Staffy Trail launches to mark 10 years of Staffordshire Day
A major public art trail has launched, featuring large ‘Staffy’ sculptures to mark the tenth anniversary of Staffordshire Day.
The Staffy Trail features a pack of eleven large Staffy sculptures unleashed across Stoke-on-Trent, Stafford, Tamworth and Lichfield – with additional locations to unlock across the wider county, inviting people to get out and explore.
Positioned in key gateway locations with strong transport links, the trail is designed to welcome visitors into Staffordshire and encourage exploration beyond the main arrival points and with direct connections via the West Coast Main Line, it is expected to attract visitors from cities including Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, and further afield.
(Image Visit Stoke-on-Trent. Director of The Lewis Partnership Chris Lewis, Chair of the LVEP Arthur Barnard, Artist Sarah Grateley, and LVEP’s Investment Manager for Visitor Economy Andrea Sammons)
The trail – which has been designed by local artists and inspired by ideas from schoolchildren – encourages people to discover the incredible attractions and places which make Staffordshire the nation’s playground, support local businesses and uncover the county’s rich history along the way.
Delivered by the Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent Local Visitor Economy Partnership (LVEP) and Staffordshire County Council in conjunction with Making Trails, the trail is expected to attract tens of thousands of visitors and generate at least £600,000 for the local visitor economy.
The trail runs for 10 weeks and will feature a programme of themed weeks to encourage people to experience it in different ways. These will include running and cycling challenges, and even a dedicated ‘paws week’ for visitors exploring with their pets.
The first week of the Staffy Trail will kickstart with ‘Connection week’ – encouraging people to explore the trail by train and bus.
Martin Murray, Leader of Staffordshire County Council, said: “Staffordshire Day is a chance to celebrate everything that makes our county special, and this year marks a significant milestone as we celebrate its tenth anniversary.
“The Staffy Trail is a fantastic addition to this year’s celebrations. It will bring people into our towns, support local businesses and help showcase Staffordshire as the nation’s playground — a place full of energy, creativity and great experiences at the heart of the country.
“We’re proud to see this project come to life and look forward to welcoming visitors from across the country to explore everything we have to offer.”
Arthur Barnard, Chair of the Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent LVEP, said: “The Staffy Trail is a brilliant example of what can be achieved through partnership working. It brings together creativity, community and our visitor economy in a way that will have a real impact.
“By encouraging people to explore more of Staffordshire, spend time in our towns and discover new experiences, the trail will help strengthen our position as a must-visit destination.”
Councillor Jane Ashworth, leader of Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said: “This is a fantastic moment for Stoke-on-Trent, as the trail will bring visitors to our amazing city, where they can see for themselves everything we have to offer. From our cultural heritage and history to the many local businesses and tourism hotspots we have, there is something for everyone in Stoke-on-Trent.
“Staffordshire Day is about celebrating the shared culture, heritage and sense of pride that runs across the county and this trail is a brilliant way to bring that to life.
“We are proud to be part of this partnership that is delivering something exciting for residents and visitors to enjoy as part of Staffordshire Day celebrations.”
