"Up the Ring" Iron Age Fort
10 people attending
15 places left
In need of some fresh air and friendly company?
Castle Ring is an Iron Age Hill Fort located at the Southern end of Cannock Chase. Enjoy this circular 10 mile walk around part of the Castle Ring and the surrounding areas of Upper Longdon and Beaudesert before returning to the fort and the wall part of "The Ring" itself.
Castle Ring Fort
There is evidence that suggests people lived here since the Iron Age. Unfortunately little information exists about its early use. It is believed the site was abandoned when the area was conquered by the Romans. Earthworks show that there was once a hunting lodge on site believed to be built in Medieval times when Cannock Chase was royal hunting ground.
Upper Longdon
Is a village within the civil parish of Longdon and is in the District of Lichfield. There are two listed buildings within the village. The Gables - the building is a pair of cottages thought to have been built around 1840. One of the outstanding features of the cottages are the ornamental fretted gable end barge boards and a Windmill Cottage.
Beaudesert
Was an estate and stately home on the southern edge of Cannock Chase. It was one of the family seats of the Paget family, the Marquesses of Anglesey. The estate was obtained by William Paget, 1st Baron Paget in 1546; some of the estate today is a golf club, Scout & Guide Campsite and Outdoor Activities Centre.
This walk is mostly along bridlepaths and farmland. It is potentially muddy in places and recommend walking boots or appropriate footwear to be worn.
There are a few stiles and a couple of steep yet steady hill climbs.
Dogs are welcome on the walk, however will need to be on a lead at times when walking through farmland where cattle and horses maybe present.
The route is just shy of 10 miles / 16km with 330.4 metres of total ascent
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: Windmill Cottage - Geoff Pick, Castle Ring - Cannock Chase SAC Partnership licensed for reuse under this Creative Commons Licence. All other photos taken by OutdoorLads members and permission granted for use.
What to bring
Given it'll be spring-summer, please keep an eye on the forecast and be prepared for changeable weather - layer appropriately and bring wet-weather gear as appropriate.
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, the walk is long even laid track.
Bring any essential medicine you may need during the day for hay-fever, diabetes, or any on-going ailments or conditions.
Food & drink
Bring water, snacks and a packed lunch for the walk.