In a part of the country with a high population, it's no surprise that Cannock Chase is a popular place for locals to escape the hustle and bustle of modern life, but maybe Britain's smallest mainland Area of Oustanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is not on the radar for quite as many holidaymakers from further afield; we had never visited before last summer.
First impressions were favourable. After a difficult drive on busy main roads, we found a place of calm on the Tackeroo Forestry Commission campsite. Situated in the middle of the AONB, this is a great place from which to explore on foot or bike. I can safely say, I have never seen so many footpaths, trails and cycleways in such a compact area. Walkers, off-road cyclists and wheelchair users can all find easy access to the countryside and, as long as you venture more than five minutes from a car park or visitor centre, there is plenty of peace and quiet to be had.
What about wildlife, I hear you ask. Well, as I walked towards the Birchesthere could possibly be any wildlife in an area so busy.
