There is something undeniably magical about waking up to a world blanketed in white. Even when the forecast doesn’t quite live up to the hype—as is often the case in the Midlands—the first snow of the season always brings a sense of quiet wonder.

In a video published last year and forgot to write about, I decided to brave the “bitterly cold” temperatures for a morning walk at a place I know like the back of my hand: Chasewater Nature Reserve. But as you’ll see, even familiar paths can offer surprises when the conditions shift. Read on or watch the video below: Video originally published in January 2025

The Reality of a Midlands Snowfall

We were promised heavy snow. I checked the forecast at 4:00 AM, and again at 8:00 AM, hoping for deep drifts and pristine landscapes. What I found instead was a bit more… “slushy.”

By 9:30 AM, the snow was already starting to melt on the main paths, turning into that familiar grey slush we all know and love (or hate!). While other parts of the UK were dealing with heavy accumulation of snow and causing travel mayhem, we were left with a light dusting and a biting wind.

But that’s the thing about nature—it doesn’t always give you the perfect “postcard” moment. Sometimes, it gives you mist, sleet, and the challenge of finding beauty in the grey.

Photography vs. The Joy of the Walk

If you’ve followed my channel for a while, you know that photography is often my primary excuse for getting out of the house. However, there are mornings when the “creative spark” just isn’t there.

On this particular morning, I wasn’t “feeling the photography.” Maybe it was the cold, or maybe it was just the need to clear my head. I’ve come to realize that photography is the catalyst, but the walk is the cure.

I’ve visited Chasewater dozens of times in the last month without even bringing my cameraas it’s a lovely place that is close by just to walk. There’s a certain pressure we put on ourselves to always “produce” something when we go outside, but sometimes, just being there—breathing the cold air and feeling the snow crunch under your boots—is enough.

Even Familiar Paths Have Secrets

One of the highlights of this walk was discovering a path I had somehow missed in all my years of visiting Chasewater. I found myself walking alongside the Heritage Railway track.

For those who don’t know, Chasewater has a wonderful heritage railway that runs from Brownhills to Burntwood, usually on some Wednesdays in the summer but most Sundays throughout the year (check website for timetable). Seeing the old signal through the mist and snow felt like stepping back in time. It just goes to show: even if you think you know a place, you probably don’t know every inch of it. There is always something new to see if you look closely enough.

The Challenges of Winter Exploration

Exploration looks a little different for me than it does for some. Due to my spinal issues, I have to be very careful about how far I walk and how I manage the terrain.

• Walking Stick and the Cold: Using a walking stick in freezing temperatures is a challenge. Even with gloves, the hand holding the stick becomes “absolutely freezing” very quickly.
• Distance Management: While I live close enough to walk to the reserve, I chose to drive the camper this morning to save my energy for the walk itself.
• Nature’s Hazards: Just as I was heading back to the van, a massive branch snapped off a tree right by the car park, unfortunately I didn’t get it in camera. It’s a stark reminder that winter isn’t just pretty; it can be unpredictable and dangerous.

Reflections on the “Twelfth Night”

As I walked, I couldn’t help but note the irony of the timing. It was the 5th of January—Twelfth Night—the day the Christmas decorations traditionally come down.

I’m a stickler for keeping the decorations up until the very last moment, but I finally admitted defeat and took the tree down the previous day. It’s a bit of a “typical” situation, isn’t it? We wait all through December for a “White Christmas,” only for the snow to arrive the very day we pack the tinsel away!

Final Thoughts from the Camper

Back at the camper, there was only one thing on my mind: Coffee.

This walk wasn’t about capturing the perfect landscape photo or hitting a specific step count. It was about showing up for myself, even when the weather was “miserable” my creative energy was low. The reservoir looked atmospheric in the mist, the air was crisp, and I got to share a bit of my local world with you.

If you enjoyed the video, please give it a like and subscribe my YouTube channel. Whether it’s a camper conversion update or a quiet walk in the woods, I’m glad to have you along for the journey.

Stay warm, and I’ll see you in the next one!

What’s your favorite local spot to visit when it snows? Do you prefer the “pristine” look or the atmospheric “grey and misty” days? Let me know in the comments!