Shoal Hill Common Walks and Route Maps

A short circular walk on the heath and woodland of Shoal Hill Common, a local nature reserve within the Cannock Chase AONB.

Early on you pass Cannock Lake, a pleasant stretch of water at the centre of the common, before a steady climb takes you up onto the heathland.

Much of the route is under trees, with open heather and bracken in between. It is a good choice for a quick leg stretch, and some paths may be muddy after rain.

A longer circuit that takes in the best of Shoal Hill Common and then swings south towards Shoal Hill Tavern for a mid walk pit stop.

You start with Cannock Lake and a steady climb onto the heathland, a mix of heather, bracken and old woodland within the Cannock Chase AONB.

Woodland covers most of the route, so it feels sheltered and leafy for much of the way.

The longest of the Shoal Hill Common walks is a woodland-rich exploration adventure that gives you more time among the trees and heather of this local nature reserve.

Cannock Lake comes early, with some waterside scenery, before the route climbs onto the common and wanders through a patchwork of old woods, conifers and open heath.

The walk then loops round the southern edge of the common and passes Shoal Hill Tavern, a welcome place for refreshments.

Plenty of the route is under trees, and you may come across deer tracks. A morning or afternoon will see you round comfortably.