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Looking for inspiration for the best walks in Cheshire? This pretty region of undulating open countryside in northwest England attracts a lot of walking enthusiasts, with easy walks along meandering canals and rivers to more demanding routes for the experienced hikers.
Cheshire has a lovely mix of landscapes, from open countryside to pretty woodlands, through historic country villages and medieval market towns, with the opportunity to take in some historic landmarks. This makes circular walks in Cheshire popular, taking in a mix of village and countryside.
Canal and Riverside Walks
Canal and riverside walks offer a great way to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature. You’ll never find anyone in a hurry here, people are happy to stroll the paths, and take in the surrounding wildlife. Perhaps best of all about canals? You’ll always come across a friendly pub for a quick refreshment stop! These places are great for short walks to get out in the open air.
Chester Canal Walk
The Shropshire Union canal that cuts through the medieval city of Chester was once very important to Chester’s once thriving port activity on the River Dee.
The canal is very accessible in Chester, you can park easily in the centre, or moor up nearby if you are holidaying on a Black Prince narrowboat and a leisurely 10-min walk to the canal basin where th Shropshire Union Canal and the River Dee meet. For a nice walk in Cheshire we recommend diverting from the towpath into the city itself to see the magnificent cathedral, the medieval streets with a great shopping centre and the Roman amphitheatre remains.
The Macclesfield Canal Walk
The 26 mile long Macclesfield canal meanders through the heart of Cheshire, and you can walk the whole of it via the towpath that runs alongside it. Along the way, you’ll encounter quaint villages like Bosley and Gurnett, where you can take a break at local pubs and cafes.
If you want to take in places of interest on your walks around Cheshire, then head to Bosley and take a look at the Bosley Locks, a series of 12 locks which are among the highest flight of locks on the canal. You can walk alongside the locks and witness how they work as the narrowboats work their way up and down. Don’t miss Snake Bridge, near Bosley, a Grade II listed gem.
Macclesfield itself has a fascinating history, with attractions including the Silk Museum, which showcases the region’s silk-making history, and Macclesfield Castle, remnants of a medieval fortress.
Circular Walks in Cheshire
Circular walks, ones that start and end in the same place, are convenient for walkers who want a great walk without needing transport back to the starting location. This particularly suits Black Prince guests who may want to get off the boat to stretch their legs but obviously need to return back to their moored boat at the end of it.
Many find circular routes more engaging than out and back trails, as you get the chance to see new scenery every step of the way and there’s a great sense of fulfilment and satisfaction!
Google Maps 2024
Country Park Walk from the Anderton Boat Lift
Distance: 4 miles
Level: Moderate
Time: 2 hours
This moderate circular walk in Cheshire starts at one of the Wonders of the Waterways, the Anderton Boat Lift in Northwich. Start by following a section of the Trent and Mersey Canal which takes you to the edge of Marbury Country Park. Walk through the wooded park to Budworth Mere, before heading across the main road to Kennel Wood.
A footpath then takes you across felds to Cogshall Lane, where you can walk directly east back to Anderton Marina, or you can head south via a footbath into the small town of Anderton, before heading back to the Marina.
Sutton Hall and Macclesfield Canal Circular
Distance: 4.5 miles
Level: Moderate
Time: 2 hours
This walking route near Macclesfield in Cheshire is a popular trail for birdwatching, fishing and hiking.
Starting at Sutton Hall, a well-known pub and restaurant located just off the Macclesfield Canal, south of Macclesfield, on Bullocks Lane, Sutton, this walk takes you out across farmland to reach the nearby Sutton reservoir before returning via the towpath to the canal. It’s a peaceful, countryside walk, fairly flat, with a lovely backdrop of the nearby Peak District hills.
As well as the reservoir which is a great spot for bird watching, along the canal you’ll pass Danes Moss Nature Reserve which is managed by the Cheshire Wildlife Trust. This site is famous for its rare peat bog, and home to many types of unusual insects and sphagnum moss.
Google Maps 2024
Google Maps 2024
Chester Wall Circular Walk
Distance: 2 miles
Level: Easy
Time: 1 hour
This walk is a great introduction to the city and very easy to navigate. The two-mile short walk in Cheshire takes you around the city centre, along the old Roman walls. It’s a great way to see the views over the town, castle racecourse and River and seeing the sights such as the fabulous clock tower. There are a number of steps involved in getting up and down from the wall, so fairly active at times.
On a Black Prince narrowboat, you can cruise into Chester, mooring up close to where the old Roman wall is located.
Family-friendly walks in Cheshire
If you’re looking for child-friendly walks in Cheshire, then you perhaps want something that’s relatively easy, with attractions or picnic spots on the way. Delamere Forest is very popular with its accessible trails like the Blakemere Trail and Tatton Park in Knutsford is another favourite, with deer parks, gardens and a play area. Close to Norwich is Marbury Country Park which has a lake and lots of picnic spots and for a great view, head to Alderley Edge which as short, well-marked walking routes that lead to stunning hilltop viewpoints.
Delamere Forest
Covering over 950 hectares, this lovely area of woodland offers a network of trails for walking and cycling. It’s a great space for nature spotting, with birds such as woodpeckers and nuthatches plus you’ll often see deer freely roaming around on a quiet day.
There are lots of accessible paths through the forest, plus picnic areas and attractions such as Go Ape, if you fancy some tree climbing!
Marbury Country Park
Another firm favourite for families looking for family friendly walking routes in Cheshire is Marbury Country Park. This scenic park was once the grounds of a grand country estate, but is now open to the public and features avenues of lime trees, open meadows and peaceful woodlands.
There are lots of trails that are perfect for easy walks with family, including paths that wind around Marbury Mere, offering lovely views over the lake. Make sure you bring your binoculars to spot the swans, herons and other wildlife that populates this area.
This country park also has a picnic area and a children’s play area.
Best Countryside Walks in Cheshire
Looking for a pretty countryside walk in Cheshire? This region in north-west England is famous for its farmland landscapes, dotted with little villages, peaceful woodlands and walks that make climbing a summit completely worth it when you get to take in the great view! Cheshire is ideal for walkers and hikers of all abilities, including families with children.
Sandstone Trail
This is one of Cheshire’s most popular long-distance walking routes; there’s over 34 miles of great walking from Frodsham in the north to Whitchurch in Shropshire. The trail follows the natural ridgeline of the Cheshire Sandstone Ridge, offering views across the Cheshire Plains as well as iconic landmarks like Beeston Castle.
There’s a mix of gentle paths and more challenging ascents on the Sandstone Trail. Being so long, you can join the route at many places, taking your pick of either some easy walks or more strenuous hiking. It’s popular for day hikes as well as multi-day treks and because it passes through lots of villages there’s lots of opportunity to stop off at pubs and cafes en route!
Tegg’s Nose Circular Walk
Distance: 2.4 miles
Time: 1.30
Level: ModerateThis fascinatingly named place features a great walking trail just outside the Peak District National Park, offering lovely views of both the Cheshire Plains and the Peak District.
Why Tegg’s Nose? Early maps indicate that the area was once called ‘Tegge’s Naze’, which may have derived from ‘Tegge’, an early Norse settler and ‘nose’ meaning a promontory – a high point of land or rock that juts out of water.
This circular walk is a popular route near Macclesfield, and located around two miles from the Macclesfield canal. Tegg’s Nose is a mix of steep ascents and level paths, worth it for the great views, and there are plenty of benches and viewpoints for you to catch your breath! The Tegg’s Nose Visitor Centre is worth calling into, offering maps, information and a cosy café.
Long Walks in Cheshire
If you’re a serious hiker and looking for more of a challenge, then a long walk in Cheshire is a wonderful opportunity to fully immerse yourself into the region’s rolling countryside and take in some of the smaller villages and attractions that may otherwise get missed.
As mentioned above, the Sandstone Trail is great for a full days adventure, covering 34 miles along the dramatic sandstone ridges from Frodsham to Whitchurch.
Even longer is the Cheshire Ring, a long-distance option that loops through 97 miles of picturesque canal side paths, passing through Macclesfield, Middlewich and Marple.
The Gritstone Trail is located on the edge of the Peak District, beginning at Disley railway station to the south east of Manchester, following the Pennine edge southwards to finish at Kidsgrove railway (walking the Trail from north to south is recommended).
This 35 mile route offers a mixture of terrains, from moorlands to woodland and farmland, so good footwear is recommended! Plus there are the high sandstone outcrops such as Teggs Nose and Shutlingsloe Hill, often referred to as the ‘Matterhorn of Cheshire’.
Although the Trail is well waymarked you are strongly advised to use the Ordnance Survey Explorer map 268, Wilmslow, Macclesfield & Congleton, and the Explorer OL1 Dark Peak map.
Being located next to places like the Peak District and close to the Lake District, Cheshire sometimes gets overlooked a place for great walks. However, we can see that this area has a great variety of walking routes that suits all abilities and what’s more, it has a variety of landscapes from the canals, through historic villages to the breathtaking edges with great views.
Book a canal holiday in Cheshire
If this inspiration for walking in Cheshire has made you keen to explore the area from a different angle, why not make your next UK holiday a canal holiday in Cheshire? There’s no better way to immerse yourself into the relaxing countryside, seeing all the sights from a really unique perspective.
FAQS
Can I walk along the canals in Cheshire?
Yes, you can walk along the canals in Cheshire! The region features several canals, including the Macclesfield Canal and the Shropshire Union Canal, which offer scenic towpaths perfect for walking, cycling, and spotting local wildlife.
What should I bring on a walk in Cheshire?
You’ll no doubt hit open countryside and farmland, as well as possible ridges and rocky paths so when walking in Cheshire, so ideally wear good hiking boots and clothing suitable for the weather.
Are there places to eat and rest along these walks?
Yes, many walking routes in Cheshire pass through villages and towns that have plenty of cafes, pubs, and restaurants where you can stop for a meal or a drink. Additionally, many parks and trails have designated picnic areas, which is particularly good for families with children.
When is the best time to go walking in Cheshire?
The best time for walking in Cheshire is typically during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild, and you get to witness spring in bloom or the full autumn colours. If you don’t mind the heat of summer, then July and August is the best time for extended walk for the longer daylight hours.
Are there any dog-friendly walks in Cheshire?
Yes, many walks in Cheshire are dog-friendly, including trails in parks, along canals, and through the countryside. Just be sure to check specific trail guidelines regarding dogs, and always keep your pet on a lead, especially in areas with livestock.
Can I combine canal walking with narrowboat holidays in Cheshire?
Absolutely! Cheshire’s canals are a popular destination for narrowboat holidays, allowing you to combine leisurely canal walking with boat travel. Many visitors enjoy walking sections of the canal towpaths while also taking the opportunity to explore the waterways by narrowboat.
