Keeper's Wood - Broadleaved woodland

approximate route of Charles II's escape

Trace the footsteps of a king as you join up with the Monarch's Way in the West Midlands. This route runs along fairly flat, woodland paths that can become muddy, as well as grassy fields and made tracks.

Starting at Sandwell Valley via the outskirts of Birmingham and the countryside of Walsall into Staffordshire. Take in the Forest of Mercia, lakes, nature reserves, woods, and canal banks. Named after Barr Beacon, one of the highest hills in this area.

8-mile circular route based on PRoW and canal towpaths, which would've been used by local miners, iron workers, and farmers. Car Parking at the start on Wood Lane.

10-mile circular route based on PRoW and canal towpaths, which would've been used by local miners, iron workers, and farmers. Car Parking at start on Wood Lane.

Canalside route passing through the heartlands of the industrial Black Country. Decends using the Walsall locks then rises at Ryders Green Locks. Distance: 10 miles/16 km (approx) Duration: 90 min (approx)

Starley (TfWM) Regional Cycle Network (Proposed route)

A semi-rural route following the curves of the canal, until it opens out into parkland at the Cannock Extension. Distance: 5.5 miles/8.8 km (approx) Duration: 45 min (approx)

Canalside route following the Wyrley & Essington, taking New Cross Bridge, where the towpath changes to the other side of the canal. Distance: 6 miles/9.6 km (approx) Duration: 60 min (approx)