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OUR
WALKS 2026 |
Tuesday 4th August.
The weather forecast today implied that we would encounter rain so we were all prepared with waterproofs in our rucksacks. We set off down the Whitegate Way in warm sunshine which shone for the whole of our 4 mile walk. Fortunately there was plenty of shade and the going was flat so it wasn't too arduous. Although we were pleased that it didn't rain I think that for once we would have welcomed a shower for the sake of the trees, crops and scorched grass that we passed. Amazingly the blackberries were sweet, juicy and plentiful in spite of the drought!!!...although we did have to taste several just for quality control.
Words: Margaret. Photos: Danielle, Fiona
The weather forecast today implied that we would encounter rain so we were all prepared with waterproofs in our rucksacks. We set off down the Whitegate Way in warm sunshine which shone for the whole of our 4 mile walk. Fortunately there was plenty of shade and the going was flat so it wasn't too arduous. Although we were pleased that it didn't rain I think that for once we would have welcomed a shower for the sake of the trees, crops and scorched grass that we passed. Amazingly the blackberries were sweet, juicy and plentiful in spite of the drought!!!...although we did have to taste several just for quality control.
Words: Margaret. Photos: Danielle, Fiona
Tuesday 28th July.
Our walk this morning headed southbound into Delamere Forest from Barnsbridge car park, before turning right at a crossroads and meandering back towards Ashton Road. Crossing over to the north side of the forest we walked along a surprisingly free flowing stream, making our way to the Lodge's cafe for refreshments. We enjoyed the natural cooling shade from the tree canopy, before heading back along a rather unshaded path making use of our summer caps and hats!
Words/Photo: Danielle
Our walk this morning headed southbound into Delamere Forest from Barnsbridge car park, before turning right at a crossroads and meandering back towards Ashton Road. Crossing over to the north side of the forest we walked along a surprisingly free flowing stream, making our way to the Lodge's cafe for refreshments. We enjoyed the natural cooling shade from the tree canopy, before heading back along a rather unshaded path making use of our summer caps and hats!
Words/Photo: Danielle
Tuesday 21st July.
As we are still "enjoying" a very warm period of weather, this week's walk was a little shorter than planned, and very shady too! We parked at the Whitegate Way Station cafe and Fiona C took us westwards under the trees until we reached the Scout camping site, where we headed left. We ended up behind Nunsmere Hall, overlooking the Mere and Cathy took many photos of us under the trees, and in some of them we were even looking at her! Sorry Cathy! We headed back to the cafe and had our drinks in the shade before driving back to Kelsall. Shady, shorter, flat and with good company - what more could you want?
Fiona B Photos: Cathy
As we are still "enjoying" a very warm period of weather, this week's walk was a little shorter than planned, and very shady too! We parked at the Whitegate Way Station cafe and Fiona C took us westwards under the trees until we reached the Scout camping site, where we headed left. We ended up behind Nunsmere Hall, overlooking the Mere and Cathy took many photos of us under the trees, and in some of them we were even looking at her! Sorry Cathy! We headed back to the cafe and had our drinks in the shade before driving back to Kelsall. Shady, shorter, flat and with good company - what more could you want?
Fiona B Photos: Cathy
Tuesday 14th July.
Today we should have been doing over 5 miles around Swettenham village near Holmes Chapel but as there is little shade and temperatures were projected to be in the high 20's, we decided instead to do a short, flat walk on Little Budworth Common under the trees. It was lovely to stroll round under the canopy in the relative cool of the morning; the car park was very busy so we were not alone in going early! It was a very short walk which left us plenty of time to call in at Citrus for a new item on the menu - iced coffee with ice cream! - the invention of one of our walkers. We set a record for the number of chairs you can get around a small table and enjoyed the shady space outside. Good decisions all round!
Fiona
Today we should have been doing over 5 miles around Swettenham village near Holmes Chapel but as there is little shade and temperatures were projected to be in the high 20's, we decided instead to do a short, flat walk on Little Budworth Common under the trees. It was lovely to stroll round under the canopy in the relative cool of the morning; the car park was very busy so we were not alone in going early! It was a very short walk which left us plenty of time to call in at Citrus for a new item on the menu - iced coffee with ice cream! - the invention of one of our walkers. We set a record for the number of chairs you can get around a small table and enjoyed the shady space outside. Good decisions all round!
Fiona
Tuesday 7th July.
On a warm, sunny July morning eight WI ladies took a stroll round Bunbury. We set off from the church before dropping down to the mill which was looking beautiful in the sunshine. After pausing to watch the ducks on the mill pond we set off over several fields which took us away from the village. The stiles from one field to another were quite tough as they had obviously been erected by someone with very long legs! This however gave us a perfect excuse for some liquid refreshment at The Dysart on our return to the village.
Words: Margaret Photos: Danielle/Fiona
On a warm, sunny July morning eight WI ladies took a stroll round Bunbury. We set off from the church before dropping down to the mill which was looking beautiful in the sunshine. After pausing to watch the ducks on the mill pond we set off over several fields which took us away from the village. The stiles from one field to another were quite tough as they had obviously been erected by someone with very long legs! This however gave us a perfect excuse for some liquid refreshment at The Dysart on our return to the village.
Words: Margaret Photos: Danielle/Fiona
Tuesday 30th June.
Today we had a short walk around Great Barrow. Parking at the layby near Barrow Church, we turned left into Ferma Lane by Barrow Primary School. Soon we were walking down a grassy track between pastures, with great views across the fields. We then went through Ferma Wood, planted in 2005, again across fields and down a track onto the B5132. Walking past Barrow Cricket Club and turning down through fields planted with maize onto Barnhouse Lane and across to the path through a wooded area leading to the Bluebell Cafe. Joined by Jean, we had a very pleasant coffee break, sitting outside, before progressing across the large grassy area into another field, already cut for silage, and on down to Heath Lane. From there we made our way back through the village, past the Village Hall and St. Bartholomew's Church, to the parked cars. So not a long walk but very enjoyable.
Words:Mary Photos:Mary/Jean
Today we had a short walk around Great Barrow. Parking at the layby near Barrow Church, we turned left into Ferma Lane by Barrow Primary School. Soon we were walking down a grassy track between pastures, with great views across the fields. We then went through Ferma Wood, planted in 2005, again across fields and down a track onto the B5132. Walking past Barrow Cricket Club and turning down through fields planted with maize onto Barnhouse Lane and across to the path through a wooded area leading to the Bluebell Cafe. Joined by Jean, we had a very pleasant coffee break, sitting outside, before progressing across the large grassy area into another field, already cut for silage, and on down to Heath Lane. From there we made our way back through the village, past the Village Hall and St. Bartholomew's Church, to the parked cars. So not a long walk but very enjoyable.
Words:Mary Photos:Mary/Jean
Tuesday 23rd June.
We were supposed to be walking to Parkgate on the Wirral today, looking forward to the reward of ice cream! With health warnings for extreme heat we decided a gentle stroll under the leafy canopy of the forest was in order. Five ladies set off from Kings Gate car park heading down towards Urchins Kitchen, the cafe at Kelsall Hill, for iced coffee! One lady met us at the cafe, having already been dog walking, so exercise box ticked for the day. We strolled back up the hill to the car park and by mid morning you could feel the heat. Hopefully next week's walk will be a little cooler....
Words: Lesley Photos:Lesley/Jean
We were supposed to be walking to Parkgate on the Wirral today, looking forward to the reward of ice cream! With health warnings for extreme heat we decided a gentle stroll under the leafy canopy of the forest was in order. Five ladies set off from Kings Gate car park heading down towards Urchins Kitchen, the cafe at Kelsall Hill, for iced coffee! One lady met us at the cafe, having already been dog walking, so exercise box ticked for the day. We strolled back up the hill to the car park and by mid morning you could feel the heat. Hopefully next week's walk will be a little cooler....
Words: Lesley Photos:Lesley/Jean
Tuesday 16th June.
Today we began Mary's walk at Bunbury Locks, which is a pair of grade II listed staircase locks on the Shropshire Union Canal, just north of Bunbury. We parked in the small layby and crossed the road into Anglo Welsh Waterway Holidays where they were cleaning some narrow boats ready for more trips.
The tow path had been mowed and we soon came upon a man with a wide mower from the Canal and River Trust. It had been a peaceful walk until then but he and his friend, wielding a strimmer, made us hurry past Tilstone Bank and carry on towards Beeston Stone Lock as there were a couple of benches there for our drinks; it was a hot day by now and we were glad of the stop. But mower man caught up with us, just as we were saying how great it is that the Trust takes good care of the Canal! We set off back to Tilstone Bank where we crossed the Canal and headed up a steep footpath by some pretty cottages, turning right at the top. We walked along the edge of a huge field, fighting our way through nettles and thistles, then through some woods with a pond, before a sandy climb to a wonderful view; we carried on down the other side overlooking the Stables and came out onto the road opposite Bunbury Locks where ice creams were waiting for us.
Fiona
Today we began Mary's walk at Bunbury Locks, which is a pair of grade II listed staircase locks on the Shropshire Union Canal, just north of Bunbury. We parked in the small layby and crossed the road into Anglo Welsh Waterway Holidays where they were cleaning some narrow boats ready for more trips.
The tow path had been mowed and we soon came upon a man with a wide mower from the Canal and River Trust. It had been a peaceful walk until then but he and his friend, wielding a strimmer, made us hurry past Tilstone Bank and carry on towards Beeston Stone Lock as there were a couple of benches there for our drinks; it was a hot day by now and we were glad of the stop. But mower man caught up with us, just as we were saying how great it is that the Trust takes good care of the Canal! We set off back to Tilstone Bank where we crossed the Canal and headed up a steep footpath by some pretty cottages, turning right at the top. We walked along the edge of a huge field, fighting our way through nettles and thistles, then through some woods with a pond, before a sandy climb to a wonderful view; we carried on down the other side overlooking the Stables and came out onto the road opposite Bunbury Locks where ice creams were waiting for us.
Fiona
Tuesday 9th June.
Janet's walk today started from the free car park on Simons Lane, off Manley Road. Frodsham Woods was once a golf course; it closed during the pandemic and although there was concern locally that it could be used for housing, the Woodland Trust took it over and is creating a native broadleaf woodland which will connect with existing woods at Snidley Moor, Woodhouse Hill and Frodsham Hill Wood. It's a lovely spot with mown paths through grassland and heath, leading into ancient and newer woodland areas. In total it covers well over 100 acres and so far 30,000 trees have been planted; there are expansive views from various points towards Wales, Liverpool and the Dee estuary, and the Sandstone Trail passes through the area. Our walk took us south from the car park, through woodland and grassy areas, a favourite with dog walkers, and passed Snidley Moor Wood before ending up on Manley Lane before returning to the car park just before the rain started. A lovely sunny walk where we missed the promised showers.
Fiona
Janet's walk today started from the free car park on Simons Lane, off Manley Road. Frodsham Woods was once a golf course; it closed during the pandemic and although there was concern locally that it could be used for housing, the Woodland Trust took it over and is creating a native broadleaf woodland which will connect with existing woods at Snidley Moor, Woodhouse Hill and Frodsham Hill Wood. It's a lovely spot with mown paths through grassland and heath, leading into ancient and newer woodland areas. In total it covers well over 100 acres and so far 30,000 trees have been planted; there are expansive views from various points towards Wales, Liverpool and the Dee estuary, and the Sandstone Trail passes through the area. Our walk took us south from the car park, through woodland and grassy areas, a favourite with dog walkers, and passed Snidley Moor Wood before ending up on Manley Lane before returning to the car park just before the rain started. A lovely sunny walk where we missed the promised showers.
Fiona
Tuesday 2nd June.
Despite the forecast for heavy rain showers it was fine and dry as eight of us started our walk on the Shropshire Union Canal opposite The Shady pub. We left the canal at Wharton's Lock and walked across fields in the direction of Beeston Castle. We then swung round to the left to walk over more fields which took us in the direction of Tiverton. Once in Tiverton we rejoined the canal at Beeston Brook Bridge and walked back to The Shady where we stopped for refreshments.
Words: Avril Photos :Danielle/ Fiona
Despite the forecast for heavy rain showers it was fine and dry as eight of us started our walk on the Shropshire Union Canal opposite The Shady pub. We left the canal at Wharton's Lock and walked across fields in the direction of Beeston Castle. We then swung round to the left to walk over more fields which took us in the direction of Tiverton. Once in Tiverton we rejoined the canal at Beeston Brook Bridge and walked back to The Shady where we stopped for refreshments.
Words: Avril Photos :Danielle/ Fiona
Tuesday 26th May: "Cor! Phew what a scorcher!"
We decided not to do the scheduled Mouldsworth walk today as it was too hot! Two ladies set off from KCC and headed down past Wally's to Common Lane and the Weetwood Tap....for a coffee. We were joined by three others and sat outside in the shade for drinks (no alcohol passed our lips) and a chat.
Fortunately two ladies came in their cars so those who walked down in the heat had a very welcome lift home.
Words: Lesley. Photos: Lesley/Fiona
We decided not to do the scheduled Mouldsworth walk today as it was too hot! Two ladies set off from KCC and headed down past Wally's to Common Lane and the Weetwood Tap....for a coffee. We were joined by three others and sat outside in the shade for drinks (no alcohol passed our lips) and a chat.
Fortunately two ladies came in their cars so those who walked down in the heat had a very welcome lift home.
Words: Lesley. Photos: Lesley/Fiona
Tuesday 12th May.
It was a cloudy morning as we set off on a 4.5 mile walk from Walk Mill, crossing the Gowy towards the stile, heading east into some fields. Luckily the cattle were elsewhere this morning so we headed across several fields near Stapleford Hall towards Ryecroft Lane. The lanes are quiet and we walked up Old Moss Lane into Platts Lane which eventually becomes a track leading to Hockenhull Platts, the mid-point of our walk. The nature reserve is managed by Cheshire Wildlife Trust and entry is restricted; otters can be found but you need a guide to enter the site. We had a look at the 3 pack horse bridges but didn't stop for long as it was raining by now. We carried on to Cotton Farm and took the footpath behind the house, crossing fields to two bridges over the River Gowy, before crossing the weir and arriving at the road bridge on Guy Lane. This is a walk of many stiles but at last from there it was a short walk through a field of barley to the rear of the Mill, passing it's water wheel on the way to the cafe for a very welcome coffee and cake. By which time of course it had stopped raining!
Words Fiona, Photos: Jean/Fiona
It was a cloudy morning as we set off on a 4.5 mile walk from Walk Mill, crossing the Gowy towards the stile, heading east into some fields. Luckily the cattle were elsewhere this morning so we headed across several fields near Stapleford Hall towards Ryecroft Lane. The lanes are quiet and we walked up Old Moss Lane into Platts Lane which eventually becomes a track leading to Hockenhull Platts, the mid-point of our walk. The nature reserve is managed by Cheshire Wildlife Trust and entry is restricted; otters can be found but you need a guide to enter the site. We had a look at the 3 pack horse bridges but didn't stop for long as it was raining by now. We carried on to Cotton Farm and took the footpath behind the house, crossing fields to two bridges over the River Gowy, before crossing the weir and arriving at the road bridge on Guy Lane. This is a walk of many stiles but at last from there it was a short walk through a field of barley to the rear of the Mill, passing it's water wheel on the way to the cafe for a very welcome coffee and cake. By which time of course it had stopped raining!
Words Fiona, Photos: Jean/Fiona
Tuesday 5th May.
After negotiating several road closures and diversions, seven of us set off for our walk along the Trent and Mersey canal near the Leigh Arms. It was a cloudy morning and there was very little activity on the canal but we did spot two mallards with quite a large brood of ducklings. The parents quickly shepherded their brood over to the opposite side of the canal and into the reeds when they saw us coming. We came off the canal and continued our walk into the wooded area opposite Bluebell Cottage Gardens and Nursery. Leaving the wood, which was full of bluebells, wild garlic and birdsong, we turned left onto the Delamere Way. We walked across the horse bridge to continue our walk along the River Weaver, stopping at Dutton Locks for a drink and snack. The May blossom on the river bank looked glorious and we spotted a heron. Before too long we were back at the Acton Swing Bridge and our cars for the journey home. Miraculously all the road closures had disappeared.
Words: Avril. Photos:Jean/ Lesley/Fiona
After negotiating several road closures and diversions, seven of us set off for our walk along the Trent and Mersey canal near the Leigh Arms. It was a cloudy morning and there was very little activity on the canal but we did spot two mallards with quite a large brood of ducklings. The parents quickly shepherded their brood over to the opposite side of the canal and into the reeds when they saw us coming. We came off the canal and continued our walk into the wooded area opposite Bluebell Cottage Gardens and Nursery. Leaving the wood, which was full of bluebells, wild garlic and birdsong, we turned left onto the Delamere Way. We walked across the horse bridge to continue our walk along the River Weaver, stopping at Dutton Locks for a drink and snack. The May blossom on the river bank looked glorious and we spotted a heron. Before too long we were back at the Acton Swing Bridge and our cars for the journey home. Miraculously all the road closures had disappeared.
Words: Avril. Photos:Jean/ Lesley/Fiona
Tuesday 28th April.
Jean's walk today started from the car park on Coach Road near Oulton Park. We crossed the road and headed along the paths through woodland and heathland, turning right near a fence, ready to cross into Beech Road. We always have a look at a lovely garden on the left and today it's full of bluebells and very photogenic. We turned right through the gate onto a path and followed it to some steep steps and a pond. After some twists and turns we arrived at the horse fields - but they were not there today - and climbed the three stiles to Budworth Pool, where on our last visit we had seen hundreds of tiny frogs crossing the track towards the water. On the way through the village we met Peter Rabbit and stopped to inspect the mini library in the bus stop. From there it was just a few minutes back to the cars after a colder-than-expected 4 mile walk.
Words:Fiona Photos:Jean/Fiona
Jean's walk today started from the car park on Coach Road near Oulton Park. We crossed the road and headed along the paths through woodland and heathland, turning right near a fence, ready to cross into Beech Road. We always have a look at a lovely garden on the left and today it's full of bluebells and very photogenic. We turned right through the gate onto a path and followed it to some steep steps and a pond. After some twists and turns we arrived at the horse fields - but they were not there today - and climbed the three stiles to Budworth Pool, where on our last visit we had seen hundreds of tiny frogs crossing the track towards the water. On the way through the village we met Peter Rabbit and stopped to inspect the mini library in the bus stop. From there it was just a few minutes back to the cars after a colder-than-expected 4 mile walk.
Words:Fiona Photos:Jean/Fiona
Tuesday 21st April.
Due to the slightly chaotic road works taking place on Chester Road for the next few weeks, we met at the Yeld car park after taking devious routes to get there. Nine of us set off down Forest Gate Lane heading for the Stones at the top of Old Pale. We couldn't get away from road barriers even here as one of the stones was damaged and surrounded by bright yellow fencing. It was very windy on the top but the views were excellent in the sunshine. We turned down the track towards Delamere, passing some horses by the farm, then climbing up to Eddisbury hillfort where we skirted some very muddy ground before settling down on the walls for a drink. There were no cattle there today and there was a lot of ploughing and drilling going on in the fields below us. Going down the other side we walked along the lane to the top of Stoney Lane, taking the path beside the field towards the forest. The old Roman road used to follow the route we took next, crossing the Sandstone Trail to walk through the beech woods back to Forest Gate Lane and the car park.
Words:Fiona Photos:Danielle/Jean/Fiona
Due to the slightly chaotic road works taking place on Chester Road for the next few weeks, we met at the Yeld car park after taking devious routes to get there. Nine of us set off down Forest Gate Lane heading for the Stones at the top of Old Pale. We couldn't get away from road barriers even here as one of the stones was damaged and surrounded by bright yellow fencing. It was very windy on the top but the views were excellent in the sunshine. We turned down the track towards Delamere, passing some horses by the farm, then climbing up to Eddisbury hillfort where we skirted some very muddy ground before settling down on the walls for a drink. There were no cattle there today and there was a lot of ploughing and drilling going on in the fields below us. Going down the other side we walked along the lane to the top of Stoney Lane, taking the path beside the field towards the forest. The old Roman road used to follow the route we took next, crossing the Sandstone Trail to walk through the beech woods back to Forest Gate Lane and the car park.
Words:Fiona Photos:Danielle/Jean/Fiona
Tuesday 14th April.
There were six of us this morning who set off from Commonside near Alvanley. We were lucky to get to our starting point as every lane we tried to drive up seemed to have road works on it. But our plucky leader got us there so that we could head up the unusually busy road before turning right across the fields towards Harmers Wood. We stopped here for a drink as it's the only place on the walk for a sit down; it was NOT as Dorothy impressed upon us, anywhere near half way, so not to get our hopes up! Harmers Wood is now a public space, maintained by a society of Friends, but was formerly privately owned and has 4 quarries in it which were mined for the local sandstone 200 years ago. After our refreshments we set off down the hill, skirting Woodhouses Hill and passing the Spirit of the Herd horse sanctuary, eventually reaching the Sandstone Trail, a steep uphill back to Commonside. We were very smug at the top of the hill as we were barely out of breath; we must be getting fitter!
Words: Fiona Photo: Danielle/Jean/Fiona
There were six of us this morning who set off from Commonside near Alvanley. We were lucky to get to our starting point as every lane we tried to drive up seemed to have road works on it. But our plucky leader got us there so that we could head up the unusually busy road before turning right across the fields towards Harmers Wood. We stopped here for a drink as it's the only place on the walk for a sit down; it was NOT as Dorothy impressed upon us, anywhere near half way, so not to get our hopes up! Harmers Wood is now a public space, maintained by a society of Friends, but was formerly privately owned and has 4 quarries in it which were mined for the local sandstone 200 years ago. After our refreshments we set off down the hill, skirting Woodhouses Hill and passing the Spirit of the Herd horse sanctuary, eventually reaching the Sandstone Trail, a steep uphill back to Commonside. We were very smug at the top of the hill as we were barely out of breath; we must be getting fitter!
Words: Fiona Photo: Danielle/Jean/Fiona
Tuesday 7th April.
Our walk today was a surprise as Janet stepped in to give us an alternative to the programmed event. There were nine of us who began from Whitefield car park, heading out to the north towards the new fitness trail. The photos show to some extent some of the challenges available to runners and walkers - but not necessarily ones to model yourself on! The route took us in a circle before we deviated a little to take in Dead Lake - a complete misnomer as it was a glittering hidden beauty in the sunshine today as you can see below. It's hard to find but is south of the Whitefield car park in a dip and well worth a look. A short but unexpectedly lovely walk in the warm sunshine.
Words: Fiona Photos: Elizabeth/Danielle/Jean/Fiona
Tuesday 31st March
Janet's walk today started from Barnsbridge car park on Ashton Road and we were surprised to see it quite empty when we arrived; it's usually very full! We headed for the back of the car park and along the wide forest tracks until we got to the edge of Blakemere Moss where the many different types of birds and wildfowl were singing very loudly! We continued along the tracks, skirting the Moss to cross Station Road into Whitefield car park and carrying on along a path alongside the many streams in this low area. We arrived back at the road, just before the Carriers Inn where the crossroads was closed for major water works until June. We stopped at the Hatchmere Nature Reserve layby as they have some log seats perfect for our refreshment stop, before setting off again into the Reserve. The circuitous path led us through a watery landscape (no sign of the beavers) and we were already part way across the marsh before we realised this was not the path! We tried again and found the path towards Ashton Road, passing the Fox of Gruffalo fame; someone had given him a scarf for the winter. We did another short walk through the trees to avoid walking on the road before ending up back at the cars. A lovely quiet (and flat) walk of 4.5 miles.
Words/Photos: Fiona
Janet's walk today started from Barnsbridge car park on Ashton Road and we were surprised to see it quite empty when we arrived; it's usually very full! We headed for the back of the car park and along the wide forest tracks until we got to the edge of Blakemere Moss where the many different types of birds and wildfowl were singing very loudly! We continued along the tracks, skirting the Moss to cross Station Road into Whitefield car park and carrying on along a path alongside the many streams in this low area. We arrived back at the road, just before the Carriers Inn where the crossroads was closed for major water works until June. We stopped at the Hatchmere Nature Reserve layby as they have some log seats perfect for our refreshment stop, before setting off again into the Reserve. The circuitous path led us through a watery landscape (no sign of the beavers) and we were already part way across the marsh before we realised this was not the path! We tried again and found the path towards Ashton Road, passing the Fox of Gruffalo fame; someone had given him a scarf for the winter. We did another short walk through the trees to avoid walking on the road before ending up back at the cars. A lovely quiet (and flat) walk of 4.5 miles.
Words/Photos: Fiona
Tuesday 24th March.
Today we parked at Willington Corner and Pat led us up the road towards Utkinton. Near Rock Farm we turned right into a field which led us to the Sandstone Trail. We were very careful as we headed along the field hedge as some of us remembered one of our walkers falling into the ditch on a previous walk, and having to be extracted from the brambles with the aid of her stick; on the plus side the brambles saved her from the stream lower down, but it was excitement she could have done without! After a time we came out onto Wood Lane and continued along Common Lane towards Duddon Common. We stopped for a drink where some convenient logs had been left for us to sit on, checking out which blossom we could see in all the hedgerows - Google says it's Blackthorn. We crossed the corner of Priors Heys golf club and found ourselves on Willington Road, long and straight enough for some of the passing cars to be extra speedy! At the top of the road we crossed onto Chapel Lane and back to our cars. A gentle walk with no rain and lots of conversation.
Words: Fiona Photos: Jean A
Today we parked at Willington Corner and Pat led us up the road towards Utkinton. Near Rock Farm we turned right into a field which led us to the Sandstone Trail. We were very careful as we headed along the field hedge as some of us remembered one of our walkers falling into the ditch on a previous walk, and having to be extracted from the brambles with the aid of her stick; on the plus side the brambles saved her from the stream lower down, but it was excitement she could have done without! After a time we came out onto Wood Lane and continued along Common Lane towards Duddon Common. We stopped for a drink where some convenient logs had been left for us to sit on, checking out which blossom we could see in all the hedgerows - Google says it's Blackthorn. We crossed the corner of Priors Heys golf club and found ourselves on Willington Road, long and straight enough for some of the passing cars to be extra speedy! At the top of the road we crossed onto Chapel Lane and back to our cars. A gentle walk with no rain and lots of conversation.
Words: Fiona Photos: Jean A
Tuesday 17th March
We had a beautiful sunny morning as 9 of us began our walk from Barnsbridge car park, heading first along the Sandstone Trail, passing Doolittle Moss on the left, before turning right at a junction of paths to bring us further along Ashton Road. We crossed over to the north side of the forest and meandered up to the Lodges Cafe where we had coffees outside in the sunshine. We could have spent longer there chatting, but picked ourselves up, and walked back along a different section of the Sandstone Trail enjoying the peace of the forest.
Words: Danielle Photos: Danielle/Fiona
We had a beautiful sunny morning as 9 of us began our walk from Barnsbridge car park, heading first along the Sandstone Trail, passing Doolittle Moss on the left, before turning right at a junction of paths to bring us further along Ashton Road. We crossed over to the north side of the forest and meandered up to the Lodges Cafe where we had coffees outside in the sunshine. We could have spent longer there chatting, but picked ourselves up, and walked back along a different section of the Sandstone Trail enjoying the peace of the forest.
Words: Danielle Photos: Danielle/Fiona
Tuesday 10th March.
It was a blustery and cool morning as 10 of us set off from the Yeld car park and down Forest Gate Lane into the woods. We headed downhill on the green track, avoiding the mud where possible, turning left and then left again up the track towards the masts. We came across the beautiful bench in memory of someone known to one of our walkers and stood there for a while enjoying the view. There were no cattle today in the fields as we passed under the masts, glad at last to be going downhill again! We took the track down to the Visitor Centre for our coffee break before heading back up the Sandstone Trail to the car park. As the walk was made up on the hoof I've no idea how far it was but it was a lovely morning full of chatter.
Words/Photo: Fiona
It was a blustery and cool morning as 10 of us set off from the Yeld car park and down Forest Gate Lane into the woods. We headed downhill on the green track, avoiding the mud where possible, turning left and then left again up the track towards the masts. We came across the beautiful bench in memory of someone known to one of our walkers and stood there for a while enjoying the view. There were no cattle today in the fields as we passed under the masts, glad at last to be going downhill again! We took the track down to the Visitor Centre for our coffee break before heading back up the Sandstone Trail to the car park. As the walk was made up on the hoof I've no idea how far it was but it was a lovely morning full of chatter.
Words/Photo: Fiona
Tuesday 3rd March.
Nine of us set out on another lovely Tuesday morning for a walk into Delamere; through Nettleford Wood and then picking our way along paths trying to avoid too much mud underfoot. We stopped at the peaceful Black Lake for refreshments. We then made our way back to the Yeld car park, through the forest to rejoin the Sandstone trail route; passing the very hefty Aberdeen Angus cattle near Eddisbury Lodgge Farm. A lovely couple of hours well spent.
Words: Danielle Photos:Fiona
Nine of us set out on another lovely Tuesday morning for a walk into Delamere; through Nettleford Wood and then picking our way along paths trying to avoid too much mud underfoot. We stopped at the peaceful Black Lake for refreshments. We then made our way back to the Yeld car park, through the forest to rejoin the Sandstone trail route; passing the very hefty Aberdeen Angus cattle near Eddisbury Lodgge Farm. A lovely couple of hours well spent.
Words: Danielle Photos:Fiona
Tuesday 24th February.
Seven lucky ladies enjoyed a 5 km walk at Bickerton - the sun was shining and the temperature a balmy 14 degrees. We drove through Cheshire countryside admiring timber framed cottages and masses of snowdrops. After climbing up Bickerton Hill we enjoyed our refreshments at the Iron Age hillfort of Maiden Castle. Visibility was good and we were able to admire the Welsh hills and even the Anglican Cathedral in Liverpool. More good news - no water-logged fields to cross!
Words: Dorothy. Photos: Danielle/Fiona
Seven lucky ladies enjoyed a 5 km walk at Bickerton - the sun was shining and the temperature a balmy 14 degrees. We drove through Cheshire countryside admiring timber framed cottages and masses of snowdrops. After climbing up Bickerton Hill we enjoyed our refreshments at the Iron Age hillfort of Maiden Castle. Visibility was good and we were able to admire the Welsh hills and even the Anglican Cathedral in Liverpool. More good news - no water-logged fields to cross!
Words: Dorothy. Photos: Danielle/Fiona
Tuesday 17th February.
Seven ladies set off towards Kings Gate car park this morning. Although it was rather chilly the morning was bright, clear and most importantly NOT raining! We headed down the main path into Primrose Wood past Urchins Kitchen and into the forest.
There has been extensive logging and towards the end of the path we noted the forest looked like something you might find in Scandinavia, piles and piles of pine logs. At the end of the forest path we headed back along the ridge with good views towards Pale Heights. Looking at progress made in various gardens along the way we then split into two groups, one heading back along Waste Lane to the car park, and the other down Rough Low to Little Switzerland. At the top of Little Switzerland we stopped to admire the new bench and plaque and decided to test it. The view across the Cheshire Plain was lovely and after a few minutes we set off back to Kings Gate car park The best walking weather so far this year.
Words: Lesley. Photos: Fiona
Seven ladies set off towards Kings Gate car park this morning. Although it was rather chilly the morning was bright, clear and most importantly NOT raining! We headed down the main path into Primrose Wood past Urchins Kitchen and into the forest.
There has been extensive logging and towards the end of the path we noted the forest looked like something you might find in Scandinavia, piles and piles of pine logs. At the end of the forest path we headed back along the ridge with good views towards Pale Heights. Looking at progress made in various gardens along the way we then split into two groups, one heading back along Waste Lane to the car park, and the other down Rough Low to Little Switzerland. At the top of Little Switzerland we stopped to admire the new bench and plaque and decided to test it. The view across the Cheshire Plain was lovely and after a few minutes we set off back to Kings Gate car park The best walking weather so far this year.
Words: Lesley. Photos: Fiona
Tuesday 10th February.
It was another very gloomy day but eight brave ladies arrived under the railway viaduct next to Hunts Lock in Northwich to begin our 3 mile walk. We crossed the river over the locks and bridge before turning right to go along the tow path. As we passed the Rowing Club, set up in 1875, we could see some teenagers having a lesson and looking rather cold. There were lots of dog walkers about and as we headed for the Blue Bridge we saw a flock of swans, some of them last years cygnets, still with some grey feathers. Crossing over the river we started down the other side, passing flooded fields and heading for Marshalls Arm nature reserve where we had a refreshment stop. We were a severe disappointment to the passing dog population, having only one dog treat between us! We ended up back at the cars after a murky walk but one filled with good company and conversation.
Words Fiona. Photos Jean/Fiona
It was another very gloomy day but eight brave ladies arrived under the railway viaduct next to Hunts Lock in Northwich to begin our 3 mile walk. We crossed the river over the locks and bridge before turning right to go along the tow path. As we passed the Rowing Club, set up in 1875, we could see some teenagers having a lesson and looking rather cold. There were lots of dog walkers about and as we headed for the Blue Bridge we saw a flock of swans, some of them last years cygnets, still with some grey feathers. Crossing over the river we started down the other side, passing flooded fields and heading for Marshalls Arm nature reserve where we had a refreshment stop. We were a severe disappointment to the passing dog population, having only one dog treat between us! We ended up back at the cars after a murky walk but one filled with good company and conversation.
Words Fiona. Photos Jean/Fiona
Tuesday 3rd February.
Pat's walk today began in a very muddy lane near Portal Golf Course, and the mud was to be a feature throughout our 4 mile walk! It was also extremely cold so we were glad to set off through the trees and along the main road, turning right and heading across the fields to Eaton. It's a very pretty village, even on a gloomy morning, and we walked through it before turning up a hill beside the golf course, full of fallen trees, a relic of last years' storms. It was too cold and windy to have a sit down at the folly on the hill so we stopped instead on the bench by the putting green. Strangely there were few people about! But we enjoyed it anyway, being an intrepid bunch.
Words/Photo: Fiona
Pat's walk today began in a very muddy lane near Portal Golf Course, and the mud was to be a feature throughout our 4 mile walk! It was also extremely cold so we were glad to set off through the trees and along the main road, turning right and heading across the fields to Eaton. It's a very pretty village, even on a gloomy morning, and we walked through it before turning up a hill beside the golf course, full of fallen trees, a relic of last years' storms. It was too cold and windy to have a sit down at the folly on the hill so we stopped instead on the bench by the putting green. Strangely there were few people about! But we enjoyed it anyway, being an intrepid bunch.
Words/Photo: Fiona
Wednesday 28th January 2026
Today was the first meeting of the year for the Walkers and we were meeting up for our "Christmas" lunch - we always have it in January so it's something to look forward to! Thirteen of us met up in the car park of the Morris Dancer in glorious sunshine for a short walk around the village before we went into the pub. Janet had booked the private dining room for us and another walker was already waiting for us so we settled down for a couple of hours of enjoyable chatter with some lovely food, the open window letting in the lovely sunny winter day. We start our proper walking programme next Tuesday with Pat's walk around Tarporley golf courses.
Words/Photos: Fiona
Today was the first meeting of the year for the Walkers and we were meeting up for our "Christmas" lunch - we always have it in January so it's something to look forward to! Thirteen of us met up in the car park of the Morris Dancer in glorious sunshine for a short walk around the village before we went into the pub. Janet had booked the private dining room for us and another walker was already waiting for us so we settled down for a couple of hours of enjoyable chatter with some lovely food, the open window letting in the lovely sunny winter day. We start our proper walking programme next Tuesday with Pat's walk around Tarporley golf courses.
Words/Photos: Fiona
