Just moved here, got my HT (cove stiffee) with me now so kinda desperate to get pedalling. Ideally somewhere with some challenging stuff to ride; a few good climbs and some fun descents. I’ll have my DH bike in the near future too so all options will be welcomed.
Alex

Cannock Chase (Stile Cop for DH) and over into Shropshire for The Long Mynd, Eastridge and Hopton. Peak District may be near, depending where you are in Staffs.

HTH

Where is staffordshire?
.. I’ve just started working in Stafford and didn’t realise previously, how close Cannock chase is. The chase has the trail centre routes, plenty of ‘wild’ stuff to learn, and a DH area… might not be exactly what you want but it’s a definite plus for the area & somewhere to start

Where in staffs are you ed?
I live in stoke.

Where in staffs…?

This.
From north Staffordshire the Peak District is considerably closer than Cannock Chase and will give you a huge variety of riding.

Cannock Chase is the obvious one about 20 min drive from Uttoxeter, lots more than just the built stuff although the FC are trying their best to change this. Stile Cop DH is great for the size of the hill.
Smaller woods around, Hopwas and Stoke (Hanchurch Woods V good).

Furhter away White Peak is closest to you, Dark Peak not much further, Shropshire is bit furhter and different kind of trails. Loads of riding just N of Derby towrd Matlock which is along the A50 from you, about 45 mins in car.

Nothing to see in Staffordshire

Actually a mate used to ride alot near Alton which is pretty close to you.

I’m in Uttoxeter.

It seems I really am pretty close to Cannock, might have to have a go there. Heard a bit about it.
As for the peaks, I think a local group to ride with would be somewhat better…

Hanchurch trentham keele

See if the stokemtbclub.do.uk lot are near by to u

if you want a guided tour of the cheeky stuff on the chase give the west mids mtb chaps a shout. They’re ok for a bunch of mincers.

Happy to show you around cannock cheeky, hanchurch, macc forest and peak districty areas