Uttbur two

Slow Way not verified yet. Verify Uttbur here.

I started this route from Burton. The first section comprises of the best way in or out of Burton that I've walked. Quiet side streets lead you to a footpath across Shobnall Fields and then to fields beyond. There is a steep climb to a stile (first of many) but the view back across Burton and north towards the Trent Valley are worth it. The section as far as Fauld follows footpaths, the wildlife and the views are breathtaking but the quality of the stiles and the amount of chined gates that need clambering over are shocking and prevent this section from being 5 star. The walk around Fauld Crater was something I've wanted to do since I first heard about it when I moved to Lichfield. The size of the crater, which is now full of trees and the fact that a single explosion caused it, is awe inspiring. There is an information board and memorial there. It's a short walk to Hanbury from there and beyond the village the path crosses open fields to Draycott in the Clay, where the route passes a farm shop and a pub. After a few more sheep filled fields, the route joins the pavement of the main road to Marchington. I had hope to leave this road to pick up the footpaths into the village but the only direct link is not a right of way and a barbed wire topped gate greets anyone trying to access it. So at this point the road loses its pavement and the walker needs to use the verge when traffic approaches. The road at Hound Hill loses the verge and I found myself walking on the road, relying on the cars to avoid me. This section was not comfortable, and it definitely costs the route a star but the traffic was light enough and sensible enough to not deem this 300m section too dangerous to walk. The detour via the pavementless centre of Marchington does add a shop and two pubs to the Slow Way, so it's not all bad news. The last legs of the walk comprise of a short track as far as a level crossing of the not terrifically busy Crewe to Derby line and then footpaths through a series of fields of cattle along the Dove to Uttoxeter. This has some of the elements of a model Slow Way. It is incredibly direct and easy to follow. There are places to stop every 5km, great views, wildlife galore and some incredibly interesting localities. However, the quality of the infrastructure is poor and the road walk between Marchington and Hound Hill could not be described as enjoyable or relaxing. Only 3 stars.

Share your views about this route, give it a star rating, indicate whether it should be verified or not.

Include information that will be useful to others considering to walk or wheel it.

You can add up to 15 photos.