Wychnor and Dunstall Vale:  A scenic 9.5-Mile Staffordshire Walk from Barton Marina

This delightful 9.5-mile circular walk begins at the Barton Marina, a bustling waterside destination with its array of shops, cafés, and canal-side views. The group will enjoy that at the end of the walk, but early arrivers will find toilets and breakfast opportunities there.  Setting out along well-marked paths, we will head towards Wychnor Hall, an elegant Georgian manor house nestled amidst manicured gardens. Passing St. Leonard’s Church, a serene spot perfect for a brief pause to learn about the ancient Anglo-Saxon and Roman era history of this hamlet.

Continuing, the route takes us through open fields and quiet lanes as we make our way towards Dunstall Vale, where expansive views over the rolling Staffordshire countryside await. This section, with its gentle gradients, offers a chance to appreciate the area’s rural tranquility.

The walk has a mix of field paths, stiles, and occasional shaded woodland tracks. With a modest maximum incline of 100 meters, the terrain is accessible to most walkers, though sturdy footwear is recommended due to uneven ground in places.

The final stretch brings you back towards Barton under Needwood, where the promise of a cozy pub awaits for those who want to linger longer.

With its blend of historical landmarks, scenic vistas, and peaceful countryside, this walk offers a pleasant mix of rolling countryside views. It’s ideal for walkers seeking a manageable yet rewarding route.

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As part of a GOC initiative to offer even more value to the many members who travel a long distance to join Sunday walks, there will be a shorter Saturday afternoon walk from the same start spot. Here is the link: https://www.goc.org.uk/event/a-saturday-evening-staffordshire-ramble/

There is also group meal bookable for Saturday night. Please register on this link. Bookings close on August 8th.

https://www.goc.org.uk/event/staffordshire-saturday-social-evening-meal/

Nearby hotels include (ranked from low to high pricing):

https://www.travelodge.co.uk/hotels/120/Burton-A38-Northbound-hotel (5 min walk from the start/finish point)

https://www.the3horseshoesbarton.co.uk/stay-with-us This charming pub has three bedrooms

https://www.diamondresortsandhotels.com/Resorts/Wychnor-Park-Country-Club Wychnor Park has self catering apartment rooms.

https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/emabthi-hilton-at-st-georges-park-burton-upon-trent/?SEO_id=GMB-EMEA-HI-EMABTHI At the English Football Association’s St Georges Park headquarters and training ground.