Leek in Staffordshire

An Historic Town Which is Well Worth a Visit

Jul 14, 2009 Neil Greenlees

Leek is one of Staffordshire's most historic towns.

Well known for its antique shops, it also has a number of fine examples of Tudor architecture close to its commercial heart.

The town has a real 'olde worlde' atmosphere and a stroll through its peaceful streets is a very pleasant way to spend a morning or afternoon.

Leek in Staffordshire is Close to The Roaches Rock Formations

Leek sits in the shadow of the distinctive rock formations known as 'The Roaches'. Some of its best examples of Tudor architecture are located in St Edward Street and there are a number of good antique shops close by.

A house entitled 'Greystones' which now serves as a tea room is a very well preserved example of building work in the 17th century. It is is easy to find as the Nicholson Institute (an education college) is located at its rear.

The Institute was designed in the Queen Anne Style by the architect Larner Sugden. Both he and his father William who established the family business had high regard for Leek's architectural heritage and there was no question of demolishing Greystones when the Institute was built at the beginning of the 1880's.

St Edwards Church in Leek is Very Interesting to Visit

The medieval St. Edwards Church is also interesting to visit. Its stained glass rose windows are stunning when viewed from one of the pews. Outside visitors can see a Saxon Cross and many old gravestones dating back more than 200 years.

There are a number of public seats from which nature lovers can watch the churchyard's resident squirrels foraging for food.

Leek's White Hart Tea Room Now Offers Guest Accommodation

The White Hart Restaurant, Tea Room and Sandwich Bar on Stockwell Street is a popular venue for both lunch and evening meals. The establishment recently added six immaculate four star guest bedrooms which feature tea and coffee making facilties, colour television, dvd players and internet access.

As well as superb lunches and dinners the White Hart provides sumptious traditional english afternoon teas including scones with jam, butter and cream.

Guests can also take advantage of a retail area called 'Divine' which offers a wide selection of designer watches, jewellery and sunglasses.

Guava Guava in Leek Serves a Wide Selection of Mexican Food

Tourists visiting Leek who want to sample a different type of cuisine should try the Mexican Restaurant Guava Guava in the town centre location of Getliffe's Yard.

The fajitas are excellent although it's hard initially to decide what to have as the menu is extensive. The wine list is also interesting and staff are only too happy to advise on the best type of wine to accompany each of the dishes.

Guava Guava effortlessly manages to blend high food standards with a relaxed, friendly and laid back atmosphere. It's the perfect place to enjoy a meal during a short break or longer holiday.

Leek is ideally located for tourists wishing to visit the Alton Towers Theme Park and the attractions of the Potteries area such as the Wedgwood Museum and Visitors Centre, Trentham Estate and Trentham Monkey Forest.

The Churnet Valley Railway is nearby as is Blackbrook Zoological Park which is home to one of Europe's largest collections of birds.

Visitors to Staffordshire will find it a good town in which to base themselves as it has convenient road connections to many of the county's main tourist sites and is close to some of the best walking routes in the Peak District.

The copyright of the article Leek in Staffordshire in U.K./Ireland Travel is owned by Neil Greenlees. Permission to republish Leek in Staffordshire in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
Leek and Cheadle-St Edward Street in Leek, Pic supplied by Enjoy Staffordshire Leek and Cheadle-St Edward Street in Leek
Leek and Cheadle–Inside the White Hart, Pic supplied by Enjoy Staffordshire Leek and Cheadle–Inside the White Hart
 
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