the national forest walking festival

Celebrating the launch of the National Forest Way 17th - 29th MAY 2014

WALKS FOR ALL AGES AND ABILITIES TO ENJOY guided and themed walks places to stay from b&b’s to forest lodges BEAUTIFUL PLACES TO EXPLORE www.thenationalforestwalkingfestival.org.uk 2 3

This year we are celebrating the opening of the National Forest Way, a long distance trail which will take walkers on a journey through this transforming landscape. celebrating the launch of Across 75 miles of footpaths from the National Memorial Arboretum in to Beacon Hill Country Park in Leicestershire, you will discover the the national forest way story of The National Forest. with the National Forest Walking Festival Immerse yourself in a history that has seen the area change from a rural landscape, through industrialisation and its decline, to a modern-day creation of a new forest. Join us between 17th - 29th May for a Accessible for experienced and new walkers alike, the host of varied walks to explore this ever National Forest Way will be accompanied by leaflets, online information and clear signage. changing landscape. With walks to suit every taste and ability, from gentle strolls Image: Richard Sanville 2011 to strenuous rambles and routes to cater THE TRAIL LEADS THROUGH YOUNG for seasoned walkers as well as pushchairs, AND ANCIENT WOODLANDS, wheelchairs and family groups. market towns and the industrial heritage of this changing landscape IN THE HEART OF THE MIDLANDS.

For more information on The National Forest Way go to www.nationalforestway.co.uk

The trail has been created by a partnership of the National Forest Company, Derbyshire County Council, Leicestershire County Council and Staffordshire County Council, Main image ©2020 Vision: Ben Hall with generous support from Fisher German. 4 the national forest the national forest 5 walking festival walking festival

Image © Chris Beech Stay and Enjoy the national forest

With a wealth of places to visit, why not take a break and stay in the area. There is a wide range of accommodation from a National Forest Youth Hostel to The Hilton at St George’s Park or homely farmhouses to spacious forest lodges, there is something to cater for everyone’s taste and budget. WHEN YOU’VE WALKED UP AN APPETITE there’s no better way to relax than a visit to one of the many pubs, restaurants, cafes and tearooms THAT ARE SCATTERED ACROSS THE AREA

“This is the first time we have visited this area. If other walks in the Festival are as enjoyable and informative as this one, then we shall return not only for next year’s Festival but also on other occasions.”

For more information on special offers and details of the many things to see and do, visit: Swadlincote Tourist Information Centre, Sharpe’s Pottery Museum, West St, Swadlincote, Derbyshire DE11 9DG Our friendly TIC staff will help you find and book the perfect accommodation for your visit and provide full details of attractions, events and transport and travel information. Tel: 01283 222848 Email: [email protected] or visit www.thenationalforestwalkingfestival.org.uk to download the 2014 visitor guide. 6 the national forest the national forest 7 walking festival walking festival Most walks are free and do not need to Walks are graded for difficulty: be booked. Where there is a charge or booking is required, details are listed under each walk. EASY Routes suitable for most levels of fitness. May be suitable for conventional Please see below information that you may wheelchairs and pushchairs (please see a guide to the walks find useful before attending a walk. individual walk key for more information). • Please wear suitable footwear and clothing Opening in May 2014, the new (a waterproof preferably) • Remember to bring any medication you LEISURELY Routes for reasonably fit National Forest Way long distance may need people. May include some un-surfaced rural paths. trail will take walkers on a journey • It is advisable to always carry a drink through a transforming landscape. • You may need to bring a packed lunch (see symbols below walk info) MODERATE Walks for people with a good level of fitness. May include some • Walkers age 16 and under must be steep paths and open country and may accompanied by an adult be at a brisk pace. • If dogs are allowed on a walk (see symbols Image: L.Hextall 2009 below walk info), they must be kept on a lead at all times STRENUOUS Walks for experienced 30 country walkers with an above average 20 • All those taking part in a walk do so at 58 level of fitness. May include hills, 14 66 their own risk rough country and be at a brisk pace.

39 5+9 36 • Most walk leaders are volunteers 70 8 65 34 • Walks will start promptly. 53 24 59 1 Please be advised walkers may be taking 18 11 photographs on any of the festival walks, 31 47 26 55 17 62 56 which may be used in future publicity. KEY 28 3 12 37 4 25 1642 43 60 46 K Parking available 61 37 40 GUIDED WALK: 63 23 64 38 Charges apply 33 21 A walk led by an experienced leader 19 32 10 54 69 0 Toilets available en route 13 71 with local knowledge, often relating to 44 22 2249 d 45 7 a specific topic. Walks will take place on Wheelchair access 68 41 35 50 varying terrain. Please see specific walks 67 57 A Dogs not allowed 2 52 15 for more information. 27 j Dogs allowed on a lead 29 48 HEALTH WALK: Children welcome 51 6 A short walk on surfaced paths suitable h Warm clothing for all ages and for people recovering Walking boots from illness. A social walk led by a s trained volunteer. Pushchair access v Public transport Bring packed lunch The National Forest Way For more information please visit: l Bring a torch www.thenationalforestwalkingfestival.org.uk or call Swadlincote Tourist Information Centre on 01283 222848 8 the national forest the national forest 9 walking festival walking festival 4. 10am

SATURDAY 17TH MAY WASHLANDS TO WALTON SUNDAY 18TH MAY 1. 10am GUIDED WALK 12 miles, moderate 8. 10am No stiles, 6.5 hours, free

THREE COUNTRY HOUSES IN ONE DAY STARTING POINT Watson Street free car FAULD CRATER GUIDED WALK 9 miles, moderate park on the washlands, Burton on Trent, GUIDED WALK 8 miles, moderate 11+ stiles, 5 hours, £2 per person DE14 3AH 6. 2.30pm 11 stiles, 4.5 hours, free STARTING POINT A flat walk along the and back STARTING POINT Melbourne Assembly Rooms DE73 8GF along the Trent & Mersey canal, lunch at GEOLOGY OF BRADGATE PARK Hanbury Village Hall, DE13 8TJ A walk that includes three country Barton Marina and a chance to see some GUIDED WALK 3 miles, leisurely A different walk to houses – Melbourne Hall, Calke Abbey of the many BCV projects No stiles, 2.5 hours, £3 for adults, the Fauld Crater. and Staunton Harold (please note there from the last 20 years. £1.50 for under 16’s K j s is no time to visit them). h K0 j v STARTING POINT 0 A h 9. 11am, 1pm 5. 11am, 1pm Hunts Hill Car Park, Bradgate Park, LE6 0AH 2. 10.30am Bradgate Park from 600million years ago BE FREE RANGE WITH THE CHICKENS – a story of seas, volcanoes, mountains, BE FREE RANGE WITH THE CHICKENS GUIDED WALK 3 miles, easy deserts, glaciers and earthquakes. Led TREES AND REMEMBRANCE GUIDED WALK 3 miles, easy No stiles, 1 hour, free by geologist John Martin, this walk GUIDED WALK 3 miles, easy No stiles, 1 hour, free STARTING POINT No stiles, 1.5 hours, £4 per person, introduces the oldest group STARTING POINT Betty’s Farm, Willington DE65 6BW booking essential, please call 01283 792333 of rocks in England and tells Betty’s Farm, Willington DE65 6BW A short walk around the farm explaining STARTING POINT their fascinating story. A short walk around the farm explaining some of the features in more detail, National Memorial Arboretum, DE13 7AR K 0 j s some of the features in more detail, h stopping at the PV panels, wind turbines This walk will show you how we use stopping at the PV panels, wind turbines 7. 1.30pm and the chicken sheds. trees as symbols of and the chicken sheds. K0 j s remembrance in this nationally v h K0 j s VIEWS OVER THE HEART OF famous visitor attraction. v h 10. 3pm K 0 d A s THE NATIONAL FOREST h 3. 4.30am GUIDED WALK 4 miles, leisurely HISTORY WALK TO GRACE DIEU PRIORY 2 stiles, 2 hours, free GUIDED WALK 2 miles, easy DAWN CHORUS STARTING POINT No stiles, 2 hours, £3 per person Conkers Waterside, DE12 6GA STARTING POINT GUIDED WALK 3 miles, easy The Bulls Head, Thringstone, LE67 8LR No stiles, 4 hours, £13.50 per person, A circular route beginning on a short booking essential, please call 01332 863822 length of the National Forest Way A walk through part of Grace Dieu STARTING POINT followed by village footpaths through wood, under the Charnwood Forest Main car park, Calke Abbey, DE73 7LE the heart of The National Forest. A mix Railway, along part of the Forest Line Up with the lark hear the choir of of terrain including surfaced tracks, field canal and into the romantic ruins songbirds with our Ranger. Enjoy a footpaths and woodland rides. Much of Gracedieu priory, a 13th century well-earned full cooked breakfast of historical and wildlife interest with nunnery. Learn about the area’s long in the restaurant afterwards. panoramic views over the area. history along the way. K 0 A K0 A dj v s h h h 10 the national forest the national forest 11 walking festival walking festival 11. 10am 14. 10.30am 17. 11.30am 20. 6pm

A WALK IN THE PISTERN HILLS HILTON HEALTH WALK MEADOWSIDE LEISURE CENTRE NORDIC WALKING FOR BEGINNERS GUIDED WALK 9 miles, moderate HEALTH WALK 2.5 miles, easy 3 miles, moderate 11+ stiles, 5 hours, £2 per person No stiles, 1 hour, free HEALTH WALK No stiles, 1 hour, HEALTH WALK 2-3 miles, easy STARTING POINT STARTING POINT £1.50 with own poles, £3 incl pole hire No stiles, 1 hour, free Ticknall Village Hall, DE73 7JW Hilton Brook pub, Hilton, DE65 5FG STARTING POINT STARTING POINT Out through Calke to Smisby via Heath Enjoy a gentle-paced walk around Etwall Leisure Centre, DE65 6HZ Meadowside Leisure Centre, DE14 1TL End and Wicket Nook. Back over the Hilton village and the surrounding Come and give Nordic Walking a try. Pistern Hills and through Southwood to areas. The group is extremely social and The Meadowside health walk takes in This session will take you through the Ticknall. Short stop at Smisby for drinks. stops for a tea or coffee at the the local, historical and enjoyable sights basics of the new exercise craze that is of . j Hilton Brook pub after the walk. sweeping the nation. v h K0 K 0 dj v s K0 A 12. 4.30am v h h 15. 2.30pm 18. 10.30am DAWN CHORUS HORNINGLOW AND ETON HEALTH WALK GUIDED WALK 3 miles, easy NATIONAL MEMORIAL ARBORETUM TUESDAY 20TH MAY No stiles, 4 hours, £13.50 per person, HEALTH WALK 2-3 miles, easy 21. 10am booking essential 01332 863822 HEALTH WALK No stiles, 1 hour, free STARTING POINT HEALTH WALK 2 miles, easy STARTING POINT TO THE FOREST AND BACK Main car park, Calke Abbey, DE73 7LE No stiles, 1 hour, free Horninglow Road basin, DE14 2PT GUIDED WALK 5 miles, leisurely STARTING POINT Up with the lark hear the choir of The Horninglow and Eton health walk No stiles, 2 hours, free National Memorial Arboretum, DE13 7AR takes the route alongside the canal. songbirds with our Ranger. Enjoy a STARTING POINT Our weekly walking for health walk While taking in the local sights you get well-earned full cooked breakfast Toby Carvery, Forest Road, LE11 3HU in the restaurant afterwards. – an opportunity to gain some health the chance to watch the narrow boats benefits and meet other people going through the locks. A walk up to the Outwoods, through K 0 A h the woods to Woodhouse and then in beautiful surroundings. 0 dj s v back to the start via the fields south of K 0 A 19. 10.15am the forest. MONDAY 19TH MAY 16. 2.15pm KA h 13. 6.30pm BARTON UNDER NEEDWOOD CALKE WALKING FOR HEALTH HEALTH WALK NORDIC WALKING FOR BEGINNERS HEALTH WALK 2 miles, easy No stiles, 1 hour, free HEALTH WALK 2-3 miles, easy 2 miles, moderate No stiles, 1 hour, free No stiles, 1 hour, STARTING POINT Calke Abbey, main car park, DE73 7LE STARTING POINT St James Church Hall, £1.50 with own poles, £3 incl pole hire Church Lane, DE13 8HY STARTING POINT Games Room, Rosliston Join this easy walk with the The enjoyable health walk takes in the “ Really great Forestry Centre, DE12 8JX regular Walking for Health team. local sights of Barton under Needwood. K 0 A This session will take you through the h With its open countryside and stunning walk, lovely basics of the new exercise craze marina there is plenty to see. that is sweeping the nation. views” 0 dj vs K 0 A vh 12 the national forest the national forest 13 walking festival walking festival 22. 10.30am 24. 2pm 27. 10.30am ROSLISTON FORESTRY CENTRE STRETTON HEALTH WALK WALK TO THE WESTERN FRONT HEALTH WALK 2.5 miles, easy GUIDED WALK 3 miles, easy PUSHCHAIR WALK No stiles, 1 hour, free No stiles, 1.5 hours, £4 per person HEALTH WALK 2.5 miles, easy STARTING POINT STARTING POINT No stiles, 1 hour, free The Green car park, Stretton, DE13 0EQ National Memorial Arboretum, DE13 7AR STARTING POINT An enjoyable walk around Stretton, This walk will guide visitors past Rosliston Forestry Centre, DE12 8JX taking in the different local sights with First World War memorials towards This walk is perfect for those who a friendly group of people. an area of the National Memorial want to be more active but struggle K0 dj vs Arboretum dedicated to the to get to the gym due to childcare Western Front. WEDNESDAY 21ST MAY difficulties. It lasts approximately 25. 6.45pm K 0 dA s 30. 10am 1 hour and is in a traffic free location. h Stay afterwards for a drink in STAPENHILL HOLLOWS HEALTH WALK 28. 10.30am the HUB cafe. HEALTH WALK 2.5 miles, easy NORDIC WALKING FOR BEGINNERS K 0 d s A No stiles, 1 hour, free STAPENHILL GARDENS HEALTH WALK 3 miles, moderate v No stiles, 1 hour, STARTING POINT GUIDED WALK 1-3 miles, easy £1.50 with own poles, £3 incl pole hire Stapenhill Hollows car park, DE15 9AF No stiles, 30 mins up to 1 hour, free STARTING POINT Courtyard area, Elvaston “ After having a baby STARTING POINT The Bandstand, If you fancy a nice evening walk why not Castle Country Park, DE72 3EP it gave me a reason to come along and join this friendly group. Stapenhill Gardens, DE15 9AP Come and give Nordic Walking a try. get up and out into the The walk takes in the local sights of Three enjoyable riverside walks for all This session will take you through the Burton upon Trent. different abilities. fresh air and meet other basics of the new exercise craze Kdj s K0 dj s mums. I really enjoy it v v that is sweeping the nation. and have met some 26. 2.30pm 29. 7pm K 0 A h really nice people” HISTORY OF WINSHILL MEASHAM AND THE ASHBY CANAL 31. 10am 23. 1pm GUIDED WALK 2 miles, easy HEALTH WALK 2-3 MILES, EASY No stiles, 2 hours, free Stiles, 1 hour 15 minutes, free ALONG THE SWARBOURN Chronic Obstructive 9.5 miles, moderate COPD HEALTH WALK Pulmonary Disease STARTING POINT STARTING POINT Newton Road Recreation Ground, DE15 0TU Measham Library car park, DE12 7HR 11 stiles, 5 hours, free HEALTH WALK 2 miles, easy STARTING POINT Jacksons Bank car park, No stiles, 45 minutes, free On the route of the walk buildings A walk around Measham, looking for and places which are important in the evidence of the old canal route, and Newchurch, DE13 8RG STARTING POINT Heartwood Medical A walk across fields, through woods Practice Swadlincote, DE11 0AE history of Winshill, an urban village in following the proposed new line through Burton will be identified and explained. the village. and beside the River Swarbourn, This walk is led at a pace that is suitable visiting the remains of an ancient K0 dj vs j for COPD sufferers and will, where mill along the way. possible, be kept to flat ground. j This walk finishes with a hot h drink in Swadlincote town centre. K0 A vh 14 the national forest the national forest 15 walking festival walking festival 32. 1pm 37. 7pm

GRESLEYDALE INTERMEDIATE WALK AN EVENING WALK THROUGH FRIDAY 23RD MAY HEALTH WALK 4 miles, moderate 40. 2pm No stiles, 1.5 hours BRANKLEY PASTURES NATURE RESERVE 4 miles, leisurely STARTING POINT OAKLANDS HEALTH WALK

Image: D.Tidy 2008 D.Tidy Image: No stiles, 2 hours, free Gresleydale Healthcare Centre, DE11 9JT HEALTH WALK 2.5 miles, easy STARTING POINT Discover the vast countryside and many 35. No stiles, 1 hour, free Brankley Pastures car park, DE13 8BN public footpaths surrounding Church 2pm STARTING POINT Gresley. The walk is led by trained walk A pleasant walk through Brankley Oaklands Village Swadlincote, DE11 8LH leaders. Tea and treats afterwards WORLD WAR 1 STORY WALK Pastures Nature reserve and local This health walk is led by trained walk permissive paths. (£1 donation requested GUIDED WALK 2 miles, easy leaders and is suitable for those who j towards refreshments). No stiles, 1.5 hours, £4 per person h are new to walking and want to get a bit more active. K0 A v h STARTING POINT 38. 2pm National Memorial Arboretum, DE13 7AR K0 A 33. 10.45am v h A professional story teller will take NEWHALL HEALTH WALK 41. 12.30pm you on a walk with words and music HEALTH WALK 2.5 miles, leisurely HEALTH WALK stopping at various memorials No stiles, 1 hour, free HEALTH WALK 2 miles, easy OVERSEAL PUSHCHAIR WALK connected with the First World STARTING POINT No stiles, 1 hour, free HEALTH WALK 2.5 miles, easy War - a unique and moving Newhall Old Post Centre, DE11 0HP No stiles, 1 hour, free STARTING POINT experience for all. Yoxall Health Centre, DE13 8PD This health walk is led by trained walk STARTING POINT K 0 A h leaders and is suitable for those who The Navigation Inn, DE12 6ND An enjoyable walk around the pretty walk regularly. The walk takes you out village of Yoxall with a friendly group This walk is perfect for mums and of this busy village and onto local fields dads who want to be more active of people. Then afterwards enjoy a well and footpaths. Stay for a hot deserved cup of tea. THURSDAY 22ND MAY but struggle to get to the gym due to drink afterwards (optional). childcare difficulties. Afterwards join 0 j 36. 1.30pm K h K0 A the group for drinks, and/or 34. 10.30am WILLINGTON HEALTH WALK 39. 10am food in The Navigation Inn. K0 dA s ROLLESTON ON DOVE HEALTH WALK HEALTH WALK 2.5 miles, easy h No stiles, 1 hour, free TUTBURY HEALTH WALK HEALTH WALK 2 miles, easy HEALTH WALK 2 miles, easy No stiles, 1 hour, free STARTING POINT Willington Picnic area next to No stiles, 1 hour, free STARTING POINT The Dragon Pub, DE65 6DP STARTING POINT Car park opposite the Spread Eagle car park, DE13 9BE Come and enjoy a led health walk Leopard pub, Monk Street, DE13 9NA The group takes an enjoyable health along the scenic canal at Willington An enjoyable scenic walk around the walk around the village, taking in the and stop for a hot drink in a local village with a friendly group who enjoy pretty sights. It is a health walk, not pub afterwards. There are no a nice cup of tea afterwards. a ramble so we keep to footpaths stiles but there are a few steps K0 dj vs and pavements. en route. K0 dj v s K0 A v h 16 the national forest the national forest 17 walking festival walking festival 42. 1.30pm SATURDAY 24TH MAY 47. 2pm SUNDAY 25TH MAY TRAMWAY RAMBLE SINAI AND OAKS WOOD GUIDED WALK 4.5 miles, leisurely 45. 11am GUIDED WALK 4 miles, leisurely 49. 10am No stiles, 3 hours, No stiles, 2 hours, free adults £2.50, children £1.50 GO WALKIES FOR GUIDE DOGS STARTING POINT Carver Road Community NORDIC WALKING FOR BEGINNERS (car parking charges apply) GUIDED WALK 1.5 miles, easy Centre, Burton on Trent, DE13 0DQ 3 miles, moderate STARTING POINT Park entry pay booth, No stiles, 1 hour, donations welcome Walk through Burton’s oldest No stiles, 1 hour, Calke Abbey, DE73 7LE STARTING POINT Picnic area, Rosliston woodland. See Burton’s oldest £1.50 with own poles, £3 incl pole hire Join Calke Abbey’s Countryside Forestry Centre, DE12 8JX building. Walk the route of one of the STARTING POINT Manager, Bill Cove, as he leads an This is a sponsored walk for Guide Dogs. former brewery railways and see the Rosliston Forestry Centre, DE12 8JX 8km walk along the route of the long All dogs are welcome on a lead. No dog? historic . Lovely Come and give Nordic Walking abandoned Tramway. This important No problem! You are most welcome to views of the town and National a try. This session will take you piece of our industrial heritage join us. Participants will get a Forest tree planting. through the basics of the new will be explained along the way. goody bag and will be entered Kj v exercise craze that is sweeping K 0 j l the nation. v h into a free prize draw to win 6 48. 2.30pm 43. 10am months of Eukanuba dog food. K 0 A K 0 dj s v h SWITHLAND WOOD 50. 10am REAP WHAT YOU SOW GUIDED WALK 2.5 miles, easy GUIDED WALK 1.5 miles, easy No stiles, 2.5 hours, £3 per person FROM BLACK TO GREEN No stiles, 2 hours, free STARTING POINT Hallgates (Cropston) GUIDED WALK 13 miles, strenuous STARTING POINT car park, Bradgate Park, LE7 7HQ 11+ stiles, free, 6 hours Watson Street car park, Swithland Wood supports rich and varied STARTING POINT Overseal car park, Burton On Trent DE14 3AH plant life and diverse butterfly, moth and Woodville Road, DE12 6LU A chance to see a recent environmental bird populations. Learn about the natural A circular route around the Heart of and history project, managing and local history of the area including The National Forest to appreciate the a site with volunteers and cattle. the historic Swithland landscape change. Terrain - Kj s slate quarries and how the v field paths, woodland rides wood is managed today. and country lanes. 44. 11am 46. 10.30am 0 j s K h K0 A h TREE IDENTIFICATION CALKE AND BEYOND GUIDED WALK 1-2 miles, easy GUIDED WALK 8 miles, moderate No stiles, 1.5 hours, free 5 stiles, 4.5 hours, free STARTING POINT STARTING POINT The Round car park, Rosliston Forestry Centre, DE12 8JX Heath Lane, LE65 1RR Take a gentle stroll around Rosliston This walk takes in part of the Calke Woods with the Forestry Commission Abbey estate, farmland, pleasant “ Thank you, yet another to learn how to identify common woodland areas and the excellent Walking tree species. historic village of Ticknall. Festival event” K 0 dj vs KA h 18 the national forest the national forest 19 walking festival walking festival 51. 11am 58. 10am WILDLIFE IN A YOUNG WOODLAND MONDAY 26TH MAY NORDIC WALKING FOR BEGINNERS GUIDED WALK 1-2 miles, easy 54. 7pm 4 miles, moderate No stiles, 1.5 hours, free No stiles, 1 hour, STARTING POINT AN EVENING STROLL £1.50 with own poles, £3 incl pole hire Sence Valley Forest Park, LE67 6NW GUIDED WALK 4 miles, leisurely STARTING POINT Explore Sence Valley Forest Park and No stiles, 1.5 hours, free Etwall Leisure Centre, DE65 6HZ learn about the variety of habitats STARTING POINT Barton Marina, 1st car Come and give Nordic Walking a try. within the park. Learn about how park on the right, DE13 8AS This session will take you through the young woodlands can be managed to An evening stroll across fields and basics of the new exercise craze that is support a diverse and eclectic through woods. sweeping the nation. wildlife community. 56. 1.15pm K0 A K0 j h h K0 j v 55. 10am BRETBY VILLAGE AND HOOFIE’S WOOD 59. 2pm 52. 10.45am GUIDED WALK 4 miles, leisurely BENJAMIN OUTRAM’S TRAMWAY 9 stiles, 2.5 hours, free STRETTON HEALTH WALK ASHBY WOULDS GUIDED WALK 8 miles, moderate STARTING POINT HEALTH WALK 2.5 miles, easy GUIDED WALK 4-5 miles, leisurely 1-5 stiles, 4.5 hours, free Planters Garden Centre Bretby, DE15 0QS No stiles, 1 hour, free No stiles, 2 hours 45 minutes, free STARTING POINT STARTING POINT A walk of natural history and historical The Green car park, Stretton, DE13 0EQ STARTING POINT Donisthorpe Woodland Ticknall Village Hall car park, DE73 7JX interest, visiting Noah’s Ark, Hoofie’s Centre, Church Street, DE12 7PY A walk along the historic tramway Wood, Bretby Hall (former home of the An enjoyable walk around Stretton Follow the Ashby Woulds Heritage Trail system from Ticknall limeyards towards Earls of Chesterfield) and Bretby village. taking in the local sights with a friendly on the line of the old railway, then pick South Wood, and along Earl Ferrer’s Paths can be muddy. Lunch or afternoon group of people. up the whole length of the restored route to Dimmingsdale tea can be purchased from the Garden Kdj vs Ashby canal from Spring Cottage to returning via Calke. Centre cafe. 60. 6.45pm Donisthorpe. Ground may be uneven K0 A l KA in places. h h STAPENHILL HOLLOWS HEALTH WALK 0 j HEALTH WALK 2.5 miles, easy 53. 3pm TUESDAY 27TH MAY No stiles, 1 hour, free 57. 10am STARTING POINT KEGWORTH MUSEUM VILLAGE WALK Stapenhill Hollows car park, DE15 9AF GUIDED WALK 3.5 miles, leisurely “This walk was CHANGING AGRICULTURE IN THE FOREST If you fancy a nice evening walk why not No stiles, 2 hours, £4 per person come along and join this friendly group. brilliant. I learnt GUIDED WALK 5 miles, leisurely STARTING POINT No stiles, 3 hours, free The walk takes in the local sights of 52 High Street Kegworth, DE74 2DA many snippets Burton upon Trent. STARTING POINT Take a walk around the lovely village of info I did not Woodhouse Eaves village hall, LE12 8RZ Kdj v h s and admire the surroundings. Walk to Quorn and back using the Cream Tea will be provided know. The leader public footpaths. after the walk. was excellent” KA KA h h 20 the national forest the national forest 21 walking festival walking festival 61. 10.30am 64. 10.45am 67. 7pm their fitness without the hassle of trying to find a babysitter. This STAPENHILL GARDENS HEALTH WALK YOXALL HEALTH WALK THE SEALS specifically designed exercise walk combines heart raising sections HEALTH WALK 1-3 miles, easy HEALTH WALK 2 miles, easy GUIDED WALK 4 miles, leisurely with a toning work out. No stiles, 30 mins up to 1 hour, free No stiles, 1 hour, free 5 stiles, 1.5 hours, £2 per person to raise K 0 dA s STARTING POINT The Bandstand, STARTING POINT money for the Overseal Footpath Group v Stapenhill Gardens, DE15 9AP Yoxall Health Centre, DE13 8PD STARTING POINT Overseal cross roads 70. 10am Three enjoyable riverside walks An enjoyable walk around the pretty by the church, DE12 6LQ for all different abilities. village of Yoxall with a friendly group Overseal and Netherseal cover 4000 TUTBURY HEALTH WALK of people. Then afterwards enjoy a well K0 dj vs years of history. We use field paths and HEALTH WALK 2 miles, easy deserved cup of tea. woodland rides through Dead-Dane No stiles, 1 hour, free 62. 2.30pm K0 j Bottom and return via Church STARTING POINT Car park opposite 65. 10.30am Way. Sir Nigel Gresley’s the Leopard pub, Monk Street, DE13 9NA WINSHILL CIRCULAR resting place is visited. An enjoyable scenic walk around the GUIDED WALK 6 miles, leisurely village with a friendly group who enjoy ROLLESTON ON DOVE HEALTH WALK A vh No stiles, 3 hours, free a nice cup of tea afterwards. HEALTH WALK 2 miles, easy STARTING POINT No stiles, 1 hour, free K0 dj s Newton Road Recreation Ground, DE15 0TU v h STARTING POINT THURSDAY 29TH MAY 71. 7pm A circular walk around the boundary of Spread Eagle car park, DE13 9BE Winshill and Burton. The route is largely 68. 10am The group takes an enjoyable health on farmland and open spaces with some FROM NORMANS TO PLANTATIONS walk around the village, taking in the GUIDED WALK 3 miles, leisurely muddy areas and steps. pretty sights. It is a health walk, NORDIC WALKING FOR BEGINNERS No stiles, 1.5 hours, £2 per person K0 j not a ramble so we keep to 2 miles, moderate v h footpaths and pavements. No stiles, 1 hour, STARTING POINT £1.50 with own poles, £3 incl pole hire Mount Pleasant Inn, Castle Gresley, DE11 8JE K0 dj s v STARTING POINT Landscape change in Castle Gresley, WEDNESDAY 28TH MAY 66. 1.30pm Rosliston Forestry Centre, DE12 8JX wide ranging views north from Castle Knob and industrial heritage give much 63. 10am Come and give Nordic Walking a try. of interest. The White Lady casts a This session will take you through the FINDERN MERCIA MARINA spell. Terrain - field paths, woodland GREENBANK HEALTH WALK basics of the new exercise craze rides & country lanes. HEALTH WALK 2.5 miles, easy CIRCULAR WALK that is sweeping the nation. No stiles, 1 hour, free GUIDED WALK 3.5 miles, moderate KA v h K 0 Ah STARTING POINT Green Bank Leisure No stiles, 1.5 hours, free, bus fare needed Centre, Café area, DE11 0AH STARTING POINT 69. 11am Findern Village Green, DE65 6AA This beginners walk is perfect if you STROLLING STRONG EXERCISE WALK are new to walking or want to get A walk along country lanes to the “Excellent back into it after a break. The walk Trent and Mersey canal then along the HEALTH WALK 2.5 miles, moderate No stiles, 1 hour, £1.50 per person is led at a pace that suits you. towpath to Mercia Marina and back leader. Very either the same way or along the road. Finishes with a hot drink at a STARTING POINT There are no stiles but we cross a bridge local pub afterwards. Rosliston Forestry Centre, DE12 8JX knowledgeable over the canal which has This exercise walk is ideal for busy K0 v steep steps on either side. mums and dads who want to improve and friendly.” K0 j s v h A BIG THANK YOU to all our Walk Leaders, we are very lucky to Peak District Walking 2014 131x95_Layout 1 06/12/2013 13:35 Page 1 22 the national forest have so many knowledgeable and enthusiastic rangers and volunteers as our guides, without whose time and effort to plan and lead walks the walking festival Festival would not be possible. ACTIVE NATION activenation.org.uk GUIDE DOGS www.guidedogs.org.uk ASHBY CANAL TRUST ashbycanaltrust.co.uk HORNINGLOW AND ETON PARISH COUNCIL BETTY’S FARM www.bettysfarm.co.uk www.horninglowandetonparishcouncil.co.uk WALKING FESTIVAL BRADGATE PARK www.bradgatepark.org KEGWORTH MUSEUM kegworthmuseum.org.uk BURTON CONSERVATION VOLUNTEERS MELBOURNE FOOTPATHS GROUP 26th APRIL - 11th MAY 2014 www.bcv.org.uk www.melbournefootpathsgroup.org.uk BURTON RAMBLERS NATIONAL MEMORIAL ARBORETUM www.burtonramblers.org.uk thenma.org.uk CHARNWOOD RANGER SERVICE NATIONAL TRUST www.charnwood.gov.uk www.nationaltrust.org.uk/calke DERBY & SOUTH DERBYSHIRE RAMBLERS OVERSEAL FOOTPATHS GROUP www.derbyramblers.org.uk OVER THE HILL www.overthehillwalking.org.uk BOROUGH COUNCIL SOUTH DERBYSHIRE www.eaststaffsbc.gov.uk ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION PROJECT EAST STAFFS RAMBLERS www.roslistonforestrycentre.co.uk www.eaststaffsramblers.org.uk STAFFORDSHIRE WILDLIFE TRUST FINDERN FOOTPATHS GROUP staffs-wildlife.org.uk www.findernfootpathsgroup.org THE FORESTRY COMMISSION GET ACTIVE IN THE FOREST www.forestry.gov.uk www.visitpeakdistrict.com/pdwf www.south-derbys.gov.uk GRACE DIEU PRIORY With many thanks to our Main Sponsor www.gracedieupriory.org.uk The National Forest Walking Festival gratefully acknowledges generous funding by

Calke 10-18 May 2014 More than 60 countryside and town walks Escape into the ancient and fragile habitats of Calke Park and its National Nature Reserve with to choose from - most free of charge downloadable trails and guided walks. Pick up a full Walking Festival programme and book Discover the tales of an eccentric family who amassed a vast collection of hidden treasures your place at the Chesterfield Visitor Information Centre, and visit the beautiful, yet faded, gardens. Rykneld Square, Chesterfield, S40 1SB There's fun for all the family in every season with outdoor play trails, crafts & activities and events throughout the year.

Open 364 days a year; please visit the website for detailed opening times.

01332 863822 nationaltrust.org.uk/calke Tel: 01246 345777/8 or email: [email protected] © National Trust Images . Registered Charity Number 205846. To book online, please visit www.chesterfieldwalkingfestival.co.uk 24 the national forest walking festival

Getting Here is Easy The National Forest Walking Festival takes place in the very heart of England and is easily accessible by road, rail or bus.

By road: For visitors travelling by car or coach, the National Forest & Beyond is easily By bus: accessible from the M1, M6, M42/A42, Information on bus and coach timetables is A50, A511 and the A38. available from: By rail: Traveline: 0871 200 22 33 There are 10 railway stations serving the area. www.traveline.org.uk National Rail Enquiries: 08457 48 49 50 National Express: 08717 818178 www.nationalrail.co.uk www.nationalexpress.com