Dudley

'There are a number of countryside walks in Dudley. These follow public rights of way, canal towpaths or other permissive routes through nature reserves and the like. Programmes of guided walks and other events are arranged throughout the year, often focussing on the nature reserves and countryside walk routes.'

Categories of Walks: [1] Extra Long  'An all day walk of 12 miles plus, with three breaks. Seasoned walkers at a quicker pace. Could include high peaks '- - - : [2]  Long  'An all day walk of 10 - 12 miles, more strenuous, with three breaks possibly including a pub. It is recommended that new walkers attempt a short or a medium first' - - - : [3] Medium  'Walks of 7-9 miles possibly undulating terrain. At least two breaks possibly with a pub' - - - : [4] Short  'Half day walk of 4-6 miles, these are easy going and make an ideal introduction to rambling'

'Lady Dudley planted Saltwells Wood in the eighteenth century to hide the scars of coal mining. The descendants of the Oak and Beech still survive and are home to many species of woodland bird, such as Treecreeper, Jay and Great Spotted Woodpecker. Wild Garlic and Anemones are found in the wood together with carpets of Bluebells.'

'Located on the western edge of the West Midlands of England,  Stourbridge (HF) Rambling Club is a long established club. It arranges walks for its members on several days each week. The walks range from short, easy walks to longer more challenging ones. We also arrange walking short breaks twice a year.'

'All our health walks are delivered in conjunction with Walking for Health - a national initiative that helps people access short, free and friendly health walks in their local area. Our progression walks are harder and are longer in duration, over 90 minutes.'

'Dudley & South Staffordshire CAMRA and Stourbridge & Halesowen CAMRA in conjunction with Dudley Borough Council Leisure and Tourism Development Department have produced a Real Ale Trail. The Black country is a little corner of beer heaven and this guide highlights just some of the many great pubs that we have in Dudley Borough.'

Three towpath walks which formerly were briefly described on the Canal & River Trust Website with links through to the iFootpath Website; now only on the latter Site:

* Dudley No 1 Canal to Fens Pool (6 miles)

* Along Dudley No. 2 Canal from Bumble Hole to Coombswood Bridge (6 miles)

* A walk along the Dudley Canal from Bumble Hole to Dudley Tunnel (7 miles)

'Several leaflets can be downloaded ... which give a brief history and guide to some of the important buildings and places within towns in the Dudley Borough, including suggested routes for walks.'