Ladderedge Country Park

70 acres of meadows, parkland and woods just 20 minutes walk from the centre of Leek.

Location

Ladderedge Country Park, Ladderedge, Leek ST13 7AB

Know before you go

Size

28 hectares

Entry fee

Free

Parking information

The car park for the main section of the park is signposted off Newcastle Road behind the Staffordshire County Council highways depot. There is also a car park at Barnfields, Sunnyhills Road, but there is a height limit of 1.6m.

Grazing animals

Cattle graze the meadows from July until October, which is essential to maintaining the biodiversity of the fields.

Walking trails

Allow an hour for the longest of three waymarked walks.

Access

The site includes unsurfaced tracks and pathways, sections of boardwalk and some steep hills so is unsuitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs.

Dogs

Under effective control

Dogs must be under effective control. Put all dog waste in the bins where provided or take it home. Keep your dog under control - do not let it chase or worry wildlife.

Facilities

Picnic area

When to visit

Opening times

Open at all times

Best time to visit

Spring for bluebells in the ancient woodland, June to August for meadow wildflowers including yellow rattle, common knapweed and common spotted orchid.

About the reserve

Ladderedge country park is divided into two areas either side of the road. The main section is an undulating landscape of meadows and woodlands with great views over Leek towards the Peak District. The other section is generally flatter where the River Churnet meanders along next to the meadow and woodland walk.