles to retirees.

Larger families will also love the stylish, modern developments offering 4 and 5 bedroom detached and semi-detached houses that are perfect for those with young children and are seeking a base with outstanding commuter links and excellent amenities.

Between 2011 and 2018, over 4000 new homes were built in Stafford and the surrounding area and many more are in the pipeline.

Travel Connections

Stafford is a popular town for commuters thanks to the excellent transport links that it offers to both the North and South by road and rail. The town has its own railway station and is well located for major roads such as the M6. There are also plenty of reliable and regular bus services to the surrounding area.

Railways

Trains travel from Stafford to Birmingham in 30 minutes and Manchester in less than an hour. The journey to Stoke on Trent from Stafford by train takes just 15minutes. London Euston takes less than 2 hours.

Road Links

Excellent road links. Stafford is well served by motorways with two junctions onto the M6. The A34 major road also runs through the town.

Bus Services

Stafford is well connected to nearby towns and cities with regular and reliable bus services including the number 5 to Telford, the 765 to Tamworth and Lichfield, the 841 to Uttoxeter, the 74 to Cannock and the 402A to Burton.

Airlines

Birmingham and Manchester Airports can both be reached by car in less than an hour. Heathrow in less than two and a half hours and Gatwick Airport in less than three.