Castle to Canopy: Tamworth Castle to Hopwas Hays Wood

Embark on a 14 km journey from Tamworth Castle to the serene Hopwas Hays Wood, where history meets nature. Starting at the majestic castle, we'll walk through charming townscapes and open countryside, following scenic trails that lead to the lush woodlands of Hopwas Hays.

Hopwas Hays Wood is an ancient, mixed broadleaf woodland, known for its serene beauty and rich biodiversity. Spanning over 385 acres, it features a blend of oak, birch, and hazel trees, along with diverse flora and fauna. The wood has existed for centuries and is a designated Site of Biological Importance, making it a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Hopwas Hays is also steeped in history, with remnants of old military firing ranges hidden within the trees, adding to its mysterious allure. Popular with walkers and cyclists, the woodland offers peaceful trails and scenic paths that meander through thick forest, offering a tranquil escape and a connection to the region's natural heritage. Whether you're exploring its quiet clearings or enjoying the birdsong above, Hopwas Hays Wood is a beautiful, untouched gem of Staffordshire.

Tamworth Castle is a well-preserved Norman motte-and-bailey castle located in Tamworth, Staffordshire. Dating back to the 11th century, it was originally built by the Normans to defend against invasions after the conquest of England. The castle sits on the site of earlier Saxon fortifications, where it played a key role as a stronghold for the Mercian kings during the Anglo-Saxon period.

The castle’s architecture features a mix of medieval, Tudor, and Victorian styles due to centuries of modifications. Inside, visitors can explore beautifully restored rooms, from medieval chambers to Victorian apartments, along with interactive exhibits showcasing its long history. The castle’s elevated position provides stunning views of the River Tame and the surrounding town. Today, Tamworth Castle stands as a symbol of the region’s rich heritage and offers a fascinating glimpse into over 900 years of English history.

 Is it dog friendly? 

Dogs are very welcome but please note and abide by the Countryside Code (https://tinyurl.com/rlqvp3h).  Please also remember not everyone loves your dog as much as you do so please be mindful of other members.

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".

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Images and Copyright Details

Birmingham and Fazeley Canal at Hopwas Hays Wood - credit to Mat Fascione and licensed for reuse under Creative Commons License. Photo sourced from Birmingham and Fazeley Canal at Hopwas... © Mat Fascione cc-by-sa/2.0 :: Geograph Britain and Ireland. 

Hopwas Woods Sun - credit to Bs0u10e01 and licensed for reuse under under the Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported license. Photo sourced from Hopwas Woods Sun | Openverse.