Walking in Cheshire

Although it might be a little chilly outside, it’s a great time of year for getting outside and exploring the stunning countryside (especially if your New Year’s resolution was to get fit!) and in Cheshire we’re lucky enough to have plenty of it.

Whether you want a gentle stroll or something more strenuous, there is lots of great scenery to make your efforts it worthwhile. Tegg’s Nose Country Park is a great place for a walk. It’s on the site of an old stone quarry and sits in Cheshire’s Peak District with spectacular views; on a clear day you can even see Liverpool’s cathedrals and the Welsh hills.

There are plenty of routes to explore including the Tegg’s Nose Stroll, which takes about 1 hour, and Tegg’s Nose Trail, which will take you about half a day. It’s also a great base for walking up to the summit of Shutlingsloe for the more adventurous walkers out there. You can pick up guides from the on-site Visitor Centre where you’ll also find a lovely tea shop.

A forest walk is always enjoyable and perfect for all ages and abilities. Take the family to Delamere Forest where you can follow the Stick Man trail, follow one of the mapped out walking routes which includes an easy access trail, or just wander around the many paths exploring woodland and seeing what wildlife you can spot; there’s usually plenty of squirrels and birds around. The forest also welcomes cyclists so you can always pack your bike or hire one from TRACS, who are based by the café, and cycle your way around. It’s also home to Go Ape! tree top adventure and Forest Segway, which are open on various dates from February to November. Bollington is another great place for walking, the gateway to the Peak District National Park, and very picturesque.

There are plenty of circular walking routes to enjoy, including walks up to White Nancy, a Grade II listed landmark which was originally built as a summer house and sits on Kerridge Hill overlooking the town providing stunning views. Bollington also has a great range of cafés and pubs, including the Vale Inn, which are perfect for resting tired legs and refreshment stops.