Скрытая жемчужина Стаффордшира: лесной парк Диммингсдейл и историческая деревня Алтон

Everyone in Birmingham knows about Alton Towers with its thrillseeker rides, CBeebies Land and Halloween scarefests. But did you know that you probably drive past 'Staffordshire's hidden beauty spot' when you visit? Dimmingsdale was once 'an aristocrat's dream', according to Forestry England, and is today open for all to enjoy its tranquil woodland walks and majestic pools. Read more: Alton Towers announces new immersive experience ‌ Read next: 6 hidden places in Birmingham you don't normally see but are opening to visitors A Forestry England spokesman said: " Feed your soul within the tranquil surroundings of Dimmingsdale, North Staffordshire's hidden beauty spot. "Come and stroll down magnificent drives built by the Earl of Shrewsbury, where fine carriages once rode. "The rolling countryside provides an abundance of woodland, streams, ponds and lakes which will transport you to a place of peace and calm." ‌ Dimmingsdale also has a family-run, award winning country tearoom. Ramblers Retreat has been run by the same family since 1981, welcoming visitors with homemade meals and cakes. The village of Alton is worth a visit too. ‌ It features a curious roundhouse building in the centre (pictured at the top of this article) that was once a 'lock-up' used to house prisoners for a night or two if they'd disturbed the peace. The Alton Towers site was owned by the Earl of Shrewsbury and designed by Augustus Pugin, who also redesigned Alton Castle, which is now used as a Catholic Youth Retreat Centre. READ MORE: 16 autumn days out with indie shops and cosy cafes within easy reach of Birmingham - in pictures Take your bike to cycle along the old North Staffordshire Railway line that ran from Oakamoor to Denstone Greenway. This six-mile long route is flat and off-road, making it ideal for children. ‌ It follows the path of the River Churnet through the wooded Churnet Valley and connects to the network of footpaths at Dimmingsdale Forest. After your walk or cycle, head to the White Hart, a cosy pub with a wood-panelled bar and beer garden that has regular live music evenings. There's also the family-run Bull's Head, which has oak beams and country dining for families. Birmingham Heritage Week 2026 ‌ Follow Brummie Mummies on Facebook and Instagram, listen to our podcasts and sign up to our free Brummie Mummies newsletter for more ideas on family days out from Birmingham.