Midlands Social Walk | 29th March

These include the site of the cuckoo bush which is also a tumulus, a farm and a public house. Also, we will discuss why the village of Gotham has tried to twin with New York City in the good ole USA! From East Leake we gently ascend to Fox Hill and then onto West Leake and through woodland. Arriving at the ancient track of the Portway, which is over 3000 years old, we pass the first two cuckoo bushes and follow to the high ground to the NW of Gotham with extensive views of the River Trent. Then we descend into Gotham passing the third cuckoo bush - a pub. In the village centre we will stop for lunch with an option to visit The Sun Inn. From Gotham we follow lanes and paths and The Logan Trail towards East Leake and the end of our walk. Please note that there is the possibility of sheep in some of the fields and if this is the case dogs must be on a lead.

We’re excited to welcome you for a memorable day in the outdoors!.

Walk Details

Walk Grading: Moderate

Distance: Approx. 18.5 km (11.5 miles)

Ascent: 125 m (400 ft)

Duration: Approximately 5 hours

If you or anyone in your party can’t attend after booking, please let us know so we can offer the place to others

Meeting Details

Time: Sunday 29th March, 09:50 am for a 10:00 am start

Location: East Leake Car Park, Gotham Road, East Leake, LE12 6PG

OS Grid Ref: SK 554 263

Google map pin: https://maps.app.goo.gl/gKmmb3zSwqnoPvcXA

Parking: Free

Please check out the BMC Liftshare service

Public Transport: NCT number 1 bus leaves Nottingham Beastmarket Hill at 9am and arrives at East Leake shops at 9.38am. Please alight at this stop as it is just across the road from the car park

Important information: The A6006 will be closed from Monday 6th October 2025 until Monday 20th July 2026 due to the replacement of a railway bridge near Sutton Bonington. This means during this period you will not be able to access East Leake from the A6006 at Hathern (A6) but will be able to do so from the A60 at Rempstone

Facilities: Toilets are available across the road from the car park

What to Bring

We’ll cover a range of terrains, so please ensure you are well-prepared with appropriate gear

Footwear: Sturdy, water-resistant hiking boots or shoes with good grip

Clothing: Dress in layers, including a warm layer and waterproofs, as conditions can vary; bring a hat and gloves

Food and Drink: Bring enough food and water for a full day’s walk. In Gotham, where we are stopping for lunch, there is a shop and a pub to purchase refreshments en route

Other Essentials: Although we plan to finish within daylight hours, carrying a small torch or head torch is advisable for emergencies. Sun cream is advisable on warmer days

Who Can Attend

Anyone, under 18's must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. There is the possibility of sheep in some of the fields and if this is the case, dogs must be on a lead. Please indicate on your booking if you will be bringing a dog

Health Precautions: If you have any health conditions that might impact your participation, please inform us in advance. Carry any required medications, and let the walk leader know if assistance may be needed in accessing them

Covid-19: Please do not attend if you feel unwell or have Covid-19 symptoms

BMC Participation Statement

The BMC recognises that climbing, hill walking and mountaineering are activities with a danger of personal injury or death. Participants in these activities should be aware of and accept these risks and be responsible for their own actions and involvement

Photographs may be taken by the leader for future communications about the programme. If you do not wish for your photograph to be taken please let the leader know in advance or at the start of the walk

By participating in this walk you agree to act in a kind and inclusive manner. Bullying, discrimination or the use of foul language will not be tolerated.

Questions

Feel free to contact BMC Hill Walking Rep, Chris: chrisonholiday@outlook.com