Places to Walk Archives - Walking Academy

Cheshire, a county rich in history and natural beauty, offers a diverse landscape for walkers of all abilities. Nestled between the Peak District to the east and the rolling plains of North West England, Cheshire boasts a mix of lush countryside, scenic woodlands, and charming villages. The county is well known for its picturesque sandstone ridges, historic castles, and tranquil canal-side paths, making it an ideal destination for anyone who enjoys the great outdoors. Walkers can explore long-distance trails like the Sandstone Trail, which follows ancient pathways along stunning escarpments, or take in the breathtaking views from Shutlingsloe Hill, known as Cheshire’s "Matterhorn." The county is also home to Delamere Forest, a vast woodland haven, and the enchanting landscapes of Tatton Park and Marbury Country Park. With a wealth of historical sites, including Beeston Castle, the Anderton Boat Lift, and the mystical Alderley Edge, Cheshire is a county where history and nature go hand in hand. Whether you’re after a gentle lakeside stroll or a challenging ridge-top hike, Cheshire has a walk to suit everyone The Top 10 Walks In Cheshire 1. The Sandstone Trail Start/End Point: Frodsham to Whitchurch Distance: 34 miles (55 km) (can be done in sections) Terrain: Rolling hills, woodland, farmland Difficulty: Moderate to challenging Notable Landmark: Beeston Castle One of the best long-distance trails in England, this route takes in stunning ridge-top views, ancient woodlands, and historic sites like Beeston Castle. 2. Delamere Forest Walk Start/End Point: Delamere Forest Visitor Centre Distance: 6 miles (9.6 km) Terrain: Woodland trails, lakeside paths Difficulty: Easy to moderate Notable Landmark: Blakemere Moss A peaceful forest walk through Cheshire’s largest woodland, with scenic views over Blakemere Moss and plenty of wildlife to spot. 3. The Gritstone Trail Start/End Point: Disley to Kidsgrove Distance: 35 miles (56 km) (can be done in sections) Terrain: Hills, moorland, rugged paths Difficulty: Moderate to challenging Notable Landmark: The Cloud This scenic trail takes in some of Cheshire’s highest points, offering panoramic views of the Peak District and beyond. 4. Alderley Edge and The Wizard Walk Start/End Point: Alderley Edge National Trust Car Park Distance: 4 miles (6.4 km) Terrain: Woodland, gentle hills Difficulty: Easy to moderate Notable Landmark: The Wizard’s Well A mystical walk through the famous Alderley Edge woodland, rich in folklore and legend, with stunning views across the Cheshire Plain. 5. Macclesfield Forest and Shutlingsloe Walk Start/End Point: Trentabank Reservoir Distance: 5 miles (8 km) Terrain: Forest tracks, steep climbs Difficulty: Moderate Notable Landmark: Shutlingsloe Hill A rewarding hike through Macclesfield Forest leading to the summit of Shutlingsloe, also known as Cheshire’s “Matterhorn” for its distinctive shape. 6. Beeston and Peckforton Castle Walk Start/End Point: Beeston Castle Car Park Distance: 6 miles (9.6 km) Terrain: Fields, woodland trails Difficulty: Moderate Notable Landmark: Beeston Castle A picturesque walk linking two historic castles with stunning views across the Cheshire countryside. 7. Lymm Dam Circular Walk Start/End Point: Lymm Village Distance: 3 miles (4.8 km) Terrain: Lakeside paths, gentle slopes Difficulty: Easy Notable Landmark: Lymm Dam A relaxing circular walk around Lymm Dam, perfect for families and those looking for a peaceful nature stroll. 8. Marbury Country Park and Anderton Boat Lift Walk Start/End Point: Marbury Country Park Car Park Distance: 5 miles (8 km) Terrain: Parkland, canal paths Difficulty: Easy Notable Landmark: Anderton Boat Lift A scenic walk through Marbury Country Park leading to the impressive Anderton Boat Lift, a marvel of Victorian engineering. 9. Bollington and White Nancy Walk Start/End Point: Bollington Village Distance: 4 miles (6.4 km) Terrain: Hills, countryside paths Difficulty: Moderate Notable Landmark: White Nancy A rewarding hill walk up to White Nancy, a famous landmark with spectacular views over Cheshire and the Peak District. 10. Tatton Park Walk Start/End Point: Tatton Park Car Park Distance: 5 miles (8 km) Terrain: Parkland, deer park, lakeside trails Difficulty: Easy Notable Landmark: Tatton Hall A charming walk through the historic Tatton Park estate, home to herds of red and fallow deer and a stunning neoclassical mansion. Summary - Top 10 Walks In Cheshire We hope you enjoy this list of walks and look forward to trying some of them out on your next visit to Cheshire. Why not take a look at other counties too when planning other trips.