Three Counties Walk
10 people attending
10 places left
In need of some fresh air and friendly company?
Join Samuel for a stroll through the heart of the Midlands, taking in the beautiful sights and sounds of rural Warwickshire, Leicestershire and Staffordshire. Taking us along the pretty byways from Atherstone - a place which can lay claim to the oldest ball game played in Britain.
We shall make our way along the canal for several miles before stopping at Poole Country Park where we shall climb the hill to look at the Golden Leaf: Buried Sunlight. This shall be our lunch stop, so please bring small packed lunch with you, we will be passing some shops if you are desperate, but this will likely be a corner shop in style and limited selection and availability.
We shall then rejoin the canal towards Tamworth. If people wish to do so we can stop at a pub for a relaxed pint, after which we shall head into Tamworth where we shall stroll to the train station and get a train back to Atherstone. This area has good train links to London and other areas, so public transport is a good option (assuming there isn't a rail strike, if there is, we shall group up and take a taxi or 4 back).
This should be a relatively easy walk, mostly flat terrain along the canal, with only one hill to navigate up and down. The canal path is well-trod, so should be okay, but if it rains it can get muddy so please wear appropriate footwear.
The route is just shy of 10 miles / 16km.
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Photo credits taken by OutdoorLads members and permission granted for use.
What to bring
Given it'll be autumn, please keep an eye on the forecast and be prepared for cold and possibly wet weather - layer appropriately and bring wet-weather gear.
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. Demin 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. 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 (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 long even laid track.
Bring any essential medicine you may need during the day for hay-fever, diabetes, or any on-going ailments or conditions.
Food & drink
Bring water, snacks and a packed lunch for the walk.