Cannock Chase

Nestled within the dense canopy of trees in the heart of Staffordshire, Cannock Chase is one of the most impressive outdoor activity centers in the United Kingdom. This is a place where the natural beauty of a protected forest meets breathtaking high-ropes challenges, offering guests a unique way to interact with nature.

The park's crown jewel is the Treetop Challenge course. It is officially recognized as the longest of all Go Ape locations in the country, featuring nearly 1.5 kilometers of crossings, suspension bridges, and high-speed zip wires. It’s the perfect destination for adrenaline seekers wanting a bird's-eye view of the forest.

The park is located in close proximity to major cities like Birmingham, making it a popular weekend destination. With courses of varying difficulty levels, both seasoned adventurers and families with children can find a challenge suited to them among the majestic pines.

To ensure your forest adventure at Cannock Chase goes smoothly, we recommend checking the latest contact information in advance. Given the high popularity of Go Ape Cannock, especially on weekends, it is wise to check availability and potential schedule changes ahead of time.

Please note that the management strongly advises booking tickets through the official website to guarantee your spot on the course. You will find all the necessary contact details and planning information in the section below.

At Go Ape Cannock, there’s an adventure for every age and spirit. Younger guests aged 4 to 10 can test their mettle on the Treetop Adventure course—a safe but exciting introduction featuring zip wires up to 80 meters long. For slightly older children, there is the more advanced Plus version, which adds more height and technical elements.

Adults can take on the epic Treetop Challenge. You'll navigate wobbly bridges, climb rope nets, and take long flights over the forest floor. Each stage is designed to test your balance and resolve at heights of several dozen meters.

For those who prefer to keep their feet on the ground, the park offers a chance to explore forest trails on a Forest Segway. These powerful all-terrain electric scooters let you comfortably discover the hidden corners of Cannock Chase. It's a fantastic way to experience the landscape without having to scale the treetops.

The adventure park is located in the picturesque Birches Valley, near the town of Rugeley in Staffordshire. If you are arriving by car, use the postcode WS15 2UQ; the location is easily accessible for residents of major hubs like Birmingham. Convenient parking for visitors is available within the forest area.

For those preferring public transport, the nearest train station is in Rugeley. From there, the park entrance is just a few minutes away by taxi. Precise GPS coordinates: 52.7497139, -1.9782329. Once on-site, you can easily find Go Ape by following the signs near the local café and cycle hire center.

The Cannock Chase forest, home to the adventure park, is officially designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). It is one of the most significant and ancient forest landscapes in the heart of the United Kingdom, known for its rich biodiversity and unique heathlands.

The Go Ape park at this location was one of the company's most ambitious projects. It features the country's longest Treetop Challenge course, stretching nearly 1,500 meters. This achievement has made Cannock Chase a flagship site among the network's many locations across the UK.

The park’s development is carried out in close partnership with Forestry England, which manages the nation's public forests. This collaboration ensures that while guests enjoy outdoor activities, the forest ecosystem is carefully preserved, with attractions integrated into the tree canopy without harming nature.

To fully enjoy all the obstacles and zip lines at Cannock Chase, we recommend setting aside at least 2–3 hours. This time includes completing the courses, the mandatory safety briefing, getting equipped, and a short training session with an instructor.

If you plan on trying multiple activities—such as combining the Treetop Challenge with a Forest Segway tour—it is better to reserve about 4–5 hours. This allows you to take your time and leave room for a break at the forest café between stages of your adventure.

Currently, Cannock Chase is primarily open to visitors on weekends. On Saturdays and Sundays, the park is open from 10:00 to 14:00. The site is usually closed on weekdays (Monday to Friday), which is important to consider when planning a trip from other cities.

However, the schedule may vary depending on the season, school holidays, or corporate events. We strongly recommend checking the booking calendar on the official website before heading out to ensure your preferred time slot is available.

Visiting Go Ape is just one part of what this amazing region has to offer. Cannock Chase itself provides endless opportunities for walking and wildlife spotting, while nearby locations allow you to complement your active holiday with culture or a bit of shopping.

Close by is the Hednesford Hills Nature Reserve, where you can enjoy peace and quiet amidst classic English scenery. If you're looking to return to civilization after the forest trails, stop by Victoria Shopping Park, which features a variety of shops and cafés to round off your day.