THE NATIONAL FOREST WALKING FESTIVAL 16th-28th May 2015 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 Walkthe national the forest walkingNational festival Forest Way the national forest walking festival

Last year saw the opening of the National Forest Way, a new 75-mile long distance walking trail stretching from the National Memorial Arboretum in the west, to “A glorious and Beacon Hill Country Park in the east. ever-changing The trail can be walked in either direction and is a brilliant way to explore the 200 square miles of The route and National Forest. The route passes through all three counties and the many varied landscapes that make up impressively the Forest. planned and For more information, downloadable directions and thought out” maps, please see www.nationalforestway.co.uk

All kinds of people plant trees in The National Forest: local tree planters John Celebrating 20 years of the National Forest Company and Irene Cox of Nottingham planted the 7 millionth tree; HRH the Duke of Since 1995, the National Forest Company has been working with local communities and Cambridge planted the 8 millionth! landowners to create The National Forest. Over the last twenty years, people living in The National Forest have seen the trees growing up around them, peeping over the hedgerows, becoming more visible in the landscape. Key achievements during the first 20 years of The National Forest: • Almost 8.5 million trees planted • Around £170.5m has been invested in • Woodland cover has now reached an Forest-related and regeneration projects average of 20% across the whole Forest, and programmes from an initial 6% • 333 forestry and woodland-related jobs • 87% of trees planted have been native have been created or maintained broadleaf species and 13% coniferous • Tourism is worth £336m per year • 80% of all the new Forest sites have open • 7.2m people visited The National Forest public access. More walking! in 2013 • 96km (59.6 miles) of new hedgerows have • Since 2003, over £1,200,000 has been been planted raised in business sponsorship and • 150 new wildlife ponds have been created donations from the public • Over 271,000 people have taken part in Forest-related events since 1995 • 481,000 children have taken part in Looking ahead to 2024, this is the ‘coming-of-age’ decade for The National Forest. As important environmental education sessions as planting the trees is looking after the ones that have already been planted. • Over 45 new sport and recreation facilities You can get involved! You can support the Forest by becoming a Friend of The National Forest; have been created including fishing, you can volunteer to help look after a woodland near where you live; or give a Plant a Tree to mountain biking, orienteering and cross family or friends. country horse riding Find out more about all these, and about • 102km of new cycle trails have been the work of the National Forest Company, created by visiting www.nationalforest.org 4 the national forest walking festival the national forest walking festival 5

Rosliston Forestry Centre 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 the National Forest Youth Hostel to a homely farmhouse or a spacious forest lodge, 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.” Dandelion Hideaway

For more information on special offers and details of the many things to see and do, visit: Tourist Information Centre, Sharpe’s Pottery Museum, West St, Swadlincote, 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. Mercia Marina Lodges 6 the national forest walking festival the national forest walking festival 7 y est Wa 37 r 9 a guide to 50 64

the walks 2 63

Most walks are free and do not need to be The National Fo booked. Where there is a charge or booking is 69 required, details are listed under each walk. 32 Walks are graded for difficulty: Please see below information that you may 25 11

find useful before attending a walk. 54 Routes suitable for most levels • Please wear suitable footwear and clothing (a EASY

of fitness. May be suitable for conventional 10 waterproof preferably) wheelchairs and pushchairs (please see • Remember to bring any medication you may individual walk key for more information). 8 56 need 41 • It is advisable to always carry a drink

Routes for reasonably fit 51 LEISURELY 46 3

• You may need to bring a packed lunch 22 6 people. May include some un-surfaced rural paths. 17 65 58 49

(see symbols below walk info) 52 53 • Walkers age 16 and under must be 44 accompanied by an adult MODERATE Walks for people with a 26 good level of fitness. May include some steep 73

• If dogs are allowed on a walk (see symbols 55

paths and open country and may be at a brisk pace. 1 below walk info), they must be kept on a lead at all times 12 42

Walks for experienced 27 • All those taking part in a walk do so at STRENUOUS 72 39 their own risk country walkers with an above average level of 47 5 74 fitness. May include hills, rough country and be 68 • Most walk leaders are volunteers at a brisk pace. 14 • Walks will start promptly. 62 35 21 19 61 59

Please be advised walkers may be taking 38 16 23 KEY 24 60 45 20 photographs on any of the festival walks, 15 30 71 which may be used in future publicity. K Parking available v Public transport 67 £ Parking charges apply l Bring a torch 48 70 GUIDED WALK: d Wheelchair access Bring packed lunch 34 28 A walk led by an experienced leader with local A Dogs not allowed Walking boots 36 33 7 knowledge, often relating to a specific topic. y 29

Children welcome Dogs allowed 4 57 on a lead 13 Walks will take place on varying terrain. Please 2 Warm clothing 18 [] Toilets available see specific walks for more information. s Pushchair access 40 en route HEALTH WALK: For more information please visit: A short walk on surfaced paths suitable for all www.thenationalforestwalkingfestival.org.uk ages and for people recovering from illness. A or call Swadlincote Tourist Information Centre 43 social walk led by a trained volunteer. on 01283 222848 31 66 8 the national forest walking festival the national forest walking festival 9

th 4 Local Heroes Walk 7 Above the Trent Valley 10 Jessop’s Tramway and the Saturday 16 May Guided Walk Easy Guided Walk Moderate Coleorton Railway Start time 10.30am Start time 9.30am Guided Walk Moderate 1 1 1 Nordic Walking 1 /2 hours, 2 miles, No stiles, Adult £3 12 miles, 5 /2 hours, 6-10 stiles Start time 2pm 4 miles, 2 hours, 6-10 stiles Guided Walk Easy/Moderate/Strenuous STARTING POINT National Memorial STARTING POINT Car Park at Branston Adults £3, Children/Concessions Free. Start time 9am Arboretum, Chapel Area DE13 7AR Water Park, STARTING POINT Hough Mill, St George’s 3-4 miles, No stiles, 1 hour On this walk you will discover many local heroes The walk will be through woodland and Hill, Swannington, , LE67 STARTING POINT Moira Furnace DE12 6AT who are remembered at the arboretum. farmland, near the Trent Valley. It passes near 8QE (FREE Car park on site) a variety of land uses, grassland for Recreation, AK[] ds y Historical Walk Including the 1790’s Fenton Nordic walking is aimed at individuals who £ industrial land, farmland and woodland and Raper plus the 1850’s Califat coal mines – enjoy walking but would like a full body of differing ages. Extensive views of the Jessops 1794 tramway and 1833 horse drawn exercies programme (similar to cross country 5 landscapes will be available from the hilltops. training). Be Free Range with the Chickens Coleorton railway. Guided Walk Easy AK[] 2v K[] 2 y K[] y Start time 11am, 3 miles, 1 hour, No stiles 8 QE Diamond Jubilee wood Circuit 2 Mount St Bernard Abbey Circular STARTING POINT Bettys Farm Willington, 11 History Walk to Gracedieu Priory Farm Shop, DE65 6BW (Free Parking) Guided Walk Leisurely Guided Walk Moderate Guided Walk Easy A short walk around the Farm among the sheep Start time 10.30am Start time 9.30am 1 Start time 3pm, 2 miles, 2 hours 3 /2 miles, 2 hours, 1-5 stiles 1 and the chickens. Locking up close and personal 10 miles, 6-10 stiles, 5 /2 hours Adults £3, Children/Concessions Free. with our Wind Turbine and if you’re lucky we STARTING POINT Free Car Park off Heather can tour the chicken sheds. STARTING POINT Bulls Head, Thringstone STARTING POINT Mount St Bernard Abbey, Lane, close to LE67 2TH Pay & Display Car Park, LE67 8LR LE67 5UL Nearest car park at the Abbey Kd[] s y v A Tour of the main features of the Newly (honesty box for car park fee) We walk through part of Gracedieu Wood, under planted Queen Elizabeth Diamond Jubilee The Charnwood Forest Railway, along part of the From the Abbey through woods to Blackbrook Wood. Includes Lake, Bird Hide, and Art forest line canal and into the romantic ruins of Reservoir for scenic views and on along a features. Mainly on gravel and grass paths over Gracedieu Priory, a 13th Century Nunnery. Learn disused rail route with views of Fenny Windmill, th rolling countryside. before returning over high ground to the Abbey. Sunday 17 May about the areas long history along the way. Stops for lunch break along the way. K2vy K[] ds2£y K[] 2 y 6 A ‘National Forest Way’ circuit Guided Walk Strenuous 9 Woodhouse Eaves Tree Trail 3 Achille Wood and Farm Walk Start time 9.15am Guided Walk Leisurely 1 1 12 /2 miles, 7 /4 hours, 11 stiles Start time 2pm, 2 miles, 2 hours, 1 stile Guided Walk Leisurely Start time 10am STARTING POINT Ticknall Village Hall, STARTING POINT Car Park, Woodhouse 2 miles, 1-5 stiles, 2 hours DE73 7JW (FREE Car parking at the Village Hall) Eaves, Village Hall, LE12 8RZ. STARTING POINT Hill Farm, Spring Lane, Incorporating a section of the new ‘National A two mile walk around the village and Forest’ trail. This walk takes in some lovely Packington, Leics, LE65 1WU (Free Parking) surroundings to discover our beautiful trees villages and old houses at Calke Park, , Meet Adjacent to Toilets including garden trees, hedgerows, woodland Hartshorne and . Time for lunch in and orchard. Take a leisurely stroll around farm and scenic settings. woodland taking in Canadian Bison, Red Deer, K[] £ y K[] 2y Alpacas and many more. Finish with a visit to our Farm Shop for Refreshments.

K[] 2 y 10 the national forest walking festival the national forest walking festival 11

th 14 Hilton Nature Reserve Health Walk Monday 18 May Guided Walk Easy/Leisurely Start time 10.30am 1 12 The National Forest Walk Way, 3 miles, 1 /4 hours, No stiles Wadlands Wood and Linton Heath STARTING POINT Hilton Brook Public Guided Walk Moderate House, Eggington Road, Hilton, Derby 1 Start time 10am, 3 miles, 5 /2 hours, 11+ stiles DE65 5FG. Free Parking Adults/Concessions £2, Children free. On Roads and Footpaths leading to and 17 Health Walk 19 Nordick walking taster session returning from The Hilton Nature Reserve, STARTING POINT Overseal Car Park, Health Walk Easy Guided Walk Easy where the worked out gravel pits provide 1 DE12 6LU Start time 1.45pm Start time 6pm, 2 /2-3 miles, 1 hour, No stiles refuge for a number of Species. Most of the 1 1 2 /2-3 miles, 1 /4 hours, 1-5 stiles £1.50 with own poles, £3 with pole hire This circular route has witnessed considerable Route has hard surface but some parts can be landscape change as a result of the development muddy and wet particularly after rain. STARTING POINT Calke Abbey in the main STARTING POINT Rosliston Forestry of The National Forest. A variety of woodlands K2 y car park, DE73 7LE Centre, Main foyer, DE12 8JX and restoration projects are visited. Terrain v woodland rides, field paths and country lanes. This is a social Health Walk around the beautiful Come and give Nordic Walking a try. This 15 Horninglow & Eton Health Walk grounds of Calke Abbey. The walk is led by session will take you through the basics of the K trained walk leaders who are volunteers at this new exercise craze that is sweeping the Nation. Health Walk Easy National Trust Park and can show you the best Nordic Walking is basically walking with the use Barton under Needwood Start time 10.30am it has to offer. The walk will last approximately of specialised poles. It burns up to 46% more 13 2-3 miles, 1 hour, No stiles 1 hour and will be no further than 3 miles in calories than normal walking by getting the Health Walk distance. The walk takes place every week and upper body involved, and also reduces stress on STARTING POINT Horninglow Road Basin, has become very popular with local walkers. the lower limbs. It is a great way to get active Health Walk Easy Horninglow Road, , Start time 10.15am After the walk stay on with the group to enjoy a and have fun. Staffs, DE14 2PT well earned hot drink and biscuit in one of the 2-3 miles, 1 hour, No stiles AK[] 2 y old barns (£1 donation requested). v£ The Horninglow and Eton Health Walk takes STARTING POINT St James Church Hall, the route alongside the canal on the Kingfisher AK[] 2 £ y Church Lane, Barton Under Needwood, Trail. While taking in the local sights you get the Burton upon Trent, , opportunity to watch the narrow boats going th DE13 8HY through the locks. 18 National Memorial Arboretum Health Walk Tuesday 19 May Two enjoyable health walks that take in the K[] s2v£ y local sights that include Barton Marina and the Health Walk Easy 20 Gardens Health Walk lovely open countryside that surrounds the 1 Start time 2.30pm, 2 /2 miles, 1 hour, No stiles local area. 16 Meadowside Leisure Centre Health Walk Easy STARTING POINT National Memorial Start time 10.30am, 3 miles, 1 hour, No stiles K[] ds2 y Health Walk v Arboretum, DE13 7AR Guided Walk Easy STARTING POINT The Band Stand, Start time 11.30am, 2-3 miles, 1 hour Come and enjoy this steady paced walk around Staplehill Gardens, Main Street, the majestic National Memorial Arboretum. Burton-On-Trent, Staffs, DE15 9AP “I really enjoyed STARTING POINT Meadowside Leisure Trained walk leaders and volunteers from the Three enjoyable Heath Walks that take in the Centre, Meadowside Drive, Off High Street, NMA will take you on this interesting and scenic pretty sights of Stapenhill and the surrounding Burton-On-Trent, DE14 1TL walk around the site. The walk takes place the walk and I would area. Walking next to the gives you on the level ground and firm footpaths and is The Meadow side Health Walk takes place in the opportunity to look at the local wildlife and ideal for those who may be new to exercise or do it again and tell the local history of the town and pretty sights take in the beautiful gardens. returning to it after a break or illness. The group surrounding Burton-On-Trent. At the end of finish in the on site café for a hot K[] ds2 y my friends about the Walk the Group visit the local Library for £ drink and a chat (optional). Refreshments. it as well.” AK2v y K[] ds2vy £ 12 the national forest walking festival the national forest walking festival 13

21 Rosliston Pushchair Walk 23 Stretton Health Walk The National Forest Way – 29 Memorials of World War I Health Walk Easy Health Walk Easy 26 Hartshorne to Boothorpe Guided Walk Easy Start time 10.30am Start time 2pm, 2-3 miles, 1 hour, No stiles return via Boundary Start time 10.30am, 3 miles, 2 hours 1 2 /2 miles, 1 hour, No stiles Adult £3 STARTING POINT The Green, Stretton, Guided Walk Moderate STARTING POINT Meet outside the Burton Upon Trent, Staffordshire. DE13 9AF Start time 10am STARTING POINT National Memorial 1 Hub Café at Rosliston Forestry Centre, 2 Arboretum, Chapel Area DE13 7AR An enjoyable walk around the village of 8 miles, 5 / hours, 11+ stiles DE12 8JX Stretton, which includes the delightful STARTING POINT Dethick Hall Car Park, One hundred years after World War I we will This walk is perfect for mums and dads who Jinny Trail that once was part of the old railway Manchester, Lane, Hartshorne, DE11 7AT journey back in time visiting all of our First want to be more active but struggle to get to line for Burton and Tutbury. World War memorials at this UK Centre of This Circular Route provides an Opportunity to rememberance. the gym due to childcare difficulties. It is also K[] 2vy a great way to meet other parents in the same walk a central part of The National Forest Way. This AK[] ds y position. This led walk is on well surfaced elevated section gives views across The National £ paths which are ideal for pushchairs. It lasts 24 Stapenhill Hollows Health Walk Forest and visits the villages of Smisby and approximately 1 hour so is a great way to Blackfordby together with the Hamlet Boothorpe. 30 Health Walk burn off some calories whilst enjoying good Health Walk Easy/Leisurely K company in a traffic free location. Afterwards Start time 6.45pm, 2 miles, 1 hour Health Walk Easy Start time 10.30am you may choose to join the group for drinks, STARTING POINT Stapenhill Hollows, and/or food in The Hub café. 27 Green Bank Health Walk 2-3 miles, 1 hour, No stiles Stapenhill Road, Burton Upon Trent, AK[] ds2v£ y Staffordshire, DE15 9AF Health Walk Easy STARTING POINT Spread Eagle Pub car Start time 10am, 2.5 miles, 1 hour, No stiles park, Church Road, Rolleston on Dove, If you fancy a nice evening walk why not come Burton Upon Trent, Staffs, DE13 9BE 22 Calke Abbey Brickyards Revealed along and join this friendly group. There is STARTING POINT Green Bank Leisure various routes that we take, one ebing the Centre café/ reception area The group take on enjoyable health walk Guided Walk Leisurely Burton Mail Centenary Woodland which is around the village, taking in the pretty sights Start time 1.30pm located next to the Washlands. This Beginners walk is perfect if you are new and sounds. 1 4-5 miles, 2 /2 hours, 1-5 stiles to walking or want to get back into it after a £3, Children £1.50, concessions free. K 2y break. The walk is led by trained walk leaders K[] 2vy who will accompany you at a pace that suits STARTING POINT Outside Ticket Office, you. The walk takes place on a weekly basis and DE73 7JF always finishes with a hot drink at the local pub th afterwards. The route is all on concrete or well A rare opportunity to walk into the Calke Wednesday 20 May surfaced paths. Brickyards. Join a National Trust Archaeologist on a stroll amongst the remains of a once In the footsteps of AK[] 2v£ y thriving estate brick industry. The Walk will also 25 take in the Calke limeyards along the way. George Stephenson Views of Burton from the K 2v£ Guided Walk Leisurely 28 Start time 9.30am, 6-10 miles, 4 hours National Forest Way STARTING POINT Coalville discovery Guided Walk Moderate “Excellent walk, Museum, LE67 3LN Start time 10am, 8 miles, 5 hours An easy walk over old mining trails, visiting STARTING POINT Branston Water Park, hough windmill, replica of bell pit workings and DE14 3EZ leader very George Stephenson’s Railway route along the A walk along the canal, up a few hills with views Swannington incline. Lunch stop at local pub. over Burton following part of the National knowledgeable K[] 2vy Forest Way. of local history.” [] 2 14 the national forest walking festival the national forest walking festival 15

31 Health Walk st 37 Old and New on the Eastern Edge Health Walk Easy Thursday 21 May Guided Walk Moderate Start time 10.45am, 2-3 miles, 1 hour, No Start time 10am, 5 miles, 3 hours, 1-5 stiles stiles 34 Branston Riverside Walk STARTING POINT Village Hall, Woodhouse STARTING POINT Health Centre, Guided Walk Easy Eaves, LE12 8RZ Savey Lane, Yoxall, Nr Burton-On-Trent, 1 Start time 10am, 1 /2 hours, No stiles Not to be missed. This walk, on the Eastern Staffs, DE13 8PD edge of the National Forest, passes areas of STARTING POINT Riverside Car Park, both mature and new woodland together with An Enjoyable Walk around the pretty village of Branston, DE14 2JJ Yoxall with a friendly group of people. splendid views, interesting pathways and rocky The Walk is a flat Walk Along the Riverside. outcrops. K[] 2y Suitable for all abilities. K[] 2vy K2 y 32 A Walk Around Whitwick v nd 38 Four Parishes Walk Friday 22 May Guided Walk Leisurely 35 Nordick Walking Taster Session Start time 1.30pm, 2 miles, 2 hours, No stiles Guided Walk Leisurely £3, Family £6, Children free. Guided Walk Easy Start time 10am 40 Old and New Woodlands Start time 10am 6 miles, 4 hours, 1-5 stiles STARTING POINT The Old Station. 1 Guided Walk Leisurely 2 /2-3 miles, 1 hour, No stiles STARTING POINT Dallow lock, off Dallow North Street, Whitwick, Leics, LE67 5HA £1.50 with your own poles Start time 10am 1 1 Street, Burton upon Trent, DE14 2PQ 3-4 /2 miles, 2 /2 hours, 1-5 stiles This is a guided village walk which links £3 with pole hire significant historical sites in Whitwick and A chance to see some urban nature reserves STARTING POINT Rosliston Forestry STARTING POINT Brankley Pastures Car reveals a fascinating story. Starting at the Old (good and bad) and some stunning views over Park, Scotch Hills, DE13 8BN Station building and follows footpaths around Centre main foyer. DE12 8JX Burton and the National Forest, all close to the the village centre. Please note: some of the Come and give Nordic Walking a try. This session centre of town. A Walk through Woodlands seeing how the Victorians tried to conserve the ancient oaks, route is hilly. The walk ends back at the Old will take you through the basics of the new exercise K2y Station. craze that is sweeping the Nation. Nordic Walking is Through pleasant pastures and new plantings of the National Forest. An Opportunity to see the AKds2y basically walking with the use of specialised poles. It burns up to 46% more calories than normal 39 Echoes of Heroes wildflower meadow at Brankley Pastures. The walking and by getting the upper body involved, Staffordshire Wildlife Trusts Reserve. Guided Walk Easy 33 World War 1 Story Walk and also reduces stress on the lower limbs. It is a AK y£ great way to get active and have fun. Start time 1.15pm 1 1 Guided Walk Easy 2 /2 miles, 2 /4 hours, No stiles Start time 2pm, 2 miles, 2 hours, No stiles AK2v£y Part of The National Forest STARTING POINT Sharpe’s Pottery 41 STARTING POINT National Memorial Museum, West Street, Swadlincote, Walk Way 36 Tutbury Health Walk Arboretum, Chapel Area DE13 7AR Derby, DE11 9DG Guided Walk Moderate A fascinating walk led by storytellers with Health Walk Easy A Pleasant Urban Walk linking Maurice Lea Park Start time 10.30am 1 music, poetry etc. A moving experience Start time 10am, 2 miles, 1 hour, No stiles and Eureka Park also visiting Emmanuel Church, 8 miles, 4 /2 hours, 6-10 stiles and a walk with a difference! Swadlincote. All have links with the Great War. STARTING POINT Car park opposite Life in Swadlincote during the War will also be STARTING POINT Car Park of Heather Lane, AK[] ds y £ Leopard Pub, Monk Street, Tutbury, discussed. close to LE67 2TH Burton Upon Trent, DE13 9NA AK[] 2v Follow The National Forest Way to Packington An enjoyable scenic walk around the village of where a 30min lunch break may be taken at the tutbury which hosts Tutbury Castle ruins. Then pub. Enjoy the newly planted and mature trees “a very good walk... after the walk enjoy a nice cup of tea. in the woodland to commemorate the Queens Jubilee. K[] 2y well done” K[] 2vy 16 the national forest walking festival the national forest walking festival 17

Oaklands Village – The Law of 45 Washlands to Walton Oaks Wood, Sinai 51 Caves and Rocks 42 48 Hydrostatics Guided Walk Moderate Battleshead Hill Guided Walk Moderate Health Walk Easy Start time 10am Guided Walk Leisurely Start time 10am, 11 miles, 6 hours, 11+ stiles 1 1 12 miles, 6 /2 hours, 1-5 stiles Start time 2pm, 2 miles, 1 /4 hours, No stiles Start time 2pm STARTING POINT Ticknall Village Hall 1 1 5 /2 miles, 2 /4 hours, 6-10 stiles STARTING POINT Oaklands village, STARTING POINT Watson St free car park, car park, Ingleby Lane, King Edward Place, Hall Farm road, Swadlincote, DE11 8ND Washlands rear of Tesco, Burton on Trent, STARTING POINT Carver Rd Community DE14 2EB for car sharing at 9:30 DE14 3AH Centre, DE13 0GQ A circular route with many opportunities to cut A circular walk of historical interest, new areas short with frequent stops to say a few words A flat walk along the River Trent to Walton The walk passes through Burton’s oldest wood, of National Forest access areas, reservoirs about each point of interest en-route. Stay for a bridge, back along the Trent and Mersey canal, goes past Burton’s oldest house and the alleged and rivers, walking from Ticknall to Foremark drink at the end at Oaklands Village (optional). lunch at Barton Marina and a chance to see site of a great Saxon Battle. Good views of the Reservoir and Carver’s Rocks SSSI to the some of the many BCV projects over 21 years. town, planting schemes and open Countryside. caves of Anchor Church, the River K[] ds£vy Trent and Ingleby. K[] 2vy We follow a short stretch of The National Forest Way. A[] 2 rd K[] vy A Weekend on the National Forest Footpaths along the Ashby Canal Saturday 23 May 46 52 Way – Ashby to Melbourne 49 Achille Wood and Farm Walk and Snarestone Newchurch, Newborough and 43 Guided Walk Moderate Guided Walk Leisurely Guided Walk Leisurely 1 New Views Start time 11am, 9 miles, 5 hours, 11+ stiles Start time 10am, 2 miles, 2 hours Start time 10.45am, 3 miles, 1 /4 hours £2, children & concessions free. Start time 2pm, 2 miles, 2 hours, 1-5 stiles Guided Walk Moderate STARTING POINT Main Street Snarlestone, Start time 10am, 10 miles, 6 hours, 11+ stiles STARTING POINT Ashby De La Zouch, STARTING POINT Hill Farm, Spring Lane, outside the Globe Inn, DE12 7DB Packington, Leics, LE65 1WU STARTING POINT Jacksons Bank Car Park, Tourist information Centre, A Leisurely walk along local footpaths and a Newchurch, DE13 8RG North St, LE65 1HU Take a leisurely stroll around farm and chance to have a look at the length of Ashby woodland taking in Canadian Bison, Red Deer, Canal recently restored north of Snarestone. From the Noon Column the walk enters the We will walk the National Forest way from Alpacas and many more. Finish with a visit to woodland owned by the Duchy of Lancaster and Ticknall and then along the link path back to [] 2y our Farm Shop for Refreshments. out into a sparsely populated area of attractive Melbourne. See website for further details www.melbournefootpathsgroup.org.uk. farmland with a number of Manor Houses and K[] 2y Large Houses. If staying in Melbourne a minibus will take you A weekend on the National Forest to the start (fare £2). 53 K 2 Way Hartshorne to Melbourne £ K[] £ th Guided Walk Moderate Ticknall, Hartshorne and Sunday 24 May Start time 11am, 7 miles, 4 hours, No stiles 44 47 Be Free Range with the Chickens 50 Bradgate Park and Groby Pool STARTING POINT Manchester Lane, Guided Walk Easy Hartshorne, DE11 7AF Guided Walk Moderate Start time 1pm, 3 miles, 1 hour, No stiles Guided Walk Leisurely (In car Park Opposite Derhick Hall) Start time 10am, 10 miles, 5 hours, 11+ stiles Start time 10am, 9 miles, 5 hours STARTING POINT Bettys Farm Willington, This is a linear walk along the Hartshorne to STARTING POINT Ticknall Village Hall Farm Shop, DE65 6BW STARTING POINT near the Co-op, Ticknall Section of The National Forest Way car park DE73 7JW Leicester Road, Groby, LE6 0DJ via Foremark Reservoir from Ticknall we walk A short walk around the Farm among the through Robin Wood and near St Brides Farm. An interesting circular walk first heading South sheep and the chickens. Looking up close and A circular walk from Groby, by the edge of the and West before stopping at Hartshorne church personal with our Wind Turbine and if you’re Pool, through Bradgate Park and back via woods K[] v for lunch, and a drink at the pub for those who lucky we can tour the chicken sheds. and fields giving stunning views throughout. wish. Then North to Foremark Reservoir, before Stops for lunch and refreshments. returning via Hangman’s stone to Ticknall. K[] svy K[] 2vy K[] 2v 18 the national forest walking festival the national forest walking festival 19

Jessop’s Tramway and the 57 An Evening Stroll 60 Teddy Walk, Hilton Gravel Pits 54 Coleorton Railway Guided Walk Leisurely Guided Walk Easy 1 Guided Walk Leisurely Start time 7pm, 4 miles, 2 hours, 1-5 stiles Start time 10.30am, 1 miles, 1 /2 hours Start time 2pm, 4 miles, 2 hours, 6-10 stiles STARTING POINT Barton Marina Car park, STARTING POINT Hilton Gravel Pits, Adults £3, children/concessions free (1st Car Park on right) DE13 8AS Willow Pit Lane entrance DE65 5FN STARTING POINT Hough Mill, St George’s An Evening Stroll from Barton Marina towards Your little ones will love this Teddy Walk. Follow in Hill, Swannington, Leics, LE67 8QE . Bertie Bear’s footsteps as you walk through Hilton Gravel Pits, looking through the viewing screens Historical Walk Including the 1790’s Fenton Ky £ to see the birds, listening out for the woodpecker, and Raper plus the 1850’s Califat coal mines – and walking along the boardwalk to where the Jessops 1794 tramway and 1833 horse drawn ducks and geese might be. This guided walk takes Coleorton railway. th you through the nature reserve whilst reading the K[] y Tuesday 26 May story of Bertie Bear on his trail. AKds2y Village, Church and 55 58 Ingleby and Anchor Church School 61 Stretton Health Walk th Guided Walk Moderate Wednesday 27 May Guided Walk Easy Start time 10am, 4 miles, 2 hours Guided Walk Easy 1 Start time 2pm, 1 /2 miles, 2 hours, No stiles Start time 2pm, 2-3 miles, 1 hour STARTING POINT John Thompson Pub, 63 Coalfields and Quarries STARTING POINT Church Gates DE65 6FH STARTING POINT The Green, Stretton, Ingleby DE73 7HW Guided Walk Leisurely Burton Upon Trent, Staffordshire. Repton was the ancient capital of Mercia and is Come and enjoy this historically interesting Start time 10am, 5 miles, 3 hours, 6-10 stiles DE13 9AF home to Repton School founded here in 1557. walk, starting with the course of the Old Trent STARTING POINT Main Street, Stanton This historical walk looks at places of interest in and by the Anchor Church, Formark Hall, Seven An enjoyable walk around the village of under Barton, LE67 9TP the village, Church and School. Sports and then back to Ingleby. For lunch at Stretton, which includes the delightful Tutbury K[] ds2y the pub (optional) order separately. Jinny Trail that once was part of the old railway See how areas once dominated by quarry waste line for Burton and Tutbury. AK[] 2y and coalfields have been transformed into K[] 2y country parks and woodland as we walk from Stanton to Bagworth and Thornton. 59 Stapenhill Gardens Health Walk th K[] 2 y 62 Stapenhill Hollows Health Walk v Monday 25 May Health Walk Easy Start time 10.30am, No stiles Health Walk Easy In the footsteps of 56 Melbourne Town Trail Distance: 3 walks. 1 short (10-30 mins), Start time 6.45pm, 2 miles, 1 hour, No stiles 64 2 medium (45-60mins), 3 long (60-90 mins) George Stephenson Guided Walk Easy STARTING POINT Stapenhill Hollows, 1 Start time 11am, 1 /2 miles, 2 hours STARTING POINT The bandstand, Stapenhill Stapenhill Road, Burton Upon Trent, Guided Walk Leisurely No stiles, Adults £2 Gardens, Main Street, Burton Upon Trent, Staffordshire, DE15 9AF Start time 10am, 7 miles, 4 hours, 6-10 stiles Staffordshire, DE15 9AP STARTING POINT Melbourne Church If you fancy a nice evening walk why not come STARTING POINT Near The Queens Head Square, DE73 8JH Three enjoyable health walks that take in the along and join this friendly group. There are Inn, Ashby road, Markfield, LE67 9UB pretty sights of Stapenhill and the surrounding various routes that we take, one being the (on street parking) Guided historical walk around Melbourne’s area. Walking next to the River Trent gives you Burton Mail Centenary Woodland, which is town core. Will suit history buffs! Finish the Through unspoiled old woods and meadows, the opportunity to look at the local wildlife and located next to the Washlands. walk with a drink or meal in one of our cafes, passing by Ulverscroft mill and priory and takr in the beautiful gardens that are set with pubs or tea rooms. K 2 y visiting Ulverscroft grange, where there are tea different flowers to suit the time of year. v rooms. AK y v K[] ds2 y v K[] 2v y 20 the national forest walking festival the national forest walking festival 21

68 Church Gresley 3 mile Health walk 71 Strolling Strong 73 Ashby Woulds Heritage Trail Health Walk Easy Guided Walk Moderate Guided Walk Easy 1 Start time 1pm, 3 miles, 1 hour, 1-5 stiles Start time 11am, 2 /2 miles, 1 hour, £1.50. Start time 2pm, 2 miles, 2 hours, 1-5 stiles STARTING POINT Gresleydale Healthcare STARTING POINT Outside in main foyer at STARTING POINT Moira Furnace, DE12 6AT Centre, Church Gresley DE11 9JT Rosliston Forestry Centre, DE12 8JX. A heritage walk starting at Moira Furnace, Free parking on site This exercise walk is ideal for busy mums and along the towpath of the Ashby Canal, through Discover the vast stretches of countryside, and dads who want to improve their fitness without Donisthorpe Woodland Park to the old Hinckley many public footpaths surrounding Church the hassle of trying to find a babysitter. This railway line. Learn about the Neolithic, Roman 65 Achille Wood and Farm Walk Gresley. This walk is led by trained walk specifically designed exercise walk combines and industrial past of the Ashby Woulds. leaders and is ideal for anyone who enjoy heart raising sections with a toning work out Guided Walk Leisurely K[] ds2v y walking through beautiful countryside in good whilst in the company of people in similar £ Start time 10am, 2 miles, 2 hours, 1-5 stiles company. The group walk at a decent place circumstances. for approximately 1 hour and stop for tea and 74 Newhall Beginners Health Walk STARTING POINT Hill Farm, Spring Lane, AK[] ds2v£y Packington, Leics, LE65 1WU treats afterwards (£1 donation requested) Sturdy footwear is advisable for this walk. Health Walk Easy Take a leisurely stroll around farm and 7372 Willington Beginners Walk Start time 2pm AK[] 2 y 1 woodland taking in Canadian Bison, Red Deer, v 2 /2-3 miles, 1 hour, 1-5 stiles Alpacas and many more. Finish with a visit to Health Walk Easy STARTING POINT Meet inside Old Post our Farm Shop for Refreshments. 69 A Walk Around Whitwick Start time 1.30pm 1 centre, Newhall. DE11 0HP 2 /2 miles, 1 hour, No stiles K[] 2y Guided Walk Leisurely STARTING POINT Canal car park, picnic Experience the vast amounts of beautiful Start time 1.30pm, 2 miles, 2 hours, No stiles countryside that surrounds Newhall. This area, Willington DE65 6BP (free of charge) 66 Yoxall Health Walk Adult £3, Family £6, Children Free Health walk is led by trained walk leaders and is Come and enjoy a led Health Walk along the suitable for those who walk regularly. The walk Health Walk Easy STARTING POINT The Old Station. scenic canal at Willington and stop for a hot takes you out of this busy village and onto the North Street, Whitwick, Leics, LE67 5HA Start time 10.45am drink in a local pub afterwards. This is a steady local fields and footpaths allowing you to take 2-3 miles, 1 hours, No stiles Free of charge parking opposite church. paced walk along decent footpaths. Although in the natural beauty of the scenery around you. STARTING POINT Health Centre, Savey This is a guided village walk which links there are no stiles, there are a few steps on Then, after the walk, stay for a drink at the Old Post Centre (optional.) Lane, Yoxall, Nr Burton-On-Trent, significant historical sites in Whitwick and route. This almost traffic free walk allows you to walk and chat whilst looking out for wildlife Staffs, DE13 8PD Free on-site parking reveals a fascinating story. Starting at the Old AK2y Station building and follows footpaths around along the canal. An Enjoyable Walk around the pretty village of the village centre. Please note: some of the route AK2y Yoxall with a friendly group of people. is hilly. The walk ends back at the Old Station. K2y AKds2£y

67 Reap What You Sow 70 Tutbury Health Walk Guided Walk Moderate Health Walk Easy 1 1 Start time 12.30pm, 1 /2 miles, 1 /2 hours Start time 10am, 2 miles, 1 hour, No stiles No stiles STARTING POINT Car park opposite STARTING POINT Watson Street free car Leopard Pub, Monk Street, Tutbury, park, Burton-On-Trent, DE14 3AH Burton Upon Trent. DE13 9NA A chance to see successful urban environmental An enjoyable scenic walk around the village of and history project, using cattle to a nature area Tutbury which hosts Tutbury Castle ruins. Then 10mins walk from Burton Market Place. after the walk enjoy a nice cup of tea. K[] 2vy K 2y 22 the national forest walking festival the national forest walking festival PARTNERS ASHBY CANAL TRUST HORNINGLOW AND ETON PARISH COUNCIL ashbycanaltrust.co.uk www.horninglowandetonparishcouncil.co.uk BETTY’S FARM LOUGHBOROUGH AND DISTRICT RAMBLERS www.bettysfarmshop.co.uk www.loughboroughramblers.org.uk BRANSTON PARISH COUNCIL MELBOURNE FOOTPATHS GROUP www.branstonparishcouncil.co.uk www.melbournefootpathsgroup.org.uk BURTON AND DISTRICT WILDLIFE GROUP MOIRA FURNACE MUSEUM www.moirafurnace.org BURTON CONSERVATION VOLUNTEERS www.bcv.org.uk NATIONAL MEMORIAL ARBORETUM thenma.org.uk BURTON ON TRENT RAMBLING CLUB Calke www.burtonramblers.org.uk NATIONAL TRUST www.nationaltrust.org.uk/calke-abbey Escape into the ancient and fragile habitats of COALVILLE RAMBLERS Calke Park and its National Nature Reserve with www.coalvilleramblers.org.uk NORTH WEST LEICESTERSHIRE DISTRICT COUNCIL downloadable trails and guided walks. www.nwleics.gov.uk DERBY RAMBLERS Discover the tales of an eccentric family who www.derbyramblers.org.uk OVERSEAL FOOTPATHS GROUP amassed a vast collection of hidden treasures and visit the beautiful, yet faded, gardens. BOROUGH COUNCIL REPTON VILLAGE HISTORY GROUP www.eaststaffsbc.gov.uk DISTRICT COUNCIL There's fun for all the family in every season with outdoor play trails, crafts & activities and EAST STAFFORDSHIRE RAMBLERS www.southderbys.gov.uk events throughout the year. www.eaststaffsramblers.org.uk SOUTH DERBYSHIRE Open 364 days a year; please visit the website FRIENDS OF THE QUEEN ELIZABETH ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION PROJECT for detailed opening times. www.roslistonforestrycentre.co.uk DIAMOND JUBILEE WOODS www.southderbys.gov.uk/environmentaleducation GET ACTIVE IN THE FOREST SWANNINGTON HERITAGE TRUST www.south-derbys.gov.uk 01332 863822 www.swannington-heritage.co.uk nationaltrust.org.uk/calke GRACE DIEU PRIORY WHITWICK HISTORICAL GROUP www.gracedieupriory.org.uk

www.whitwickhistoricalgroup.org.uk © National Trust Images . Registered Charity Number 205846. HILL FARM, PACKINGTON WOODHOUSE PARISH COUNCIL www.hillfarmpackington.co.uk www.woodhouseparishcouncil.org.uk

The National Forest Walking A BIG THANK YOU to all our Walk Festival gratefully acknowledges Walkers will be invited to complete an evaluation form at the Leaders, we are very lucky to have so many generous funding by knowledgeable and enthusiastic rangers end of each walk during the festival and the prize is: and volunteers as our guides, without A family admission voucher for 2 adults and up to 3 children 5-16 whose time and effort to plan and lead walks the Festival would not be possible. admission to Calke Abbey during normal opening hours. Designed by Melanie Harris - www.creativemelonline.co.uk 24 the nationalGETTING forest walking festival HERE IS EASY

The National Forest Walking Festival takes place in the very heart of 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