JOHN MERRILL'S STAFFORDSHIRE MOORLANDS CHALLENGE WALK - 24 MILES & 2,000ft..OF ASCENT

ABOUT THE WALK -

I have been aware of the scenic beauty of the Staffordshire Moorlands and especially the stunning Churnet Valley. I had long wanted to write a book on the walks in the area and this ambition was fulfilled in 1987 with my Short Walk book. This was later followed that year by my Canal Walks Vol Two book which included the delightful Caldon Canal. I am working on a Long Circular Walk
book, but in the meantime I wanted to extend my Challenge Walk series and so have added this one!

As with all my challenge walks, I endeavour to make them strenuous, but linking together my favourite parts of the region. After several forays into the area I finally decided upon my route and set off from Oakamoor in late October 1987. Eight hours later in perfect, weather I had walked the route and was rather stunned at the high quality of the scenery. I shall not forget the long autumn shadows of the Churnet Valley from Toothill Rock. With the walk completed I was
still slightly unhappy about two of the areas and after a few more forays found the best routes.

I thoroughly enjoyed the walk and its tremendous variety of views, woodland, river, village and canal locations. I can only hope that you experience an equally perfect day for your walk and see for yourself the magnificent scenery of the Churnet Valley. The view from the Weaver Hills on a clear day is among the top ten in England! Have a good walk and let me know how you got on!

A5. Guide book. Signed by John Merrill.  SPECIAL OFFER PRICE

Emroidered cloth badge and signed certificate available from John Merrill, for successful walkers.

Names of succesful walkers added to my Walkers Roll of Honour page.