Boxing Day on The Chase
10 people attending
10 places left
Whether you need to work off some Christmas calories, or are just looking to take advantage of the holiday to stretch your legs, I hope you'll join me for a Boxing Day walk over and around Cannock Chase.
Cannock Chase is a well-known mixed area of countryside lying between Cannock, Rugeley and Stafford. It was designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in 1958 and is the smallest area to be so designated in mainland Britain at some 26 square miles.
Our walk will take in some of the most popular locations of the eastern edge of The Chase including Seven Springs, the Stepping Stones and Milford Common and should offer some wonderful views to the north and east of Staffordshire and beyond. As The Chase is home to a herd of around 800 fallow deer, wildlife sightings are also possible.
As well as Cannock Chase, we'll also be exploring sections of the Trent & Mersey and Staffs and Worcester canals.
Well-behaved dogs are welcome on this walk.
Your First OutdoorLads Event?
We know that new members in particular like to know in advance more about what an OutdoorLads event will be like.
If this is your first OutdoorLads event, you should check out the information designed specifically for you on the My First Event page on the OutdoorLads website. If you have any questions then feel free to message the leader if you have any questions.
What if there is a Waiting List?
If this event is fully booked and you want to attend, just add yourself to the waitlist, because places inevitably become available closer to the date.
Image credits: All pictures have been taken by the walk leader and permission is given to ODL for their use.
What to bring
Given the winter season, please be sure to check the weather forecast and bring appropriate clothing layers and waterproofs as well as sturdy footwear to keep you safe, warm and dry.
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. Denim 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. 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 along even laid track.s
Bring any essential medicine you may need during the day for hay-fever, diabetes, or any on-going ailments or conditions.
Food & drink
Feel free to bring any snacks you would like along the way and a packed lunch if you desire.
Be sure to bring at least 1 litre of water with you and perhaps a hot drink due to the season.