New Fancy View, Cyril Hart Arboretum and Cannop Ponds
10 people attending
15 places left
This forest walk starting from the village of Parkend, takes in the miners monument at New Fancy View before wondering along the woodland paths to the Cyril Hart Arboretum which is home to over 200 different species of trees where we will pause for some lunch. The afternoon then takes us back via Cannop Ponds, which were originally created in the early 19th century to supply water for the Ironworks in Parkend, but are now a nature reserve and fishing lakes, before we head back to the start for a well deserved drink.
Be warned good quality walking boots will be needed for this walk as parts will be very muddy!
The walk is suitable for dogs with very few styles but they will need to be kept under control on the stretches of road.
What to bring
Water: bring at least two litres
Medicines: if you have hay fever, diabetes, minor ailments etc.
Day rucksack: typically 20-30 litres, they are comfortable to wear and allow you to use your arms freely
Boots: waterproof and breathable and designed for hiking NOT trainers. The ground will be wet and muddy
Socks: proper walking socks will keep your feet dry and help prevent blisters
Layered clothing: lets you quickly adapt to changes in the weather and body temperature. Go for a base layer (vest or t-shirt) and a mid layer (a micro fleece or shirt) and in cooler weather add an outer layer (a windproof jacket or thick fleece)
Trousers: ideally no jeans as they become heavy and cold in the rain, breathable fabrics are more comfortable and dry and on warm days shorts are OK
Waterproof jacket: essential when hiking in all but the calmest of weather, breathable fabrics are more comfortable and dry
Gloves: Windproof, or better still, waterproof gloves are the best choice, bring a spare pair if expecting rain
Hat or cap: stay warm in winter and shaded in summer
Sunglasses: for any sunny day, even in winter
Snacks: bring biscuits, energy bars, gels, bananas, chocolate or dried fruit for example and put them somewhere easy to get hold of
Lunch: bring a packed lunch unless otherwise stated
Food & drink
A packed lunch and plenty to drink will be essential on this walk. There is a small shop in the village but opening times are subject to change! There is unlikely to be any other chances to buy provisions on route.