Staffordshire, the home of elegant pottery, is also a county of contrasts. From charming canals and tranquil rolling hills to exciting rollercoaster rides and a forest of monkeys, there really is something for everyone here.

You’ll be spoilt for choice with so many places to go, whether you are looking for relaxation, exhilaration, things to do or a delightful view. In fact, Staffordshire has more packed into its compact size than almost any other county.

Take for example Alton Towers, one of the world’s top theme parks for white-knuckle rides. The award-winning Drayton Manor Park offers fun for all the family, or perhaps the Waterworld aqua park at Etruria. You could wind down a gear and explore the region’s canal network, dotted with fascinating remnants of industrial history. Take a look at the lovingly restored Churnet Valley Railway and take a nostalgic ride on a steam train, or enjoy steam transport on a smaller scale with the narrow gauge Rudyard Lake Steam Railway.

The county is most famous for its pottery, especially Wedgwood, and there are plenty of Staffordshire holiday cottages conveniently close to places like the Wedgwood Museum or the Gladstone Pottery Museum at Stoke on Trent. You can also snap up a bargain at the Poole Pottery and Royal Stafford factory outlet in Burslem.

Enjoy an intoxicating visit to the National Brewery Centre at Burton upon Trent to learn about the county’s legendary beers. You could even experience a little animal magic; just visit the Trentham Monkey Forest, Blackbrook Zoo or a nature reserve such as the Wolseley Centre, Ipstones Edge or George’s Hayes.

The county offers a great opportunity for exploration, in a landscape where calming countryside meets exciting attractions. Its gently rolling hills and canal towpaths make for superb and not too energetic walking for visitors of all ages. There’s wildlife aplenty too, both flora and fauna, so you can take home some beautiful photographs.

Why not find out for yourself. Take a look at our selection of holiday cottages in Staffordshire today and discover a little of what this enchanting county has to offer.