Spring Bank Campsite

There’s a lot around for kids here. You could let them loose on the BMX track in Kidsgrove (half an hour’s drive) or the waterslides, thrill rides and wave pool at the tropical-themed Waterworld (20 minutes). And then, not for the faint-hearted, there are the rollercoasters at Alton Towers (45 minutes) for more adrenaline-inducing days out. Now, nature isn’t one to be missed either. You’ll want to keep your eyes peeled around the Bateswood Nature Reserve (10 minutes). Keele University Arboretum and Woodland Walk (10 minutes) has another lovely little trail where you can learn about plant life at the same time. If you thought monkey forests were far away from this corner of Staffordshire, you’ll be in for a treat at Trentham Estate (20 minutes). Once you’re done with the walking trails and the treetop adventure course, there’s also a shopping village and 140 Barbary macaques in the monkey forest. How about a local landmark? Mow Cop Castle (30 minutes) is over 350 metres above sea level, meaning this ruin has really far-reaching views. There’s a trail around the National Trust site so you’ll gather history tidbits along the way.