Canalside Farm car park, where the walk will begin.
Walk Leader Lee Quinn is back this November with another breathtaking route — and this one’s extra special. He’ll be joined by Teri for a memorable morning exploring another of Staffordshire’s scenic landscapes.
Starting from the Canalside Farm Shop and Café in Great Haywood, this route weaves along the peaceful Staffordshire and Worcestershire Canal. If we’re fortunate, we might spot graceful herons or vibrant kingfishers. But we’ll definitely see beautiful autumnal reflections dancing on the water.
Midway through the route, we’ll take on a steep hill climb. It’s a test of stamina, but one that rewards with stunning panoramic views stretching across Stafford and beyond.
From there, the path leads into the beautiful Shugborough Hall estate, before we retrace our steps back through the forest to Canalside. It’s there we’ll pause for a well-earned pot of tea and a deserved rest.
This is a 4-star, moderately difficult walk, best suited to those with a good level of fitness and mobility. The route includes some uneven terrain and uphill sections, but the pace will be steady and supportive. It’s all about enjoying the journey, the company, and the scenery.
Please note that dogs cannot join this walk. This is because the route passes through forest areas during stag rutting season, and we could potentially spot wild deer along the way.
As always, Lee and Teri will guide the group through a safe and enjoyable route. There’ll be opportunities to pause, take in the views, and enjoy good conversation along the way.
The lowdown
Date: Friday 7th November 2025
Start Time: 9:30am prompt
Finish Time: Around 12pm (midday)
Start Point: Canalside Farm Shop and Café, Mill Lane, Great Haywood, Stafford, ST18 0RQ
OS Grid Reference: SJ 99561 23113
What3Words: random.retailing.majoring
Toilets: Available on-site (same What3Words)
Walk Type: 4 – Moderately Difficult — good fitness and mobility required
Dogs: Not permitted on this walk
What to bring
To help you get the most out of your day (whatever the weather throws at us!), please come prepared. Here’s an idea of what to bring:
- Walking boots or suitable sturdy shoes
- Quick-drying trousers or leggings (not jeans)
- Layers: base layer, fleece/mid-layer, and waterproof coat
- Hat and gloves — or sunglasses if we’re lucky!
- Personal medications (e.g. inhaler)
- Around 1 litre of water or a cold drink
- A small, leakproof flask of tea or coffee for the rest stop
- Snacks or sweets for an energy boost
- Binoculars if you have them (we may see deer!)
- Fully charged mobile phone and emergency contact details
- A small backpack to carry your essentials comfortably
Fitness level guide
1: Very Easy – can be done without training
2: Easy – possible without preparation
3: Somewhat Demanding – basic fitness required
4: Moderately Difficult – good fitness and mobility required
5: Demanding – good fitness essential; prior training recommended
6: Very Demanding – very good fitness and previous training essential
Come and join us
This promises to be a spectacular Autumn walk — full of colour and, hopefully, wildlife. If you’re ready to stretch your legs, enjoy some mindful miles, and take in the natural beauty around Stafford and Shugborough, then this one’s not to be missed.
We’ll see you bright and early on Friday 7th November, as Lee and Teri lead another Walk Talk Action adventure.
Do you need our help?
To find out more about how Walk Talk Action can help, you can email Teri at info@walktalkaction.co.uk Or, if you’d like to join one of our sessions, you can complete our application form.
