A Circular Walk around Maiden Castle, Bickerton

A pleasant and varied circuit exploring the heathery hills around Maiden Castle hillfort.

This short but spectacular circuit explores the very best of arguably the finest section of the Cheshire Sandstone Ridge. Ascend through purple heather and bilberries to the ramparts of Maiden Castle hillfort. Admire stunning views across the Dee Valley to the Welsh hills, drop down through open birch woods, then circle back through sandy lanes via the picturesque settlement of Brown Knowl.

Start: Pool Lane National Trust car park (free), off Goldford Lane (opposite Pool Farm), Bickerton SY14 8LN. Map ref: SJ 503530 | what3words: ///drilling.negotiators.pheasants

Distance: 5 kilometres/3 miles Difficulty: Easy-Medium.
Duration: Allow 2 – 2½ hours
Map: OS 1:25,000 Explorer 257 Crewe & Nantwich
Dogs: Bickerton Hill is a Site of Special Scientific Interest, and livestock is grazing for much of the year. Dogs should be kept under control at all times, and on a lead between March 1st and July 31st to protect ground nesting birds, reptiles and invertebrates. Please consider other walkers and clean up after your dog.