Walking in Staffordshire 7th June 2022
Walking in Staffordshire
Walking is one of the things we are always telling patients to incorporate more of. Whether it’s a lap around the block or carving out some quality time to really explore the area, walking benefits the body and the mind, a winning combination in our book.
The simple act of walking is hugely therapeutic for back pain sufferers as it helps to maintain cross body coordination, movement and strength. Furthermore, by simply taking regular walks you will help reassure your muscles that they can move and any underlying muscle tension will ease with the gentle movement.
In Staffordshire, we are blessed to have some amazing walks in the vicinity of the centre and our homes, and here are a few of our favourite ones for you to try.
Trentham Gardens
Trentham Gardens is a gorgeous walk, there is a ticketed gardens and lake walk as well as a free walk up to the Josiah Wedgwood statue you can access from parking at the Monkey Forest site - keep your eyes peeled for an amazing view across the city and if you're lucky you might get a glimpse of a Barbary macaque or two.
Barlaston Downs
Just down the road from Trentham are the stunning Downs Banks woodland and hills complete with its quintessentially English countryside with streams to cross and acres of lush green farmland - you're more likely to bump into cows than monkeys here.
Apedale Country Park
There are more routes around the Apedale hills than we could ever mention, but it is a gorgeous place to head whether you have ten minutes or a couple of hours to spare. On the weekend you can take an old fashioned train ride and pop into the visitor centre to take in the history of Stoke-on-Trent's proud mining industry. It’s the sort of place you can visit time and time again and never take the same route around. The footpaths are well marked and there are great spots to take a picnic, we recommend hiking up to the miner's wheel and to stop for a flask of tea to take in the far reaching views across the city.
Westport Lake
An easy access and less challenging circular route, this is perfect for a coffee and a catch up with a friend or simply to get some steps in. We love this 1 mile loop walk because you can completely tailor how long you want to be walking for by increasing the laps of the lake. Plus, there always seems to be something new to spot each time, whether it is a bird in the water or blossoms on the trees!
The Roaches
Just the other side of Leek, The Roaches are filled with endless opportunities for walks and exploring. It's slightly tricker terrain, so make sure you are wearing your walking boots, and you’re prepared for some loose rocks underfoot. Gorgeous views across the Staffordshire Moorlands and Peak District are your reward. It is one of our favourite places to walk in Staffordshire.
Heading further afield
If you want to head a little further from home, Mam Tor in the Peak District is another top pick from the team. At 517 metres high it is one of the most famous hikes in the Peak District. Whilst challenging it can be done as a circular walk from the town of Castleton within a day plus many of the walks here end at the pub, so you have the motivation of a pie and a pint to get you round.
We absolutely love going on a team walk. It is such a good opportunity to socialise and get out of our heads away from the everyday stresses. Here's some photos of some of our most recent outings.
Considerations
With any physical activity, it is worth keeping in mind your own level of fitness and any injuries you may have. Make sure you are wearing appropriate clothing and footwear, and take any equipment you may need with you, such as walking poles and water proofs. If you’re going on a new walk, it is worth getting the local OS map to find out about the length, terrain and inclines you will experience, as you don’t want to overdo it. Our team boasts several keen ramblers, so if you have any questions about where we would recommend to you please feel free to get in touch. So, where are you heading? We want to hear all about it next time you visit the centre!
