Best lakes around Cannock Chase are found within a designated National Landscape, offering a variety of picturesque water bodies. These serene lakes are often nestled within woodlands and heathlands. The area provides opportunities for wildlife spotting and peaceful walks. Cannock Chase features diverse natural landscapes, making its lakes a notable feature for exploration.
Last updated: June 26, 2026
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may need to take detours due to festival dismantal or no access to other routes minor issue but amazing walk
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A picturesque location at the woodland's edge, perfect for pausing and savouring the beauty of the surroundings and what Cannock Chase AONB has to offer.
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having just been in the area for 3 days and ridden all of these: Perry's blue, a new route post Commonwealth games, from the Birches visitor centre, is suitable for even the newest of MTB'ers - there is nothing technically hard. But there are some really fun berms even for experienced to enjoy and it has some good Red optional diversions as well. Follow the Dog is the next one up - a "light and fruity middling" Red - whilst some sections are steep, some are technical, some are loose/narrow/twisty - none are all 3 are at the same time. Suitable as a first time Red. And finally, Monkey is a proper hard red - some brutal sequential switchback climbs (Lung Buster), adverse camber rocky drops verging to "very dark oaky" red (Tom/Dick/Harry on Original Monkey). And the parts that are actually marked black are verging on Danny MacAskill.... Definitely not one for a first red.
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A gorgeous spot to rest on the blue route by the pool with a bench. If you sit here for long enough you might catch a sighting of the kingfisher on the hunt or fish coming to the surface to look for bugs.
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New additions to trails have opened in the last month or so! (May 2021) The blue has added some nice sections that give opportunity for progression with some easy berms and pump sections. The red some new jumps, berms and rock gardens at the start near the trail centre and birches valley car park
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Fantastic spot for a picnic or lunch. Or even to stop and sit down on the various benches around. Be warned, it can get busy as it is a hot spot of cannock chase.
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Yes, several lakes in Cannock Chase are ideal for families. Fairoak Pools, for instance, offers an easy, family-friendly circular walk through the forest. Sher Brook Pond and Stone Bridge and Stony Brook Pools are also noted as family-friendly spots, often with benches for resting.
The lakes are rich in wildlife. At Stony Brook Pools, you might spot kingfishers. Mill Green and Hawks Green Nature Reserve is a significant haven for birdwatching, especially in winter, with sightings of teal, mallard ducks, and Canada geese. Elmore Park Lake also boasts a variety of wildlife.
Absolutely. Many lakes are integrated into walking routes. The Fairoak Pools feature an easy circular walk starting from the visitor centre. You can also find several easy hiking routes in the area, such as the 'Fairoak Pools loop' or 'Stepping Stones loop', which are part of the Easy hikes around Cannock Chase guide.
For tranquility, Fairoak Pools are known for their serene atmosphere, perfect for relaxing. Sher Brook Pond and Stone Bridge offers an ideal spot for a restful pause at the woodland's edge. Elmore Park Lake also provides numerous benches for enjoying the surroundings.
Beyond walking, Cannock Chase offers a range of activities. You can explore various hiking trails, including those listed in the Easy hikes around Cannock Chase guide. There are also dedicated routes for Road Cycling and Gravel Biking that pass by or near some of the lakes and natural features.
Yes, Cannock Chase is popular for cycling. You can find various routes, including those for Road Cycling and Gravel Biking, that incorporate the scenic lake areas. The 'Monkey Trail' is also a well-known mountain biking highlight in the wider Cannock Chase area.
Mill Green and Hawks Green Nature Reserve is particularly excellent for birdwatching, especially during the winter months when it becomes a haven for small gatherings of teal, alongside resident mallard ducks and Canada geese. Stony Brook Pools also offers opportunities to spot kingfishers.
While not exactly hidden, the 'Disused Quarry Pond and Rusted Car' offers a more unusual and unique point of interest with its interesting topography. Reedy Pool also has a rustic charm, though it may dry up in warmer months.
Elmore Park Lake is an excellent choice for a picnic, as it is equipped with numerous benches around its horseshoe-shaped body, perfect for enjoying the surroundings. Many other lakes, like Fairoak Pools and Stony Brook Pools, also have benches available for a rest or snack.
Visitors frequently praise the tranquil beauty and natural surroundings. Many enjoy the peaceful walks, the opportunity to spot wildlife like kingfishers at Stony Brook Pools, and the picturesque views, especially when the sun reflects on the water at Fairoak Pools. The chance to pause and appreciate nature, often from a convenient bench, is a common highlight.
Parking is generally available at various points around Cannock Chase, often near visitor centres or trailheads that provide access to the lakes. For example, the circular walk around Fairoak Pools conveniently starts from a visitor centre, implying nearby parking facilities.
While specific public transport routes to individual lakes might vary, Cannock Chase as a whole has some public transport links. However, for direct access to many of the more secluded lake areas, driving or cycling might be more convenient. It's advisable to check local bus routes for specific destinations within the National Landscape.


Still not found your perfect lake around Cannock Chase? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.