aventuro Back to map A
Parks #24 in Stoke-on-Trent

Silverdale Country Park

4.6 · 476 reviews
Quiet, post-industrial wilderness
Silverdale Country Park, 6 High Ln, Silverdale, Newcastle ST7 8BS, United Kingdom
Interesting facts
1

The park was created on the site of the Silverdale Colliery, which closed in 1998.

2

It is part of the 'Community Forest' initiative, designed to provide accessible green space in former industrial areas.

3

The landscape includes purposely designed wetlands to encourage biodiversity and natural water filtration.

4

The reclaimed terrain features significant elevation changes due to the legacy of mine spoil heaps.

5

The park is managed by The Land Trust, a charity specializing in the sustainable maintenance of open spaces.

Overview

Silverdale Country Park is a 95-hectare landscape reclamation project situated on the site of the former Silverdale Colliery. The area features a network of paths winding through reclaimed woodland, wetlands, and open grasslands. A notable feature is the high vantage point of the slag heaps, which have been landscaped to offer panoramic views across North Staffordshire. The park serves as a vital wildlife corridor, supporting species such as reed buntings, skylarks, and various damselflies. It is part of the wider Forest of Mercia and connects to local heritage trails. The site represents a successful transition from industrial coal extraction to a managed natural habitat.

Photo spot

The summit of the highest reclaimed spoil heap for a 360-degree view of the Staffordshire skyline.

Insider tips

Wear sturdy, waterproof hiking boots as paths can become muddy after rain.

Bring binoculars if you are interested in birdwatching, particularly near the wetland areas.

Check local weather forecasts as the exposed high points can be significantly windier than the surrounding town.

What to avoid

Attempting to stray from marked trails into dense, unmanaged woodland areas where terrain may be uneven.

Etiquette

Keep dogs on leads in areas with ground-nesting birds; follow the Countryside Code by taking all litter home.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
2-3 hours
Best time to visit
Early morning in spring or late summer for optimal wildlife spotting.
Address
Silverdale Country Park, 6 High Ln, Silverdale, Newcastle ST7 8BS, United Kingdom
53.023, -2.277
Get directions
Details
TerrainReclaimed industrial land with mixed woodland and wetland
Trail DifficultyEasy to moderate with some inclines on former spoil heaps

Frequently asked

Plan for about 2-3 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Early morning in spring or late summer for optimal wildlife spotting..

The summit of the highest reclaimed spoil heap for a 360-degree view of the Staffordshire skyline.

Close by you'll find Apedale Heritage Centre, New Vic Theatre, Waterworld.