Member Article

Top 6 Hiking Trails in the Midlands

The Midlands has a quite a few AONB in the region that offers you a wide range of scenery to enjoy while you stroll along the hiking trails. Most are suitable to people of all ages and abilities and offer many places to enjoy a private picnic to enjoy the scenery.

Top 6 Hikes in the Midlands

1. Malvern Hills – The Malvern Hills is located in areas of Worcestershire, Herefordshire and Gloucestershire and while not being particularly long it does encompass a variety of landscapes to enjoy. In West Herefordshire there are rolling hills and wide open fields whereas the Severn Valley is relatively flat. In the background of most of the trail are hills in the background providing a beautiful backdrop. One of the more notable features are the springs and fountains along the way that are clean enough to drink out of. This is a trail for peple of all abilities, just be sure to wear a comfortable pair of hiking shoes or boots if you prefer. The scenery is fantastic, so be sure to take lots of pictures.
2. Shropshire Hills – This hiking trail consists of rolling hills with a large variety of trails and beautiful scenery. The most traveled trail is in Long Mynd however, Stiperstones and Wenlock Edge are also popular. The Long Mynd is a noteable geologic site and there are also excellent visitor amenities for families. If you are just looking to enjoy a picnic or head into the hills for a good walk, this an excellent place to go.
3. Kinver - If you looking for a fairly short trail with what may be the best scenery in Staffordshire, Kinver needs to be on your short list. The are some interesting cave dwellings and small houses that have been carved out of solid rock. If you go, be sure to keep an eye out for Nanny’s Rock that is just of the trail and offers an excellent view along with being a great place to have a picnic.
4. Dimmingsdale – This North Staffordshire trail is by far one of the most scenic with rolling hill and sandstone formations. There are some areas of steep inclines/declines so be forewarned but most anyone of modest fitness will be able to handle them. If you are a bird watcher you should definitely visit. It is known for is redstarts, willow warblers and pied flycatchers. If you keep a sharp eye out, you may spot owls and a variety of other birds.
5. Cannock Chase – The Chase was back in the day a hunting forest for medieval royalty. It has a very remote feel to it even though it’s not far from several urban areas. If you are quiet while walking, you can see deer feeding in the fields. A large part of the area is designated as SSSI so it is protected area. There are many trails in the area that are just waiting for you to explore.
6. Walsall Waterfront – This area was once an important area for mining limestone for cement but has not been active in almost a 100 years. You can however see ruins of pit shafts and pump housing that is being reclaimed by Mother Nature. This is another excellent area if you are a bird watcher. Coots, mallards and moorhens are inhabitants of the area. There are many pools that are so clear and clean that you can drink the water and now rare freshwater crayfish are found in the pools.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Robert Walsh .