Coriarna Morris
Summit 2. Mow Cop: A Castle, a Canal, and a Frosty Lesson in Planning
Mow Cop was the second summit in our Staffordshire Blaze Trails Seven Summits series, and it delivered a memorable mix of breathtaking views, biting wind, and valuable lessons—even before the main walk began.
The Recce: A Frosty Preview
A few days before the official group walk, I headed out for a recce to scout the route. From the moment we stepped out of the car at the base of the village, we were hit by an icy blast of wind that felt more Alpine than Staffordshire. It was that sharp, freezing air that instantly wakes you up—like stepping onto a ski slope. Every hedge, field, and rooftop was dusted with frost, giving the whole landscape a magical, sugar-coated look.
The highlight of the recce, though, wasn’t just the scenery—it was the kindness of a local member who offered to show us around. She guided us through the best paths and hidden turns, giving us not just a route, but a deeper sense of place. With her help, we climbed to the iconic Mow Cop Castle, standing proud and windswept on the hilltop, before looping back down towards the canal for a scenic finish.
But as beautiful as the route was, it became clear the full version was going to be too long for our group walk. With a larger crowd expected, and winter conditions underfoot, we needed something a little more manageable.
The Walk: Cold Air, Warm Spirits
So, come Monday, we returned—this time with a refined, shorter route that kept all the best bits: the panoramic views, the characterful paths, and, of course, the castle. The group took it all in stride, with muddy boots crunching over frozen ground and cheeks flushed from the cold. And yet, despite the chill, the atmosphere was anything but frosty.
That’s the beauty of walks like these. It’s not just about getting to the top—it’s about the people you get there with, the unexpected help along the way, and the little moments that make the effort worthwhile. Mow Cop reminded us that even in winter’s grip, the warmth of community and a little local knowledge can turn a cold day into something unforgettable.
Summit two: conquered, with frost on our faces and smiles all around. Fancy taking on Mow Cop yourself follow our route on Komoot.