Staffordshire is one of the oldest counties in England with its roots going back as far as the 11th century. It's had an illustrious past full of kings and battles but that's all part of what makes it such a fascinating place today.
History
The county of Staffordshire has a rich and vibrant history. In the 11th century it was ruled by Lady Godiva's husband, Leofric, Earl of Mercia. The area then became part of William the Conqueror's kingdom in 1066 after his successful invasion of England. Throughout its history, the region saw many different rulers before becoming an official county in 1557.
Location & Motorway Access
Staffordshire is located in central England and borders Cheshire to the north, Warwickshire to the east, Worcestershire on its southern side and Shropshire to the west. It is within easy reach of major motorways including the M6, M54 and M42.
Logistics
Staffordshire is well situated for transport links with a number of ports and airports close by. The county has direct access to the UK's largest port at Liverpool which lies just north of it on the Irish Sea. Birmingham International Airport provides further connections to destinations around the world while East Midlands Airport is also in close proximity.
Industry
The county has an impressive industrial heritage that's still going strong today. Pottery remains a key local industry, with Wedgwood and Spode both having their roots in the area. There are numerous other businesses located within Staffordshire including automotive firms, engineering companies and leading universities.
Population
The population of Staffordshire is estimated at over 1 million people. The towns of Stoke-on-Trent and Tamworth make up two of the county's biggest settlements while Lichfield is a smaller cathedral city with a strong historical connection.
Investment in the Area
Staffordshire has seen considerable investment in recent years, particularly in terms of infrastructure projects such as railway lines, motorways and airports. The county has also played host to the world's largest business park, located near Cannock. This enterprise zone is home to hundreds of businesses and has attracted millions of pounds in investment.
