Good park or landscape with tea rooms near Stafford?

[JustAnotherManicUsername]

Easter extended family gathering - I'm trying to find a venue for lots of children (aged 9-15) to rush around outside but with somewhere for grandparents to take it more slowly and sit down at least some of the time. Somewhere within about 25 miles of Stafford because that's the midpoint of where we all live. Not National Trust because they're not all members. Something more like a good public park. Ideally, with a wet weather option in case the Beast from the East strikes again.

Any suggestions?

You have to pay to go into the gardens bit but there is Trentham Estate.

Another vote for Trentham.

Weston Park is nice, lovely tearoom and loads of outside space.

Trentham does look nice, thanks. And since we are more than 12 people, I think that means we can get in as a group for £9 each! Weston Park looks nice too, thanks.

Weston Park isn't open all year round so double check beforehand. Shugborough is NT but would fit the bill and v close to Stafford.

Is Tittesworth Water within the right area? I’m a bit hopeless at geography.

Yes, Weston Park is open for Easter, thanks. Just the adventure playground + gardens is lovely and cheap!.

Tittesworth Water looks good too and is not too far.

Local knowledge for the win!

If you want a cold weather option, how about lunch and pottery painting at Emma Bridgewater?

Cannock Chase particularly Birches Valley
www.forestry.gov.uk/birchesvalley

Plenty of space for running around, adventure playground & there's picnic tables and a cafe