Stony Brook Pools

The water here is surprisingly clear for Staffordshire, and that alone makes the trip from Rugeley worthwhile. Stony Brook Pools is a proper working gravel pit turned swimming and fishing destination - the sort of place locals know about but tourists miss entirely. You get a lake with actual depth, managed banks, and enough space that it doesn't feel rammed even on decent weekends.

What you're doing here depends on what you fancy. Swimmers will find designated areas that feel safe enough. Anglers come for the pike and carp, and they're serious about it - you'll spot them before sunrise most mornings. Walking around the perimeter takes perhaps an hour without rushing. The banks are accessible enough, though it's worth decent boots if rain's been heavy.

The real value is location. You're camped at Chase Camping at Four Oaks Farm or one of the other pods dotted within a mile, and this becomes your morning swim or an afternoon break from the caravan. Don't expect a theme park experience or fancy facilities - bring what you need. Admission and opening hours seem fluid (worth phoning ahead), and there's no entrance fee as far as anyone can tell.

Families with older kids who actually like water will get something from it. Toddlers? Less so - you'll want the playground back at the holiday park instead. It's the kind of spot that works best as part of a broader Cannock Chase trip rather than a destination in itself.