Burton-on-Trent

Burton on Trent once had 37 breweries making it the brewing capital of Britain and still has several large breweries including Marstons and Bass. The Coors Visitor Centre (which was the former Bass Museum ) re-tells the history of Bass and has an interesting exhibition of motorised and horse-drawn vehicles. There are many displays which will educate you on brewing and it is also home of the Bass Shire Horses. Marstons also have brewery tours and a visitor centre so if you are interested in beer then Burton-on-Trent is the place to visit!

The River Trent winds its way through the town together with the Trent and Mersey Canal where narrow boats leisurely amble along.

The town centre has many elegant buildings including the Gothic Town Hall , St Margarets Church and St Pauls. As surveyors our favourite building in Burton-on-Trent is the church of St Modwen 's with its Palladian type Gothic architecture which was built in the early 18 th century. If you are looking to buy an old property we would strongly urge that you have a building survey (sometimes known as a structural survey) carried out on it prior to purchasing to highlight any potential problems it may have. We at 1stAssociated.co.uk have carried out many surveys in Burton-on-Trent and throughout Staffordshire and are happy to advise you on any property issues you may have on a new property you are buying or on your existing property.

Alrewas, Burton-on-Trent is the location of the National Memorial Arboretum which commemorates those who lost their lives through war. Its setting in 150 acres of parkland is a moving experience for those who have lost relatives or those wishing to pay their respects.

Cannock

Cannock Chase is an area of outstanding beauty comprising valleys, heathlands and woodlands. Unusual wildlife can be found in the area such as a herd of wild Fallow deer and birds such as the Nightjar and Woodlark.

Historically the area was associated with mining and glass marking and during World Wars I and II the area played an important rolet as a major part of the Chase was used for army training and encampments.

The Museum of Cannock Chase is well worth a visit as it gives an interesting insight into the areas history including its role within the war effort. The site of the museum was the training pit for Valley Colliery for new miners in the coal industry. There is a coal mining exhibition within the museum with a crawling tunnel. There are many displays and exhibitions to amuse all ages.

If you own a property in Cannock Chase and need surveying advice on a particular problem such as structural cracking, wet rot, dry rot, etc then 1stAssociated are able to investigate the problem and advise recommendations to remedy. We have carried out many surveys in Cannock and throughout Staffordshire and therefore have the experience to advise in a professional and knowledgeable manner.

Alton

Thrill-seekers should head to Alton Towers in Alton near Stoke-on-Trent for roller coasters such as Nemesis and Oblivion not for the faint hearted! There are also many smaller rides suitable for children of all ages such as the Charlie and the Chocolate Factory ride and of course the water flume (make sure you wear something waterproof!)

What makes Alton Towers different is its unique setting of a theme park in beautiful grounds and gardens. There are now themed hotels in the grounds to have an overnight stay and take advantage of the park before the general public descend. All in all a fabulous day out for all the family. Enjoy!

Stoke-on-Trent

Stoke-on-Trent is known worldwide for its ceramic industry with The Potteries Museum & Art Gallery in Bethesda Street giving information about its past and present. Famous brands such as Wedgwood, Royal Doulton, Aynsley and Emma Bridgewater have had long associations with the town.

Situated near Stoke-on-Trent and easily accessible from junction 15 of the M6 is the vast 800 acres of the Trentham Estate where you can visit the monkeys at Trentham Monkey Forest . Aerial Extreme is not for the faint hearted but will be an adrenalin boost as you complete the course high above the ground. There is plenty to do in the beautiful setting of the Trentham Estate for all ages. There is even a shopping village and of course plenty of places to eat.

1stAssociated have carried out many surveys in Stoke-on-Trent and throughout Staffordshire over the years therefore if you have any surveying requirements please call us on 0800 298 5424 to discuss how we can help you.
Stafford

Dominating the skyline of Stafford is Stafford Castle where a wooden fort in a motte and bailey construction was built by William the Conqueror in 1100. Later on stone additions were added to the castle but over the centuries it has fallen into disrepair to its current state. Many archaeological finds have been unearthed in the area to re-tell the castle's history. Step back in time to the herb garden which has had herbs planted as per an inventory taken in 1537.

As surveyors one of our favourite buildings in Stafford is the Ancient High House in the town centre which is the largest timber framed town house in England and has room settings from different periods including Elizabethan and Edwardian which is well worth a visit. Another favourite building of ours is the grand stone Shire Hall Gallery with its large Great Hall entrance which was once a Crown Court but now houses art exhibitions. 1stAssociated.co.uk have carried out many surveys in Stafford on listed buildings as well as newer buildings so if you require advice on your current property or are looking to buy a property in Stafford call us on 0800 298 5424 and we will be happy to give you advice.

Stafford Tourist Information Centre in the Stafford Gatehouse Theatre on Eastgate Street is a good place to start to plan your visit in Stafford and even book tickets for events.

Rugeley

Dominating the skyline of Rugeley is the Rugeley B power station. There was previously two power stations in the town, the first being Power Station A which was in use since 1963 but was demolished in 1995.

Rugeley was the birthplace of The Rugeley Poisoner Dr William Palmer, also known as the Prince of Poisoners. He suffered public execution in Stafford in June 1856 charged with the murder of John Parsons Cook at a pub in Rugeley called the Talbot Arms (which was latterly named the Shrewsbury and then the Shrew). He was allegedly guilty of murdering many more including his wife and his brother but was only found guilty of murdering John Parsons Cook. His notoriety gained him a place in Madame Tussauds Chamber of Horrors.

If you are considering buying a property in Rugeley then a quick call to 1stAssociated.co.uk on 0800 298 5424 could ultimately save you money. We have carried out many surveys in Rugeley and throughout Staffordshire which have identified problems with properties, which if identified prior to legal completion are a good tool to renegotiate the purchase price with the vendor.

Tamworth

Tamworth is an historic market town with the Medieval Tamworth Castle situated in its town centre. The originally motte and bailey were built around 1070 with later additions up to the 18 th century. The Great Hall was added around the mid 15 th century. The Castle's museum re-tells the history of the castle throughout the centuries but beware it is said to be haunted!

The Reliant Motor Company was started in 1935 by T L Williams who built the first prototype in his back garden. The individualness of the Reliant went on to become an iconic model for motor enthusiasts and the Robin Reliant was a key character in Only Fools and Horses along with Del Boy and Rodney. The former factory was demolished in 1999 and now the site is a housing estate called Scimitar Park , some of the road names have been called after some of the Reliant models such as Robin Close.

The SnowDome is a fantastic leisure facility with a real snow centre for skiers and snowboarders where you can have lessons or just have a bit of fun. There are plenty of places to grab a bite to eat and even a hair and beauty salon for you to relax in afterwards!

1stAssociated.co.uk have carried out many surveys in Tamworth on all types of properties including residential and commercial. If you would like advice on any property matter please call us on 0800 298 5424 to discuss.

Uttoxeter

The market town of Uttoxeter is situated in East Staffordshire just off the A50. Market days are Wednesdays and Saturdays in the Market Hall.

One of the biggest employers in Uttoxeter is JCB. The company was started in 1945 by Joseph Cyril Bamford who used his initials for his company name. The company has products worldwide and has manufacturing plants in Europe, America and Asia and of course Uttoxeter.

If you fancy a flutter head to Uttoxeter Racecourse which holds races throughout the year and many events such as Ladies Day and the Midlands Grand National.

1stAssociated have carried out many surveys in Uttoxeter and throughout Staffordshire over the years and therefore have a wealth of experience on all types of properties. If you require a survey please call us on 0800 298 5424 to have a friendly chat with one of our surveyors.

Hanley

Hanley is an area in Stoke-on-Trent , known in the past for its two collieries and of course the potteries.

The bustling town centre has many shops including the Potteries Shopping Centre as well as many pubs and restaurants. Outside the town is Festival Park which comprises a cinema, ten-pin bowling, waterworld and ski-ing as well as retail sheds such as Toys R Us. Within the park is a statue to honour Jack Baskeyfield who was born in nearby Burslem and was awarded the Victoria Cross for his bravery in the Second World War.

The canal winds its way around Festival Park where you can have a leisurely walk, cycle, do a spot of fishing or just watch the canal boats, in fact you can even hire your own canal boat.

If you are currently in the process of buying a property in the area and require a survey in Hanley or indeed throughout Staffordshire then our surveyors at 1stAssociated.co.uk will be able to advise you in a professional, knowledgeable and experienced manner. Please call us on 0800 298 5424 to discuss further.

Fazeley

Fazeley is situated south of Tamworth and close to Drayton Manor Theme Park

For the young and the young at heart then Dr ayton Manor Theme Park and Zoo is the place to go. The park opened in 1950 and has attracted many from near and far to its zoo which has all the favourites of tigers, monkeys and penguins and of course to the theme park with a variety of rides for all ages from Thomas Land to adrenalin fuelled rides such as the Apocalypse. The choice is yours!

In contrast to its neighbouring theme park, Fazeley Mill Marina is more suitable to those who enjoy a more peaceful pace of life set where the thrill is in watching and admiring the colourful narrowboats.

Either way, if you are planning to buy a property in Fazeley then 1stAssociated.co.uk would be happy to carry out a survey on your behalf which would identify any potential issues that your future home may have which ultimately could save you money and worry in the long run.

Lichfield

North of Birmingham is Lichfield where the Cathedral and its three spires dominate the city's skyline. Lichfield cathedral is steeped in history throughout its 800 years and was under siege during the Civil War three times. Its architecture is spectacular; we particularly like the 16 th century Flemish Glass. It really should be visited to be fully appreciated.

Also situated within Cathedral close is the former home of Erasmus Darwin who was Charles Darwin's grandfather and an infamous scientist, botanist, doctor as well as being an inventor and poet during the 18 th century. This elegant Georgian house has many interesting displays where you can learn more about this incredible genius.

Lichfield Heritage Centre on Market Square is also worth a visit as you step back in time to rediscover Lichfield 's interesting history. For younger guests there is the mouse trail.

If you are considering buying a property in Lichfield we would urge you to consider the benefits of a building survey rather than just a mortgage survey. 1stAssociated.co.uk have carried out many surveys in Lichfield and throughout Staffordshire where we have identified issues prior to clients purchasing the property where they have been able to renegotiate the purchase price and ultimately save themselves money as well as worry. Call us on 0800 298 5424 to discuss how we could help you.

Newcastle-under-Lyme

The charming market town of Newcastle-under-Lyme has a busy town centre with the Roebuck Shopping Centre, a pedestrianised high street and of course a regular market throughout the week.

Newcastle-under-Lyme is believed to have gained its name from the town's new' castle which was built around the 12th century by the Normans .

To the west of the town is Keele University and campus which is situated close to Keele Village .

Within Brampton Park is Newcastle Borough museum and Art Gallery which will tell you everything you need to know about the area's interesting history. Our favourite is the Victorian street scene where you really do step back in time as you view the items sold in this era in shops such as the chemist and even some scary looking doctor's tools. For the young at heart there is also the toy displays to reminisce about.

As Chartered Surveyors we love the diversity of the architecture within Newcastle-under-Lyme, for example the red brick and stone Guildhall dominating the High St with its arched base which was once unbricked, open and used for market trading which is an interesting building. If you are in the process of buying a property and require a survey in Newcastle-under-Lyme then give us a call on 0800 298 5424 to have a friendly chat with one of our surveyors.

Stone

Situated around 7 miles north of Stafford , Stone is known for the Joules Brewery brewed originally by 12th century Augustinian monks at their priory. Each barrel was blessed by the monks and marked with a cross until Henry VIII ordered the Dissolution of the Monasteries. John Joules went on to use the red cross for their ales which became their trademark. The company was bought by Bass Charrington in the early 1970s and the brewery was demolished and for 36 years the Joules Brand was retired. However in July 2010 a new brewery was opened in Market Drayton and the Joules brand has re-emerged.

The first Stone Book Festival took place in September 2010. Celebrity guests at the 2011 Festival include former politician Roy Hattersley and Carol Ann Duffy who was Poet Laureate in 2009.

If you are in the process of moving to the area and require a survey in Stone or throughout Staffordshire then please call 1stAssociated .co.uk on 0800 298 5424 and we will be able to help you whatever your surveying requirements.

Eccleshall

Eccleshall is the location of Eccleshall Biomass, a bio-energy power plant, and is one of the country's first towns to be carbon neutral with its generator fuelled by miscanthus, clean wood chip and other energy crops. It generates electricity to run around 2,600 homes.

Since 1947 the Eccleshall Show has taken place in the town attracting crowds from miles around with plenty of entertainment from animal dog shows, tug of war, vintage vehicles and shire horses, plenty on offer for all the family.

Eccleshall was an old coaching centre. There are many attractive 18 th and 19 th century buildings to admire and a good selection of shops. As chartered surveyors we have a fondness for listed buildings, therefore if you are in the process of buying a property and require a survey in Eccleshall or throughout Staffordshire then we at 1stAssociated.co.uk will be able to assist by carrying out one of our easy to understand survey reports which will identify any potential problems that the property may have and could ultimately save you money in the long term.

Barton-under-Needwood

Barton - Under Needwood is situated just off the A38 between Lichfield and Burton upon Trent . The village has an attractive mix of architecture from its large Victorian mansions, Georgian and Recency houses and of course the Blakenhall Tudor Manor House. We have carried out many surveys in Barton-under-Needwood over the years and therefore have experience in the different types of properties.

Barton Turns Marina is located on the edge of the village and is an attractive area for walking and admiring its beautiful setting. Situated on the Trent & Mersey Canal there are moorings for over 300 vessels and plenty of things to do including fishing, an art gallery, quality shops and a variety of places to eat.

Leek

During the late 18 th and 19 th centuries Leek became a centre for silk weaving and became famous for its ribbons, buttons and shawls. Amongst the designers attracted to the area at that time was the renowned designer William Morris who is believed to have lived within the town between 1875 and 1878.

Brindley Mill on Mill Street was built by the famous canal engineer James Brindley in 1752. It is a water powered corn mill on the River Churnet and visitors to the mill during the summer months can see the corn being ground and learn millwrighting skills from the museum. If you own a building in Leek and are experiencing any problems such as structural cracking, wet rot, woodworm, etc then please call 1stAssociated.co.uk on 0800 298 5424 to discuss how we can help.

The Churnet Valley Railway line is open throughout the summer months where you can take a step back in time and board a steam train and admire the beautiful Staffordshire scenery.

Biddulph

Biddulph is situated in North Staffordshire and is known as The Garden Town of Staffordshire' due to the amount of open countryside it has to offer. The delightful Biddulph Grange Gardens with its creator's worldwide collection of plants includes a 1850's Chinese Golden Larch. The magnificent Biddulph Old Hall was built in the 1500's; it's architecture has been described as late Gothic, early Renaissance.

Biddulph has a fantastic community spirit with lots of events organised throughout the year including the Community Festival in July with outdoor concerts, drama, exhibitions and workshops.

Kinver

Kinver is a pretty village on the River Stour situated in South Staffordshire .

The National Trust look after the incredible Kinver Edge with it's amazing sandstone rock houses. The Kinver Edge was created by sand as over 200 million years ago the area was a desert. The sandstone rock houses were created by digging into the sandstone on Kinvers Edge and were habited until the 1950's. One of the houses has been carefully restored to show how the houses looked in Victorian times. It really is worth visiting this fascinating and unusual historical area, not least for its picturesque setting.

Kidsgrove

Kidsgrove falls within the Borough of Newcastle Under Lyme and is situated to the north west of Staffordshire. The town was built around an old mining community from the late 1700's.

Kidsgrove was the birthplace of the Spitfire designer Reginald Mitchell who was born in 1895 in Congleton Road , Butt Lane , Kidsgrove which now has a blue plaque to honour him on the house. The first prototype spitfire flew in March 1936, following which 20,000 were built which were active throughout World War II.

There are many attractive buildings throughout the town including the splendid Victorian Town Hall . If you are considering moving to the area and require a survey in Kidsgrove or throughout Staffordshire then please call us on 0800 298 5424 and we will be able to advise you of the advantages of carrying out a building survey rather than just a mortgage survey.

Wombourne

Wombourne Village is situated in South Staffordshire . Its peaceful nature reserve Wom Brook Walk was brought to life and maintained by the village's conservation group.

In 2010 Wombourne came second in the best kept village competition and is striving to win in 2011! If you are looking to move to this well kept village and require a survey in Wombourne or throughout Staffordshire then 1stAssociated are here to help. We provide a range of surveying services to suit your needs.