Walking in Cheshire, a county in Northwest England, provides an array of delightful landscapes to explore. From the ancient woodlands of Delamere Forest to the rolling hills of the Cheshire Peak District, and along the picturesque waterways that crisscross the county, Cheshire offers both scenic beauty and peaceful rural walks. Here are some of the top walking routes to enjoy in Cheshire:
Popular Walks in Cheshire
1. Sandstone Trail
- Length: Approximately 34 miles (55 kilometers)
- Start/End: Frodsham to Whitchurch
- Highlights: One of Cheshire’s most popular long-distance paths, the Sandstone Trail traverses the ridge of sandstone that rises dramatically from the Cheshire plain. It offers stunning views, passes through wooded areas, and features points of historical interest like Beeston Castle and the medieval market town of Frodsham.
2. Delamere Forest
- Length: Various trails of different lengths
- Start/End: Delamere Forest Visitor Centre
- Highlights: Delamere Forest is the largest area of woodland in Cheshire, providing a habitat for a wide range of wildlife. There are numerous marked trails suitable for all abilities, including easy access routes and more challenging hikes. The Blakemere Moss loop offers a pleasant walk around a lake, and there are often events and activities happening in the forest.
3. Macclesfield Forest and Shutlingsloe
- Length: About 5 miles (8 kilometers)
- Start/End: Trentabank Car Park in Macclesfield Forest
- Highlights: This walk offers some of the best views in Cheshire. Shutlingsloe is known as the ‘Cheshire Matterhorn’ because of its distinctive shape. Although it is a steep climb, the panoramic views from the top are well worth the effort.
4. The Gritstone Trail
- Length: About 35 miles (56 kilometers)
- Start/End: Disley to Kidsgrove
- Highlights: This challenging route takes you along the gritstone ridges that form part of the boundary between Cheshire and Staffordshire. The trail offers expansive views over the Cheshire Plain and Peak District, passing through areas of outstanding natural beauty.
5. Chester Walls Walk
- Length: Approximately 2 miles (3.2 kilometers)
- Start/End: Anywhere along the Chester city walls
- Highlights: This easy, circular walk around the ancient Roman and medieval walls of Chester is a must-do for history buffs. It provides views across the city and its landmarks, including the River Dee, Chester Cathedral, and the Roman Amphitheatre.
6. Bickerton Hill and Maiden Castle
- Length: About 6 miles (9.6 kilometers)
- Start/End: Bickerton Hill car park
- Highlights: This walk takes you through heathland and past the Iron Age hill fort of Maiden Castle. It’s particularly beautiful in summer when the heather is in bloom, and the area is also excellent for birdwatching.
Tips for Walking in Cheshire
- Prepare for the Weather: Weather can be unpredictable, so wear appropriate clothing and footwear. Waterproof gear is recommended, especially in the forest and hill areas.
- Respect Nature: Stick to the paths, especially in protected areas like Delamere Forest and on nature reserves.
- Navigation: While many of Cheshire’s trails are well-marked, carrying a map or using a GPS device can help prevent getting lost, especially on longer or less-traveled routes.
- Local Amenities: Plan your walks near towns or villages if you wish to enjoy local cafes, pubs, or restaurants along the way. Cheshire’s rural towns offer great local produce and refreshments.
Walking in Cheshire provides not only excellent exercise but also a chance to unwind amidst some of the most tranquil and picturesque settings in Northwest England. Whether you’re a serious hiker or just looking for a pleasant day out, Cheshire’s diverse landscapes offer perfect opportunities for all.
- Walks from Acton Bridge
- Walks from Arley
- Walks from Ashton
- Walks from Aston
- Walks from Beeston
- Walks from Bickerton
- Walks from Bramhall
- Walks from Burford
- Walks from Capenhurst
- Walks from Chester
- Walks from Clutton
- Walks from Daresbury
- Walks from Davenham
- Walks from Frodsham
- Walks from Gawsworth
- Walks from Handbridge
- Walks from Kelsall
- Walks from Lymm
- Walks from Marbury
- Walks from Mobberley
- Walks from New Mills
- Walks from Norbury
- Walks from Ollerton
- Walks from Overton
- Walks from Parkgate
- Walks from Poynton
- Walks from Prestbury
- Walks from Stockport
- Walks from Styal
- Walks from Upton
- Walks from Weston
- Walks from Whitby
- Walks from Whitegate
- Walks from Willaston
- Walks from Wilmslow
- Walks from Wrenbury
Recommended Destinations.
| Walking Trail | Distance |
|---|---|
| Baker Way | 21 km / 13 miles |
| Bishop Bennet Way | 55 km / 34 miles |
| Bollin Valley Way | 40 km / 25 miles |
| Cheshire Ring Canal Walk | 158 km / 98 miles |
| Crewe and Nantwich Circular Walk | 45 km / 28 miles |
| Dane Valley Way | 77 km / 48 miles |
| Eddisbury Way | 27 km / 17 miles |
| Etherow – Goyt Valley Way | 24 km / 15 miles |
| Gritstone Trail | 55 km / 34 miles |
| Longster Trail | 16 km / 10 miles |
| Maelor Way | 40 km / 25 miles |
| Mersey Valley Timberland Trail | 35 km / 22 miles |
| Middlewood Way | 18 km / 11 miles |
| North Cheshire Way | 113 km / 70 miles |
| Sandstone Trail | 51 km / 32 miles |
| South Cheshire Market Towns Trail | 68 km / 42 miles |
| South Cheshire Market Towns Trail – Congleton Edge Alternative | 2 km / 1 miles |
| South Cheshire Way | 55 km / 34 miles |
| Staffordshire Way | 153 km / 95 miles |
| Trans Pennine Trail | 346 km / 215 miles |
| Two Saints Way | 148 km / 92 miles |
| Weaver Way (Cheshire) | 64 km / 40 miles |