Things to do near Alton Towers

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Alton Towers is a popular short break option for our readers. This post will share ideas for things to do if you're staying in the Staffordshire area or ideas for somewhere to stop off after an overnight stay before heading home. 

You can check out current Alton Towers Offers & Deals here: Current  Alton Towers Deals & Discounts

Things to do near Alton Towers 

1 - The Staffy Trail 

The Staffy Trail is a fantastic FREE trail running across Staffordshire. Download the free Staffy Trail app to get started. Have fun finding the giant painted Staffy sculptures and unlock rewards and discounts for local businesses as you find them. The trail ends of 19 July 2026 and did I mention, is completely free.

You can find out more here: https://www.visitstaffordshire.com/staffy-trail/

2 - Trentham Estate & Monkey Forest 

Did you know, Staffordshire is home to it's very own Monkey Forest where you can walk amongst 300 Monkeys? It's part of the Trentham Estate which is a fantastic place to spend the day with extensive gardens, a lovely shopping village, restaurants, boat trips, go karts, adventure playground and more. It's a mix of paid and free activities here. Check their website for further info. 

Find out more: https://trentham.co.uk/

3 - Cannock Chase Forest 

We spent the afternoon here and absolutely loved it! It's free to visit with a mix of free and paid activities and there really is something for everyone from Gruffalo Sculptures & a Fairy Village hidden in the forest to a Dog Agility Course, Go Ape, Den Building Zone, Cycle Hire & more. There's a cafe on site too. 

Find out more: https://www.forestryengland.uk/cannock-chase-forest

4 - Tamworth Castle & Pleasure Grounds 

Tamworth Castle is a real stunner and you can pay an entrance fee and explore the 15 state rooms and rich history. 

The Castle's Pleasure Grounds are free to visit and a real find - I think they'd be perfect to visit in an evening as somewhere to wind down. There are sports courts, a castle-themed playground, rose garden, sculptures, cafe and more. The setting by the river with the castle as a backdrop is a stunning spot for a walk. 

Find out more: https://www.tamworthcastle.co.uk/

5 - Drayton Manor 

Why not make your weekend full of thrill seeking adventures and combine a trip to Alton Towers with a visit to Drayton Manor? It's a lovely theme park with rides for all ages plus Thomas Land and a Zoo. 

Find out more: https://www.draytonmanor.co.uk/

These ideas honestly just touch the surface. When I was planning our recent trip to Staffordshire, I discovered that the region is bursting with activities and days out. You can discover more things to do as well as ideas for accommodation and places to eat / drink here: https://www.visitstaffordshire.com/