
Whitfield Valley Nature Reserve
A tranquil nature reserve and former colliery site offering stunning views, peaceful fishing pools, and a unique landscape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best views and wildlife spotting

Whitfield Valley Nature Reserve
Best Time
Best views and wildlife spotting
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A tranquil nature reserve and former colliery site offering stunning views, peaceful fishing pools, and a unique landscape.
"Nature has well & truly taken over, & from the summit you get great views as well as sunsets!"

👟 Sturdy Footwear Essential
Paths can be muddy and uneven, especially after rain. Waterproof boots are recommended!
🎣 Rod License Needed
If you plan to fish, ensure you have a valid rod license. The Angling Society relies on this support.

Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.6 · 569 reviews
Type
Park
Address
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Sunset Hill Views
Former Colliery Spoil Heap
Climb the 'Sunset Hill' for breathtaking panoramic views of Stoke-on-Trent and stunning sunsets.

Tranquil Fishing Pools
Fishing Ponds
Three free-to-fish pools teeming with life, perfect for a peaceful afternoon of angling.

Nature's Reclamation
Various Areas
Witness nature's impressive takeover of the old colliery site, with lush greenery and diverse wildlife.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Wild Side
Respect the Environment
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Sturdy Footwear Essential
Paths can be muddy and uneven, especially after rain. Waterproof boots are recommended!
🎣 Rod License Needed
If you plan to fish, ensure you have a valid rod license. The Angling Society relies on this support.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
A popular spot for dog walkers; keep your furry friends on a lead where necessary.
🗑️ Pack It In, Pack It Out
Help keep the reserve clean by taking all your rubbish with you.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Footwear Essential
Paths can be muddy and uneven, especially after rain. Waterproof boots are recommended!
🎣 Rod License Needed
If you plan to fish, ensure you have a valid rod license. The Angling Society relies on this support.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
A popular spot for dog walkers; keep your furry friends on a lead where necessary.
🗑️ Pack It In, Pack It Out
Help keep the reserve clean by taking all your rubbish with you.
🦋 Wildlife Spotting
Keep an eye out for butterflies and various bird species, especially around the water.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Whitfield Valley Nature Reserve for its natural beauty, especially the impressive views from 'Sunset Hill' and the peaceful fishing pools. Many appreciate the free access and the opportunity to explore the reclaimed colliery landscape. Some mention occasional issues with litter or teenagers on bikes, and a desire for better maintenance or historical interpretation of the colliery site.
"I love this place for many, many reasons. Firstly, I live just seconds away from the nature reserve that is right next to it! It also has a huge spoil heap from the disused Chatterley Whitfield Coliery that I've nicknamed sunset hill, as you'd never know it was once a spoil heap, as nature has well & truly taken over, & from the summit you get great views as well as sunsets, hence the nickname! It's also got 3 free to fish, fishing pools, all with some very big fish in!! Obviously you still need a rod license, so please buy one, as the Angling Society needs the money more than ever, with the current stare of the waters in the UK right now.
There's a full sized football field too, & great views of the old Coliery, which nature has well and truly taken over, giving a wonderful view! Though personally I'd love it to become a museum again, but I doubt that will happen.
But I highly recommend whether going for a walk, cycle, fishing, bird watching, & just getting out & exploring!
As I say it's right next to Ford Green Nature Reserve, so if you want a bigger walk just add on the beautiful nature reserve!"
Pete Speake
"Lovely place to while away an hour or two for a walk.. wish I could explore the abandoned buildings though."
J The food don
"Gonna go again to give a more detailed review as it wasn't the best of days weather wise. It's quite a stretch, though, so I want to explore much more"
James Kelsey
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Whitfield Valley Nature Reserve is accessible by car, with parking available. It's also reachable by public transport, though specific bus routes may vary. Check local transport schedules for the most up-to-date information.
Yes, there is parking available at the nature reserve, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
Cycling is a great way to explore the reserve and surrounding areas. There are paths suitable for cycling, and it's a popular route for local cyclists.
The nature reserve is located within Stoke-on-Trent, and while it offers a natural escape, it's generally a short drive from the city centre.
The nearest transport links will depend on your starting point, but local bus services operate within Stoke-on-Trent. It's advisable to check journey planners for specific routes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Whitfield Valley Nature Reserve is generally free. Enjoy the natural beauty without any admission fees.
As a nature reserve, it's typically open from dawn till dusk. However, it's always a good idea to check for any specific seasonal or event-related closures.
The fishing pools are free to fish, but you will need a valid rod license.
While the colliery buildings are a prominent feature, access to abandoned structures may be restricted for safety reasons. It's best to admire them from a distance.
Information suggests there might be a visitor centre, but its current operational status can vary. Facilities like restrooms may be limited.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
There are various walking trails, including paths around the fishing pools and a more challenging climb up the former colliery spoil heap, offering different levels of difficulty and scenery.
Yes, the reserve is a haven for birdlife, especially around the water bodies. You can spot various species, including ducks.
Absolutely! The summit of the old colliery spoil heap, nicknamed 'Sunset Hill,' provides excellent panoramic views of Stoke-on-Trent.
Visitors often report seeing butterflies, various bird species, and other small wildlife. It's a great place for nature observation.
Yes, it's a great spot for families to enjoy a walk and explore nature. However, be mindful of teenagers on bikes in some areas.
📸 📸 Photography
The panoramic views from 'Sunset Hill' are a must for photographers, especially during golden hour. The fishing pools and the reclaimed colliery landscape also offer unique photographic opportunities.
While direct access to abandoned buildings might be limited, the imposing presence of the former colliery structures against the natural landscape provides dramatic photographic subjects.
The fishing pools and surrounding greenery attract birds and butterflies, offering chances for wildlife photography. Early mornings or late afternoons are often best for spotting active wildlife.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, always be respectful of other visitors and the environment.
Late afternoon for golden hour light on 'Sunset Hill' and the landscape. Early mornings can be good for mist and wildlife activity.










Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit