Burmel one

Slow Way not verified yet. Verify Burmel here.

This route is longer by 2 miles than Burmel2 and is not accurately plotted leading to some difficult navigation decisions or failure to make the correct decision especially around Carver's Rocks where there are many paths not shown on the maps. While I had the benefit of an OS base map to consult it should be possible to follow a Slow Way without additional information. As reported in the earlier review there is an issue at the west end of Staunton Harold Reservoir. Notices make clear, correctly, that the track is not recorded as public. I turned right along Broadstone Lane then left onto Melbourne FP34, this becomes Ticknall FP30 and users deviate from the correct line to meet the plotted route along Ticknall FP1 which has been incorrectly fenced along the field edge. The DCC mapping portal has a further twist in that the track with 'No Public Access' notices is officially recorded as a proposed cycle route, time may improve access in this location. To view a larger map, right click on picture then select open image in new tab.

I enjoyed the walk, passing two reservoirs and their facilities plus the interest of Carver's Rocks, a small detour to Hangman's Stone, Bretby Castle and some good views, even on a misty December day. This route could be tweaked to offer improvements but because it does not meet the Slow Ways criteria there is little point in adding yet another route that would inevitably be another leisure walk.

As Ken's review details, there is a section of this walk that is not accessible to the public. I will post a walkable version as the route is not completely without merit.

Burmel One is a winding route that takes in both Staunton Harold and Foremark Reservoirs. It is pretty as a stand-alone walk for its own sake, but it is too long and meandering to be considered a through route between Burton-on-Trent and Melbourne. Burmel Two is a straighter and shorter route for this purpose.

I walked from Melbourne in a westerly direction. The route is in good condition with 2 easy stiles and no serious obstacles.

The Fortey’s café opposite the Melbourne meeting point is an excellent way to begin the day! (Photo 1)

From Melbourne the route heads south on the B587 for a short way before heading south-west onto footpaths around Staunton Harold Reservoir. As you reach the westerly point of the reservoir, the route says to follow a footpath across a field of crops. The farmer says otherwise and there is a signed footpath 30 metres ahead that you follow. This takes you across a private drive and back onto the path that you follow into Ticknall.

You will cross the A514 onto a pavement and walk for a short way, before turning right (photo 2) to walk up to the Village Hall (photo 3); there are toilets here. The gate opposite the toilets (photo 4) puts you onto the National Forest Way.

At Hangman’s Stone (photo 5 – the stone is a little further along one of the paths not used on this route).

Foremark Reservoir (photo 6). The views are slightly spoilt by the 2 metre metal fencing put up all around the reservoir. There are toilets and a coffee shop here.

Photo 7 shows the National Forest Way looking over Hartshorne.

Be aware that the roads around Bretby do not have pavements – you will need to walk on verges until you get to the houses near Oldicote Farm.

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