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Standon Hall was built in 1910 as a manor house to the design of Liverpool architect J. Francis Doyle, and is located in Standon near Ecceshall, Staffordshire.
The Hall was formerly owned and built for Sir Thomas Anderton Salt, a director of the North Staffordshire Railway company, but its use as a family home was short-lived and was sold to Staffordshire County Council in 1925 for subsequent use as a hospital.
The establishment of pavilions for tuberculosis patients in 1930 and its successive orthopaedic treatment in the Hall itself established its role in providing medical care during critical periods in history, particularly in the early to mid-20th century when such diseases were prevalent. The medical facilities were also utilised in 1939 when it was temporarily requisitioned by the War Office to care for wounded soldiers.
Upon the opening of Stafford General Hospital in 1983, the NHS sold the property into the private sector and the manor house itself was converted into a residential care home for up to 22 elderly ladies and gentlemen and the outbuildings, then known as "The Beeches", specialised in dementia care for an additional 21 elderly residents.
Some 30 years later, plans were submitted to convert the hall into 19 apartments, and outbuildings into seven new homes, but the planning permission for the venture was eventually rejected in 2018.
The hall’s future was uncertain, like many old and abandoned buildings within the UK, it seemed destined to fall into disrepair, However, in 2019 the Grade II-listed hall, that had stood empty for several years and was being considered for auction, was purchased for the princely sum of £1.2 million by local entrepreneurs Joanne and Andrey Magiy and their journey to transform the disused building into a stunning wedding and events venue begun.
The Hall’s architectural significance and adaptive reuse reflect its enduring importance within the local community and after much hard graft and dedication to the task by their team; the building was rescued from dereliction and is now fully restored.

I parked in the hall's grounds and the management team at Standon granted me permission to film there.

Land owner permission obtained.

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Co-ordinates: 52.91552, -2.286529 • what3words: ///wordplay.automatic.pronouns

Packwood House Is a Grade I listed timber-framed Tudor manor house in Packwood on the Solihull border near Lapworth, Warwickshire. It has a wealth of tapestries and fine furniture, and is known for the garden of yews. The Fetherston family owned land at Packwood from the fifteenth through to the middle of the nineteenth century.
The house began as a modest timber-framed farmhouse constructed for John Fetherston between 1556 and 1560. In about 1570, William Fetherston built a new ‘great mancient howse’ which was later handed over to his son John in 1599. The house John inherited was tall, detached and nearly square in plan, with triple gables and a great brick cow barn to the north with further farm buildings to the east. The last member of the Fetherston family died in 1876.
In 1904 the house and Packwood estate of approximately 134 acres was bought at auction by Birmingham industrialist Alfred Ash envisioning it as a legacy for his son, Graham Baron Ash. He is reported to have said: ‘I bought it because the Boy wanted it.’
At the outbreak of war in 1914, Ash volunteered for the medical corps. From there, he was transferred to the Royal Flying Corps, but wrecked four aircrafts during his tenure. Eventually he served as a Balloon Observation Officer.
It was eventually inherited in 1925 by Graham who then spent the following two decades creating a house of Tudor character. He purchased an extensive collection of 16th- and 17th-century furniture, some obtained from nearby Baddesley Clinton, and the great barn of the farm was converted into a Tudor-style Great hall with a sprung floor for dancing. It was connected to the main house via the addition of a Long Gallery in 1931.
Packwood House stands as a testament to Ash’s meticulous vision and passion for preservation and restoration. It drove him to travel extensively, absorbing cultures and collecting treasures to adorn Packwood's halls.
His driving ambition to rid the old house of any trace of its Georgian and Victorian inheritance was in tune with the fashion of the times. The classical style of the eighteenth century and the dark, heavily furnished interiors of Queen Victoria’s reign were deeply unfashionable in inter-war England.
His dedication extended beyond mere aesthetics as he envisioned Packwood as a living history, where guests could experience the essence of Old England. Lavish parties, complete with theatrical productions and musical performances, brought the house to life, echoing its heyday as a social hub.
Adjacent to the house is a Yew Garden which is accessed by raised steps and a wrought-iron gate. The garden path follows an avenue of trees, which leads up a spiral hill. Some of the yews at Packwood are taller than 15m, despite the soil on the estate having high levels of clay. This cans be detrimental to the trees during wet periods and as a result, parts of the garden are often closed to the public while restoration work is undertaken.
On 30 June 1941, Graham Baron Ash donated £30,000 pounds to the National Trust along with Packwood, its collections, park and gardens in memory of his parents. The transfer of ownership came with stipulations including its meticulous preservation in his 'Memorandum of wishes', in order to safeguard it’s reputation as a restored symbol of Old England for future generations to come. Ash also stipulated that all furniture should be kept in the same position, that no extra furnishings should be added, and that freshly cut flowers should be placed in every room.

TOAL was from Packwood Lane that runs straight through the middle of the estate and is not owned by the National Trust. Parking is plentiful in their free carpark and refreshments and comfort breaks can be had, without having to buy a ticket, from their cafe. There was also a mobile refreshments van in their outside picnic area.

Land owner permission not required.

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Co-ordinates: 52.34805, -1.746405 • what3words: ///rising.sprinkler.cutaway

Seven Springs is one of the many features to explore on Cannock Chase. I parked near Weeton's Bridge but there is a Carpark at Seven Springs. A short walk to my 1st TOAL place but there are so many places to explore your spoilt for choice.

There are few facilities in the area for comfort breaks but Milford is the nearest place for food and drink.

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Co-ordinates: 52.78061, -2.000735 • what3words: ///front.balconies.bullion

The Grade I listed Chirk Castle stands as a sentinel guarding the entrance to the Ceiriog Valley in Wales. Built in 1295 by Roger Mortimer de Chirk, it formed a crucial link in King Edward I's defensive chain across North Wales.

The parkland to the castle is vast so for drone shots I used zoom from a road a Kilometre away (close up orbit was from a friends footage). There is a closer take off point that I'll add instead and for the more adventurous the Offa's Dyke Path runs through the property.

I parked in the the NT carpark as I am a member and refreshments is of course available from there.

Land owner permission requirements unknown.

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Co-ordinates: 52.93563, -3.089794 • what3words: ///puppets.broom.magically

Aston-by-Stone Hall, located nr Stone, Staffordshire, was designed in 1855 by Edward Welby Pugin for Father Edward Huddlestone, with possible incorporation of earlier elements from a convent by CF Hansom. The Grade II listing is attributed to its architectural significance, featuring works by both Hansom and Pugin, intact survival of Pugin's design, and its historical importance as a site of Roman Catholic worship, including housing the remains of St Chad during the Reformation. The property's history spans centuries, passing through various families before being acquired by the Birmingham Roman Catholic Diocese in 1959. The house, primarily constructed of red brick with decorative blue and gault brick detailing, boasts a 'pinwheel' floor plan centred around an open-well staircase hall. The interior features richly detailed fireplaces and a chapel with salvaged architectural elements possibly from the earlier convent. The hall was closed when I visited and its owners are looking for funds for its full restoration before using it for retired clergy.

I parked along Church Lane just off the A34 and TOAL was from the same place. It's a narrow lane, that forms part of the 'Two Saints Way' OS Walk and also has two Churches along the same short road (St Michael Archangel and St Saviours).

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Co-ordinates: 52.88259, -2.128078 • what3words: ///inefficient.devours.detail

Moseley Old Hall, situated in Fordhouses, north of Wolverhampton England, holds a significant place in British history as one of the sanctuaries of King Charles II during his desperate flight to France following the defeat at the Battle of Worcester in 1651. Owned by the National Trust today, this Grade II* listed building has witnessed pivotal moments in the country's past.
Originally, the estate belonged to the Cordsall family until it was acquired by Henry Pitt of Bushby, a prominent figure among the Merchants of the Staple, in 1583. Around 1600, Henry constructed what would become known as Moseley Old Hall. This half-timbered structure, nestled in secluded woodland, served as a retreat and home for generations to come. After Henry's passing in 1602, the hall passed to his daughter, Alice Pitt, upon her marriage to Thomas Whitgreave of Bridgeford, Staffordshire.
The hall's historical significance peaked during the aftermath of the Battle of Worcester in 1651, which is also on record as being the last battle of the English Civil War. King Charles II, pursued by Parliamentarians, sought refuge at Moseley Old Hall on September 8th. Disguised in workman's attire and suffering from ill-fitting shoes that had wounded his feet, Charles was warmly received by Thomas Whitgreave, Alice Whitgreave, and John Huddleston, the Catholic priest of the house. They provided him with much-needed rest, nourishment, and care, including tending to his injured feet. Charles spent crucial days in hiding, concealed in a priest-hole within the hall, while outside, a confrontation between Whitgreave and Parliamentarians unfolded. With the help of Huddleston, Charles eventually planned his escape and departed, continuing his journey to safety.
The family residence moved to Moseley Court around the 1820s, which was a new Regency-style house built for George Whitgreave. Few structural changes were made to the Hall until around 1870, when the outer walls of the building were replaced by bricks, and casements replaced the Elizabethan windows. Around that time, a first floor corridor was constructed. Descendants of the Whitgreave family owned the house until 1925, at which point the estate was sold and subsequently used as a farmhouse, falling into a state of disrepair.
In 1940, Will Wiggin initiated restoration efforts, though they were halted by the onset of World War II. Following Wiggin's death, the hall and an acre of land were bequeathed to the National Trust in 1962, leading to its eventual opening to the public a year later. The hall was nearly empty of furniture at the time but both the furnishings and pictures have been subsequently lent or given to the Trust. In 1981 the roof and brickwork were repaired, and the bargeboards and finials were replaced.
Today, Moseley Old Hall stands as a meticulously restored testament to its rich history. Furnished with period pieces, including the original four-poster bed used by Charles II, the hall offers visitors a glimpse into its past. Surrounding the hall is a recreated 17th-century-style enclosed garden, featuring period plants, herb gardens, topiaries, and more, providing a tranquil backdrop to this storied site.
In 2023, the Trust acquired John Huddleston’s prayer book, after it had sold at action for £6900. This rare artefact was owned by the priest who help save Charles II and was present during Charles’ deathbed conversion to Catholicism in 1685. The prayer book is now on display at Mosely Old Hall further enriching the visitor experience and commemorating the hall's role in sheltering the fleeing monarch.

Parking is free and right next to the hall. I TOAL in the adjacent farmers field. Walking back up the entrance road about 100m there was a break in the hedgeline that enabled me to fly from just outside of the NT boundary. The road is not owned by NT but is narrow and I wouldn't advocate flying from there! There a FRZ the other side of the road behind the Hall due to the proximity of Featherstone Prison but should not affect your flight.

Land owner permission requirements unknown.

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Co-ordinates: 52.63743, -2.102769 • what3words: ///bought.boots.salad

There are a plethora of places to TOAL around the Little langdale Valley Cumbria, most of which are owned by the National Trust as Open Access areas. We started a circular walk from Elterwater, taking in the Cathedral Cave, Colwith Force and Skelwith Bridge/Skelwith Force before returning along the banks of the Brathay River to Elterwater about 13.5k. There was a single track road that leads up the Stang End Farm and this is where my TOAL was for the photograph. There is also the road that leads to Hardknot Pass, which was where a lot of my ground footage was taken before reaching the old Quarry Works and the cave.

Parking is a premium around this area as most places off road are used for passing but it is possible to pull over I guess (we were obviously walking). There is a National Trust carpark in Elterwater to start a walk from but I was staying in the village so it wasn't needed.

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Co-ordinates: 54.41697, -3.046346 • what3words: ///decide.groups.scrolled

The most famous of the many legends that surround the stones is that they were once a coven of witches who were turned to stone by a wizard from Scotland named Michael Scot. It is said the stones cannot be counted – but, if anyone is able to count them twice and come to the same total – the spell will be broken or it will bring very bad luck. Another legend states that if you walk round the circles and count the number of stones correctly, then put your ear to Long Meg, you will hear her whisper. The name itself is said to come from a local witch, Meg of Meldon, who was alive in the early 17th century. From a certain angle, the Long Meg stone resembles the profile of a witch, facing the stones. However that Meg of Meldon is the name given to Margaret Fenwick (née Selsby) who lived at Meldon near Morpeth, Northumberland, some 70 miles from these stones.

There is a large carpark just down the lane from the stones that is marked in DS and Penrith is just a few miles away.

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Co-ordinates: 54.72749, -2.667979 • what3words: ///scatters.drivers.again

Elterwater is a village in the English Lake District and the county of Cumbria. The village lies half a mile (800 m) north-west of the lake of Elter Water, from which it derives its name. Both are situated in the valley of Great Langdale.

Elterwater Bridge is a Grade II listed structure dating to at least the 18th century.

In the past, the principal industries have been farming, quarrying for slate and gunpowder manufacture. The first two activities continue, while evidence of the latter survives in the grounds of the Langdale Estate, a holiday development founded in the 1930s and redeveloped as a timeshare in the 1980s.

In the present day, tourism is a principal source of income and the village is popular with visitors of all kinds, particularly fell-walkers due to its proximity to many of the Lake Districts most popular fells. The village is home to a plethora of holiday homes, as well as the Britannia Inn and Elterwater Hostel, a former YHA hostel, that was saved from closure and taken independent in 2013.

There is a National Trust Carpark next to the Elterwater Bridge, which was the start our stunning 13.5 km circular walk around the Elter Lake and eventually coming back over the Skelwith Bridge following the river Brathay on the well maintained trail back to Elterwater carpark (you can see it in my video as I stayed in the cottage you see at the end of it). There is a pub and an excellent cafe in the small village centre and only 5 minutes from Ambleside.

Although the surrounding land is owned by the National Trust there it is open access and there are places where you can TOAL without trespass.

Land owner permission not required.

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Co-ordinates: 54.43425, -3.037682 • what3words: ///crumb.riders.trusts

The Tan Hill Inn in Richmond, North Yorkshire holds the distinction of being the highest in Britain at an elevation of 1,732 feet or 528 meters above sea level.

The Yorkshire Dales have a history of lead mining and the current Inn was originally built in the 17th Century in order to cater to the needs of the local mining community. Strategically located along an old packhorse route, it served as a resting place for travellers and a stopping point for the essential transportation of goods.

It’s well known for its isolation, with its nearest neighbours some 4 miles away and the closest town over 10, it generates it’s own electricity and utilises a natural spring water supply that was discovered by Hazel twig divining rods.

During winter months, it can be particularly challenging to reach due to snow and harsh weather conditions. Snowdrifts can be substantial, and the inn has featured in several headlines over the years for occasionally been cut off from the outside world. Despite this, it remains a popular destination for those seeking a unique and remote experience.

Campaigning by ramblers in the 60s led to the opening of public rights of way and the establishment of many more long-distance footpaths. The Coast to Coast path which passes through nearby Keld, became popular for walkers, which in turn led to a dramatic increase in visitors; especially after the opening of the Pennine Way, Britain’s first long-distance footpath.

The Inn is not just a place for tourists though; it also plays a vital role in the local community. It's a gathering place for locals and a hub for various events and activities throughout the year and has gained a reputation for being a lively and welcoming venue, attracting visitors from near and far.

In the 20th century, the Inn underwent restoration efforts to preserve its historical charm. The innkeepers have also managed to maintain its traditional character while making necessary updates for modern comfort.

Whether you're interested in the stunning natural surroundings, the historical significance, or the unique experiences it offers, the Tan Hill Inn is a notable destination in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales.

Parking is a breeze at the Tan Hill Pub, loads of space available. The issue is getting there, especially in the winter. Stonedale Ln or the Regional Rite 71 will put you on the right track depending which direction you're coming from. The Inn itself is a great place and at the time of my visit all were welcome with a smile!

Land owner permission not required.

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Co-ordinates: 54.45538, -2.160562 • what3words: ///worm.wiggling.stunt

Stayed in the converted barn on Garsdale Head Old Road. Nothing but beautiful countryside for miles. Settle railway in the distance is the only sign of buildings in the immediate area. The cottage was so remote and you feel and at one with the Yorkshire Dales; despite it's fantastic and remote location it has easy access (roads all good with no dodgy dirt tracks to negotiate) to so many places; villages, towns, waterfalls, castles and museums all sheathed in a beautiful landscape to walk and fly in... bliss.

There are some fantastic pubs to discover amongst the hills... hint: head up to the Tan Hill Inn 45 minutes from Richmond (North Yorkshire), less than 30 minutes from Hawes in Wensleydale and only 30 minutes from the A66 between Cumbria & County Durham.

The Old road is narrow but widens occasionally but in the week we stayed there I only saw 2 vehicles pass by. The Old road is situated between Cock Brow and Clough and runs virtually parallel with the A684.

Land owner permission not required.

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Co-ordinates: 54.31367, -2.350092 • what3words: ///puts.rolled.acquaint

The Falls and Cotterdale Beck.

Cotter Force is a small waterfall on Cotterdale Beck, a minor tributary of the River Ure, near the mouth of Cotterdale, a side dale in Wensleydale, North Yorkshire, England. Cotterdale Beck has several other smaller falls in its course before joining the Ure, but Cotter Force is the largest. The force is not visible from the road, but it takes only a short walk to reach it. It comprises a series of six steps each its own small waterfall with the largest single drop being about 5 feet (1.5 m). The force is narrower at 13 feet (4 m) at the top widening to 43 feet (13 m) at the bottom.[4] A short path allows easy access from the A684 near Holme Heads Bridge approximately 2 miles (3.2 km) west of Hawes. After the Yorkshire Dales Millennium Trust carried out an upgrade to its footpath, Cotter Force is now accessible to wheelchair users and less mobile visitors and a small layby is right next to a sign adjacent to the path from the road.

Be aware, that if you want to get close to the action there is a lot of small branches to negotiate!

Land owner permission not required.

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Co-ordinates: 54.32284, -2.234763 • what3words: ///adapt.additives.chemistry

Wray Castle is a charming Grade II listed Victorian neo-gothic mansion located in the Lake District, Cumbria, and England. It's situated on the western shore of Lake Windermere, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The castle, along with the adjacent church was built as a private residence in the 1840s for James Dawson, a retired Liverpool surgeon.

Despite its stronghold appearance it was never intended as a defensive fortification and therefore lacks many typical castle like characteristics. Instead, it served as a holiday home for the Dawson family. After James’ death in 1875 the estate was inherited by his fifteen year old nephew, Edward Preston Rawnsley. In 1877 Edward's cousin, Hardwicke Rawnsley, took up the appointment of vicar of Wray Church. To protect the countryside from damaging development, Hardwicke, acting on a notion conceived by John Ruskin, developed the idea of a National Trust that could buy and preserve places of natural beauty and historic interest for the nation.
In 1882, when Beatrix Potter was just 16 years old, her family rented Wray Castle for their summer holiday. This visit is said to have inspired Beatrix's love for the Lake District, and it marked the beginning of her deep affection for the region. She eventually settled in the Lake District and purchased Hill Top Farm in Near Sawrey. It is said that the landscapes and surroundings of the Lake District, including her memories of Wray Castle, greatly influenced her work as a renowned author and illustrator, creating beloved children's books such as "The Tale of Peter Rabbit.”
In 1929 Wray Castle, along with 64 acres of land, were given to the National Trust by Sir Noton and Lady Barclay, the owners at that time. Since then, the castle has been used for a variety of purposes, such as a youth hostel, and from 1931 it housed the offices of the Freshwater Biological Association. From 1958 to 1998 it became a training college for Merchant Navy radio officers and was known as RMS Wray Castle).

In 2011 the National Trust proposed to lease the property stripped of its furnishings, for use as a hotel, but instead opened it to the public during the visitor season that year. High visitor numbers meant that the property had clear potential to be developed as a visitor attraction. In 2014 the Trust applied for retrospective planning permission to change the use of the listed building to visitor attraction and today, the public can explore its rooms, enjoy the beautiful grounds, and even participate in various family-friendly activities. The castle has a relaxed atmosphere, making it a delightful destination for those looking to experience the charm of the Lake District.

There is plenty of parking within the grounds itself and a number of National Trust granted public paths follow the Windermere Shoreline and across the property. I was able to launch the DJI mini 3 Pro from one of the Public Paths close to the Windermere Shoreline but inside the National Trust Property boundary. The castle was closed, as it was out-of-season, and VLOS was maintained, on this occasion, with the assistance of a spotter. Although there were plenty of walkers taking in the scenery at the time, I had no interaction with any of them! I suspect it maybe a different story in-season so be aware!

Land owner permission requirements unknown.

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Co-ordinates: 54.39904, -2.962124 • what3words: ///wreck.exposing.responses

The Trentham Estate in Staffordshire, England features in the Domesday Book of 1086 and was listed as a royal manor valued at 115 shillings. Trentham Hall was sold to James Leveson in 1540. Sir Richard Leveson had a new house built in the Elizabethan style in 1634 but it was demolished to make way for a later Georgian house. Sir William Leveson-Gower, 4th Baronet, built a new house on the site in 1690 and around 1730, John Leveson-Gower, 1st Earl Gower, erected a hall based on Buckingham House. This was to be substantially altered by his son, 1st Marquess of Stafford, between 1775 – 1778. The 2nd Duke of Sutherland commissioned Charles Barry, to add an extension to parts of the house that dated between 1833 to 1842 while working on a rebuild of the Palace of Westminster. The focal point of the building was a 10,000-square-foot (930 m2) campanile clock tower. The original approach to the hall was from the west, and had an Italianate grand entrance and a one-storey semicircular arcade range with side wings. Charles had continued to improve the house for another decade adding a new block with state bedrooms, dressing rooms, a servant's quarters and a clock tower all commonly referred to as the Riding School. Standing on the edge of a large cobbled stableyard it was the final major addition to the property and sadly now is virtually the only structure that remains of the 1851 imposing and once quoted "elegant mansion ".
The 18th and 19th Century Parkland that surrounded Trentham Hall was designed by Lancelot 'Capability' Brown, the Shakespeare of English garden design. The house served as the Staffordshire seat of the Dukes of Sutherland.
In the southern area of the Trentham Estate stands the monument to the 1st Duke of Sutherland. This colossal statue was raised in 1834 at the instigation of the second Duke, a year after the first Duke's death. The hall was one of many to be demolished in the 20th century, and was considered one of the greatest losses of the era. The River Trent no longer fed the lake in front of the hall, but still passed the edge of the estate. Sewage and effluent from the nearby potteries polluted it making life at the hall VERYvery unpleasant. The hall was abandoned as a residence in 1905 and was offered to Staffordshire County Council on condition that it be used as an institute of higher education. However an agreement could not be reached and with the council concerned that pollution from the Trent would render a residential institution at the hall undesirable, the county council declined the offer in 1906. The Duke of Sutherland then decided to offer the estate to the six Potteries towns the following year in the event that they went ahead with plans to merge into a single county borough, but after their 1910 federation, the new Stoke-on-Trent Corporation also declined the offer in 1911 due to its high potential cost of maintenance. This was to be the hall’s death knell and the 4th Duke of Sutherland ordered it to be demolished in 1912, although the sculpture gallery, clock tower and parish church along with a few other buildings, were saved from destruction, their Grade II listed remains are still on the Heritage at Risk Register.The 1758 ‘Capability Brown’ designed gardens were superimposed over an earlier formal design of Charles Bridgeman but the current layout of Trentham Gardens are based on the surviving Barry formal gardens of the 1840s and in 2012 the Trentham Estate was selected as the site of a Royal Diamond Jubilee wood. Since the turn of the millennium, Trentham Gardens has undergone a £120 million redevelopment as a leisure destination and it’s regeneneration includes restoration of the Italian gardens and adjacent woodlands. The goal is to avoid a theme park-like attraction, but instead offer "authentic experiences" for all ages.

Trentham Gardens is easily found in Google Maps and parking is plentiful, even on the busiest of days in the shopping village. TOAL was just behind the Church and can be accessed by walking passed the left of the garden centre over the river bridge between the white stable buildings and onto the public road behind the church. The Park"s staff are always noticeable around the park itself and although not in a FRZ they do not allow TOAL on their grounds.


My Channel @DocColVideo

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Co-ordinates: 52.96601, -2.201651 • what3words: ///bats.oath.knee

The Wedgwood Museum, Barlaston, Staffordshire, England, houses an extensive collection of Wedgwood pottery and artefacts, exhibiting the company's history and creativity. The British pottery company was founded by Josiah Wedgwood in 1759. Wedgwood earned the favour of various European monarchs, including Queen Charlotte of England and Catherine the Great of Russia. The company was granted a royal warrant by various British monarchs and became known as "The Queen's Potter."
The new purpose-built visitor centre and museum was built in Barlaston in 1975 and later remodelled in 1985. A video theatre was added and a new gift shop, as well as an expanded demonstration area, where visitors could watch pottery being made. A further renovation costing £4.5 million was carried out in 2000 and included access to the main factory along with a visitor centre, restaurant and tea room. T

In 1986, Waterford Glass Group plc purchased Wedgwood plc for $360 million dollars but whilst Wedgwood went on to deliver a $39 million dollar profit in 1998 Waterford unfortunately produced a loss of $29 million dollars, after which the group was renamed Waterford Wedgwood plc. In 2009, following years of financial problems at group level, and after it’s shares dropped significantly in the global financial crisis of 2008, Waterford Wedgwood was placed into administration with only 1,800 employees remaining to run the company as a "going concern."
During this time a company factory in Jakarta was producing bone china under both Wedgwood and Royal Doulton brands. In order to reduce costs the majority of production of both brands has been transferred to Indonesia, with only a small number of high-end products continuing to be made in the UK.
The collection with 80,000 works of art, ceramics, manuscripts, letters and photographs faced being sold off to help satisfy pension debts, however, The Heritage Lottery Fund, the Art Fund as well as various trusts and businesses contributed donations to buy the collection and in October 2014, it was finally purchased and donated to the Victoria and Albert Museum, although it continued to be displayed, on loan, at the Wedgwood Museum.

TOAL couldn't be any easier as I used the back edge of their carpark. I did ask if it was okay to film there and they said no problem but I did leave out the fact that I'd be using my mini 3 Pro! It gets pretty busy there so go early or late in the day for a relatively easy time and avoid flying over crowds. Google Maps will take you right there and not far away are:
The Plume and Feathers Pub owned by the actor Neil Morrissey (Men Behaving Badly and Bob The Builder) - less than 3 minutes away by car and they do a cracking pub lunch or book the Restaurant.
Trentham Gardens and Shopping Outlet and Garden Centre - 10minutes by car.

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Co-ordinates: 52.95594, -2.170846 • what3words: ///metals.films.reach

LITLE MORETON HALL
Little Moreton Hall first appears in the historical record in 1271, but the present building dates from the early 16th century with the earliest parts of the house built for the prosperous Cheshire landowner William Moreton around 1504. The remainder was constructed in stages by subsequent generations of the family until about 1610 making the building highly irregular, with three asymmetrical structures forming a small, rectangular cobbled courtyard.

The house remained in the possession of the Moreton family for almost 450 years, until ownership was transferred to the National Trust in 1938. Little Moreton Hall and its sandstone bridge that spans the moat, are Grade I listed and the grounds on which Little Moreton Hall stands is protected as a Scheduled Monument.

The Dissolution of the Monasteries in the mid-16th century provided further opportunities for the Moretons to add to their estate, and by the early years of Elizabeth I's reign, William Moreton II owned an area of 1,360 acres containing a cornmill, orchards, gardens, and an iron bloomery with water-powered hammers, all then valued around £24 pounds.

In 1546 William Moreton's son, also called William, replaced the original west wing with a new range, housing service rooms on the ground floor as well as a porch, gallery, and three interconnected rooms on the first floor, one of which had access to a garderobe or privvy. In 1559 William had a new floor inserted at gallery level in the Great Hall, and added the two large bay windows looking onto the courtyard, built so close to each other that their roofs abut one another. The south wing was added around 1560 by William Moreton II's son, John. It includes the Gatehouse and a third storey containing the 21m Long Gallery. A small kitchen and Brew-house block was added to the south wing in about 1610 and was the last major extension to the house.

The fortunes of the Moreton family declined during the English Civil War. As supporters of the Royalist cause, they found themselves isolated in a neighbourhood of Parliamentarians. Little Moreton Hall was requisitioned by the Parliamentarians in 1643 and used as soldiers quarters. The family successfully petitioned for its restitution, and survived the Civil War but at a huge financial loss. Their attempts to sell the full estate, failed and only several parcels of land were sold. William Moreton died in 1654 leaving debts of £3,000–£4,000, the equivalent to approximately £14 million today. The family's fortunes never fully recovered, and by the late 1670s they no longer lived in Little Moreton Hall, renting it out instead to a series of tenant farmers. The Dale family took over the tenancy in 1841, and were still in residence more than 100 years later. By 1847 most of the house was unoccupied, and the deconsecrated Chapel was being used as a coal cellar and storeroom. Little Moreton Hall was in a ruinous condition; its windows were boarded up and its roof was rotten.

In 1912, Elizabeth bequeathed the house to a cousin, Charles Abraham the Bishop of Derby, stipulating that it must never be sold. Abraham opened up Little Moreton Hall to visitors, and guided tours were conducted by the Dales.

Abraham transferred ownership to the National Trust in 1938. The Dale family continued to farm the estate until 1945, and acted as caretakers for the National Trust until 1955.

The house stands on an island surrounded by a 10 m wide moat, which was dug between the 13th or 14th century to enclose an earlier building on the site. There is no evidence that the moat served any defensive purpose, and as with many other moated sites, it was probably intended as a status symbol. Running the entire length of the south range the Long Gallery is roofed with heavy gritstone slabs, the weight of which has caused the supporting floors below to bow and buckle. The crossbeams between the arch-braced roof trusses were probably added in the 17th century to prevent the structure from "bursting apart" under the load.

The TOAL was from a grass verge directly outside of the NT boundary on the A34. I parked in the Little Moreton Hall carpark without any issue as I'm a member. It is probably the easiest NT property to film as its a compact small site. The South Cheshire Way runs directly in front of the hall and carry's on through a farm field but I didn't fly from there as the tall trees would prevent VLOS and interfere with the signal.

Land owner permission not required.

View and discuss this location on Grey Arrows.

Co-ordinates: 53.12561, -2.254015 • what3words: ///stepping.variously.breeding

BISHTON HALL

Bordered by Staffordshire’s most beautiful countryside and residing in its own resplendent landscaped garden, lies Bishton Hall, a grade II listed Georgian Mansion.
Though the present house dates back to around the mid-18th century, there has been a manor here for a lot longer with Bishton getting a mention in the Domesday Book of 1086. The ivy-clad house features 17 bedrooms, three principal front rooms, a library and servants’ quarters, beautiful landscaped grounds that include an orangery, a rose filled parterre and a Temple Garden that features one of the best Doric screens in the country, all of which contribute to its archetypal old English stateliness.

Various important families have lived on the Estate through the centuries including the former High Sheriffs of Staffordshire but it was John Sparrow, a lawyer and magistrate, who purchased the Estate in 1776 and made it his home until his death in 1821, after which it passed onto his daughter, Charlette. Charlette was born in 1786, and she became well known for her elegance and beauty, however, hidden behind her feminine demeanour, was a tough and unwavering resolve. Bishton Hall was to become her main focus for her lifetime, and amongst other modifications and additions the most notable were the two bowed wings on either side of its main entrance. Charlotte believed all children deserved an education, so in 1827 she financed a new school, paying for everything herself including the teachers’ salaries, books, materials and repairs at an annual cost of £180 a year. All of this during a period in history where children’s schools for the poor rarely existed.

Built in the first half of the 19th century, the central fluted Doric screen, one of the largest and finest of its kind in the UK, is thought to date back to around 1830, a time when wealthy land owners and aristocrats regularly went on a Grand Tour of Europe eventually to return inspired by the wonders of Athens, Rome and Paris.

Charlotte never married seemingly to ensure Bishton remained in her family at a time when, upon taking wedding vows, a wife’s inheritance immediately passed to her husband. Instead, Charlotte avoided matrimony and devoted her energies to helping others until she died at the age of 90 in 1876.

In more contemporary times the Stafford-Northcote’s opened St Bede’s school at Bishton Hall in 1946 and it remained open until it was put up for sale in 2018. Charles Hanson, owner of Hansons antiques, is a man passionate about history, and in particular the period grandeur of Bishton Hall, so much so that he purchased it for close to £1.3m in 2019 as a perfect place to showcase and auction antiques.
There have been many reported sightings of ghosts at Bishton Hall, with the figure of a lady in white, believed to be that of Charlotte Sparrow, appearing the most. It featured in the TV series Most Haunted, and poltergeist activity is widespread with doors opening and shutting by themselves and the sound of children can be heard wafting mysteriously through the tight twisting staircases and rooms.
The hall is partially opened to the public, and although an appointment was required to see it’s interior when I visited, you were free to enjoy it’s gardens and exterior as well as visiting the adjacent courtyard shops and tea room. I got permission to fly from some volunteer gardeners who were really into the drone and we had an interesting conversations over a cup of tea after I finished flying.

Parking is a breeze as you can use the Hall's front of house area for free and stroll through the grounds at your leisure. You can take off from the road in front of the Hall but Line-of-sight isn't the best and from my experience there is little to stop you finding a quiet corner to fly from.

Land owner permission not required.

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Co-ordinates: 52.78532, -1.966215 • what3words: ///expect.aims.emeralds

PYE GREEN BT TOWER
Staffordshire’s Pye Green BT Tower is a 96.9 metre (318 ft) tall telecommunication tower located at the Southern edge of the Cannock Chase AONB. The impressively large reinforced concrete structure, on a good day, can apparently be seen from as far away as the Southern Pennines and due to its height and distinctive appearance, is often used as a reference point for more local navigation.
Its combination of elevation and height give it line-of-sight to both the BT Tower in Birmingham and the Sutton Common in Cheshire and it is one of fourteen concrete telecommunication towers built in the UK that were constructed as components of the British Cold War "Backbone" radio communications network.
Various types of aerial have been used in the network's history. At first, prime-focus parabolic reflectors were used. In about 1960, dual-band horn aerials started to be used widely, and a few of these survive to the present day. They began to go out of fashion at the end of the 1960s, when types of parabolic antenna with improved performance replaced them, and as many of the towers were specifically designed for the distinctive horn type aerials, they do now look rather less imposing as a result.
That being said, and despite the tower certainly looking a little bereft of hardware at its summit than it did in the days of my youth, I am always happy to see it as I approach the Stafford Junction of the M6 Motorway after a long journey home.

TOAL was just off the road where there is a pull-in about 20m before the BT Tower gates on Broadhurst Green. A few metres in on the well established grass trail across the Southern end of Cannock Chase and you can see the top half of the tower. There is room for about 4 cars if parked properly, but of all the times I've ever been, there has only been 2.

Land owner permission not required.

View and discuss this location on Grey Arrows.

Co-ordinates: 52.73045, -2.021452 • what3words: ///unstated.mural.hounded

TOAL was from the grass verge and there is a layby just behind for parking 1 car. There is a tarmac pull-in opposite the Gatehouse and a 5 bar gate, but it was a bit too close for my liking.

TIXALL GATEHOUSE, STAFFORDSHIRE
Tixall Gatehouse was built around 1580, and is one of the earliest examples of the of Greek revival architecture in England. Its builder, Sir Walter Aston, was so besotted with this fashionable structure, that he had it constructed in a position close to the house blocking the views across the picturesque valley beyond. The back of the Gatehouse mirrors the front, and was separated from the house by a wall, all of which formed a courtyard. There are three storeys, topped by an open balustrade and at each of the four corners there is an octagonal tower topped with a stylish cupola and gilded weather vane that takes the structure up to approximately sixty feet in height. At the centre of the building there is an open archway that allowed carriages entrance to the enclosed courtyard and on either side were porters’ rooms with the servants’ apartments above accessed by a spiral stone staircase in one of the towers. The large windows are flanked by coupled columns, Doric on the ground floor, Ionic on the second, and Corinthian on the third.
Tixall Estate
Tixall Estate was purchased in 1825 by Viscount Ingestre, heir to the Earl of Shrewsbury, whose seat was the nearby Ingestre Hall. Tixall Hall fell into disuse after the 1st World War and apart from its fine Georgian crescent stables and the gatehouse it was demolished by the estate in 1927.

Over time, Tixall Hall had been renovated, knocked-down, rebuilt and finally demolished, yet as all around it had changed and fell, the Gatehouse survived. However, it too had come dangerously close to dereliction at the point it was purchased by the Landmark Trust in 1968 as an Elizabethan ruin, without roof, floors or windows and was being used as a shelter for cattle. It took years for the Trust to raise funds to pay for the restoration, and to draw up plans and have them agreed by the relevant authorities; but the restoration work finally began in 1975 taking 2 yrs to complete.

Land owner permission not required.

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Co-ordinates: 52.80408, -2.032449 • what3words: ///minority.chap.twinkling

Powis Castle
The present Powis Castle was built in the mid-13th century by a Welsh prince - Gruffudd Ap Gwenwynwyn who wanted to establish his independence from the aggressive princes of Gwynedd in North Wales. This was an act of defiance and in contrast to those built by the English at Conwy, Caernarfon and Harlech in order to suppress the Welsh and consolidate Edward I’s conquest of Wales.
By the late 13th century, Llywelyn ap Gruffudd of Gwynedd had established himself as Prince of Wales, and in 1274 he destroyed Powis Castle, forcing Gruffudd ap Gwenwynwyn into exile.
However, within three years Llywelyn’s principality had crumbled leaving Gruffudd of Powys able to regain his lordship and rebuild the castle. Gruffudd, his son and grandson had all died by 1309, and with no male heir, the castle and lordship passed to an heiress, Hawise who married Sir John Charlton from Shropshire.
In 1312, Hawise’s uncle attacked the castle in an attempt to claim the lordship but failed. Charlton repaired the damage and built two great drum towers that can be seen today, either side of the castle’s west entrance.
Descendants of the Charltons continued as Lords of Powis for over 100 years but in 1421, the lack of a male heir resulted in the castle and estate being divided between two daughters, Joyce and Joan, who had married Sir John Grey and Sir John Tiptoft respectively.
Under the Tiptofts and their successor, Lord Dudley, the Outer Ward of the castle was neglected and needed considerable restoration. Luckily, in the 1530s Edward Grey, Lord Powis, took possession of the whole castle and began a major re-building programme.

In 1587, Edward Herbert purchased the castle and estate and it remained in the hands of the Herbert family until 1952 when George, 4th Earl of Powis, bequeathed the castle and gardens to the National Trust.
In 1902 George began its modernisation by introducing electric lighting and a state of the art hot-water central heating system, and at the same time he worked with his architect to re-establish the 17th Century décor in many of the state rooms, a style he thought more befitting of a medieval castle.
The estate was at its height during the Edwardian Period with notable guests arriving every weekend throughout the winter season, including the Prince and Princess of Wales in November 1909. However, this golden era was not to last as George was to suffer a number of family tragedies. The countess died following a car accident in 1929, both his sons, died whilst on active service, Percy from wounds received at the Battle of the Somme in 1916, and Mervyn in a plane crash in 1943. With no direct heir to the castle, on his death bed in 1952, George bequeathed Powis to the nation, in the care of the National Trust.
In the garden four of the 150m long original terraces remain, the last two having reverted to banks of earth covered with shrubs. The top Terrace is planted with a range of yew trees, a distinctive feature at Powis.

William Emes, apart from the destruction of the water garden, did make improvements to the estate. A road that cut through the park just below the castle was diverted, and much planting was undertaken on the Wilderness Ridge, the line of hills opposite the castle, on the other side of the Great Lawn. The last major transformation of the gardens was undertaken in the early 20th century by Violet, wife of the fourth earl.

The Herbert family continue to live in part of the castle, under an arrangement with the National Trust. The Trust has undertaken a number of major works of restoration during its ownership, including the Marquess Gate,[ the Grand Staircase, and the sculpture of Fame in the Outer Courtyard. Powis Castle is a Grade I listed building, while its gardens have their own Grade I listing and together they form an irresistible attraction that receives over 200,000 visitors a Year.

The flight was inside a FRZ but had authorisation from the relevant ATC and the local council does not have a bylaw to prevent TOAL. I was easily able to launch the DJI mini 3 Pro close from a public path just outside NT property and maintained VLOS with the assistance of a spotter (my wife).

https://www.youtube.com/@DocColVideo/

Land owner permission requirements unknown.

View and discuss this location on Grey Arrows.

Co-ordinates: 52.65246, -3.15728 • what3words: ///strongman.snapper.just

National Trust's Hardwick Hall

Hardwick Hall was the home of one of the most influential women during the Elizabethan era. Known as, Bess of Hardwick, Elizabeth, Countess of Shrewsbury, was one of the richest woman in England after Queen Elizabeth I. The Hall was regarded to be a conspicuous statement of her wealth and power and was a primary example of an Elizabethan prodigy house that arrived in a Britain when it was no longer necessary, or legal, to fortify a domestic dwelling.

Designed by Robert Smythson in the late 16th century, the Hall was positioned with commanding views on a hilltop in the Derbyshire countryside and essentially consisted of six projecting towers that stood at the sides of the rectangular house.

One of its main features isthe numerous number of windows that are exceptionally large for a time when glass was considered a luxury. The Hall's chimneys form part of the internal structure of the walls in order to give a greater capacity for the huge windows without weakening the exterior walls. Smythson began its construction in 1590 and Elizabeth moved in on its completion in 1597, a residency that was to endure until her death in 1608.

The house's design was one of the first English houses where the great hall was built on its central axis rather than at right angles to the entrance. It holds an internationally important collection of 16th-century textiles, furniture, and portraits.

Bessy’s self-importance continues with a plethora of ES initials, that stand for Elizabeth of Shrewsbury, carved, stamped, sown and printed everywhere you look. As a visitor your certainly left in no doubt as to who was responsible for building this grand house. Each of its three main storeys has a higher ceiling than the one below, the ceiling height being indicative of the importance of the rooms' occupants. The house has one of the largest long galleries in England & there is also a tapestry-hung great chamber with a spectacular plaster frieze illustrating hunting scenes that has changed little since its conception.

Hardwick was just one of Bess's many houses. Each of her four marriages had brought her greater wealth. She was born in her father's manor house on the site of the later, now old Hall at Hardwick, which today is a ruin that lies just beyond the forecourt of the 'new' hall. After Bess's death in 1608, the house passed to her son William Cavendish, 1st Earl of Devonshire. His great-grandson, William, was created 1st Duke of Devonshire in 1694. The Devonshires made Chatsworth, another of Bess's great houses, their principal seat so Hardwick was therefore relegated to the role of an occasional retreat for hunting or used as a dower house and as such escaped the attention of modernisers and received few alterations after its completion.

From the early 19th century, the antique atmosphere of Hardwick Hall was consciously preserved. And a low, 19th-century service wing is fairly low key, at its rear. In 1950, the unexpected death of the 10th Duke of Devonshire, with the subsequent 80% death duties caused the sale of many of the Devonshire assets and estates. At this time, Hardwick was occupied by Evelyn, Duchess of Devonshire, the widow of the 9th Duke. The decision was taken to hand the house over to HM Treasury in lieu of the Estate Duty in 1956. The Treasury transferred the house to the National Trust in 1959. However, the Duchess remained in occupation of the house until her death in 1960. Having done much, personally, to conserve the textiles in the house as well as reinstating the traditional rush matting, she was to be its last occupant.

The flight was not in a FRZ and the local council does not have a bylaw to prevent TOAL. It was pretty busy, but I was able to launch the DJI mini 3 Pro close from just outside the National Trust property boundary.

Parking is a breeze in the Harwick Park Area and is outside the Trust's boundary.

Land owner permission requirements unknown.

View and discuss this location on Grey Arrows.

Co-ordinates: 53.16628, -1.30299 • what3words: ///types.dome.cage

Erddig Hall is a Grade-I listed National Trust property in Wrexham, Wales. Standing 2 miles (3.2 km) south of Wrexham city centre, it comprises a country house built during the 17th and 18th centuries amidst a 1,900 acre estate, which includes a 1,200-acre landscaped pleasure park and the earthworks of a Norman motte-and-bailey castle.

Erddig has been described as 'the most evocative Upstairs Downstairs house in Britain due to the well-rounded view it presents of the lifestyles of all of its occupants, both family and staff. The eccentric Yorke family had an unusual relationship with their staff and celebrated their servants in a large and unique collection of portraits and poems. This collection, coupled with well-preserved servants' rooms and an authentic laundry, bakehouse, sawmill, and smithy, provide an insight into how 18th to 20th century servants lived.

The state rooms contain fine furniture, textiles and wallpapers and the fully restored walled garden is one of the most important surviving 18th century gardens in Britain. [Source: Wikipedia]

I visited Erddig Hall mid week (it's much quieter than the weekend) before I took the video and parked in their carpark. The public path I TOAL from was to the far East of the carpark and there is a gap conveniently at the in the hedgerow to access it. I had a spotter too so VLOS was easier.

Land owner permission requirements unknown.

View and discuss this location on Grey Arrows.

Co-ordinates: 53.02642, -3.001413 • what3words: ///chair.haunt.september

Shrewsbury is a great place to fly but you will need to authorise a DJI NFZ RC unlock on the its West side (due to Copthorne Brks and RAF Shawbury) but you should be ok at this spot on the Eastern side. Shawbury rarily fly at weekends but worth checking with their ATC to be certain.

I parked next to the Shrewsbury Abbey as the carpark is free on Sunday.

The Shrewsbury English Bridge Info
The masonry arched viaduct that is the English Bridge crosses the River Severn in Shrewsbury, Shropshire. The Grade II listed bridge seen today is a 1926 rebuilt and widened structure, that uses the original masonry from John Gwynn's completed design of 1774.
A bridge is known to have stood at this location since at least Norman times and historically was known as the "Stone Bridge". The original Norman construction consisted of five arches and a timber causeway. It had a large tower on the Eastern bank that housed a gate and drawbridge and supported a number of shops and houses.
The building of Gwynn's £16000 replacement commenced in 1769, and comprised of seven semicircular arches, 400 feet long. The 55-foot span central arch was built higher to provide headroom for boats, but unfortunately this resulted in steep approaches.
To resolve the issue a new design was approved in 1921 that lowered all the arches, converting the central one into a segmental arch and reducing the height of the roadway by 5 feet. The present bridge is 50 feet wide, and more than twice the width of Gwynn's original structure. The cost of this build was £86,000 and it was formally opened by Queen Mary in 1927.
The English bridge is one of two that forms the main east-west route over the Severn as it loops around Shrewsbury, the other being the Welsh Bridge on the opposite side of the town and despite its name both bridges lie within the English border.
Thomas Telford's Holyhead Road, dating from 1815 and connecting London to the main sea-crossing to Ireland used the English Bridge to cross the Severn here. The A5 now bypasses Shrewsbury and therefore the bridge's main role today is to connect the centre of Shrewsbury with the Belle Vue and Abbey Foregate areas of the town.

Land owner permission not required.

View and discuss this location on Grey Arrows.

Co-ordinates: 52.70687, -2.748788 • what3words: ///fruit.herbs.lofts

I checked on DS and there is no FRZ or Bylaw that I could find tonprevent flight. Just be mindful of the Heritage Staff that might challenge you from the ticket office

THE CASTLE
Ashby de la Zouch Castle is a ruined fortification in the county of Leicestershire, England. The castle was built from the origins of an earlier 14TH CENTURY manor in 1473 by William, Lord Hastings. Two large towers and various smaller buildings were added over the subsequent 10 years and the Hastings family used the castle as their seat for several generations, improving the gardens, and hosting royal visitors.
During the English Civil War, Henry, a younger son in the Hastings family, became a Royalist commander in the Midlands. It didn’t go well for Henry as he was forced to surrender the castle after a long siege and later, after a fresh rebellion occurred in 1648, Parliament slighted the castle in order to reduce its standing as a military base. The two towers were badly damaged with gunpowder and undermining and Parts of the remaining castle were turned into a new house, and continued to be used by members of the Hastings family for many years, although they moved their main residence to Donington Hall.
The castle became famous after it featured in Sir Walter Scott's novel Ivanhoe in 1819, and its owner, Francis Rawdon, opened the ruins to visitors.
Restoration work was carried out over the course of the next century, but by 1932 the Rawdon family could no longer afford to maintain the castle. It passed into the hands of the Ministry of Works, who carried out extensive repairs and opened the castle gardens. The castle is currently managed by English Heritage as a tourist attraction, receiving over 15,000 visitors a year and historians consider the site to be an outstanding example of a late medieval castle.

I TOAL just outside the English Heritage Site next to the double wooden gates. You can get a good view of your flight from here.

Parking nearby can be problematic but I parked up Warwick Way just off South Steet/Warwick Street and walked back towards South Street to a large field on the right marked as Memorial Grounds in Google Maps and has public right of way (marked on DS map). The lane on the opposite side of the field leads to my TOAL point not far from the ticket office.

Land owner permission not required.

View and discuss this location on Grey Arrows.

Co-ordinates: 52.74591, -1.467151 • what3words: ///senders.cried.spend

The Scott House Reservoir was built in 1879 to hold water from nearby pumping stations but was abandoned in 1925 due to subsidence from local mining. The circuit was built inside the dis-used reservoir in 1952 utilizing the site of a former reservoir, before opening for the first time in 1954 but closed down a year later. The defunct Hednesford circuit was aquired by Bill Morris who ran a handful of practice meetings' in 1962. The circuit was fully re-opened in April 1963 and from that point onwards the promotion of Stock Car and Hot Rod racing has been uninterrupted at the popular Staffordshire speed-bowl for over half a century. The shale oval was eventually resurfaced with asphalt in 1966, enabling lap times to fall drastically and track records to tumble. It is said that four times World Hot Rod champion Carl Boardley got the quarter mile down to almost 12 seconds in unofficial practice, making Hednesford Europe's fastest quarter-mile oval.

The circuit has been featured on BBC's Top Gear programme in the past, in a feature on banger racing. In addition, a number of satellite TV channels feature both banger and stock car races from the circuit and the 100th edition of Tiswas was broadcast live from Hednesford Raceway back in the Seventies.

It was the first time I had visited the site for the best part of 40 years and I recalled having had some great times working at the race track in the early 80s as a member of the track crew.

PARKING & TOAL

Coming off the A460 from Rugeley I followed the signs for Beaudesert Golf Course at the traffic lights and headed up the hill on Rawnsley Rd. Ignoring the turn off left for the Golf Course I carried on until I reached House No 179 (or thereabouts) on the righthand side of the road. There is a gap between the houses with a trail that leads steeply up to the Raceway. I parked in the gap but you can park on the side of the road further up where there aren't any double yellow lines.

My TOAL was right outside the Raceway Gates so would be amazed if I was impinging on the SSSi (I doubt the local inhabitants, 4 legged or 2, would be worried about a small drone when they have to contend with armageddon every other weekend)!

The flight was not in a FRZ and Cannock Council do not have a bylaw or policy against drones. There is an SSSi but see my comment above!

Land owner permission not required.

View and discuss this location on Grey Arrows.

Co-ordinates: 52.70749, -1.980279 • what3words: ///town.solved.rivers

BRIEF HISTORY OF BLITHFIELD HALL
Blithfield Hall is a privately owned Grade I listed country house residing in a beautiful rural setting in Staffordshire, England. Blithfield became the home of the Bagots in 1360, when Ralph married the "girl next door", who happened to be the Blithfield heiress, Elizabeth.

Originally the hall appeared as a fortress, surrounded by a moat and embattled towers but the present house is mainly Elizabethan, with a Gothic façade added in the 1820s.

Across from the South facing Orangery is the thirteenth century Blithfield Parish Church of St. Leonard, which apparently replaced an even older building that features in the Domesday Book in 1086.

By 1945 years of neglect had taken its toll on the hall and the 5th Baron, Gerald Bagot took the decision to sell it together with its 650-acre estate, to the South Staffordshire Waterworks Company. Their intention was to build the reservoir dam which was finally completed in 1953 and the opening was carried out by The Queen Mother after which she took lunch in Blithfield’s Great Hall.

When the 5th Baron died in 1946, his successor and cousin, Caryl Bagot repurchased the property along with 30 acres of land. Aided by a grant from the Historical Buildings Council he began the daunting and formidable task of its extensive renovation and restoration. It is said that if it wasn’t for Caryl’s intervention the hall would no doubt be a ruin today.

In September 1959 the 6th Lord Bagot sold Blithfield Hall at an open auction and the property was bought for £12,000 by his wife Nancy Bagot. On Caryl’s death in 1961, the property was bequeathed to his widow and to the family of his sister Enid Bagot Jewitt.

Blithfield Hall was open to daily visitors in 1956 but was closed to the public in 1977 prior to its subsequent conversion into private residences.

The hall was finally divided into four separate houses in 1986 but the main part, which incorporates the Great Hall, is still presently owned by the Bagot Jewitt Trust. with the Bagot Jewitt family still in residence.

Although the Hall is closed to the public it still hosts the Abbots Bromley Horn Dance that’s performed there in early September every year.

TOAL was in St Leonard's Church carpark that is adjacent to the hall but not within its boundaries. Well sign posted on the road from Blithfield Reservoir.

Land owner permission requirements unknown.

View and discuss this location on Grey Arrows.

Co-ordinates: 52.81351, -1.936985 • what3words: ///alerting.besotted.fixated

JCB Lake Park is open to the public and the 1.9km circular walk around the lake will take approximately 30 mins for an able bodied person and is wheelchair friendly. I was not staying long so I parked just off New Road (exactly where I placed the location pin) in the entrance to the Anglers Club gate. Carrying on a short distance up New Rd and you'll come across twin roundabouts. Take the left turn on both and after the second left there is a large carpark. My son-in-law visited the lake recently and he assured me it was free and available! A bit further on from the twin roundabouts up New Rd is Denstone Farm Shop and Cafe , which is a 2.5mile round trip by foot to the lake.

There are no restrictions with regard to FRZ and East Staffordshire Council do not have a conflicting bylaw.

Great open place to fly with areas where you can quietly TOAL at your leisure.

Land owner permission not required.

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Co-ordinates: 52.95725, -1.846286 • what3words: ///blogging.scrambles.finds

Located in Derbyshire, near to Derby and Nottingham, Elvaston Castle Country Park encompasses approximately 321 acres of open parkland, woodland and more formal historical gardens. It's also the venue for our popular woodland festival.

At the heart of the estate lies Elvaston Castle, a gothic revival masterpiece (not open to the public) designed by James Wyatt in the early 1800s based on the original house dating back to 1633.

Today both the buildings and gardens are registered (Grade 2 and Grade 2*) as being of special architectural and historical interest.

The gardens are locally renowned for their rockwork structures and fine examples of topiary, originally introduced and designed by William Barron in the 19th century.

There's lots to be see and do in and around the park - walking, cycling, horse riding, bird watching, picnicking, kite flying, photography, exploring the park and nature reserve.......... but they don't like drones!

There is no bylaw or FRZ preventing flight but some of the pathways and bridleways that riddle the estate have 'no drones' signs. The Park is vast and I visited on a quiet day and the only witness to my flight was a young lad, and I presume, his mother who were both really excited to see my mini 3 Pro fly........so the choice is yours!

The estate entrance, and only car park for visitors arriving in vehicles, is off Borrowash Road between Borrowash Village and Thulston. Just follow the brown tourist signs from either direction and they'll direct you right to the park.

Some sat navs direct vehicles off the A6 Derby bypass into Elvaston Castle Country Park via a slip road to Bridlegate Lane, Alvaston. There's no access to the park via this route (nor turning room along its length should you commit to it). The lane is clearly marked off the by-pass with a 'dead-end' highways sign.

Your sat nav may direct you into the estate by a sealed bridle path off Borrowash Road, which also leads to Elvaston Cricket Club's grounds. This access route is for authorised vehicles only, with no visitor parking permitted.

There is little parking outside of the park but the closest I've found is on the B5010 near Elvaston Lane where there is a layby. A short walk up the lane will take you to one of the Park entrances. I did see people had parked on the B5010 but it's very narrow where it runs around the park and I wouldn't risk it.

UPDATE @ 28/03/23: Post flight information revealed a Derbyshire City Council bylaw may apply to the Park. See full details in the discussion thread for this entry.

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Co-ordinates: 52.8928, -1.394071 • what3words: ///snacking.heartache.thudded

The National Memorial Arboretum is a British site of national remembrance at Alrewas, near Lichfield, Staffordshire. Its objective is to honour the fallen, recognise service and sacrifice, and foster pride in the British Armed Forces and civilian community.

The Arboretum welcomes over 300,000 visitors to site each year, including over 20,000 young people for formal and informal learning visits. Visitors can enjoy discovering over 400 memorials nestled amongst some 25,000 trees, experience riverside walks and participate in a wide variety of daily activities: guided walks, land train tours, memorial talks, exhibitions and buggy tours.

Each year around 250 events take place on site, from small intimate services of Remembrance to set piece events like Armistice Day, Remembrance Sunday, a summer proms and Armed Forces Day.

Entry to the Arboretum is free, but in order for them to provide the best customer experience they are limiting the numbers in their buildings and grounds. They recommend booking your visit in advance to guarantee entry. Their grounds are open from 10am – 4pm.

I took off (after 1600hrs when they were closed) from beside the concrete encased metal barrier that's adjacent to the rounderbout at the end of Barley Green Lane (which leads to the Arboretum). You can see it quite easily if you zoom into google maps. The nearest place to park from my TOAL is the Arboretum itself (for a small charge) but on the day I visited I got my wife to drop me off and pick me up!

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Co-ordinates: 52.72567, -1.730077 • what3words: ///corrode.coverage.chiefs

The Ironbridge is located in Telford in the village of Ironbridge. It is well signposted from the M54 and the A5 near Telford in the heart of the Midlands.

Parking is available on both sides of the gorge, but in the summer you'll be better using the large car park on the other side of the river from Tontine Hill shops (a roundabout just outside the centre of the village gives good signage to the latter).

TOAL is possible both sides of the gorge using the Ironbridge for access, but the side with the shops is better for VLOS.

Plenty of places to visit in the area with museums, cafes, pubs and restraunts all within walking distance. At the time of this entry there were no bylaws or FRZ prohibiting flying, but be careful of crowds!

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Co-ordinates: 52.62774, -2.486009 • what3words: ///livid.fake.etchings

The village church of St. Leonard's is medium-sized, of Neo-Gothic style and was designed by architect Andrew Capper. Between 1876 and 1878 the old chapel was finally demolished and a new church erected on the same site.

It is a stone building in 14th century style and consists of nave, chancel, transepts, vestry, and a spired west tower. In 1887, a new churchyard, given by the family of a former parishioner, was consecrated, previous burials having been carried out at Penkridge. In 1907, the vestry was added and a new organ installed. The church contains memorial tablets to Thomas Perry (d. 1861), in whose memory the church was built, to his widow Mary (d. 1881), and to later members of the Perry family who lived at nearby Dunston Hall. There are memorial windows and a tablet to members of the Hand family including Charles Frederic Hand (d. 1900), also tablets to John Taylor Duce (d. 1886), Albert Pickstock (d. 1926), and three members of the Thorneycroft family (d. 1913, 1924, and 1943). The two bells of the ancient chapel in 1553, were replaced by one bell in the new church by 1889. This arrangement was then replaced in 1890 by eight tubular bells, rung from a keyboard.

Not much in the way of parking so abandoned car on the A449 curbside. There is a road just before the Church when coming from M6 Junction 13 but is marked private.

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Co-ordinates: 52.75759, -2.107959 • what3words: ///timing.stem.tennis

The present church of St Michael and All Angels is constructed of local sandstone and work started at the very beginning of the 13thcentury, with the original building being completed by the end of that century. The tower and porch were added in the 14th century. Additional modifications were completed in the 16th century, and structurally, the present building is much as it was at that time. During the 12th and 13th centuries, there was an intriguing law requiring that all men practice archery, in church yards, on Sundays! The purpose of this regulation was to provide sufficient skilled bowmen. In this area, their prime combatants would have been the Welsh. 1548 saw the Dissolution of Religious Houses, and meant the end of the Penkridge Deanery.
Many of the buildings, under the authority of John Dudley, Earl of Warwick (later Duke of Northumberland), were destroyed, and the local sandstone reused in other buildings in the village. In 1660, following the Restoration, Hinde continued as Vicar of Penkridge.

Parking is available at the Railway Station or just outside the Church in the Centre of Penkridge in Clay Street.

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Co-ordinates: 52.72493, -2.117304 • what3words: ///sweeper.twin.covertly

St Augustine’s Church, which was opened in 1823 by the Bishop of Chester. It was built as a replacement for the original parish church, which had become too small for the town’s growing congregation and was in a poor state of repair. The remains of the original church can be seen on the other side of the road.

A new high-quality chancel at the east end of the church was proposed and would contain an altar and seats for the clergy and choir. In 1905 Lady Alexander Paget laid the foundation stone. The stone contains a time capsule that has a George III crown coin retrieved from the foundation stone of the 1823 church.

The present chancel with its flanking lady chapel, two vestries and organ gallery was designed by Frank L. Pearson. The stained glass of the east window is the work of the well-known designer C.E. Kemp.

The total cost of the chancel, which was dedicated on 29 June 1906 by the Bishop of Lichfield, was £4,961 19s 7d. The Earl of Lichfield donated the building stone. A new oak pulpit was dedicated as a memorial to Rugeley benefactress Sarah Hopkins, whose legacy provided £2,000 of the building cost.

Parking is available in the nearby Aldi carpark adjacent to St Augustine Field.

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Co-ordinates: 52.76406, -1.934581 • what3words: ///milk.plan.ranges

Located in the town of Rugeley, parked in the Argos carpark just across the road (there is a carpark adjacent but charges!).

Grade II listed Roman Catholic church. 1849-50; by Charles Hansom. Sandstone ashlar. Plain tile roofs with stone coped gable-ends. Large west tower with prominent diagonal buttresses, stair-turret with pinnacle, trefoil balustrade with small pinnacles and tall octagonal stone spire with lucarnes and thin flying buttresses; a weather-cock on spire.

Full details available here including an interesting story regarding the spire: http://www.rugeleycatholicchurch.co.uk/history.php.


http://www.rugeleycatholicchurch.co.uk/history.php

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Co-ordinates: 52.75816, -1.933921 • what3words: ///terms.punt.luxury

My home town's Grade I listed Collegiate Church of St Mary dates from the early 13th century, with 14th century transepts and 15th century clerestories and crossing tower.

Excavations in 1954 revealed the adjacent late Anglo-Saxon church of St Bertelin.

The church was collegiate when recorded in the Domesday Book when there were 13 Prebendary Canons. It became a Royal Peculiar around the thirteenth century, exempt from the jurisdiction of the Bishop, but this caused conflict and culminated in December 1258 when the new bishop, Roger de Meyland, came to Stafford with many armed men who forced entry and assaulted the canons, chaplains, and clerks.

The church survived as a collegiate institution until the dissolution of colleges and chantries in 1548.

The Church contains:
The Chest tomb to Sir Edward Aston (died 1568).
Wall tablet to Thomas (d. 1787) & Barbara Clifford (d. 1786) by John Francis Moore.
Wall tablet to Humphrey Hodgetts (d. 1730).
Wall tablet to Izaak Walton (d. 1683).

There are a few short stay parking spaces next to shops off St Mary's passage and a large carpark at Tesco Extra (3 hours limit) that is just a short distance away via Victoria Park. The Church is about a 5 minute walk from Stafford Train Station.

Stafford County Council have a "Drone ban Policy", however they do not have a Byelaw to back it up.

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Co-ordinates: 52.80605, -2.11887 • what3words: ///raft.runs.vibrate

Grade II* Parish church of C13, restored in 1825, 1860 by G.G. Scott and 1872 by Butterfield.

MATERIALS: Ashlar with tooled C19 masonry to the chancel, tile roofs, except for copper roof of south aisle.

PLAN: Aisled nave and chancel, west tower, south porch and north-east vestry.

EXTERIOR: The broad 2-stage early C13 tower has moulded strings, massive clasping buttresses and internal south-west turret. The large lancet west window has a double-chamfered surround, with smaller lancets on north and south sides. Tripartite arcading in the upper stage has blind outer arches, and inner arches subdivided and with louvres. The parapet and octagonal stone spire with lucarnes were added in the 1830s. The remainder of the exterior is almost entirely C19. The nave has 3-bay aisles under lean-to roofs, with 2-light and 3-light Decorated windows, and paired and triple clerestorey windows with trefoil heads. The tall buttressed porch has re-used C13 trefoil-headed entrance, and nave doorway with nook shafts. The re-faced chancel has aisles under lean-to roofs, with re-used 2-light Decorated windows and blind south doorway. The east wall has triple lancets separated by deep buttresses, with a small quatrefoil window in the gable. The gabled north-east vestry has diagonal buttresses.

HISTORY: The west tower is early C13 and the arcades and chancel arch only slightly later. Chancel arcades appear to date from the erection of aisles in 1825, although it has been argued that the piers are C13 but altered in the C19. The chancel was re-faced and re-roofed in the 1840s. The original nave north aisle was taken down in 1685, but the arcade was preserved. A new aisle had been built in 1825 but it was replaced in 1860 by George Gilbert Scott (1811-78). The south aisle was rebuilt and widened in 1872 by William Butterfield (1829-99), who also heightened the nave by adding a clerestorey, with trademark polychrome interior decoration, adding a north vestry and rebuilding the porch using old masonry.

TOAL was from the Church Carpark, which is also open for parking.

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Co-ordinates: 52.84127, -2.039316 • what3words: ///open.intruded.irrigated

This ancient landmark overlooks the town of Clitheroe sitting prominently on top of a limestone mound and has dominated the town's skyline for over 800 years.

Castle and grounds are open daily and free to visit. You can see some of the stunning panoramic views of Ribble Valley’s beautiful landscape and the climb up to the top would be well worth it!

Clitheroe Castle Museum is managed by Lancashire County Council's museum service, on behalf of Ribble Valley Borough Council.

The award-winning Museum is located in the former Steward's House, a Grade II listed building that was built in the 18th century to house the Steward of Clitheroe Castle and includes the ubiquitous Visitors Gift Shop.

Visitors to the museum will be transported through 350 million years of local history. The journey starts with the formation of the landscape we see today and why the Ribble Valley is a haven for unique wildlife. Moving through the galleries the captivating story of the Castle and surrounding area continues to unfold. From local industry and heroes to folklore and legends the exhibits, touchscreen animations and sound points make it a shared experience for everyone to enjoy.

The castle is accessible with areas suitable for all, including those of limited mobility. More info, including a link to their access statement, is available from the following website:

https://www.visitlancashire.com/things-to-do/clitheroe-castle-and-museum-p7129

I parked in Corporation Street (just off Thorn Street past the Railway level crossing) on the Castle Park side of the Town and TOAL was off the Castle Park pathway beneath the castle.

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Co-ordinates: 53.86992, -2.394365 • what3words: ///wink.populate.race

Ingestre Park Golf Club, Stafford is going through a major change. HS2 is going to be routed through the middle of the course and as a result the Club has secured funds to create 12 new holes on adjacent land, as well as remodelling 6 of the remaining holes to a PGA standard.

The Pano shows part of the new course due to open 2023-2024 in stages.

The Clubhouse has a Restaurant and there is a professional Golf Shop. Visitors are welcome but would need to book if playing golf.

Shugborough Hall is close by as well as the AONB Cannock Chase.

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Co-ordinates: 52.81881, -2.028372 • what3words: ///agents.perkily.unframed

Parking can be an issue but most use the east side of Conistone Bridge. It's an easy short walk for the able young an old alike with a tiny scramble to keep the kids amused. You'll love the narrow limestone gorge, named Gurling Trough, just above Conistone village, which is an enclosed passage that is no wider than a footpath in some sections; You'll also enjoy the amazing views on and around the Limestone feature called Conistone Pie.

The Walk begins from the Conistone Bridge and heads up eastwards past cottages, through a gate and along a path towards the gorge which is the direct access to the Conistone Dib. There is a short scramble at the head of the Dib that leads onto the Conistone Turf Road towards the Capplestone Gate trig point. Once past the trig point you eventually turn back SSE onto the Dales Way (not Dale way as the video states!) and towards Conistone Pie, which is a prominent Limestone Outcrop that just has to be climbed. The pathway continues on the other side of the wall that runs past the eastern side of Conistone Pie and on towards Conistone Village via Scot Gate Lane.

The Walk was about 11.8K and took 4hrs 45mins, but we did stop a few times to take the drone footage as well as soaking up the amazing views over the moors and the Wharfedale Valley: Of course it also includes the time to consume the obligatory cheese and onion sardies and crisps at the half way point.

We finished the walk with a short video of Conistone Village with the River Wharfe winding its way through the valley. The walk is easy and ascent gradual but it can get a bit muddy in places after periods of bad weather. Nevertheless an awesome morning, or afternoon, can be had breathing in fresh air and getting away from the crowds!

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Co-ordinates: 54.11412, -2.019969 • what3words: ///spits.bleach.uncle

Haywood Junction, photo taken with Mini 3 Pro (my 1st picture with it!).

At Great Haywood, the Trent and Mersey Canal heads north, as it continues its ascent from Derwent Mouth towards its short summit near Stoke on Trent. Haywood Lock is just to the south, while Hoo Mill Lock is a little further to the north. The River Trent runs to the west of the canal, much too small at this point to support navigation. Derwent Mouth, where the canal joins the river, is 39 miles (63 km) from the junction, while Etruria Lock, where the summit level begins, is 18.9 miles (30.4 km) away.

The Staffordshire and Worcestershire Canal heads west from the junction. The Trent and Mersey towpath is carried over it by a bridge, and almost immediately, it crosses the River Trent on an aqueduct. It follows the valley of the River Sow, which joins the Trent below the junction, and soon reaches Tixall Wide, a broad expanse of water, which, although it looks like a lake, is deep enough to allow boats to reach its edges.

There are plenty of attractions nearby including Shugborough Park and Hall, which are now owned by the National Trust, and are located to the south, with Tixall Gatehouse to the north. The canal ascends through Tixall Lock, after which is crossed the Sow on another aqueduct. Tixall Lock is 1.3 miles (2.1 km) from the junction.

Shugborough Hall was begun in 1695, was extended in the 1760s, and some remodelling was carried out at the end of the eighteenth century by Samuel Wyatt. Internally, the plasterwork is magnificent, and the building is grade I listed. Many of the structures within the grounds are also listed. Tixall Lodge is a small octagonal-shaped building with a stone dome, which bears the date 1807. It is grade II listed, as is the roving bridge at the junction. Just to the south of Haywood Lock, a bridge carries a footpath from Great Haywood to Shugborough Hall. The path crosses the Trent at Essex Bridge, a grade I listed structure with fourteen arches, which is only 4 feet (1.2 m) wide. It was probably built in the 1500s, and is virtually unaltered. [source: wikipedia].

There is plenty of parking across the road from the junction in the Canalside Cafe & Farm shop (also featured in drone scene) during weekdays but it does get pretty busy at weekends but I've always managed to park there. They do a great breakfast as well as the normal cafe menu - all excellent!

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Co-ordinates: 52.80483, -2.008535 • what3words: ///iceberg.crunched.built

Malham Tarn is England's highest freshwater lake and is easily accessible from Watersinks Car Park Malham.

Malham Cove, Janet's Foss and Gordale Scar are also great Landmarks that form a circular walk from the same carpark of about 11.4 kms.

The video is made up of stills and clips from my mini 2 drone.

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Co-ordinates: 54.09203, -2.160908 • what3words: ///stitch.strength.severe

Gordale Scar is a limestone revine 1 mile northeast of Malham, North Yorkshire, England. It contains two waterfalls and has overhanging limestone cliffs over 330 feet high. The gorge was formed by water erosion from melting glaciers that created a cavern that over time collapsed.

There are many circular walks publicised on Google that take in Malham Cove, Malham Tarn and Janet's Foss. Those wishing to visit without walking miles can park on Gordale Lane that leads onto Hawthorns Lane near Gordale Scar Campsite and Refreshments van. A well maintained path follows Gordale Beck through the gorge to the Scar itself.

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Co-ordinates: 54.07232, -2.130808 • what3words: ///repaid.blanket.enclosing

Flight took place at 11:00 am on a Sunday so probably one of the busiest times of the week!

Can't miss the Abbey as sign posted miles before Tewkesbury. Parked in the carpark just after the Cricket club opposite the Abbey and just before the Tewkesbury Abbey Caraven Park. The Abbey is very imposing and a local trust agreement has prevented new builds from popping up all around it so access and view is great.

TOAL was at the back of the carpark where there is a public path. Had no issues and a few passers-by using the path were very friendly.

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Co-ordinates: 51.9897, -2.157568 • what3words: ///paramedic.renamed.bugs

St Andrews Golf Course is situated off the the West Sands and therefore in the RAF Luechars FRZ. I contacted thier ATC on 01334857282 and was told I needed to get a police incident number (pin) for my flight by ringing 101. I contacted the local police and after giving them my details they issued me with the pin. I contacted the ATC just before flying and was given permission to fly after I gave them the pin. I had no issues during my flight using up 3 batteries. I contacted the ATC to notify them that I had completed my flight. The reason for the pin was so that if a Karen or Ken contacted them about my flying they would be advised that I had permission and that the ATC would not require further contact.

Parking was free in the St Andrews Golf Museum just across the road from the 1st hole.

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Co-ordinates: 56.34374, -2.804519 • what3words: ///newsstand.career.incoming

Deganwy Marina is perched on the eastern bank of the River Conwy, where you are mere minutes from the open waters of the Irish Sea. With Conwy, Anglesey, Liverpool and other desirable sailing destinations, as well as pristine views across Wales’ largest National Park, on-site facilities and great road and water access, Deganwy Marina, is the best place in the area for you to berth your boat.

Deganwy itself is a small town that is passed by most visiting Llandudno. The Marina has plenty of free parking and good views up the estuary.. it is well signposted on the main artiiarial roads approaching Llandudno so can't get wrong!

There are no FRZ in this area and no one batted an eyelid when I took TAOL.

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Co-ordinates: 53.2919, -3.829094 • what3words: ///young.backs.trembles

This is the site of the WWII RAF Seighford. Most of the site is currently leased by the Staffordshire Gliding Club who moved to Seighford in 1992. The main runway is grass NE/SW and 1000 metres long and can be accessed by the public for walking but prior authorisation is required from the club to reduce the risk!. The club has a membership of 100 and a fleet of three two-seater training gliders and two single-seaters for qualified solo pilots. The one remaining tarmac runway to the South is used by a driving experience company. The old control tower is still standing as are a number of wartime buildings which were used for many years by displaced Polish refugee families. There is plenty of free parking available but the road to the clubhouse is a bit rough. The Driving experience is located next to the airfield and is signposted from the main routes into Seighford (J13 or J14 off M6 follow signs to Stafford College, then Doxey then onto Seighford). The DVLA test site is just down the road and I approached from Doxey Stafford.

The airfield was closed on the day that I took the photo and Stafford Glider Club can only be contacted via email or their website. Obviously, the Clubhouse is open on the days the airfield is in operation so although not in a FRZ best speak with a representative there.

There is a public path across the glider airfield and the club contact number for checking if the airfield is in use is
07922 658314.

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Co-ordinates: 52.83082, -2.201696 • what3words: ///vaulting.trouser.grapes

The Churnet Valley Railway is a preserved standard gauge heritage railway to the east of Stoke-on-Trent in Staffordshire, England, that operates along a part of the former North Staffordshire Railway's (NSR) Churnet Valley Line. Regular services travel between the two main stations at Cheddleton (the base of operations and motive power and where I TOAL from) and Kingsley and Froghall (the commercial and administrative base). There is an intermediate station at Consall. Most trains also head beyond Cheddleton to Leek Brook Junction and on to Ipstones, but Ipstones station is not currently n use. The Station master was super helpful and was totally on board with me using my mini 2 to take pictures. Aiden, even pointed out the best vantage point to get the shot I was after... top man!

The railway is roughly 10+1⁄2 miles (16.9 km) long from Kingsley and Froghall to Ipstones. The land from Leek Brook Junction to Ipstones was opened by Moorland & City Railways (MCR) in 2010 after they took a lease out from Network Rail. This has subsequently been purchased by the CVR. The train in the photo is No 5197 an ST160 2-8-0 Owned by Batt Holden Ltd. Ten-year overhaul recommenced June 2014 and was completed in January 2017. Star of the popular Polar Express UK specials at the Telford Steam Railway. The signal box st Cheddleton: North Staffordshire Railway was relocated in 1978 from Elton. This houses a lever frame which allows access between the "main line" and the bay platform/motive power depot but operationally is regarded as a ground (shunt) frame, no other operational signalling equipment being present.
I just missed one train going out so killed time at the Boat Inn next to the Station. Very nice pub lunch and an ale to be had with great service.

Station located at Cheddleton, Leek ST13 7EG and is well signposted. A free carpark is adjacent to the Station and access is over the level crossing. Full details at website below
https://www.churnetvalleyrailway.co.uk/

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Co-ordinates: 53.06549, -2.027086 • what3words: ///conductor.clash.samplers

The Navigation Inn is a fantastic community pub located in the village of Gnosall, on the crossover of the A518 and the Shropshire Union Canal.

It is a family run modern pub with a relaxing and friendly atmosphere. They pride themselves on good service, great beer, freshly cooked food and a warm welcome. They have plenty of parking spaces, a large beer garden, a patio area and a sundeck with stunning elevated views of the Shropshire and Union canal.

The Navigation, Newport Road Gnosall
Stafford ST20 0BN
Contact them: 01785 824562
Open hours
Monday: 12:00 - Late
Tuesday: 12:00 - Late
Wednesday: 12:00 - Late
Thursday: 12:00 - Late
Friday: 12:00 - Late
Saturday: 12:00 - Late
Sunday: 12:00 - Late
The canal towpath is a wonderful way of walking off a hearty pub lunch and is highly recommended (unless of course one is unsteady on ones feet after a plethora of ale). Gnosall is a lovely village full of bloom and beautiful gardens at every corner.

The landlady was extremely helpful and was happy for me to use the grounds for TOAL.

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Co-ordinates: 52.78082, -2.269181 • what3words: ///measures.polar.snow

The church dates from the 13th century. It is built of sandstone ashlar with Welsh slate roofs with stone coped gables. It comprises a west tower and spire, aisled nave with south porch and chancel. It was restored between 1927 and 1929 under the supervision of Derby architect Percy Heylin Curry. The church contains the oldest bell in Derbyshire, which was cast in 1366 by John of Stafford. Its pipe organ dates from the late 17th century and was originally in Sudbury Hall, Derbyshire, and later in Sudbury parish church. A specification of the organ can be found on the National Pipe Organ Register. [Wiki].

Permission to fly in the FRZ was obtained from the Derby Aero Club ATC (Tel:01283733803). They requested that I contact them if intending to fly between the hours of 0900 to 1800 Summertime in order to establish the validity of a flight and if they granted a request to fly they were required to be notified before and after the flight was started and completed respectively. However, outside these hours, permission was not required. I had to provide my OP and Fly IDs along with a copy of my insurance and my flight plan before they would respond to my email for permission to fly.

Take off was after 18hrs and the TOAL was from the lay-by opposite the Churchyard Main Gate.

The Church is easy to access just off the A51, Marston Ln, Marston-on-Dove, DerbyshireDE65 5GB

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Co-ordinates: 52.86399, -1.654918 • what3words: ///crowned.defers.belief

Alrewas Hayes is a Country House hidden away in the heart of England, It is an historical country estate where exceptional event experiences happen. A place to escape from the everyday, Their Grade II listed Queen Anne residence has been hosting weddings, corporate retreats and private events for the past decade. It is set within private landscaped gardens and open parkland in rural Staffordshire, It's is a picturesque country estate steeped in history. Dating back to the early 18th century, it has been home to five generations of the Williams family. Despite it's exclusivity, there is a public right of way through the estate, which allows access to some of the Garden and House views. It's located less than a mile from Fradley Junction, Alrewas.

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Co-ordinates: 52.73057, -1.800354 • what3words: ///veal.notion.waltz

Victoria Park is a Green Flag award winning park located on the banks of the River Sow in the heart of Stafford Town Centre. Originally named the Victoria Park Pleasure Grounds the site opened in 1908 and is the Boroughs principal destination park. The park now covers an area of 4.95 acres and is the largest formal park in Stafford Borough. Following a £2.5 million Heritage Lottery funded refurbishment the park has gained a new café and training centre, alongside a restored bandstand, listed Mottram Shelter, toilets and enhanced landscaping. Albert’s Café, next to the Sow, in the heart of the park is open Monday to Sunday 8am – 4pm, has a grandstand view and serves delicious barista style coffee, tea and snacks. You can also buy food to feed the ducks and swans along the river. Those with children can happily spend a few hours at our destination play area, which combines elements of natural play and modern playground equipment. The site boasts a 7m high climbing net with a rope bridge to the 8m high tower which contains a slide at 5m, a small trampoline, splash pad – interactive water play area and a sand pit with sand diggers. For those who like a bit more of a challenge the park also has a concrete skate bowl which attracts many skilled individuals.

Victoria Park is located on Tenterbanks, Stafford, ST16 2QF. The nearest car parks are either Tenterbanks or Doxey Road (near Sainsburys) but you can park in any of the Town Centre car parks and follow the finger posts. I TOAL just outside the Park so as not to disturb those exiting over the bridge.

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Co-ordinates: 52.80429, -2.118153 • what3words: ///heads.atom.preoccupied

The Wrekin Summit is 407m High. My brother and I took 35 mins to get up there and 15m to come down!

The Wrekin is located some five miles (8 km) west of Telford, on the border between the unitary authorities of Shropshire and Telford and Wrekin. Rising above the Shropshire Plain to a height of 407 metres (1,335 feet) above sea level, it is a prominent and well-known landmark, signalling the entrance to Shropshire for travellers westbound on the M54 motorway. The Wrekin is contained within the northern salient of the Shropshire Hills AONB. The hill is popular with walkers and tourists and offers good views of Shropshire. It can be seen well into Staffordshire and the Black Country, and even as far as the Beetham Tower in Manchester, Winter Hill in Lancashire and Cleeve Hill in Gloucestershire.

The nearest carpark is at Little Wenlock, Telford TF6 5AL

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Co-ordinates: 52.67044, -2.549986 • what3words: ///wide.winning.submerge

Trentham Tower originally formed the top of the tower at Trentham Hall, which was designed by Sir Charles Barry C.1840. Trentham Hall was demolished in 1910 -1911 and the tower top was dismantled and reconstructed at Sandon around 1912. The tower was fully restored in 2016/17 to its present condition and is a listed Grade II building. It sits rather isolated in many acres of the Sandon Upper Park and is well worth a visit. Access to the Folly is from the A51 down School Lane (opposite the Dog and Doublet pub) and follow the signs to Church Lane and the All Saints Church. From the Church gate follow the road East a short distance until you see a cattle grid entrance to a Lane between farm buildings. Follow the lane until you see 5bar gate and a field path opposite a rather beautiful farm house. Take the path and as you pass a large copse on your left you will see at close to the highest point of Sandon Park this marvellous tower folly. The many times I've passed this folly on walks I've never seen a soul so a great place to fly.

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Co-ordinates: 52.86038, -2.057729 • what3words: ///risen.giggled.clearcut

Visited the National Trust Biddulph Grange Gardens and had my obligitory cream tea before walking round the amazing Victorian gardens created by James Bateman.

TOAL was just outside of a carpark on Grange Park Drive. Tall trees prevented VLOS so just ascended to 100m to take photos.

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Co-ordinates: 53.13176, -2.160569 • what3words: ///unguarded.tinsel.loudness

The Coopers Arms, Weston Hall sits on land once owned by Henry VIII. The original build was abandoned due to impoverishment and the bricks on the lakeside of the building can be seen sticking out where construction was halted. Apparently, during WW1 a German prisoner escaped and hid in its enormous chimneys for 2 days before succesfully returning to his homeland. Weston Hall entered into the Cooper family in 1942 and was used for farming. There is an original 17th century well in the bar area where patrons can drop donations to the Aston & Weston Royal British Legion.
Great place to visit; service and food is amazing.

TOAL from the Lake jetty. Had to authorise Flight of Mini 2 in DJI Fly app as in East Midlands Band D Airspace. It was 09:00am so not many people about.

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Co-ordinates: 52.85082, -1.403562 • what3words: ///bookcases.economics.firewall

Location Blithfield Reservoir Blithbury, Staffordshire.
Taken by DJI Mini 2 (no filter).
28 May 2022 at 1635.

Blithfield Reservoir is a large raw water reservoir located in Blithbury Staffordshire, England and is owned by South Staffordshire Water. The 800 acres of reservoir was formed as part of the South Staffordshire Water Works and was officially opened by the Queen Mother in 1953. It covers approximately 3.2 square kilometres (790 acres) and is 16 metres (52 ft) at its deepest points. Fed by the River Blithe it holds 4 billion gallons with a Shore length of 5.9 miles (9.5 km). It is well known for its diverse wildlife, particularly birds, a fact that was recognised in 1988 when the reservoir and most of its surrounding woodland was designated as a Site of Special Interest. If your in luck there will be an icecream van parked at one end of the bridge!

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Co-ordinates: 52.80967, -1.920865 • what3words: ///whimpered.swoop.convert

Fradley Junction is where the Coventry Canal joins the Trent & Mersey Canal. It's a great place to spend a few hours with or without the family. There are cafes and a pub to keep you refreshed and the Fradley Pool Nature Reserve is located alongside the canal. So take some time out for yourselves and enjoy its peaceful and charming ambience.

Plenty of parking and is always buzzing with cyclists, walkers, bikers and bird enthusiasts (of the feathered variety.
as nature reserve bird sanctuary right next door)!

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Co-ordinates: 52.7235, -1.793432 • what3words: ///downs.shades.reminds

Sudbury Hall is a country house in Sudbury, Derbyshire, England. The restored mansion, is Grade I listed and houses the National Trust Museum of Childhood in its 19th-century servants’ wing. Took the photo just across the road outside the NT restriction zone. Can park on Main road or in the NT Sudbury carpark adjacent to where my TOAL location.

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Co-ordinates: 52.88615, -1.763308 • what3words: ///remarried.squirted.allows