9k Run Milford: Scenic Cannock Chase Loop Adventure

Route Overview & Local Insights

Starting from the popular Milford Common, this 8.9km loop takes you deep into the heart of Cannock Chase, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. This is a pure forest trail experience with absolutely zero pavement, making it a dream for runners looking to escape the tarmac. While the first 3km offer a relatively gentle warm-up, be prepared to shift gears once you hit the tree line; the majority of the 113m ascent is concentrated in the middle section of the run. The terrain features a mix of wide gravel fire roads and narrower woodland paths that can become muddy after a Staffordshire rain, so trail shoes with decent lugs are highly recommended for navigating the hilly undulating sections.

Cannock Chase is steeped in history and was once the hunting ground of Norman kings. As you navigate the loop from Milford, you are running through a landscape that transitioned from a medieval royal forest to a vital site during the First World War, where the nearby Brocton and Great War camps once stood. Keep your eyes peeled for the resident fallow deer herd, particularly in the quiet early mornings. The Milford entrance serves as a gateway to this ancient woodland, offering a perfect blend of natural serenity and challenging elevation that has made it a legendary training ground for local Midlands harriers and trail enthusiasts for decades.