Ease into the new year with a steady, scenic walk as Lee opens the 2026 Wilderness Walk programme in one of Staffordshire’s most quietly impressive locations…

Date: Friday 9th January 2026
Start Time: 9:30am prompt
Finish Time: Around 12:00pm
Start Point: Blithfield Walks Car Park, Newton Hurst Lane, near Abbots Bromley, WS15 3PH
OS Grid Reference: SK 054 260
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Car Parking: Free
Toilets: Available at this location
Walk Type: 3 – Somewhat Demanding — basic fitness required, good mobility essential
Dogs: Not permitted on this walk

Our opening walk of 2026 sets the tone beautifully. Starting from Blithfield Walks car park, the route quickly draws you into a rich mix of forest, woodland and meadow, where the variety of plant life is hard to miss even in mid-winter.

As the path winds on, Lee will point out distinctive tree species such as Scots pine, beech and hazel, along with some lesser-known plants that thrive in this landscape. Birds are a constant presence here too. Indeed, kestrels are often spotted hovering above the open ground.

The highlight comes at the turning point, where Blithfield Reservoir suddenly opens out around you. As we stand on the peninsula, you’ll be able to look out across the reservoir – first opened by The Queen Mother in October 1953. This is where we’ll pause, take a moment to reflect, and have a proper look around.

There’s so much to take in that this is very much a walk you’ll want to revisit. In fact, we’ve already pencilled in a return in spring.

To stay comfortable and confident underfoot, please arrive prepared with:

• Walking boots (walking shoes are not recommended due to muddy sections)
• Quick-drying trousers or leggings (not jeans)
• Warm layers: base layer, mid-layer or fleece, padded coat, waterproof jacket and trousers
• Hat and gloves
• Personal medications if required
• Around 1 litre of water or a cold drink
• A small, leakproof flask of tea or coffee
• Snacks or sweets for energy
• Binoculars if you have them (ideal for bird spotting)
• Fully charged mobile phone and emergency contact details
• A small backpack
• Hiking poles — not mandatory, but strongly recommended for the muddy, uneven sections

Start: 9:30am
Finish: Around 12:00pm
Terrain: Forest tracks, meadow paths, potentially muddy sections
Pace: Steady and observant
Fitness level: Somewhat demanding

This walk requires basic fitness but good mobility, particularly where paths are uneven or muddy. As with all WTA walks, the pace allows time to observe the wildlife and scenery.

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

This walk is rated 3 (Somewhat Demanding).

If you’re looking for a gentle reset after the festive break, this walk is perfect. It’s a reminder that you don’t need dramatic terrain for a memorable walk — just good company and a landscape that knows how to surprise.

Join Lee on Friday 9th January as Walk Talk Action kicks off 2026 with a hidden Staffordshire gem.