Spires & stiles walk

This nine-mile route passes through the pleasant farmland of the Mease Lowlands in South Derbyshire and links six key National Forest sites.

The landscape feels very rural with large cropped fields, intact hedgerows and scattered game coverts linked with a good network of field paths and rural lanes.

Along the way, you'll see church spires, pass through a mix of woodlands and meadows, before reaching the historic village of Coton in the Elms.

Coton Wood

This site was planted by the Woodland Trust in 1995 on former farmland and lies on an historic path. Before the Church at Coton was built, the dead from the village were carried to Lullington for burial along this route through the “Devil’s Arches”, also known as The Coffin Route.

Covering 30ha, the main species growing there are oak, ash, field maple, hawthorn, cherry and other native trees and shrubs. 

Grangewood

A 40ha woodland planted in 1997 with native trees and shrubs. Walking, riding (by permit) and fishing are all available on the site.

Noon Column

Six Noon Columns are dotted around the Forest. Slots cut into these 3 metre high oak sculptures, designed by internationally renowned artist David Nash, allow rays of sunshine through at true noon each day. Find the Mease Valley Noon Column just off route, found in an open glade within Grangewood.

Top Tree and Long Close Woods

Between them, these woods cover 80ha and were planted by the Woodland Trust in 1996. An area has been left next to Grangewood Ancient Wood to enable natural regeneration of the existing wood. 

Foxley Wood

A 28ha woodland planted by the Woodland Trust in 1996. An area has been set aside for educational use and includes an all-abilities path and pond. It is under regular management by the Heartwood Community Woodfuel Group, who run volunteer workdays during winter months.

Rosliston

The village is mentioned in the Domesday Book as Redlauestun meaning “farm of Hrolf”. Until 1875, Rosliston was part of the parish of Walton. 

Rosliston Forestry Centre

Built on the site of a farm, this was one of the first woodlands planted as part of the National Forest. The land was criss-crossed with footpaths well-trodden by miners on their way to work in local collieries that are now long since gone. The centre offers lots of activities for great days out; from quiet walks to action-packed family fun activities. The mix of woodland and meadow, ponds and play areas offer the perfect playground for visitors of all ages and physical abilities, all year round. Spot the wildlife, join a guided walk or stay the night in one of the lodges.

Coton in the Elms

The village name is derived from “all the cottages in the elms”. Sadly, following the outbreak of Dutch Elm Disease in the 1970s, few of the elms which gave the village its name remain.

• Car Parking
• Grassy Paths
• Picnic Area
• Viewpoint
• Refreshments
• Toilets

• The Honey Pot Tearoom
• The Hub Cafe