WALKS, FITNESS SESSIONS & ACTIVITIES in Dudley borough s parks, nature reserves and green spaces.

Transcription

1 WALKS, FITNESS SESSIONS & ACTIVITIES in Dudley borough s parks, nature reserves and green spaces. APRIL TO SEPTEMBER 2015

2 Welcome Section 1 - what s on to the latest let s get active outdoors booklet. This book is packed full of free walks, fitness sessions, activities and health classes taking place in our borough s parks and green spaces. Children s book swap 1 APRIL, 1.30PM Exchange your favourite books and toast marshmallows around the campfire. To book call Pond dipping at The Leasowes 1 APRIL, 10AM TO 12NOON AND 1PM TO 3PM Discover the small beasties living beneath the water. 2 per child. To book call Mini-beast hunt at Mary Stevens Park 2 APRIL, 11AM TO 12.30PM We ll search high and low to see what creepy crawlies can be found. 2 per child. To book call Den building at Cotwall End 2 APRIL, 2PM TO 4PM Learn how to make a den or shelter from natural materials. To book call Easter hunt 4 APRIL, 1.30PM Search the park, find the clues and win a prize. To book call Easter fun at Mary Stevens Park 4 APRIL, 12NOON TO 3PM Bring a boiled egg for decorating then have a go at egg rolling and an egg and spoon race, followed by a family treasure hunt. 2 per child. To book call Potting workshop 7 APRIL, 1.30PM Learn about salad pots and windowsill gardening and take your pot away. To book call Young gardeners at Mary Stevens Park 7 AND 11 APRIL, 11AM TO 12.30PM Learn some tips to take home for your family garden. 2 per child. To book call Creature comforts at The Leasowes 8 APRIL, 10AM TO 12NOON & 1PM TO 3PM Make a bird box, bat box or bug hotel for your own garden. 4 per box. To book call APRIL, 2PM TO 4PM required to stay. To book call Pond dipping at Fens Pool 8 APRIL, 10AM TO 12NOON, AND 9 APRIL, 2PM TO 4PM Delve into the waters of Fens Pool and see what you can find below the surface. 2 per child. Meeting point Chapel Street car park, Pensnett. To book call Recycling craft at Mary Stevens Park 9 APRIL, 11AM TO 12.30PM Make something really rubbish with recycled materials. 2 per child. To book call

3 Den building at Cotwall End 10 APRIL, 2PM TO 4PM Learn how to make a den or shelter from natural materials. 2 per child. To book call Bug hunting at The Leasowes 10 APRIL, 10AM TO 12NOON AND 1PM TO 3PM Discover the hidden world of mini-beasts in our woods. 2 per child. To book call APRIL, 2PM TO 4PM Bib n balls multi sports fun, parents not required to stay. To book call Illey and Lapal walk 12 APRIL, 10AM TO 1PM A countryside ramble from The Leasowes taking in Hales Abbey. To book call Pond dipping 12 APRIL, 1.30PM Discover the small beasties living beneath the water. To book call Signs of spring walk at Wren s Nest National Nature Reserve 16 APRIL, 10AM TO 12NOON Gentle walk through the reserve. To book call Saltwells explorers 19 APRIL, 10AM TO 12NOON Family fun outdoors at Saltwells Nature Reserve. For more information call Historic circuit walk at The Leasowes 19 MAY, 10AM TO 1PM Walk in the footsteps of 18th century visitors. To book call Section 1 - What s on Dudley Walking Festival Enville sheepwalk 20 APRIL, 10AM A moderate intensity walk of 5½ to 6 miles on the farmlands of Compton. Meet at Kinver Edge car park, near Holy Austin Rock DY7 6DL A walk through time at Himley Hall 22 APRIL, 6PM TO 8PM Learn about the natural and manmade landscape. Led By Graham Worton, Keeper of Geology. Meet at the Himley Hall courtyard. Booking is essential, call Swindon Four Woods 24 APRIL, 10.45AM A walk in memory of Mary O Rourke through Four Bluebell woods to Swindon with a social stop at the Navigation. Meet outside the travel shop at Dudley bus station DY2 7AD Kate s Hill walk 27 APRIL, 10.45AM Take a bus ride out for fantastic views from Derby Hill before walking through Warren s Hall, climbing Kate s Hill and onto Castle Hill and Wren s Nest. Lunch at the Court House. Meet outside front of The Clifton in Sedgley (DY3 1RX) South Staffordshire explorer walk from Himley Hall 29 APRIL, 2PM TO 5PM A 10k walk encompassing Himley and Baggeridge Parks together with the South Staffs Railway Walk. Booking is essential, to book call Fens Pool and Barrow Hill walk 30 APRIL, 10AM TO 1PM Ramble around a very rural piece of Dudley. To book call Dudley Zoo 1 MAY, 10.45AM TO 2PM An adventurous walk around the zoo through open spaces to the woodlands of Castle Hill and Wrens Nest with a lunch stop at the Court House. Meet outside the travel shop at Dudley bus station DY2 7AD NOW IN ITS 35TH YEAR In association with Action Heart and let s get active SUNDAY 3 MAY 2015 Challenge walks of 6, 9, 12, 18 or 26 miles within and around Dudley borough Starts and finishes at Dudley Leisure Centre, Wellington Road, Dudley DY1 1HU Open to walkers of all ages Under 14s must be accompanied by an adult. Small entry fees apply. For further information call or or visit (online applications now available)

4 Bee walk at Fens Pools 16 APRIL, 10AM Help the Bumblebee Conservation Trust work out why the bumblebee is in decline. Do a transect walk, learn how to identify bumblebees and their life-cycle. Meeting point Chapel Street car park, Pensnett. To book call Mark Williams on Knights and dragons 26 APRIL, 1.30PM Celebrate St George s Day and make shields, swords and dragons to take home with you. To book call MAY Conservation action day at 3 MAY, 10 TO 12NOON Help make even better for wildlife. Call Alan Preece on to find out where we are meeting and what to bring with you. All tools and training provided May Day fun with the Friends of Priory Park 9 MAY, 11AM TO 3PM Join the fun with penalty shoot out, Dudleys got talent, face painting, stalls and bouncy castle Bat and moth night at The Leasowes 8 MAY, 8.30PM TO 11PM Discover the nocturnal creatures on our doorstep using bat detectors and moth traps. 2 per person. To book call Bluebell walk at Saltwells Nature Reserve 10 MAY, 10AM TO 12NOON Learn about the woodland wild flowers of Saltwells. To book call Easy access trail at Himley Hall 16 MAY, 2PM TO 3.30PM An opportunity for wheelchair users and their families to find out about the hall and park s fascinating history. Booking is essential, to book call Saltwells explorers 17 MAY, 10AM TO 12NOON Family fun outdoors at Saltwells Nature Reserve. For more information call Buckpool geological trail 18 MAY, 10AM TO 12NOON A circular walk through Buckpool Dingle and Ridge Hill with some sections along roads exploring the local geology. To book and confirm meeting point call Mark Williams on Bee walk at Fens Pools 21 MAY, 10AM Help the Bumblebee Conservation Trust work out why the bumblebee is in decline. Do a transect walk, learn how to identify bumblebees and their life-cycle. Meeting point Chapel Street car park, Pensnett. To book call Mark Williams on Fens Pools circular 21 MAY, 10AM TO 1PM Warden led circular walk around the Fens Pool Local Nature Reserve. Find out about the history and wildlife of the site. To book call Mark Williams on Priory Park ruins treasure hunt 24 MAY, 1.30PM Explore the ruins and learn about the monks who once lived at the Priory, prizes to be won. To book call Historic circuit walk at The Leasowes 24 MAY, 10AM TO 1PM Walk in the footsteps of 18th century visitors around this Grade I listed landscape. To book call Guided walk of Himley Hall 24 MAY, 10AM TO 12NOON A walk around the historic grounds of Himley Hall looking at some of the historic features and wildlife found on the park. Booking essential, to book call MAY, 2PM TO 4PM required to stay. To book call Wildlife fun at Mary Stevens Park 26 MAY, 11AM TO 12.30PM Get busy making and creating a banquet for butterflies. 2 per child. To book call Pond dipping at The Leasowes 27 MAY, 10AM TO 12NOON AND 1PM TO 3PM Discover the small beasties living beneath the water. 2 per child. To book call Medieval tile making 27 MAY, 1.30PM Make and print a tile to take home with you. Booking essential, to book call or suzie.wolff@dudley.gov.uk Historical plants 28 MAY, 1.30PM Make your own herb pots and learn about medicinal plants. Take your own pot away. To book call 29 MAY, 2PM TO 4PM required to stay. To book call Section 1 - What s on 6

5 History fun at Mary Stevens Park 29 MAY, 11AM TO 12.30PM We will unravel the timeline of the park s history and explore some remarkable events and fascinating characters. 2 per child. To book call Mini pond making 31 MAY, 1.30PM Make a mini pond to take away with you. To book call JUNE World Environment Day at Mary Stevens Park 4 JUNE, 4PM TO 5PM Learn about the importance of conservation with an early evening litter pick and recycling activity. We will share it with others by making a video on how to save the environment. To book call Conservation action day at 7 JUNE, 10 TO 12NOON Help make even better for wildlife. Call Alan Preece on to find out where we are meeting and what to bring with you. All tools and training are provided. Wildflowers of The Leasowes & Coombeswood 7 JUNE, 10AM TO 12NOON Learn to identify some of the wildflowers found across two sites. To book call Bee walk at Fens Pools 17 JUNE, 10AM Help the Bumblebee Conservation Trust work out why the bumblebee is in decline. Do a transect walk and learn how to identify bumblebees. Meeting point Chapel Street car park, Pensnett. To book call Mark Williams on Buckpool and the River Stour walk 18 JUNE, 10AM TO 1PM A walk through Buckpool Dingle to the River Stour. To book call Guided walk of Himley 20 JUNE, 10.30AM TO 12.30PM Learn about historic features and wildlife found on the park, walk finishes at the bottom of the park giving participants the opportunity to visit the Earl of Dudley s memory garden. Boat building 21 JUNE, 1.30PM Build your own boat from recycled items to sail around the pond. To book call Butterflies and moths of Sandy Lane, Roman Road, Stourbridge 21 JUNE, 10AM TO 12NOON Discover butterflies and moths in search of the stunning Scarlet Tiger. To book call Saltwells explorers 21 JUNE, 10AM TO 12NOON Family fun outdoors at Saltwells Nature Reserve. For more information call Dudley Bug hunt at Wrens Nest National Nature Reserve 25 JUNE, 10AM TO 12.30PM Join wardens for a fascinating step back in time and discover the Dudley Bug. To book call JULY Big butterfly count at Priory park 2 JULY, 1.30PM Help us count butterflies before making your own to take home. To book call Conservation action day at 5 JULY, 10AM TO 12NOON Help make even better for wildlife. Call Alan Preece on to find out where we are meeting and what to bring with you. All tools and training are provided. Illey and Lapal walk 5 JULY, 10AM TO 1PM A countryside ramble from the Leasowes taking in Hales Abbey and SSSI meadows. To book call Tree trail at Himley Hall 5 JULY, 10AM TO 12NOON Walk around the beautiful grounds of Himley Hall discovering some of the trees to be found on this historic site. Booking essential, to book call Industry of Stourbridge Trail at Mary Stevens Park (Black Country Week) 11 JULY, 10AM TO 3PM Collect your self-guide trail leaflet from the activity centre to discover more about the industry of Stourbridge and its connections to the park. Butterflies of The Leasowes and Coombeswood 12 JULY, 10AM TO 12NOON Discover the butterflies across two sites in search of the delightful Marbled White. To book call Saltwells Explorers 19 JULY, 10AM TO 12NOON Family fun outdoors at Saltwells Nature Reserve. For more information call Bee walk at Fens Pools 22 JULY, 10AM Help the Bumblebee Conservation Trust work out why the bumblebee is in decline. Do a transect walk and learn how to identify bumblebees. Meeting point Chapel Street car park, Pensnett. To book call Mark Williams on Wildlife and heritage family trails at Mary Stevens Park EVERY TUESDAY MORNING DURING THE SUMMER HOLIDAYS (21 AND 28 JULY, 4, 11, 18 AND 25 AUGUST AND 1 SEPTEMBER), 10AM TO 11.30AM Come and collect your guided trail kit and discover all kinds of things about the park. To book call Den adventures at Saltwells Nature Reserve 21 JULY, 10AM TO 12NOON Come and build your own shelter. To book call 7 Section 1 - What s on 68

6 The secret life of a monk at Priory Park 23 JULY, 1.30PM Dress up, find clues and learn how monks at the Priory might have lived. To book call Big butterfly count at 23 JULY, 10AM TO 12 NOON Come and help record the butterfly species found at Saltwells. To book call Buckpool geological trail 23 JULY, 10AM TO 1PM Find out about the fascinating geology of the local area. To book call Bat walk at 24 JULY, 8.30PM UNTIL LATE Learn about these night time mammals of Saltwells. To book call Big Park Lunch at Mary Stevens Park 25 JULY, 11AM TO 2PM Celebrate Love Parks Week with joining us for a picnic, bring your own food and enjoy the entertainment. For more information call The Big Lunch 25 JULY, 11AM TO 2PM Part of Love Parks Week. Bring a picnic to the park and enjoy a family day out with face painting, bouncy castle and arts and crafts. For more information call Big butterfly count 27 JULY, 1.30PM Help us count butterflies before making your own to take home, part of Love Parks Week. To book call 28 JULY, 2PM TO 4PM Bib n balls multi sports fun, part of Love Parks Week. Parents not required to stay, To book call Earth art at Saltwells Nature Reserve 28 JULY, 10AM TO 12 NOON Come and be creative using natural materials. To book call Storytelling around the campfire 29 JULY, 6PM TO 8PM Back by popular demand and part of Love Parks Week, listen to stories around campfire. To book call Bug hunting at The Leasowes 29 JULY, 10AM TO 12NOON AND 1PM TO 3PM Discover the hidden world of minibeasts in our woods. 2 per child. To book call Watery wonders at Saltwells Nature Reserve 30 JULY, 10AM TO 12NOON Come and pond dip and discover the watery residents of Saltwells. To book call AUGUST Guided walk of Himley Hall 2 AUGUST, 10AM TO 12NOON A walk around the historic grounds of Himley Hall looking at some of the historic features and wildlife found on the park. Booking essential, call Conservation action day at 2 AUGUST, 10 TO 12NOON Help make even better for wildlife. Call Alan Preece on to find out where we are meeting and what to bring with you. All tools and training are provided. Extraordinary things about trees 2 AUGUST, 1.30PM Games and prizes to help you learn about trees. To book call Minibeast mayhem at Saltwells Nature Reserve 4 AUGUST, 10AM TO 12 NOON Come and discover the smaller residents of Saltwells. To book call Butterflies of Cotwall End 4 AUGUST, 2PM TO 4PM Find out about these beautiful insects. This event may be cancelled if it is wet or windy. 2 per person. To book call AUGUST, 2PM TO 4PM required to stay. To book call Pond dipping at Fens Pool 5 AUGUST, 10AM TO 12NOON Delve into the waters of Fens Pool and see what you can find below the surface. 2 per person. Meeting point Chapel Street car park, Pensnett. To book call Big bug bonanza at Mary Stevens Park 5 AUGUST, 10AM TO 12NOON Help us make a bug hotel for the park and see whats in the bug traps. 2 per child. To book call Wild in the woods at The Leasowes 5 AUGUST, 10AM TO 12NOON AND 1PM TO 3PM Build a shelter, cook on a campfire and play some woodland games. 4 per child. To book call Treasure hunt at Saltwells Nature Reserve 6 AUGUST, 10AM TO 12NOON Follow a trail and complete the tasks to find the hidden treasure. To book call 9 Section 1 - What s on 610

7 Bee walk at Fens Pools 6 AUGUST, 10AM Help the Bumblebee Conservation Trust work out why the bumblebee is in decline. Do a transect walk, learn how to identify bumblebees and their life-cycle. Meeting point Chapel Street car park, Pensnett. To book call Mark Williams on National Play Week 6 AUGUST, 12NOON TO 4PM Free activities, sports, games, face painting, campfires and entertainment Fens Pool minibeast safari 7 AUGUST, 10AM TO 12NOON Collect your nets and bug pots and set off on an adventure. 2 per person. To book call AUGUST, 2PM TO 4PM required to stay. To book call Den building 9 AUGUST, 1.30PM Explore the woods and build a den. To book call 11 AUGUST, 2PM TO 4PM required to stay. To book call Big butterfly count at Saltwells Nature Reserve 11 AUGUST, 10AM TO 12NOON Come and help record the butterfly species found at Saltwells. To book call Wildlife safari at The Leasowes 12 AUGUST, 10AM TO 12NOON AND 1PM TO 3PM How many creatures can we find? 2 per child. To book call Gardening 12 AUGUST, 1.30PM Hands on planting activity with something to take home at the end. To book call Teddy bears picnic 13 AUGUST, 11AM TO 1PM Songs and stories with your child s favourite bear or cuddly toy, bring a picnic too. To book call Den adventures at Saltwells Nature Reserve 13 AUGUST, 10AM TO NOON Come and build your own shelter. To book call 14 AUGUST, 2PM TO 4PM required to stay. To book call Gardening on a budget at Priory Park 16 AUGUST, 1.30PM Learn how to get great cuttings for your garden without having to visit the garden centre. To book call Saltwells explorers 16 AUGUST, 10AM TO 12NOON Family fun outdoors at Saltwells Nature Reserve. For more information call Sporting fun 18 AUGUST, 2PM TO 4PM required to stay. To book call Earth art at 18 AUGUST, 10AM TO 12NOON Come and be creative using natural materials. To book call Bird box making 19 AUGUST, 1.30PM Make your own bird box to take home. Booking is essential, to book call Terrific trees at The Leasowes 19 AUGUST, 10AM TO 12NOON AND 1PM TO 3PM Take part in tree based activities, art and games. 2 per child. To book call Pot making at Mary Stevens Park 19 AUGUST 10AM TO 12NOON Make some clay pots inspired by the parks benefactor, Ernest. 2 per child. To book call Watery wonders at 20 AUGUST, 10AM TO 12NOON Come and pond dip and discover the watery residents of Saltwells. To book call 21 AND 25 AUGUST, 2PM TO 4PM required to stay. To book call Minibeast Mayhem at 25 AUGUST, 10AM TO 12NOON Come and discover the smaller residents of Saltwells. To book call Wildlife treasure hunt at The Leasowes 26 AUGUST, 10AM TO NOON AND 1PM TO 3PM A guided woodland walk solving puzzles to find treasure. 2 per child. To book call Treasure hunt at 27 AUGUST, 10AM TO 12NOON Follow a trail and complete the tasks to find the hidden treasure. To book call Bat and moth night at The Leasowes 4 SEPTEMBER, 7.30PM TO 10PM Discover the nocturnal creatures on our doorstep using bat detectors and moth traps. 2 per person. To book call Section 1 - What s on 612

8 SEPTEMBER Conservation action day at 6 SEPTEMBER, 10 TO 12NOON Help make even better for wildlife. Call Alan Preece on to find out where we are meeting and what to bring with you. All tools and training provided National moth night at The Leasowes 11 SEPTEMBER, 7.30 TO 10PM Discover the nocturnal creatures on our doorstep using bat detectors and moth traps. 2 per person. To book call Make a ladybird home 13 SEPTEMBER, 1.30PM Learn about these popular insects and create a home for them to put in your own garden Saltwells explorers 20 SEPTEMBER, 10AM TO 12NOON Family fun outdoors at Saltwells Nature Reserve. For more information call Meeting points Cotwall End, Brockswood Animal Sanctuary car park, access from Cotwall End Road, Sedgley DY3 3YE Himley Hall and Park, notice board on main car, Dudley Road DY3 4DF Fens Pools, wardens base on car park, Pensnett Road DY5 4NE (unless otherwise stated) The Leasowes Historic Landscape and Nature Reserve, warden s office, car park, off Mucklow Hill, Halesowen B62 8DH Tree walk at The Leasowes 20 SEPTEMBER, 10AM TO 12NOON Learn about the identification, management and folklore of our trees. To book call Bee walk at Fens Pools 23 SEPTEMBER, 10AM Help the Bumblebee Conservation Trust work out why the bumblebee is in decline. Do a transect walk and learn how to identify bumblebees. Meeting point Chapel Street car park, Pensnett. To book call Mark Williams on Poetry workshops at Mary Stevens Park 26 SEPTEMBER, CHILDREN 10AM TO 11AM, ADULTS 12NOON TO 1PM Be inspired by the park and guided on how to create your own unique verse. 1 per person. To book call Historic circuit walk at The Leasowes 27 SEPTEMBER, 10AM TO 1PM Walk in the footsteps of 18th century visitors around this Grade 1 listed landscape. To book call Mary Stevens Park, activity centre, Stanley Road, Stourbridge DY8 2AA. Prices stated are suggested donation amounts. Priory Park Pavilion building (near the tennis courts), Priory Road Dudley DY1 4EU car park, Saltwells Lane DY5 1AX Wrens Nest Nature Reserve car park Wrens Hill Road DY1 3SB Section 2 - Health and progression walks 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 longer in duration, over 90 minutes or more. Many of our walks are possible thanks to the dedication and hard work of our volunteer walk leaders. It would greatly help our walk leaders if anyone new to the walk can arrive 20 minutes before the start time, (15 minutes for regular participants) to enable them to complete registration and start the walks on time. Cotwall End Valley Monthly health walk Cotwall End Valley Local Nature Reserve offers unspoilt woodland, meadows, pools and streams and is home to a variety of wildlife. DATES: Third Saturday of every month (18 April, 16 May, 20 June, 18 July, 15 August and 19 September). TIME: 2pm to 3pm MEETING POINT: Brockswood Animal Sanctuary car park, access from Cotwall End Road, Sedgley DY3 3YE INTENSITY: Moderate (includes some steps and slopes) WALK LEADERS: Sue Bole and Paul Greenaway 13 Section 1 - What s on 614

9 Himley Hall and Park Weekly health walk and monthly progression walk A walk over park and woodland taking in the history and beauty of Himley Hall and Park and Baggeridge Country Park. DAY: Tuesday TIME: 9.45am for a prompt 10am start MEETING POINT: Car park adjacent to the golf club car park (not the golf club car park), Himley Hall and Park, Himley Road, Dudley DY3 4DF INTENSITY: Easy to moderate. Slight climbs over a mixed terrain are included. WALK LEADERS: Michael Murphy, Mike Ball, Phil Mitchell, Maggie Squire and Graham Smith ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: There is a small charge for parking at Himley. Progression walks with moderate to hard intensity are run in addition to the regular health walk on the following dates: TUESDAY 7 APRIL - VINEYARDS AT HALFPENNY GREEN Meeting at Vineyards car park DY7 5EP TUESDAY 12 MAY - HIMLEY AND WOMBOURNE Start at Himley Hall golf car park then continue to Wombourne TUESDAY 16 JUNE - WASELEY HILLS Meeting at Waseley Country Park B45 9AT TUESDAY 21 JULY - SUMMERHILL Meeting at the layby on the A4101 (Lodge Lane) opposite Summerhill School DY6 9XE TUESDAY 25 AUGUST - TUCKHILL CLOSE TO SIX ASHES Meet off A458 on car park at triangular junction in front of Holy Innocents Church WV15 6EW Huntingtree Park Weekly progression walk and extended progression walks Huntingtree offers a programme of brisk, weekly and monthly walks of 1½ - 2 ½ hours duration through undulating, scenic countryside. Occasional stiles, steep inclines and a variety of underfoot slips and trips will need to be negotiated. Appropriate footwear advisable. Weekly progression walk DAY: Thursday TIME: 9.45am for a prompt 10am start. Walkers new to this group should register at 9.40am to enable timely completion of brief induction. MEETING POINT: Huntingtree Park activity centre, Huntingtree Road, Halesowen B63 4HY (unless otherwise stated) INTENSITY: Moderate WALK LEADERS: John Amyes, Gary Mills, Malcolm Shilvock and Tony James On the following dates the walks are replaced with extended walks, times remain the same. HUNTINGTREE MONTHLY TRAIL WALK FROM THE NIMMINGS NATIONAL TRUST SITE, CLENT HILLS Clent Hills Pathfinder Trails - A series of brisk, 1½ - 2 ½ hour walks in and around the ups and downs of the Clent Hills. Please bring a drink. DATES: On the first Thursday of each month, April to September inclusive and in place of the Huntingtree regular weekly trail. MEETING POINT: Nimmings Wood National Trust Car Park, Hagley Wood Lane (free on-road parking is available in Hagley Wood Lane) B62 0NL TUESDAY 29 SEPTEMBER - FAIRFIELD, BROMSGROVE Meet at the large lay-by on the B4091 (runs through Fairfield) near Mayfield Farm B61 9LJ 15 Section 2 - Health and progression walks 16

10 THE HUNNINGTON AND ROMSLEY LATE SPRING EXPLORER DATE: Thursday 28 May A brisk, late Spring walk of around 2 to 2½ hours duration through rolling fields and woodlands to the south-east of Halesowen. Please bring a drink. MEETING POINT: activity centre, Huntingtree Park, Huntingtree Road, Halesowen B63 4HY CHADDESLEY CORBETT SUMMER CIRCULAR DATE: Thursday 30 July Countryside and shady woodland trails, 2¼ hour explorer. Please bring a drink. MEETING POINT: car park at Rowberry s Restaurant, Rowberry s Garden Centre, Lodgeford Hill, Lower Chaddesley Corbett DY10 4QU. Please park on the opposite side of the car park to the restaurant building. BLAKEDOWN AND CHURCHILL IN THE AUTUMN DATE: Thursday 24 September A circular, explorer walk of up to 3 hours duration in picturesque surroundings. Please bring a drink. MEETING POINT: car park, The Old House at Home, 26 Birmingham Road, Blakedown, nr Kidderminster DY10 3JE The Leasowes Weekly health walk and monthly progression walk The weekly walk of up to 90 minutes covers various routes in and around The Leasowes including footpaths and varying terrain. There will normally be three walks of up to 30 minutes, 60 minutes, and 90 minutes duration. Please note that walks may be cancelled during inclement weather contact Kim Braznell on for more details. DAY: Monday TIME: 9.50am for 10am start MEETING POINT: All walks meet at The Leasowes car park, adjacent to warden s base, Mucklow Hill, Halesowen B62 8QF INTENSITY: Easy to moderate WALK LEADERS: Roy and Jacqui Davies, Ann and Trevor Crees, Margaret Hanchett, Angela and Trevor Hayward, Graham Shepherd, Sue Samuel, John Higgins, Howard Jackson, Keith Bojczuk, Wendy Wilkinson, Barrie Overton and John Brennan Monthly progression walks run at the same time as the health walks and last up to 2½ hours on the following dates: 27 APRIL THE LEASOWES, LAPAL FIELDS, AND ILLEY CIRCULAR WALK A medium to hard walk of about 4½ miles using field paths with a number of stiles. 1 JUNE - WASELEY COUNTRY PARK TO THE LEASOWES A medium intensity linear walk of about 5 miles, across field paths and woodland with a small number of stiles. A coach will take us from The Leasowes to Waseley Hills and a small charge applies, payable in advance. The coach will leave promptly at 09.45am, please arrive for registration for 9.30am 6 JULY - THE LEASOWES AND WOODGATE VALLEY COUNTRY PARK An easy to moderate circular walk of about 4 ½ miles with a small number of stiles and opportunity to see wild orchids 3 AUGUST - WASELEY HILLS COUNTRY PARK A medium intensity walk of about 4 miles with refreshments available in the visitor centre afterwards. Meet at Waseley Hills car park B45 9AT (small parking fee applies) 7 SEPTEMBER - SANDWELL VALLEY COUNTRY PARK A leisurely walk of 4 ½ miles in length. Meet at Sandwell Valley Country car park, opposite the adventure playground, on Salter s Lane, West Bromwich B71 4BG 17 Section 2 - Health and progression walks 18

11 Mary Stevens Park Weekly progression walk and extended walks An enjoyable walk of up to two hours taking in the local area and countryside DAY: Monday TIME: 9.15am for a 9.30am start. New walkers should register at 9am MEETING POINT: Mary Stevens Park activity centre, off Stanley Road, Stourbridge DY8 2AA INTENSITY: Moderate WALK LEADERS: Pam Abbot, Alison Bland, Angela Ellis, Pauline Phillips and Merv Skelding Extended walks replace progression walks on the following dates and also meet at 9.45am for a prompt 10am start. 20 APRIL ENVILLE SHEEPWALK A moderate intensity walk of approximately 5 ½ 6 miles on the farmlands of Compton which lie to the south of Enville s Sheepwalks. Meet at Kinver Edge car park, near Holy Austin Rock DY7 6DL 8 JUNE RIVERSIDE A moderate walk of approximately 6½ miles to the outskirts of Stourport on Severn before returning over Burlish Top. Meet at Dog Lane car park, Bewdley DY12 2EF (charges apply) 24 AUGUST LEAPGATE COUNTRY PARK A 6 mile walk on woodland paths, disused railway tracks and canal towpaths to Stourport on Severn. Meet at Leapgate Country Park, Hartlebury Common, Wilden Top car park, off B4193 (Hartlebury-Stourport road) DY13 9JB Weekly health walk and monthly progression walk Take a walk of up to 90 minutes around the ancient woodland of with local historian Dennis Rydes. DAY: Friday TIME: 9:50am for a prompt 10am start MEETING POINT: car park DY5 1AX INTENSITY: Easy to moderate WALK LEADERS: Carole and Dennis Rydes, Alan Stevens, John Brennan, Shirley Cox and Chris Dolphin Progression walks with moderate to hard intensity replace the regular health walk on the following dates. 10 APRIL - THE KINVER TRAIL A Walk of up to 2 hours taking in the views of Kinver Meet at Marsh playing fields car park off High Street, Kinver DY7 6ER 8 MAY SALTWELLS TO STOURBRIDGE A two hour walk from Saltwells to Stourbridge following the River Stour. Meet at Saltwells Nature Reserve car park DY5 1AX 5 JUNE - SALTWELLS TO OLD HILL Walk from Saltwells to Old Hill along the canal, taking the train to Cradley Heath and back to Saltwells via Mushroom Green. Meet at car park DY5 1AX 10 JULY FENS POOL TO BARROW HILL A moderate walk taking in the views of Fens Pool and Barrow Hill including a break with refreshments at Pensnett Church. Meet at Fens Pool warden s base (by traffic lights), Bryce Road, Pensnett DY5 4NE 7 AUGUST - BUMBLE HOLE AND THE NETHERTON TUNNEL A two hour undulating walk over the tunnel and returning through the tunnel to finish with refreshments at Bumble Hole visitor centre. Meet at Bumble Hole car park, Windmill End, Netherton DY2 9UH 4 SEPTEMBER BIRMINGHAM CANAL WALK A walk along the canal into Birmingham via Smethwick before returning by train. Meet at Smethwick Galton Bridge Railway Station B66 1HU 19 Section 2 - Health and progression walks 20

12 Sedgley Monthly progression walk Explore Sedgley and its varied surroundings with these walks (sometimes with uneven or steep footing). Walks take approximately three hours including a 30 minute lunch break at a local pub, where participants can eat their own food but are asked to purchase drinks. DAY: Monday TIME: 10.45am for a prompt 11am start MEETING POINT: Front doorway of The Clifton in Sedgley DY3 1RX INTENSITY: Hard WALK LEADERS: Stuart Brasier and Judith Cuthbert 13 APRIL 2015 BUTTERFLY WALK Walk through the picturesque woodland of Cotwall End to Milking Bank and Dibdale. Lunch at the Britannia 27 APRIL KATE S HILL Part of the Dudley Walking Festival. Starts with a bus ride out for fantastic views from Derby Hill before walking through Warren s Hall, climbing Kate s Hill and onto Castle Hill and Wren s Nest. Lunch at the Court House 11 MAY SEVEN STREAMS Walk near Penn Common over Seven Streams through Seven Woods past grazing horses Lunch at the Bulls Head 8 JUNE 2015 BEACON HILL A walk on paths and woodland trails climbing Beacon Hill. Lunch at the Beacon Hotel 13 JULY 2015 COSELEY TUNNEL Over Mons Hill through Silver Jubilee Park with a lunch stop at Coseley pub before going through the canal tunnel and a continuous climb over Beacon Hill 24 AUGUST 2015 RIPPLE BEDS Alleyways and parks to Mons Hill and Wrens Nest to see Dudley s 420 million year old beach, then return over Hurst Hill. Lunch at the Cottage Spring 27 AUGUST - SUMMER STROLL An additional easy walk over the cornfields and through coppices, crossing Penn Common, once a raceway now a golf course, visiting the Old Stags Head 14 SEPTEMBER BUTTERFLY WALK Through Dibdale and Milking Bank with a lunch stop at the Fountain returning on the intricate woodland paths found within Cotwall End Wordsley Health walk Picturesque walks of up to 90 minutes through Wordsley woodland trails and along canal towpaths. DAY: Second and last Wednesdays of the month (8 and 29 April, 13 and 27 May, 10 and 24 June, 8 and 29 July, 12 and 26 August and 9 and 30 September) TIME: 9.45am for a 10am prompt start MEETING POINT: Wordsley park car park, off Lawnswood Road, Wordsley DY8 5PN INTENSITY: Moderate WALK LEADERS: Jackie Edwards, Carol Hackett and Joanne Troon Nordic walking Nordic walking is a fitness technique that uses walking poles in order to give you a whole body workout. It is suitable for all levels of fitness and poles are provided. Please arrive 15 minutes before each session starts. All sessions meet at The Leasowes warden s base off Mucklow Hill, Halesowen B62 8QF BEGINNERS NORDIC An introduction to Nordic walking. For 12 weeks from 9 April to 25 June only DAY: Thursday TIME: 6pm to 7pm INTENSITY: Easy to moderate WALK LEADER: Sally Orton NORDIC RAMBLE Moderately paced Nordic walking session including some fitness work DAY: Wednesday TIME: 2pm to 3pm INTENSITY: Moderate WALK LEADERS: Margaret Hanchett and Sue Samuel EVENING NORDIC One hour, Nordic walking fitness session that includes strengthening and toning exercises DAY: Monday TIME: 5.30pm to 6.30pm MEETING POINT: The Leasowes warden s base off Mucklow Hill, Halesowen B62 8QF INTENSITY: Moderate WALK LEADER: Kim Braznell 21 Section 2 - Health and progression walks 22

13 Adventure walks These routes are for the more advanced walker on paths off the beaten track, which may include uneven surfaces, mud, dense undergrowth, steep slopes and steps. Walks take approximately three hours plus travelling time, please bring travel pass or change for public transport. Lunch breaks in local pubs, where participants can eat their own food but are asked to purchase drinks. DAY: Friday TIME: 10.45am for a prompt 11am start MEETING POINT: Outside the travel shop at Dudley bus station DY2 7AD INTENSITY: Hard WALK LEADERS: Stuart Brasier and Judith Cuthbert 24 APRIL - SWINDON FOUR WOODS A walk in memory of Mary O Rourke through Four Bluebell woods to Swindon with a lunch stop at the Navigation 1 MAY - DUDLEY ZOO All around the zoo through open spaces to the woodlands of Castle Hill and Wrens Nest, with a lunch stop at the Court House. Part of the Dudley Walking Festival. 8 MAY - CLATTERBATCH AND THE SILVEREND DIVERSION On a variety of paths from Amblecote to Clatterbatch and along the Stour Valley to Cradley Heath with lunch stop at the Windsor Castle 5 JUNE -YE OLDE BRADLEY BASH Moseley to Moxley on paths over fields, tow paths and woodlands. Calling at the Olde White Rose and the Rocket Pool Section 3 - Other activities Mary Stevens Park regular activities Special interest walks LAST WEDNESDAY OF EVERY MONTH, 10AM These 90+ minute walks are at a relaxed pace and will have an added dimension of interest with special themes to include poetry, wildlife watching and local history Rangers club TUESDAYS, 5.30PM TO 7PM A club for eight to 13 year olds with nature conservation tasks, fun activities, games, crafts and more during term time only. 1 donation is requested Green Volunteers SATURDAYS, 2PM TO 4PM A group for adult volunteers to learn gardening skills, make park improvements, socialise and be active MEETING POINT: Mary Stevens Park, activity centre, Stanley Road, Stourbridge DY8 2AA Children aged 15 and under must be accompanied by a responsible adult. For more information or to check availability contact the park ranger JULY OVER TUNNEL From Dudley Port over the top of the Netherton Tunnel with a coffee break in the hills and a pub stop at Ma Pardoes where food is served 7 AUGUST CLENT HILLS Through Penorchard Meadows and climbing Walton Hill, experience panoramic views from the four stones then descent through the woods to Hayley Green. Lunch stop in the gardens of the Vine 4 SEPTEMBER BUNKERS HILL From Wollaston through woods, country paths and Mary Stevens Park. Calling at the Crown and the Royal Exchange 23 Section 2 - Health and progression walks 24

14 Priory Park regular activities Total body fitness MONDAYS 6.30AM TO 7.15AM AND 7PM TO 8PM, WEDNESDAYS 6.30AM TO 7.15AM AND 6PM TO 7PM AND FRIDAYS 6.30AM TO 7.15AM. Gain fitness, strength and toning and lose weight with this class. 5 per session or unlimited membership for 30 (access to 38 sessions per month) For more information call Lee on or visit Grow your own food EVERY MONDAY, 10.30AM TO 12.30PM Learn to grow your own with this 10 week course starting on 13 April. Costs 1 per week. Booking is essential, call Bowling EVERY TUESDAY AFTERNOON For information call or suzie.wolff@dudley.gov.uk Dog training classes For information call or suzie.wolff@dudley.gov.uk Tennis EVERY WEDNESDAY 3.45PM TO 4.45PM Come and learn from a qualified coach. All equipment is provided. 1 per session, suitable for children aged five and over Lap walking EVERY WEDNESDAY, 9.30AM Lap walking for people of all ages, abilities and fitness. Free gift given to participants from the Friends of Priory Park for every 12 attendances Women s only running group WEDNESDAY, 6PM TO 7PM Gain fitness, strength and confidence with these sessions. For more information call Jo on Priory Park gardening group EVERY SATURDAY, 11AM TO 1PM Join gardening and maintenance volunteers and help look after Priory Park a great opportunity to meet new people and learn some new skills Outdoor fitness EVERY SUNDAY 9AM TO 10AM AND THURSDAY 5.30PM TO 6.30PM Outdoor fitness from Healthy in the Black County for 1 per session MEETING POINT: Priory Park Pavilion building (near the tennis courts), Priory Road, Dudley DY1 4EU Children aged 15 and under must be accompanied by a responsible adult. For more information contact the Priory Park rangers on or visit Rangers club EVERY TUESDAY, 4.30PM TO 6PM A club for eight to 13 year olds with nature conservation tasks, fun activities, games, crafts and more during term time only. Parents do not need to stay. To book call 25 Section 3 - Other activities 26

15 Dell Stadium weekly activities Green fit EVERY WEDNESDAY, 9.30AM TO 10.15AM Outdoor activity to help build health and fitness. For more information contact Katie Deeley on Gentle exercise with Dudley Stroke Association EVERY WEDNESDAY, 10.30AM TO 11.30AM Gentle exercise session to help build strength. For more information contact Katie Deeley on Outdoor circuits EVERY SUNDAY, 9.30AM TO 10.30AM 3 per person or free to people with a lifestyle membership. For more information call MEETING POINT: The Dell Stadium, Bryce Road, Brierley Hill DY5 4NE Cycling FIRST SATURDAY OF EVERY MONTH, 9.30AM Sessions include learn to ride, Bikeability (level 1, 2 and 3) and orginised rides. Sessions can be arranged for groups at other locations across the borough and must be booked in advance. For more information contact the road safety and travel awareness team on road.safey@dudley.gov.uk or call MEETING POINT: Activity centre, Mary Stevens Park, Stanley Road, Stourbridge DY8 2AA Rowing in Dudley with British Rowing We run a number of rowing activities for adults and children aged 11 and over. During inclement weather sessions may take place on the centre s indoor rowing machines. The programme is funded by Dudley Clinical Commissioning Group. Taster sessions SUNDAYS, 1PM TO 4PM AND TUESDAYS, 6PM TO 7.30PM A one hour introduction to rowing for all abilities. 2 per session. Please note sessions will run from 5pm to 7pm on 14 and 21 June, 5 and 27 July, 27 September and 4 October Learn to row courses Learn all the basics of rowing with this course for 10. Each session lasts two hours and cost includes British Rowing registration and one month s membership at Dudley Rowing Club COURSES RUN FROM 2 TO 4PM ON THE DATES BELOW: COURSE 1: 8, 15, 22 AND 29 MARCH COURSE 2: 3, 10, 17 AND 22 MAY COURSE 3: 19 AND 26 JULY AND 2 AND 9 AUGUST COURSE 4: 30 AUGUST AND 6, 13 AND 20 SEPTEMBER For more information about the rowing programme or to book a place on one of the activities, contact Dudley Council s physical activity team on or balraj.johal@dudley.gov.uk Buggy walks Buggy walks help parents to exercise and socialise in the great outdoors. These free walks are designed for parents with babies in pushchairs and last around one hour There is also a free one hour stay and play session afterwards with soft play equipment provided for babies and refreshments for parents HUNTINGTREE PARK, HALESOWEN Tuesday, 9.15am to 10.30am. Call MARY STEVENS PARK, STOURBRIDGE Wednesday, 11am to 1pm, and Friday, 1pm to 3pm. Call NETHERTON PARK Tuesday, 11.30am to 1.30pm. Call SILVER JUBILEE PARK, COSELEY Wednesday, 11am to 1pm. Call Section 3 - Other activities 28

16 Want to make healthy lifestyle changes? Visit lets-get.com - eat well, be active in Dudley borough Explore your local fitness activities Create your own recipe file Healthy living articles and interactive features Find healthier places to eat out Join our healthy cooking sessions Details of what s on offer across Dudley borough Personalised dashboard to track your progress For more information visit lets-get.com Section 4 - further information Appropriate outdoor clothing and footwear is recommended for all sessions. Activities are free of charge unless otherwise stated. Booking details have been provided for sessions where it is required. Refreshments are not provided unless stated so please bring drinks and snacks with you. We always ask people to car share and/or use public transport when possible. Car parking charges may apply at some of our meeting points. Action Heart and AW Surgery walks Action Heart provides a programme of weekly health walks. For more information call Action Heart on AW Surgery offers Brierley Hill health walks. For more information call Balraj Johal on / or balraj.johal@dudley.gov.uk Ramblers groups Stourbridge HF Rambling Club deliver six walks across several different days each week. The walks offered start with easy, short walks progressing to more challenging routes. For more information visit or call The Black Country Walking Group walk in their local Countryside and further afield. For more information visit or bcwg@hotmail.co.uk Stourbridge Ramblers Group walk on Sunday mornings as well as some midweek walks. For more information call Dudley Ramblers walk every Sunday. For more information call Phil on or visit Become a walk leader Dudley Council provides free walk leader training to help people set up health walks in the local community. For more information call Balraj Johal on / or balraj.johal@dudley.gov.uk Route planning Visit and to plan your own walking routes. provides short pre-planned walking routes across Dudley borough. Pedometers Dudley borough libraries offer a free pedometer loan service. For more information visit your local library. 29 Section 3 - Other activities 30

17 Healthy parks We run a full programme of led physical activities and offer outdoor gym equipment in our healthy hubs at four of the borough parks. The parks are also holding a number of walking sessions to help people build up their fitness and confidence for the Dudley Trail. For more information visit or contact Huntingtree Park in Halesowen on , Mary Stevens Park in Stourbridge on , Netherton Park on or Silver Jubilee Park in Coseley on Free outdoor gym equipment is also available at Buffery Park in Dudley, Clayton Park in Coseley, the Dell Stadium and the Promenade in Brierley Hill, Quarry Bank Park and at Russells Hall hospital. Dudley Council is encouraging Dudley people to make healthy lifestyle choices with our let s get campaign. We promote the wide range of activities that are on offer in Dudley borough while providing people with help and support with healthy eating choices. For more information visit - a new interactive and easy to use website with information about physical activity and nutrition.