Canals and Cannock Chase
19 people attending
11 places left
New member? New to walking? Here's an easy 9 mile circular walk to start off!
Cannock Chase is one of England’s finest landscapes, and a jewel in the West Midlands. It is loved for its scenery, wildlife and rich history. We will visit just a small corner of Cannock Chase on this walk.
We will start by walking along the Staffordshire & Worcester and the Trent and Mersey canals before weaving through the woodlands of Abraham's Valley, the heathland of the Sherbrook Valley, crossing at the Stepping Stones then through Brocton Coppice; returning to Milford via the Heart of England Way and descending onto Milford Common and across back to the pumping station.
A refreshing pint or coffee at the end of the walk is optional at The Barley Mow. They also serve food if anyone wants to have some dinner before returning home. Alternatively, if you want something on the go there's the Wimpy hut just next door!
Dogs will be welcome on the walk but will need to be kept under control as it is utilised by walkers, mountain bikers and equestrians. Some areas of the Chase are now being used for cattle grazing.
New Members
Please feel free to join this as your first OutdoorLads event. If you have any questions then feel free to message me, or go to the "My First Event" section under "About Us".
If there are no places left on this event, join the wait list as people frequently drop out during the week before an event and you are likely to get a place.
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Photo Credits: Outdoor Lads Members and permitted for use
What to bring
Below is a standard kit-list you may wish to draw from:
Suitable well-fitted walking footwear is most important to keep you safe and comfortable. Sturdy trainers with cushioned soles and a good grip are often suitable if dry weather; but proper walking boots or shoes in wet conditions or on uneven ground are preferable. Smooth soles with no grip are not suitable. Thick, well-fitted socks cushion your feet, help to keep you dry, and prevent blisters.
Layers of clothing you can easily put on and take off according to changing temperature and weather conditions help to keep you warm and comfortable. Choose a base layer (vest or t-shirt), a mid layer (micro-fleece or long-sleeved shirt), and in cooler weather add an outer layer (windproof jacket or thick fleece). Breathable fabrics are more comfortable and dry more quickly. Synthetic trousers are lighter and dry quicker than denim. Large pockets are useful. Demin jeans become heavy and cold in the rain and take ages to dry out. On warm days shorts may be suitable, but consider rough foliage such as brambles or nettles on some routes. Check for ticks when walking through long grass, etc. with bare legs. A hat or cap keeps your head and eyes shaded in direct sun. Sunglasses protect your eyes from glare and make it easier to see where you are going. Sun block is advisable during prolonged exposure. In colder weather or a biting wind, a hat, scarf and gloves are essential.
Bring waterproofs to stay dry in wet weather. Water resistant fabric loses effectiveness over time. It will need to be re-proofed or replaced periodically. Bring a towel and a set of dry clothes to change into if possible. A backpack rain cover helps to keep belongings dry. Gaiters are optional and help to keep lower legs and feet dry. An umbrella is impractical while walking.
A comfortable backpack (with suitable capacity for your gear and lunch), allowing you to use your arms freely, is suitable for most day walks.
Walking sticks are optional and may assist when climbing or descending, or on uneven ground.
Bring any essential medicine you may need during the day for hay-fever, diabetes, or any on-going ailments or conditions.
Food & drink
Please bring a packed lunch - food and snacks to keep you nourished during the day.
Bring at least one litre of water and any preferred drinks. A hot drink or flask of soup could be welcoming if a cooler day.
We will be eating lunch roughly halfway through the walk.
There is a convenience shop not far from Milford Common, however no shops on the route itself.