Trains to Stafford

How to get cheap train tickets to Stafford

Looking for affordable train tickets to Stafford? Follow these tips:

• Book in Advance: Get the cheapest fares by booking early. Many of our longer distance routes, including our trains to and from London, Liverpool or Birmingham, offer cheaper fares when booking ahead. You could save up to 78%!
• Travel Off-Peak: Fares are typically cheaper during quieter times on weekdays and weekends. Avoid peak hours for better deals.
• Get a Railcard: Save up to 1/3 on eligible journeys with a National Railcard, ideal for anyone who catches the train a few times a year.
• Use GroupSave: Groups of 3 to 9 people can save up to 34% on off-peak journeys with GroupSave discounts.
• Book Direct: No booking fees for all train journeys on our website or app.

Things to do in Stafford

Head to Stafford by train and discover a charming town rich in history with ancient architecture. From captivating museums to lush parks, Stafford offers an intimate experience for every traveller.

Culture and heritage

Between its castle, riverside charm and culture that spans eras, Stafford reveals architectural treasures around every corner.

Since the 10th century, Stafford has been an important hub, with its location along the River Sow, helping trade. Selected over Tamworth as the county town, Stafford increased its far-reaching influence during the late Saxon period.

The town’s importance is then enhanced with the imposing Stafford Castle , a Norman fortress dating back to the 11th century. Two key churches served medieval Stafford – St Mary's , an independent collegiate church, and St Chad's. Both retain much original Norman stonework.

By the 16th century, the town was home to a growing population and a prosperous cloth-manufacturing industry. Look out for Church Lane, a narrow pedestrian street with original 16th-century houses and The Elizabethan Ancient High House , the tallest timber-framed town house in England.

The 19th century saw a population explosion and a shoe industry boom.

The Staffordshire Yeomanry Museum vividly chronicles military milestones, with military artefacts and memorabilia.

A Stafford Town Trail leaflet is available to download from Stafford Tourist Office taking you past 17th-century almshouses, a water mill and the Gatehouse Theatre with French-Gothic architecture.

Attractions

History springs to life in Stafford. Get drawn into the Ancient High House museum. Built around 1595, it stands as one of the largest surviving Tudor timber-framed townhouses in the U.K., providing a captivating glimpse into the lives of its past residents from Tudor through Edwardian. Don’t miss the Civil War Room where King Charles I stayed.

Nearby, the striking medieval Stafford Castle has stood watch for over 900 years, its magical keep, inner bailey and herb garden still whispering ancient secrets. Delve into its captivating story at the visitor centre, where hands-on exhibits await. The castle has also provided an atmospheric backdrop for Shakespearean performances.

A half-hour from the city centre, the historic Shugborough Estate , a National Trust property, is a rewarding day out. Rambling the lush parkland and regal Georgian Manor with ancient woods, formal and walled gardens, a farm with Longhorn cows, and a kids' play area feels a million miles from town life.

Food and drink

Hearty pub grub, afternoon tea and imaginative small plates fuel visitors exploring Stafford’s rich foodie culture. From traditional recipes to adventurous renovations, eating out in Stafford spans the classics to the contemporary.

Step into Stafford's timeless venues, where centuries-old atmospheres serve up real ales and teas. Admire the Tudor interior of the revamped Swan Hotel , dating back to 1520, or enjoy a family meal at the Vine Hotel on Salter Street, once a 15th-century coaching inn and the oldest pub in town. At the 16th-century Soup Kitchen , indulge in homemade fare among church pews.

For a blend of classic and modern, head to Post House Bar & Grill in Greengate Street, housed in the old 18th-century post office. Elegant menus and cocktails await in a contemporary decor within lofty historic spaces. Revolution on Riverside offers a stylish experience with an inviting indoor-outdoor lounge, serving from lunch till late.

Alberts Cafe in Victoria Park has won awards for its popup menu and makes a refreshing setting for cocktails in the park, or experience the charm of Bella’s Vintage Tearoom at Foregate Street Vintage Emporium, open for lunch throughout the week, offering oatcakes and more with vegan and gluten-free options.

Candid tap room at Woodings Yard cultural quarter, specialises in craft beers alongside 10 draught beer lines, spirits and organic wines, and runs monthly comedy nights.

Sports and outdoors

Stafford's lush urban park, scenic riverside, historical sites and well-maintained conservation areas provide a variety of outdoor pursuits that offer a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

For sports, cheer on the local football team, Stafford Rangers FC , at their Marston Road grounds and feed off the passion of their loyal fans. Rugby union enthusiasts can support Stoke-on-Trent RFC east of town in Barlaston at their home matches.

Take a breath in the green oasis of Victoria Park that beautifully straddles the River Sow and is blessed with tree-lined walks, a cafe , a Victorian bandstand, a gleaming kids play area and a bowling green.

Walk to Stafford Castle ’s grounds, just over a mile from the station, and take in the panoramic views of Stafford and the surrounding countryside from the top of the ancient hill.

Head to Cannock Chase nature reserve, an important conservation area south of the town, with a vast area of forest and ancient woodland that dates back to the Iron Age and walk or bike through its scenic trails.

Music and nightlife

Stafford’s cultural offerings provide a range of entertainment options.

Book a night out at the Gatehouse Theatre , a former Victorian railway station reborn as a dynamic performing arts hub. Pick from an array of productions, featuring the talents of local performers, big-name musicians and the captivating works of global touring companies. The theatre also puts on the annual Stafford Shakespeare festival, a jubilant celebration of the Bard's timeless masterpieces.

Meanwhile, at Stafford Octagon , a community-based events' venue, audiences are treated to a dynamic lineup of live concerts and diverse gatherings that promise to delight and engage.

Stafford's nightlife is concentrated in the town centre with a cluster of bars and pubs along Bridge Street. Mill Bank and Water Street.

Film buffs can catch the latest blockbuster at ODEON Luxe Stafford and Stafford Cinema , both offering modern silver screen experiences that transport audiences to worlds of wonder and imagination.

Shopping

From high street staples to indie artisans, Stafford serves shoppers of all styles.

In the town centre, you’ll find a mix of national and independent retailers. The Riverside shopping area spans both sides of the river with some big name brands, the likes of H&M, Primark, New Look, and M&S alongside a multiscreen cinema and restaurants.

For a unique shopping experience, explore independent gems like Foregate Street Vintage , where antiques blend with a jukebox soundtrack, and Magic by Candlelight in St Mary’s Mews, with their flickering candles near St. Mary’s church.

Discover independent small business artisans at Woodings Yard , Stafford's Cultural Quarter, including the bold prints of Anneliese Delaunay Prints & Design, Scandi-inspired gifts at Teppi , handmade silver jewellery at Eightfourteen and Johny Todd ’s bright and colourful handcrafted leather goods.

Stafford also hosts a monthly market on the second Saturday of every month, typically held in the Market Square. This bustling market showcases a wide array of goods, from food and wines including to crafts and jewellery.