There is still time to make the most of the lighter days before autumn weather properly takes over, and Stone has plenty of options for a relaxed day close to home.
For anyone looking for a day out in Staffordshire, Stone offers countryside walks, the Trent and Mersey Canal, places to eat and drink and a few useful indoor options should the weather turn.
You do not need to fit everything into one visit either. Pick a walk, spend some time by the canal or book something indoors, then leave enough time for something to eat afterwards.
Take a walk around Downs Banks
Downs Banks is an easy place to start while the weather is still suitable for getting outdoors.
The National Trust site just outside Stone has woodland paths, open countryside and views across the surrounding area, making it suitable for anything from a shorter stroll to a longer walk.
It also works well if you want a relatively low cost day out. Take suitable footwear, bring a drink and give yourself time rather than treating it as somewhere to rush around.
From there, it is easy to head back into Stone for food and a drink afterwards.
Spend some time by the canal
Stone’s stretch of the Trent and Mersey Canal is another good option for a late summer walk.
The towpath gives visitors a different view of the town, passing locks, moorings and narrowboats as the canal winds through Stone.
You can keep things simple with a walk along the towpath, or make more of the water with one of the local canal cruising or boat hire options.
For anyone settling in somewhere afterwards to follow the weekend’s football, there is also the option of checking the Premier League football odds.
Book some time at Moddershall Oaks
If walking boots are not part of the plan, Moddershall Oaks offers a very different way to spend a day near Stone.
The country spa retreat offers spa facilities and overnight stays in a countryside setting a short distance from the town.
It is more suited to those looking to build the day around relaxing rather than sightseeing, whether for a special occasion, a catch up or simply an excuse to switch off for a few hours.
Keep an indoor option in reserve
Late summer does not guarantee dry weather, so having an indoor backup is rarely a bad idea.
Among the options in Stone is Chase The Adventure Escape Rooms, with an indoor escape room experience for groups looking for something more active.
For families with younger children, Come Into Play is another option if rain puts paid to outdoor plans.
Keeping one indoor idea in reserve means a change in the weather does not necessarily mean abandoning the day altogether.
Make the most of the remaining lighter days
A day in Stone does not need much planning.
A walk at Downs Banks, a wander beside the canal and some time in town can easily fill a few hours, while Moddershall Oaks or one of Stone’s indoor attractions offer alternatives depending on the weather and the sort of day you want.
With the evenings beginning to draw in, the next few weeks are a good opportunity to make the most of Stone and the surrounding countryside before colder autumn days become the norm.
