A National Landscape
Nationally important
Nestled in Staffordshire in the heart of the West Midlands, Cannock Chase was designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) in 1958 for the natural beauty of its heaths, forests and historic parkland, presenting an unspoilt wilderness that contrasts with the surrounding built-up
conurbations.
Watch our video about the National Landscape.
What is a National Landscape?
In November 2023 Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) were renamed National Landscapes and are the nation’s finest landscapes, whose distinctive character and natural beauty are so precious that they are protected in the national interest.
There are 46 National Landscapes in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. They have the same level of protection as the UK’s National Parks.
At just 26 sq miles / 68 sq kilometres, Cannock Chase is the smallest mainland National Landscape in England.
Find out more about the other National Landscapes here.
What does designation do?
The primary purpose of a National Landscape (AONB) is “to conserve and enhance natural beauty”. Designation gives a formal statutory protection but does not mean that the area is preserved with no development or change being allowed.
In pursuing the primary purpose, account should be taken of the needs of agriculture, forestry and other rural industries, and of the economic and social needs of the local community.
Recreation is not an objective of designation, but the demand for recreation should be met in an AONB so far as this is consistent with the conservation of natural beauty and the needs of agriculture, forestry and other uses.
Read more about the purposes of National Landscapes in our Advice and Guidance.
Where is it?
Cannock Chase lies in southern Staffordshire between Stafford in the north, Rugeley in the east, Cannock in the south, and Penkridge to the west. The nearest other protected landscapes are the Peak District National Park to the north, and Shropshire Hills National Landscape to the west. The National Forest lies to the east (but is not a designated protected landscape).
At a glance
Cannock Chase National Landscape provides multiple environmental, social and economic benefits for its residents, business and visitors – many of which go unnoticed.
About the Chase
Cannock Chase National Landscape is a beautiful wilderness in Staffordshire in the heart of the West Midlands. Find out more about this landscape and what makes it special.
Our Partnership
Find out more about the team, our joint committee, partners, volunteers and organisations. You will also find our annual reviews and meetings detail here.
About Cannock Chase
Find out more about the landscape, wildlife, nature, history and heritage the wildness and tranquility.
Latest news
The news posts below provide more information on work in progress and latest news of Cannock Chase and our partners.
Take a look at the latest Cannock Chase National Landscape e-newsletter for May 2026. Booking is now open for the Annual Conference 2026. You can find
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Join us for Cannock Chase National Landscape Annual Conference 2026, and a day of networking, learning and sharing ideas! This year’s conference is being held
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Take a look at the latest Cannock Chase National Landscape e-newsletter for April 2026. The National Landscape offers a range of grants that can help
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We are pleased to announce that the Cannock Chase National Landscape Annual Conference will be held on Wednesday 3rd June 2026 at the Aquarius Ballroom,
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Take a look at the latest Cannock Chase National Landscape e-newsletter for March 2026. The e-newsletter will keep you up to date on news from
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This is a face-to-face meeting taking place on Monday 16th March 2026 at 2pm at the Main Conference Room, Staffordshire Wildlife Trust, Wolseley Centre ST17
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