Shunter’s Nook, Colwich

Colwich is a civil parish and village in Staffordshire, England. It is situated off the A51 road, about 3 miles (5 km) north-west of Rugeley and 7 miles (11 km) south-east of Stafford. It lies principally on the north-east bank of the river Trent, near Wolseley Bridge and just north of Cannock Chase. The parish comprises about 2,862 hectares of land in the villages and hamlets of Colwich, Great Haywood, Little Haywood, Moreton, Bishton and Wolseley Bridge. Colwich is a welcoming Staffordshire village, surrounded by gentle countryside and close to the woodlands of Cannock Chase AONB. It has a peaceful charm, with timeless lanes, characterful cottages, and the beautiful St Michael of All Angels Church standing proudly at its heart, reflecting the village’s rich past, as well as listed buildings including the old Station House which can be seen from the front of the property. Nearby attractions include the grand Shugborough Estate (and annex where Lord Lichfield resided), where you can explore elegant gardens, tour the historic mansion, and wander through farmland and riverside walks, and the woodland trails of Cannock Chase, perfect for walking, cycling, and wildlife spotting in scenic surroundings. Dining options include The Clifford Arms just a short walk along the canal, Whites at Oakedge, offering a splendid setting for traditional meals, and for a more relaxed atmosphere why not visit the Lamb and Flag public house with live music and regular street food stalls offering a range or world cuisine, or the Wolseley Arms which is easy to reach along the canal or a short drive. Within easy reach lies the bustling town of Stafford, where you can browse independent shops, visit the Ancient High House, explore Victoria Park, or enjoy local cafés and restaurants, and Rugeley which is an old mining town, also famous for Dr William Palmer, the Rugeley poisoner. Live music enthusiasts may want to venture to Cannock Chase Forests during the summer months which has previously hosted, Status Quo, James, Sting, Snow Patrol, Brand New Heavies, Tom Jones, Kaiser Chiefs to name but a few. Colwich blends heritage, nature, and village warmth in a truly inviting setting.