Entrance to Marquis Drive car park, where our winter wander will begin
Start your morning with a tranquil December stroll as Lee leads you through one of Cannock Chase’s most scenic corners…
Step into a different side of Cannock Chase this December as Lee leads a peaceful winter wander from Marquis Drive. This is an area known for its towering pines, open heathland, and those unexpectedly magical moments you only get on a cold, crisp morning.
The route offers a real mix of scenery. Narrow bridges over clear streams. Stretches of quiet forest. Glimpses of Birches Valley in full festive swing. And even the chance of spotting trout rising in the still pools along the return leg.
With winter fast approaching and the hint of Christmas in the air, this walk will be another special WTA outing.
About the route
We’ll begin on Marquis Drive and quickly immerse ourselves in one of Cannock Chase’s most photogenic areas. Instead of plunging straight into dense forest, the walk opens with a wide sweep of pine trees. These giants will make it feel more like a Scandinavian woodland than Staffordshire.
From there, the route shifts into quieter, atmospheric corners. We’ll experience stepping-stone stream crossings, narrow wooden bridges, and winding trails that curve between patches of heath and woodland. This is a great section for taking photos, and an even better one for simply slowing down and noticing the details. The crunch of frost underfoot, the warmth of low winter sun when it breaks through, and the occasional bird of prey overhead (fingers crossed!)
As we loop towards Birches Valley, we’ll pass the Christmas tree hub where families will be choosing their festive centrepiece. This is sure to add a cheerful backdrop to the otherwise peaceful forest surroundings. As the walk continues toward the still pools we may see trout break the surface.
The pace remains steady throughout, with extra time taken on the hilly sections so everyone can appreciate the plants, wildlife and changing scenery.
Important notes
This walk is designed to be relaxing and enjoyable. However, as a level 3 walk (somewhat demanding) it does require basic fitness and solid mobility, particularly as winter conditions can make the ground slippy, uneven, and likely muddy.
For safety reasons, this isn’t a suitable walk for complete beginners or anyone currently managing an injury or illness.
Fitness level guide
1: Very Easy – can be done without training
2: Easy – possible without preparation
3: Somewhat Demanding – basic fitness required
4: Moderately Difficult – good fitness and mobility required
5: Demanding – good fitness essential; prior training recommended
6: Very Demanding – very good fitness and previous training essential
What to bring
To help you enjoy the walk comfortably — whatever December throws our way — please come prepared with:
- Walking boots or sturdy walking shoes
- Quick-drying trousers or leggings (not jeans)
- Winter layers: base layer, mid-layer/fleece, padded coat, waterproof coat and trousers
- Hat and gloves (or sunglasses, if we’re lucky)
- Any personal medications
- Around 1 litre of water or a cold drink
- A small, leakproof flask of tea or coffee for the rest stop
- Snacks or sweets for an energy boost
- Binoculars (optional, but ideal for spotting Red Kites or Sparrowhawks)
- A fully charged mobile phone and emergency contact details
- A small backpack
- Hiking poles (if you require them on the slippy descents)
The key facts
Date: Friday 12th December 2025
Start Time: 9:30am prompt
Finish Time: Around 12:30pm
Start Point: Marquis Drive, off Brindley Heath Road near Cannock Chase Visitor Centre, WS12 4PW
OS Grid Reference: SK 00270 15647
What3Words: orchestra.teach.crossings
Car Parking: Free parking in the off-road bays along Marquis Drive and the road leading to the Visitor Centre. (Visitor Centre car park is chargeable and requires a short walk back to the start point.)
Toilets: Available at the Cannock Chase Visitor Centre
Walk Type: 3 – Somewhat Demanding — basic fitness and good mobility required
Dogs: Not permitted on this walk
Fancy it?
If you’re looking for a peaceful pre-Christmas escape, this winter walk is perfect.
Expect towering pines, quiet trails, crisp air, and a chance to spot some of Cannock Chase’s wildlife.
We’ll see you bright and early on Friday 12th December as Lee leads another Walk Talk Action adventure through one of the Chase’s most beautiful corners.
Do you need our help?
To find out more about how Walk Talk Action can help, you can email Teri at info@walktalkaction.co.uk Or, if you’d like to join one of our sessions, you can complete our application form.
