Alrewas

An attractive village beside the River Trent, Alrewas dates back many hundreds of years and still retains an historic charm with its half timbered thatched cottages, the old mill and its 12th Century church.

Situated just inside the National Forest, much of Alrewas is a designated conservation area. The Trent and Mersey Canal runs through the village with locks and bridges and waterside meadows.
The nearby National Memorial Arboretum is well worth a visit in its own right. It commemorates all those who have given their lives in the service of their country or have suffered as a result of conflict. The Arboretum is a unique haven of peace, contemplation and hope for the future. It consists of 150 acres of wooded parkland within the National Forest in Staffordshire where visitors can both enjoy and learn about the trees and their surroundings, and reflect upon their special symbolism. After your Trail, it provides the perfect place to end your day.



Nearby gravel pits have also proved to be a treasure trove. Remains of mammoth, reindeer, wild horse and wolf have been found, dating back some 40,000 years, but the prize item is the complete skull of a wooly rhino, weighing one and a half tonnes, along with its almost complete skeleton. It is the finest example known and exceptionally well preserved. Looking at the rural tranquillity of today, it is hard to imagine the frozen wastes of the Ice Age that existed when these creatures roamed where you now walk. Hopefully, the largest animals you will encounter will be cattle, peacefully grazing beside the canal.
As there are some steep steps, a narrow footpath and a canal lock gate to negotiate, parts of the Trail are not suitable for wheelchairs. Pushchairs that can be carried for a few metres are suitable, however. As some of the route is beside water, small children need to be very well supervised.
On-road parking is available in Mill End Lane, but if there are no spaces, you can park almost anywhere on Main Street.