Alternative Towers: Alton Castle and Ramshorn Estate (11.5 Miles, Moderate)

Just to be clear, this isn't a trip to the theme park (sorry to say) but it is a fun trek around the area of Alton and Denstone with lots of attractions along the way.

Setting out from the lovely Ramblers Retreat in the Dimmingsdale Valley, we'll head past the Legendary Chained Oak, and begin our circumnavigation of the Alton Towers theme park, keeping our eyes peeled for a glimpse of Oblivion.

Our first "alternative tower" will be the impressive private residence of Wootton Lodge in the expansive Ramshorn Estate.

From there we'll travel through the JCB testing grounds and follow the Churnet Valley Way over to Denstone village and pass through the towering, Hogwarts-esque Denstone College.

Finally we'll head into Alton town itself to see Alton Castle and have the opportunity of a last-mile drink before returning to the Ramblers Retreat for second lot of refreshments.

Please note the slightly earlier meeting time of 9:30 for a prompt start at 9:45.

Starting point...

The Ramblers Retreat:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/2FHebKwadncZRy876

There's a lovely café, toilets and free parking at the start point.

Dogs...

Well behaved dogs are welcome on the hike and in the pub and café afterwards.

What to bring...

Please bring a packed lunch, water and appropriate clothing/footwear for the weather.

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DISCLAIMER

• All Macclesfield Marauder walks are free of charge. You only need to organise your own travel, food and drink expenses.
• It's your own responsibility to remain safe outdoors. This group does not employ professional organisers nor first aiders.
• Walks are usually between 10 and 15 miles and vary in difficulty, with a good level of hiking experience required for the harder walks.
• We usually stop for a packed lunch and pop in to a country pub for a post or mid-hike drink.
• If you're on the waitlist, please wait to be moved to the going list before attending the event. But note, a lot of people tend to drop off the night before an event, so if you're near the top of the waitlist then it's likely you'll be automatically moved onto the going list.

Feel free to ask any questions in the comments section!

Here's a guide to the difficult rating:

• Easy - Short distance, less than ten miles and mostly flat. Suitable for anyone capable of a brisk stroll.

• Moderately Easy - Shortish distance, around ten miles, some gentle hills. For those who walk regularly but don't have too much hiking experience.

• Moderate - Between ten and twelve miles, a few decent hills with potentially steep sections. For those with some hiking experience.

• Moderately Challenging - Longer distance, twelve miles or over with lots of hills. Suitable for hikers who enjoy being out for most of the day.

• Challenging - Around fifteen miles or more, with hills, mountains and maybe the odd scramble. For experienced hikers who like pushing themselves.

• Hard - Long distance, sometimes over twenty miles, with mountains and difficult terrain. Only suitable for fit, experienced hikers.

IMPORTANT
Please bear in mind this is a free of charge, self-guided trip with a hobby group. It is not organised by a business nor any entity with commercial purposes. Any trip details, travel advice, route planning, instructions and other content in our group merely represent our shared personal knowledge, research and suggestions as outdoor enthusiasts. As this is not a business, there is no "product", "service" or "package" and also no "tour guide", "operator" or "walk leader". Each participant is responsible for their own safety. Even if some of us are very experienced walking outdoors, nobody assumes responsibility for any kind of injury, damage or loss that may happen. Our experienced members volunteer their time and effort to shape a pleasant and quality adventure for everyone. By participating you acknowledge and agree with this disclaimer.