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.
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.
