Hen Cloud and Don Whillans Memorial Hut Loop

Starting your adventure near Staffordshire, England, the Hen Cloud and Don Whillans Memorial Hut Loop is a captivating 3 km (1.86 miles) trail with an elevation gain of approximately 100 meters (328 feet). This loop trail is rated medium in difficulty, making it suitable for hikers with some experience.

Getting There

To reach the trailhead, you can drive or use public transport. If driving, set your GPS to Upper Hulme, Staffordshire, which is the nearest village. There is a small car park near the Roaches Tea Rooms and Restaurant, which serves as a convenient starting point. For those using public transport, the nearest train station is in Leek, from where you can take a local bus or taxi to Upper Hulme.

Trail Overview

The trail begins with a gentle ascent through a picturesque landscape characterized by rolling hills and open moorland. As you start your hike, you'll notice the terrain is a mix of rocky paths and grassy patches, so sturdy hiking boots are recommended.

Hen Cloud

At approximately 1 km (0.62 miles) into the hike, you'll reach Hen Cloud, a prominent gritstone escarpment that offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The climb up Hen Cloud is steep but manageable, and the effort is well worth it for the vistas. This spot is also popular among rock climbers, so you might see some in action.

Don Whillans Memorial Hut

Continuing along the loop, you'll descend slightly and head towards the Don Whillans Memorial Hut, located around 2 km (1.24 miles) from the start. This hut is named after the famous British rock climber Don Whillans and serves as a base for climbers tackling the Roaches. The hut itself is a piece of climbing history and adds a unique cultural element to your hike.

Flora and Fauna

The area is rich in wildlife, so keep an eye out for red grouse, curlews, and peregrine falcons. The moorland is also home to a variety of plant species, including heather and bilberry, which add vibrant colors to the landscape, especially in late summer.

Navigation

Given the varied terrain and potential for foggy conditions, it's advisable to use a reliable navigation tool like HiiKER to stay on track. The app provides detailed maps and real-time updates, ensuring you won't miss any key landmarks or diverge from the trail.

Final Stretch

The final stretch of the loop takes you through a serene woodland area before bringing you back to the starting point near the Roaches Tea Rooms. This is a great spot to relax and enjoy some refreshments after your hike.

This trail offers a blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and moderate physical challenge, making it a rewarding experience for those who undertake it.