Barnt Green, Hopwood, Alvechurch: 8-mile circular walk

Let’s have an 8-mile circular walk south of Birmingham. We will start from Barnt Green train station and keep a leisurely pace throughout the walk.

ROUTE:
From Barnt Green railway station we will head south and cross over the M42 on a footbridge. We will continue heading south for another mile and then turn east to descend towards Worcester and Birmingham Canal. We will follow along the canal northbound and border the reservoir on its eastern side where we will probably stop for lunch. We will then continue following on the canal and stop at Hopwood house for toilets and a drink. Leaving the canal around Hopwood we will head west to close the loop back in Barnt Green.
Please wear appropriate footwear and clothing as we will be passing through various fields and woodland.
Please ensure that you are fit enough to walk 8 miles in four hours, this is a leisurely pace. Bring a packed lunch and drinks with you as well, please. There will be a short break incorporated into the walk for lunch.

LOCATION:
Barnt Green Railway Station, B45 8NZ

TRAVEL:
For those travelling by public transport: this is feasible from Birmingham. Suggested option: take the 9.43 service from Birmingham New Street calling at Barnt Green at 10.11.
For those traveling by car: you can park at the train station.

TIME:
Meet at 10:15 for a 10:30 sharp departure (unless the 9.43 train from Birmingham is late, in which case we will wait). 4 hours for the walk + stops, so I have allowed for 5 hours, therefore we should be back in Barnt Green before 4pm.

SAFETY:
All walks carry an element of risk and all participants will be responsible for their own safety and the organiser will not be liable for any loss of life, injuries, loss of income and financial losses as a result of you attending.

Please do not RSVP if you aren't sure of coming as it would be unfair to others. If you have to cancel, please give plenty of notice to give someone else an opportunity to go.