Staunton Harold - Walk In ‘Stile’
12 people attending
8 places left
Discover rolling hills and views across the Trent Valley in the East Midlands.
We begin at Staunton Harold Hall, a private managed estate with a lake, garden centre, tea shop, craft centre, and National Trust church. The Hall is ancestral home to the Shirley family, who became Earls Ferrers under Queen Anne.
The walk heads through fields and woodland over a series of stiles out of Leicestershire to Melbourne in Derbyshire.
We take a packed lunch at Melbourne Pool, a small lake overlooked by St Michael and St Mary's Grade 1 listed Church of England building dating from 1133. Melbourne Hall and gardens is nearby.
From there, the route heads to Breedon on the Hill Church with significant views in all directions. The route returns through Breedon, across a golf course, and over fields back to Staunton Harold Tea Rooms for optional refreshments.
Distance 12.8 km (8 miles). Total ascent 231 m (758 feet). Approximately 5 hours.
Dogs
Well-controlled dogs are welcome but please keep dogs under control at all times.
All images taken by the event leader with permission for ODL use.
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What to bring
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 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. Avoid jeans as they 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. Sun block is advisable during prolonged exposure. 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 of 20 to 30-litre capacity, allowing you to use your arms freely, is suitable for most day walks.
Walking sticks are optional and may assist when climbing or descending, or on uneven ground.
Bring any essential medicine you may need during the day for hay-fever, diabetes, or any on-going ailments or conditions.
Food & drink
Bring at least one litre of water and any preferred drinks, food and snacks to keep you going during the day. Day walks require a packed lunch unless otherwise stated. Avoid foodstuff that will melt, leak or go off before you eat it.