Crosses and Crossbars

Type: Cycling and Mountain Biking

An easy 34km (21 mile) ride around Sandbach.

Sandbach and Elton Flashes are large lakes lying in hollows, formed when brine pumping caused subsidence. Now mostly nature reserves, they are particularly important for their winter populations of wildfowl.

Freewheel into Warmingham with its picturesque church and pub.

Winterley Pool was originally a mill pool. Today it is home to a large mute swan population, and a variety of ducks and geese. A ride along a bridleway crossing the M6 brings you to Alsager.

The Salt Line is a delight to cycle along and good for bird life. Look out for brightly coloured yellowhammers and bullfinches. Listen for the distinctive calls of the chiffchaff and willow warbler, common summer visitors here.

Take a close look at the beautiful designs carved into the Sandbach Crosses. Saddle sore, perhaps, but hopefully happy, pedal slowly back through the old market town to the railway station.