So you have your UK outdoor gear, but what’s the first trip going to be. Well I always find that a local trip to test everything out is always a good idea, so with the Bank Holiday almost upon us, hurrah, let’s see what I can enjoy.

Being based in Macclesfield in Cheshire we are quite lucky with the Peak District on our doorstep one way and the expanses of the Cheshire Plain to choose from, without having to worry too much about transport. Simply step out of the door and start walking in the direction that has been chosen. However there is one local event that is always worth being involved in, if you can get a ticket, “The Langley 11”. This annual event, taking place on June 1st this year, combines two of my favourite pastimes namely walking and drinking.

No advertising is required apart from a chalk message on the notice board, word of mouth does the rest, no new computer web nonsense required here. A chance to walk the countryside and support local business rolled into one, OK they are all friendly hostelries but at least we are putting money into the local community (that’s my excuse and I’m sticking to it). A circular route of roughly14-15 miles consisting of country lanes, forest tracks and towpaths with 11 stops. The only rules of the day being you have to have a drink in each pub (halves recommended) and no cheating using transport.

A great leisurely day out getting plenty of exercise and food is made available to all the finishers back where you started, at the pub! What more could you want.

Here’s one route if you want to try it for yourselves. Start at the St Dunstan in Langley, up the road to The Leather Smithy. Into Macclesfield Forest, follow Forest Route Five to Forest Chapel then down the stony track to Stanley Arms. You have an option of following the road to the next stop, but you might prefer to go back to Standing Stone and over Buxtor Hill, then drop down to The Crag from Shutlingsloe Path. Then it’s along the road for a mile and a quarter, up the path to Hammerton Knowl Farm and across the fields to Wildboar. From here you make your way to the A54, then through Longcutter Farm and along the ridge to The Hanging Gate. Going down the steps and using either of two paths to drop down across the fields to your next port of call, The Ryles Arms. Follow the road back into Sutton takes you to The Lamb. Then it’s past the war memorial and taking the path near the stream it’s across the fields to Bullocks Lane and Sutton Hall. Back along Bullocks Lane and then along the canal towpath down the steps and low and behold you find yourself at The Old King’s Head. Almost there, it’s back along the road under the canal and a short walk along Jarman to the Church House, then reaching your destination back where you started the St Dunstan.

There you go one great day out and one great test for any UK outdoor gear and your liver too.