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Madeley

Attractions and Places To See around Madeley - Top 20

Best attractions and places to see around Madeley offer a diverse range of historical sites, natural features, and viewpoints. This region, primarily referring to Madeley in Staffordshire, is characterized by its undulating countryside and historical landmarks. Visitors can explore remnants of industrial heritage and enjoy tranquil natural settings. The area provides opportunities for discovering local history and enjoying outdoor activities.

Best attractions and places to see around Madeley

  • The most popular attractions is King's Wood, Trentham Estate, a forest that borders Trentham Gardens and is free to access. This area is known for its historical significance, with the Two Saints Way running along its ridgeline.
  • Another must-see spot is Apedale Pit Wheel Memorial, a man-made monument commemorating the region's mining history. This memorial features a large pit wheel transported from Annesley Colliery, symbolizing the area's industrial past.
  • Visitors also love Winterley Pool, a lake popular with anglers and nature enthusiasts. This picturesque lake offers a tranquil setting with abundant wildlife, including a resident flock of mute swans.
  • Madeley is known for its historical sites, natural landmarks, and scenic viewpoints. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from historical monuments to peaceful natural areas.
  • The attractions around Madeley are appreciated by the komoot community, with 18 upvotes and 35 photos shared by visitors.

Last updated: July 3, 2026

John Wedgwood Monument, Bignall Hill

Highlight • Historical Site

This large stone monument on the summit is dedicated to John Wedgwood (1760–1839), a former local employer and coal mine owner.

(NOT Josiah Wedgwood)

Wedgwood's monument was initially an obelisk erected in 1850.

Following storm damage in 1976 it was reduced to a quarter of its original size, although the base is still substantial.

The monument is a Grade II listed building.

The monument is today reachable by footpaths, and is the highest point in the area.

It affords sweeping 360-degree views: south to Cannock Chase and the city of Stoke-on-Trent; north across the Cheshire Plains to Jodrell Bank radio telescope; east to Mow Cop Castleand the Peak District; and west to the mountains of North Wales and Snowdonia.

Source: Wikipedia

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King's Wood, Trentham Estate

Highlight • Trail

Interesting info as to why it is called The Kings Wood found with a quick Google search:
"When William of Normandy ordered an inventory of his English domains in around 1086 (now known as the ‘Domesday Book’) it noted that the ‘king holds Trentham’.
The King’s estate is said to include land big enough for three and a half ploughs, managed by a Reeve who had 6 people in his service. Trentham also included an area of 3 ploughs and woodland"

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Jacob sheep can be traced all the way back to the Bible.

Jacob worked without wages for his father-in-law Laban, for fourteen years for the love of his life Rachel.

His father-in-law was an untrustworthy man who repeatedly cheated Jacob.

Jacob continued to work for Laban after his marriage to Rachel and suggested that he be given all the speckled and spotted sheep that may be born as his wages. Laban agreed as he thought that the chances of such offspring would be low.

However, God blessed Jacob with many such sheep being born.

Hence the name Jacob sheep 😊

They can live all year round on whatever vegetation they can pull, even being capable of rooting through a foot of snow to find food.


They seem to prefer grazing rough moor grass, birch scrub, bracken and balsam instead of lush grass, so Monument Walk is the perfect home for them!

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Winterley Pool

Highlight • Lake

Picturesque lake popular with anglers.

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Apedale Pit Wheel Memorial

Highlight • Monument

The wheel itself originated at Annesley Colliery in Nottinghamshire.

It took 3 lorries and assistance from the Territorial Army to transport its 30 foot by 19 foot 7 tonnes to Apedale.

Keith Meeson, an ex-miner, can be thanked - he was one of the people responsible for setting up Apedale Heritage Centre and paid what sounds like a bargain £100 for the wheel.

It was a bit more expensive to get the wheel here; a £15,000 Countryside Agency grant helped fund its restoration and placement.

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Tips from the Community

kris
April 23, 2025, John Wedgwood Monument on Bignall Hill

A memorial monument erected in 1845 in memory of a local mine-owner John Wedgwood

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A very pleasant walk with a certain degree of hills

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Kenny
August 23, 2023, Winterley Pool

Nestled within captivating surroundings, Winterley Pool emerges as a favoured fishing lake, offering a tranquil haven for both anglers and nature enthusiasts alike. An idea spot to pause and immerse oneself in the breathtaking scenery. Abundant in wildlife, the pool is graced by a resident flock of mute swans.

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Bordering Trentham Gardens, this section of Trentham Park is free to access without an admission charge. The Two Saints Way runs along the ridgeline.

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Great spot to stop and rest with some wildlife nearby. Particularly goof for birdwatchers.

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Nej
October 10, 2022, Winterley Pool

Picturesque lake popular with anglers.

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This large stone monument on the summit is dedicated to John Wedgwood (1760–1839), a former local employer and coal mine owner. (NOT Josiah Wedgwood) Wedgwood's monument was initially an obelisk erected in 1850. Following storm damage in 1976 it was reduced to a quarter of its original size, although the base is still substantial. The monument is a Grade II listed building. The monument is today reachable by footpaths, and is the highest point in the area. It affords sweeping 360-degree views: south to Cannock Chase and the city of Stoke-on-Trent; north across the Cheshire Plains to Jodrell Bank radio telescope; east to Mow Cop Castleand the Peak District; and west to the mountains of North Wales and Snowdonia. Source: Wikipedia

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A fantastic viewpoint for this trig. 360 degree views! Sadly the local council saw fit to try and close off the trig with barbed wire. There is no reason at all for such a precaution. However, the nearby Wedgwood Memorial is perfectly accessible.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What historical sites can I explore in the Madeley area?

The Madeley region offers a rich tapestry of historical sites. In Staffordshire, you can visit the remains of the medieval Old Madeley Manor, the Elizabethan Madeley Old Hall, and the historic John Wedgwood Monument. The Apedale Pit Wheel Memorial commemorates the area's mining heritage. In Shropshire, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of The Iron Bridge and the immersive Blists Hill Victorian Town are significant. Other notable sites include Madeley Court and the Coalport Bridge.

Are there any natural landmarks or scenic viewpoints around Madeley?

Yes, the area boasts several natural landmarks and viewpoints. Winterley Pool is a picturesque lake popular with anglers and nature enthusiasts, known for its tranquil setting and resident mute swans. King's Wood, Trentham Estate, offers a beautiful forest environment. For panoramic views, the John Wedgwood Monument on Bignall Hill provides sweeping 360-degree vistas across Staffordshire, Cheshire, and even to North Wales on clear days. Additionally, Madeley Woods and the nearby River Severn offer scenic walking opportunities, and The Wrekin summit in Shropshire provides spectacular views.

What outdoor activities can I do near Madeley's attractions?

The Madeley area is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can enjoy road cycling on routes like the 'Swynnerton Old Park – Hem Heath Woods Nature Reserve loop' or the 'Nantwich Town Centre – Nantwich Lake loop'. For hiking, there are easy trails such as 'The Void Lake – Silverdale Community Park loop' and 'Apedale Country Park – Apedale Heritage Centre loop'. Mountain biking enthusiasts can explore routes like the 'Apedale Community Country Park loop' or the 'Wheelock Rail Trail – Bath Pool loop'. You can find more details on these and other routes in the respective guides for Road Cycling, Easy Hikes, and MTB Trails around Madeley.

Are there family-friendly attractions or activities in the Madeley area?

Absolutely! Families can enjoy several attractions. Jacob Sheep at Monument Walk, Trentham Monkey Forest, offers a unique animal encounter. Winterley Pool is a peaceful spot for wildlife spotting. In Shropshire, Blists Hill Victorian Town provides an immersive historical experience with a dedicated 'Madeley Mine Play' area for children. Many of the easy hiking trails around Madeley are also suitable for families.

What is the significance of the Madeley Pit Mounds?

The Madeley Pit Mounds, declared a Local Nature Reserve in 2016, are a collection of five sites in Shropshire. They are historically and archaeologically significant, featuring distinctive wooded pit mounds that are remnants of the area's industrial past, offering both ecological value and a glimpse into the region's coal mining heritage.

Can I find places for dog walking near Madeley attractions?

Yes, many areas around Madeley are dog-friendly. King's Wood, Trentham Estate, is a forest that welcomes dogs. The John Wedgwood Monument area also allows dogs. The surrounding Staffordshire and Shropshire countryside, including Madeley Woods and trails along the River Severn, are generally suitable for dog walking. Always check local signage for specific rules regarding leashes.

What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Madeley?

Visitors particularly appreciate the blend of history and nature. The John Wedgwood Monument is highly praised for its 'fantastic viewpoint' and '360-degree views'. Winterley Pool is noted as a 'picturesque lake' and a 'great spot to stop and rest with some wildlife nearby'. The historical significance of sites like King's Wood and the industrial heritage commemorated by the Apedale Pit Wheel Memorial also receive positive feedback.

Are there any unique historical buildings in Madeley, Staffordshire?

Madeley, Staffordshire, is home to several unique historical buildings. The Madeley Mill and Pool is a significant landmark, with the former mill now converted into apartments. Madeley Old Hall is a stunning timber-framed Elizabethan house, now a country house hotel. The remains of Old Madeley Manor, a medieval moated site, offer a glimpse into the past, and the Old Almshouses on Station Road are also notable historical structures.

What is the Ironbridge Gorge, and how close is it to Madeley, Shropshire?

The Ironbridge Gorge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a short distance from Madeley, Shropshire. It is considered the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution and is famous for the iconic Iron Bridge, the world's first cast-iron bridge, which spans the River Severn. The gorge also encompasses other significant sites like Blists Hill Victorian Town and Coalport Bridge.

Can I find any trails for mountain biking near Madeley?

Yes, there are several mountain biking trails available. You can explore the 'Apedale Community Country Park loop' which is an easy 10 km route. Other options include the 'Swynnerton Old Park – Hanchurch Water Tower loop' and the 'Wheelock Rail Trail – Bath Pool loop'. For more detailed information and routes, refer to the MTB Trails around Madeley guide.

What is the 'Two Saints Way' and where does it pass near Madeley?

The 'Two Saints Way' is a long-distance walking route. Near Madeley, it runs along the ridgeline of King's Wood, Trentham Estate. This provides a historical and scenic path for walkers to enjoy the local countryside.

Are there any specific places for birdwatching or wildlife spotting?

Yes, Winterley Pool is an excellent spot for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts, known for its abundant wildlife, including a resident flock of mute swans. The surrounding woodlands and natural areas, such as Madeley Woods and the River Severn, also offer opportunities for wildlife observation.

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