The best walks and hikes around Barlaston

Yes, Barlaston is a great area for walking with dogs. Many trails, especially the towpaths along the Trent and Mersey Canal and the paths through woodlands like Hem Heath Woods, are well-suited for dogs. For a particularly scenic outing, consider the trails at Downs Banks, a popular National Trust spot with open heathland and woods. Always be mindful of local signage regarding leads, especially near wildlife and livestock.

The towpaths along the Trent and Mersey Canal offer the most gentle and flat walks, making them ideal for families with children. These paths are scenic and provide opportunities to see canal boats and wildlife. The Plume of Feathers Pub – Barlaston Hall loop from Oulton is another good, relatively easy option that combines countryside views with a glimpse of the historic Barlaston Hall.

Yes, the majority of popular routes in the area are circular. You can find loops that take you along the canal, through woodlands, and across heathland. This allows you to enjoy a variety of scenery without retracing your steps. For a longer circular route, the Bridge 100 (Turnover Bridge) – Stone Canal Lock and Bridge loop from Barlaston offers an extensive walk along the canal.

The terrain is quite varied. You'll find very flat, easy-going surfaces on the Trent and Mersey Canal towpaths. In contrast, areas like Downs Banks and Hem Heath Woods feature more traditional woodland paths with some gentle inclines, uneven ground, and tree roots. Most trails are well-trodden, but can become muddy after rain.

For some of the best views over the Staffordshire countryside, head to Downs Banks. The higher points of this National Trust heathland offer expansive vistas. Another local favorite for its outstanding views is Millennium Point, which provides a great vantage point on several local walking routes.

The area is rich in wildlife. Along the Trent and Mersey Canal and near Wedgwood Pool, you can often spot herons, swans, ducks, and other waterfowl. The woodlands, such as Hem Heath Woods and Hanchurch Woods, are excellent for birdwatching, where you can hear and see a variety of woodland birds. Keep an eye out for squirrels and other small mammals throughout the nature reserves.

Yes, several routes connect the Trent and Mersey Canal with the area around the World of Wedgwood. The Hem Heath Woods Nature Reserve – Wedgwood Museum loop from Barlaston is a moderate hike that takes you through nearby woods and past the famous pottery landmark, offering a mix of nature and industrial heritage.

Parking availability varies. For walks at Downs Banks, there is a dedicated National Trust car park, but it is small and can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. For walks starting in Barlaston village or along the canal, you will typically need to find on-street parking. Please park considerately and check for any local restrictions.

While most routes are day hikes, the Trent and Mersey Canal towpath itself is part of a 92-mile long-distance path. You can create your own long-distance walk by following the canal north towards Stoke-on-Trent or south towards Stone and beyond, making Barlaston an excellent starting or finishing point for a multi-day trek.

The area is highly regarded by the komoot community, with over 2,600 hikers exploring the trails. Reviewers often praise the peaceful canal-side paths and the beautiful scenery at Downs Banks. The mix of easy, flat walks and more varied woodland trails means there is something for everyone.

The firm, level towpath along the Trent and Mersey Canal is the most suitable option for wheelchair users and prams. The paths are wide and generally free of obstacles. Trails in woodland areas like Downs Banks or Hem Heath Woods are generally not accessible due to uneven surfaces, inclines, and potential muddiness.