The Rambler's Retreat to Alton and Wootton (12.5 Miles, Moderate)
Details
For those who came on our last excursion to this lush region of Staffordshire, the names Alton Castle and Wootton Lodge will be familiar. Yet while we'll be passing both of these impressive buildings on this outing, we'll be following a different route: out through the Churnet Valley, beyond Wootton Estate, over Weaver Hills, across Ramshorn Common, down the Oakamore Heritage Trail and through the fairy-filled Cotton Dell... back to the delightful Rambler's Retreat tearooms for a post-hike tipple.
Just a few hills to speak of on this trek but still a decent romp for the keen hiker.
Meeting point
The Ramblers Retreat:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/ShtVUUcCcW93bQzeA
Parking
Parking at the Ramblers Retreat is free of charge.
Public transport
There's a bus from Stafford to Alton that arrives at 9:45 and it's a 15 minute walk to the Ramblers Retreat so let me know if you're planning on arriving by public transport
https://www.dgbus.co.uk/bus-services/x41/
Dogs
Well behaved dogs are welcome on the walk and in the Ramblers Retreat afterwards.
What to bring
Please bring a packed lunch, water and appropriate clothing/footwear for the weather and terrain.
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DISCLAIMER
Please acknowledge the following:
• The walk is entirely free of charge. You only arrange for your own travel and pub expenses.
• Understand our terms and conditions below (the "IMPORTANT" part).
• Understand how to stay safe outdoors, as you will be responsible for yourself.
• Walk distances can be up to 15 miles or more and we can be out for as long as 5-7 hours.
• We usually stop for a packed lunch and pop in to a country pub for a post or mid-hike drink.
Feel free to ask any questions in the comments section!
Here's a guide to the difficult rating:
• Easy - Short distance, less than ten miles and mostly flat. Suitable for anyone capable of a brisk stroll.
• Moderately Easy - Shortish distance, around ten miles, some gentle hills. For those who walk regularly but don't have too much hiking experience.
• Moderate - Between ten and twelve miles, a few decent hills with potentially steep sections. For those with some hiking experience.
• Moderately Challenging - Longer distance, twelve miles or over with lots of hills. Suitable for hikers who enjoy being out for most of the day.
• Challenging - Around fifteen miles or more, with hills, mountains and maybe the odd scramble. For experienced hikers who like pushing themselves.
• Hard - Long distance, sometimes over twenty miles, with mountains and difficult terrain. Only suitable for fit, experienced hikers.
IMPORTANT
Please bear in mind this is a free of charge, self-guided trip with a hobby group. It is not organised by a business nor any entity with commercial purposes. Any trip details, travel advice, route planning, instructions and other content in our group merely represent our shared personal knowledge, research and suggestions as outdoor enthusiasts. As this is not a business, there is no "product", "service" or "package" and also no "tour guide", "operator" or "walk leader". Each participant is responsible for their own safety. Even if some of us are very experienced walking outdoors, nobody assumes responsibility for any kind of injury, damage or loss that may happen. Our experienced members volunteer their time and effort to shape a pleasant and quality adventure for everyone. By participating you acknowledge and agree with this disclaimer.