The Churnet Valley
Area Guide
In and around The Churnet Valley, there are many desirable places to live. Here, we explore just a few of the villages in which Kevin Ford & Co Ltd can help you find your perfect property.
Alton
Whilst Alton is probably best known for its world-famous neighbour, Alton Towers on the opposite side of the Churnet Valley, the village remains a popular place to live. Many properties in the village boast views over the River Churnet’s beautiful valley or open countryside.
The village houses a local school and a new GP surgery, as well as many activities taking place in the village hall. This thriving community has a playgroup on three days a week, all sections of the Scouts as well as Rainbows and Brownies. In addition, there yoga and art classes are held and the Women’s Institute meet once a month. Good food is available from the local public houses and hotels in and around Alton.
Some of the best walks can be found in the surrounding area, and there is a footpath following the old “Knotty Railway” following the River Churnet down the length of the valley.
Alton was first recorded in 716AD, with several of the village’s buildings dating from the 17th century. There is also a “Round House” which dates from around 1830 and three churches, of which, St Peter’s is in the style of a true Norman church.
Alton has had its own castle since Norman times. Initially constructed of wood, it was replaced by stone in 1150AD. This remained until the current castle was constructed in 1847 to a design by Pugin, who is also known for his work on the Houses of Parliament and St. Giles Church in Cheadle. Alton Castle is currently owned by The Catholic Church in Birmingham and is used as a Catholic youth centre offering a variety of outdoor activities.
Properties in Alton are much-sought after, so let Kevin Ford & Co Ltd help you find your dream home in this popular village.
Oakamoor
Estate Agents, Kevin Ford & Co Ltd can help you find a home in the lovely village of Oakamoor. It is situated in the rolling countryside of the Churnet Valley and conveniently located less than three miles away from the market town of Cheadle and less than 30 minutes away from Uttoxeter and Stoke-on-Trent. Oakamoor has also been the winner of the Blue Circle Trophy as the best kept village in the Staffordshire Moorlands.
The village has its own primary school and two public houses as well as a Post Office and chapel. For lovers of sports, it has its own cricket club, and Whiston Golf Club is nearby. It is also where the Staffordshire Countryside National Trust volunteers meet and the home of the Oakamoor District Dog Agility Team!
Ipstones
Regional winner of the Community Life Calor Village of the Year, Ipstones is a charming village approximately 4 miles from both Cheadle and Leek. Set in the Churnet Valley, the village rises at the north end to 416m at Ipstones Edge, which gives good views for many miles around.
The village has its own shop, pubs and church and is on the bus routes to Stoke-on-Trent, Leek and Cheadle. St Leonard’s Church of England primary school serves the village and surrounding communities.
Kingsley
Whatever type of property you are looking for in Kingsley, estate agents, Kevin Ford & Co Ltd can help you. Kingsley is conveniently situated on the A52 that links Stoke-on-Trent with Ashbourne and Derby. It is within easy commuting distance to Stoke-on-Trent, all the major Potteries towns and Hanley city centre.
The village is in the south-west of the Churnet Valley, and is surrounded by spectacular scenery. As well as the post office, church, pubs and school, there are also the more unusual opportunities locally for paintballing, karting and shooting.
