Crateford Wood

Wood, Forest in Staffordshire South Staffordshire

England

Crateford Wood

Looking south off the A5, approaching Gailey from the west The fields to north and south of the A5 at this point are the site of the Romano-British settlement of Pennocrucium, which straddled the Roman road now known as Watling Street. — Looking south off the A5, approaching Gailey from the west Credit: Christopher Hilton

Crateford Wood is a charming woodland located in the county of Staffordshire, England. Covering an area of approximately 250 acres, this forested haven offers a serene retreat for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers alike.

The wood is characterized by its diverse range of tree species, including majestic oak, ash, and birch trees that dominate the landscape. These towering trees provide a dense canopy, creating a cool and shaded environment even on the hottest of days. The forest floor is blanketed with a lush carpet of ferns, bluebells, and wildflowers, adding a touch of vibrant color to the woodland.

Crateford Wood is home to a variety of wildlife, making it a popular spot for nature lovers and birdwatchers. Visitors may spot elusive creatures such as deer, foxes, and badgers roaming freely within the wood. The air is often filled with the melodic songs of numerous bird species, including robins, thrushes, and woodpeckers, creating a symphony of nature's sounds.

Tranquil walking trails wind their way through Crateford Wood, allowing visitors to explore the forest at their own pace. These well-maintained paths offer a chance to immerse oneself in the peaceful ambiance of the woodland, while also providing glimpses of breathtaking views and hidden gems along the way.

Crateford Wood is a cherished natural gem in Staffordshire, attracting locals and tourists alike. Whether seeking solitude, a dose of fresh air, or a chance to connect with nature, this enchanting woodland offers a truly rejuvenating experience for all who venture into its depths.

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Crateford Wood Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 52.683552/-2.1404117 or Grid Reference SJ9009. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Looking south off the A5, approaching Gailey from the west

The fields to north and south of the A5 at this point are the site of the Romano-British settlement of Pennocrucium, which straddled the Roman road now known as Watling Street.

Christopher Hilton

Congreve Lane and The Ivy House, Stretton

Jonathan Thacker

Field near The Ivy House, Stretton

Jonathan Thacker

Canal at Gailey Lock and Bridge, Staffordshire

Gailey Top Lock is No 32 on the Staffordshire and Worcestershire Canal. This is the first of four fairly widely spaced locks. The A5 Watling Street crosses the canal here.

Roger D Kidd

Staffordshire and Worcestershire Canal near Gailey in Staffordshire

The narrowboat is about to move into Brick Kiln Lock, No 33.

Roger D Kidd

Canal at Brick Kiln Lock near Gailey, Staffordshire

Brick Kiln Lock is No 33 on the Staffordshire and Worcestershire Canal near Gailey. It is one of four fairly widely spaced locks descending from Gailey Top Lock by Watling Street.

Roger D Kidd

Canal at Brick Kiln Lock near Gailey, Staffordshire

Looking north-east towards Penkridge, Stafford and Great Haywood Junction (with the Trent and Mersey Canal). Brick Kiln Lock is No 33 on the Staffordshire and Worcestershire Canal near Gailey. It is one of four fairly widely spaced locks descending from Gailey Top Lock by Watling Street.

Roger D Kidd

Staffordshire and Worcestershire Canal near Gailey, Staffordshire

Looking north towards Penkridge.

Roger D Kidd

Canal near Gailey in Staffordshire

Looking north towards Penkridge.

Roger D Kidd

Moored narrowboats near Gailey in Staffordshire

This is the Staffordshire and Worcestershire Canal, about two miles south of Penkridge. The new wind turbine awaits the fitting of its blades.

Roger D Kidd

Narrowboats and a new wind turbine, Staffordshire

This is the Staffordshire and Worcestershire Canal near Gailey in Staffordshire. The wind turbine awaits the fitting of its blades, and looks like a giant alien surveillance unit in a sci-fi scenario. The moorings are near Brick Kiln Lock, No 33.

Roger D Kidd

Brick Kiln Lock near Gailey in Staffordshire

This is the Staffordshire and Worcestershire Canal, about two miles south of Penkridge. Brick Kiln Lock is No 33. The narrow boat has left the lock, and hadn't seen me coming or they would not have closed the top gate.

Roger D Kidd

Outdoor parcel lockers at a BP filling station

Amazon and InPost lockers at Gailey.

Jonathan Hutchins

Towpath passing under Watling Street

Or the A5, if you prefer. The Staffs and Worcs canal at Gailey.

Christine Johnstone

Moored narrowboats near Gailey in Staffordshire

This is the Staffordshire and Worcestershire Canal north of Gailey Lock and the A5 Watling Street.

Roger D Kidd

Staffordshire and Worcestershire Canal near Gailey in Staffordshire

This is the Staffordshire and Worcestershire Canal north of Gailey Lock and the A5 Watling Street.

Roger D Kidd

Staffordshire and Worcestershire Canal near Gailey in Staffordshire

This is the Staffordshire and Worcestershire Canal north of Gailey Lock and the A5 Watling Street.

Roger D Kidd

Gailey Wharf

A rare burst of sunshine in the last few days of August illuminates this attractive spot on the Staffordshire & Worcestrshire Canal. To the left is Gailey Lock and to the right is a small basin which, out of season would be stuffed with hire boats.

Stephen McKay

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Crateford Wood is located at Grid Ref: SJ9009 (Lat: 52.683552, Lng: -2.1404117)

Administrative County: Staffordshire

District: South Staffordshire

Police Authority: Staffordshire