Car Hire Stafford - Mini guide to Stafford

Pleasantly situated on the banks of the River Sow in Staffordshire, central England, Stafford is a fascinating city full of wondrous architectural heritage and is close to some of Britain’s most spectacular scenery.

Stafford Castle is a great place to become acquainted with Stafford’s long history. Existing in different forms since 1100, the castle dominated an easily-defensible hilltop position which affords stunning views over the town and surrounding countryside. The castle fell into ruin during the last century; however, a program of archaeological excavations has gradually revealed many of its secrets. Visitors can follow an informative trail of interpretation panels to discover the castle's history. Today, the remains of the castle, together with the surrounding grounds, give visitors a fascinating insight to the 900-year history of this important site.

England's largest timber framed town house is the Ancient High House in Stafford, designed in the shape of letter E to honour Queen Elizabeth I. The 16th-century building is one of the finest examples of Tudor architecture in the country. It is also the home of the Staffordshire Yeomanry Museum. Elsewhere in the town is the lovely St Mary's Parish Church, which has a bust of Izaak Walton, a native of Stafford.

Stafford is the county town of Staffordshire and has ample quality accommodations and some of the county’s most sumptuous cuisine. Nightlife is varied, from charming pubs and bars to lively clubs and discos.

Trace Staffordshire's history from the Roman site at Wall (Letocetum) near Lichfield, through ancient castles at Tutbury, where Mary Queen of Scots was imprisoned, and Tamworth, with its impressive battlements and haunted rooms. The elegance of Lichfield is exemplified by the magnificent three-spired cathedral, surrounded by Tudor and Georgian buildings including the 18th century birthplace of Dr. Samuel Johnson and the home of Erasmus Darwin. Newcastle-under-Lyme's fascinating Museum and Art Gallery is set in attractive parkland and traces 800 years of history of the ancient Borough. Staffordshire is also home to some of England's best scenery: The Staffordshire Moorlands, The Peak District National Park, the dales of the White Peak and the wild moors of the Dark Peak, north of Leek - perfect for rock climbing, walking, cycling or pony trekking. The Peak District also provides ideal conditions for hang gliding.

Stafford is located 50 miles south of Manchester and 30 miles north of Birmingham, making either of their international airports a convenient arrival point. There are a number of transportation options from either city, including car, train and bus. The town is served by the M6 - a major north/south artery linked to the M1 by the new A50 trunk road.