Top 3 walks in Stoke-On-Trent YAP Part 2

1.0 Introduction

Due to having quite a busy week, I am keeping the YAP short this week, but that does not mean it won't be as good. So I'm back in Stoke-On-Trent and since I'm home for the week I thought I would share with you some of the hotspots near here. So this week we will be looking at the top 5 walks you could go to if you do end up passing through into Stoke-On-Trent, or if you happen to be stopping by our ends for a couple of days, you may want to check these out.

2.0 The cloud

We will be starting off with number 3 in Cheshire not too far from Biddulph moor which is a countryside village towards the north of Stoke-On-Trent, in a lot of ways it is a hidden gem that offers plenty of breathtaking views. One of the few great walks near Biddulph moor is the cloud, hidden away in the heart of the countryside, the Cloud offers a fine walk. Whether it be through the forest on the south side or the stairway up to the peak on the north side, you can spend just a few hours of your day walking around this hilly area. Once you have got to the top although its not as high as say Snowdon, it still offers some pretty amazing views, there is also a compass at the peak which shows you where other cities are and how many miles it would take to get there. The only issue with going to the Cloud is parking, due to there not being a car park I advise that you travel on a quieter day. Although technically this is in Cheshire and not Stoke if your feeling like maybe going a bit out of your way or you are coming from up that way then it's definitely worth the stop.

3: Barlaston downs

Coming in a number 2 we are going south to the opposite side of Stoke-On-Trent where we have Barlaston downs which is again a nature walk that sits between Meir and Stone. This walk is a lot longer than the Cloud and also offers some pretty stunning views. As you walk in you will be offered a variety of paths to choose, all which circle back around to where the car park is. The walk also splits off towards other fields so be mindful that you don't get lost. The best part about this walk is how peaceful it is, with the added scenery you can easily lose yourself within this part of the countryside, there is also a stream that you will encounter while on your walk and there will be some stepping stones to help you get across to the other side. There is a big car park so unlike the Cloud you will be able to find a space with ease, this is one walk that I would highly recommend if you are in the area.

Barlaston downs, https://www.flickr.com/photos/xupaphotos/5933429409

4: Rudyard Lake

At number 1 we have Rudyard lake. We go back up to Biddulph moor where we encounter the small village of Rudyard. This reservoir is a key hotspot for most people who want a nice walk. The longest walk out of the three Rudyard lake offers a day out that you will not forget, whether you fancy a long hike around the area or want to set up a picnic you can be sure that if the weather is right you will have a good day. As for the views well they are pretty complimentary, as you can see in the picture below, Rudyard offers some fine views, especially when the boats are out on the lake as well. As for travel and parking you will need to make sure you get there early to get a parking space as most of the time it is very busy especially on the weekends so I would advise you to get there for as early as possible. But this is a definite recommendation if you are traveling through Stoke and you fancy a day out somewhere.

5.0 Conclusion

If you do some research there are of course more walks around Stoke-On-Trent than that may meet the eye, some honourable mentions are: Dimmingsdale in Alton, Mow Cop is not so much of a walk but a nice landmark near Kidsgrove and Park Hall country park which is near Longton. But these are 3 of my favourites and most recent walks which is why I have decided to choose them for this weeks YAP. Now although the Vibe rating for Stoke was low last time this raises it from a 5 to more of a 6, part 3 will really determine if Stoke-On-Trent hits the vibe or whether it falls short on the Vibeometer which I believe is a word I have just made up.

As I said at the start I apologise that this is a shorter YAP than usual but I hope you have enjoyed the read, if you want to check out Part 1 click the blue button.

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If you would like to see more photos click the red button. All photos will be located in the Stoke-on-Trent gallery.

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Thank you.

Matthew :)

YAPVibe Blogger