Wheelock Trail

OS Map Reference: SJ 753 588

This is a very easy walk and would make a good introduction to walking or a change for the more experienced. It is also a dry walk so is ideal for days when its normally muddy underfoot. In summer the passage of boats makes the canal section delightful.

The Journey

FROM the car walk back up the lane to the main road and turn right. Pass the PO and soon see a Pets Superstore on the left and The Old Mill on the right. Turn right here to reach the canal. Turn left and follow the canal for a good one and a half miles to go under a railway line. Continue to the next bridge, then under and up the steps (or ramp) on the left to join the road. Turn left, over the canal and follow this built up road for nearly half a mile where it swings left (no through road ahead) and then reaches a small roundabout. Over this to the opposite turning and almost immediately locate the Wheelock Trail on the right. Follow the old line, for over a mile to cross the canal. If you wish to shorten the walk by a good mile, descend to the canal and turn left (canal on right) to soon reach Wheelock and back to the car.

However for a more interesting walk, continue along the trail as it swings left (hedge between the trail and canal towpath) and follow this to it reaches a lane. Turn right, then enter a golf course. Continue along the metalled lane, through the golf course to soon emerge in a lane with some cottages. Pass these on the left and reach a road. Turn right. This is a very quiet road. Follow it until just before the main road where you turn left along a lane past a house. This goes under the road then emerges in the lane at the start.

Contributed by Peter Matthews of the Staffordshire Area Ramblers' Association. For further information phone 01782 336556.

The Walk

Level: A very easy route. Small section is built up. Follow route clockwise

Distance: 4 or 5.4 miles

Time: 2 or 3 hours

Parking: In the small lane at the edge of Wheelock

Refreshments: In Wheelock

For a map of this walk log on to www.thisisstaffordshire.co.uk/walks