Swan Park

approximate route of Charles II's escape

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.

A specially designed circular canalside walk, starting from Walsall’s New Art Gallery, passing through changing landscapes. Distance: 4 miles/6.5 km(approx) Duration: 80 mins(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)

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 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)