Branston Water Park and Dunstall

Our meeting place today is the pretty Branston Water Park, a former open-cast gravel pit turned nature conservation area, on the southern outskirts of the historic brewing city of Burton-on-Trent.

We will follow National Forest Way Stage 10, taking in a variety of landscapes, including lakes, the Trent and Mersey canal, an active quarry, woodland, farmland, picturesque villages and even a deer park. The walk begins with a half-circuit of the water park around it’s reedbeds and varied birdlife. We progress over the Trent and Mersey canal, along the National Forest Way, passing the lakeside fishing stations of the Barton Mutual Angling Association, through a still-active quarry, emerging by the southern end of the village of Tattenhill. A brief climb leads us onto Battlestead Hill (reputed to be the site of an ancient clash between Viking and Mercian forces), followed by a descent through deep woodland to the further edge of the village.

Crossing a busy road, the route ascends, then winds through lanes and farmland, reaching Tatenhill Common, where we leave the National Forest Way. After some brief road walking, we will pass through two farms, then by a cricket club, to our lunch stop at St. Mary’s Church, Dunstall.

After lunch, we will pass the crumbling, atmospheric gates of Dunstall Hall, once home to Charles Arkwright, grandson of the pioneering industrialist, Richard Arkwright. The road walking here is hazardous, so please take great care. A short-cut through the estate deer park is followed by a rough, lakeside trail returning us to the National Forest Way of this morning, and  completion of the circuit of Branston Water Park and our well-earned refreshments at the cafe.

There are 5 stiles, with some road walking and busy road crossings. The car park is free and there are excellent toilet facilities and a cosy cafe.