Cannock Chase, A walk (BOOKING ESSENTIAL)

A WALK DESCRIPTION: 11 -12 miles, about 1200 ft total ascent. Leader: Peter Searle Starting at the bus stop on the A460 in Hednesford, we will cross the Hednesford Hills then follow a track alongside the Beau Desert Golf Course, on the Rawnsley Hills. After crossing the Rugeley Road, we will follow woodland paths to Castle Ring, an Iron Age hill fort and the highest point on Cannock Chase. From here we will follow the Heart of England Way northwards, crossing the Rugeley Road again at its junction with Stile Cop Road, before branching north down Miflins Valley. After crossing the A460, we walk a short distance along Slitting Mill Road before turning onto a woodland track. Turning right, we cross the lane and follow a footpath between fields and Rising Brook, rejoining the road next to the Horns Pub at Slitting Mill, for refreshments (time permitting). From here we will follow woodland paths again, passing Lady Hill Coppice and the Stonybrook and Fairoak Pools. Depending on the time, a choice between 3 alternative paths will take us to Marquis’s Drive, which we will follow back to the A460 and the waiting coach. Bring a picnic lunch.