Stage 9 National Forest Way: Rosliston & Branston Water Park
The National Forest Way takes walkers on a 75-mile journey through a transforming landscape.
On this 5½-mile stage, the Way takes you through open farmland and the floodplain of the River Trent. You will pass through young woods and open fields between the villages of Rosliston and Walton-on-Trent. You will cross the River Trent, which will be your companion for a while as you enter the flat plains of mineral workings and skylark country.
Rosliston Forestry Centre provides plenty of opportunities to get active or just sit back and relax with a cuppa and a cake.
Please note: The footpath diversion marked on the map is no longer in place (Public Footpath No 1(c) Branston) between the railway line and the Gate Inn PH at Branston (between sections 19 & 20 eastbound, sections 3 & 4 westbound on the leaflet). The footpath now follows the original route, and the diversion is no longer accessible.
Please bear with us whilst we update the map!
Location Map
Swadlincote Derbyshire
Points of Interest
Rosliston Forestry Centre
Rosliston Forestry Centre was the first visitor centre in The National Forest and has a strong environmental education programme well used by schools and other groups. The centre includes waymarked walking and cycle routes, birds of prey demonstrations and sculpture trails.
Walton-on-Trent
This attractive village is an ancient crossing point of the River Trent. It was here that King Edward II crossed the river in pursuit of the disaffected Earl of Lancaster.
River Trent & the Bailey Bridge
The current bridge built in 1974 is the second temporary Bailey bridge to cross the river at this point. The river is an important wildlife habitat: look out for kingfisher, heron and evidence of otters.
Branston Water Park
These restored gravel pits feature one of the largest areas of reedbed in Staffordshire, together with wet woodland, open grassland and wildflower meadows. These valuable habitats attract a wide range of birds, butterflies and other insects.
Image Gallery
