Walkers Walks Programme: October 2014 to March 2015 http://www.cheshirewalkers.org.uk/

Part of North and Mid Cheshire area

Cheshire Walkers is THE walking group covering North & Mid Cheshire and the surrounding area.

Who are we? Formed in 1999, and originally a 20s-30s group, we are a walking group affiliated to the Ramblers and part of the North & Mid Cheshire Area. As time has moved on, we have dropped the age restriction and anybody is welcome to walk with us. In practice, most of the regulars in the group are 30s-40s.

Sunday 05 October 2014: Cheshire: The Cloud Description: A straightforward walk up the Cloud, along the Gritstone Trail, and the surrounding countryside. Walk length: 11 miles Walk grade: Easy Start point: Car park in Timbersbrook. Nearest post code: CW12 3PP Leader: Charles

Sunday 12 October 2014: North : Snowdon via the Watkin Path Description: Ascent of Snowdon (1085m) using the Watkin Path & return on Bwlch Main & Clogwyn Du. This is a challenging but rewarding way to reach the summit of Snowdon, involving steep paths & some scrambling. Sorry this walk is only open to existing members who have completed at least one moderate or strenuous walk with the group. Walk length: 8 miles Walk grade: Strenuous Start point: Car park at Bethania Leader: Nigel

Sunday 19 October 2014: : Deer Spotting Description: This walk forms part of the week long Bollington Walking Festival … Starting from the heart of Bollington at Adlington road car park, we will walk along the recreation ground and through Bollington along the Gritstone trail to Sponds hill and the Bowstones , with spectacular panoramic views. Dropping down into through knights wood we will walk thourhg the Fallow Deer enclosure to the house where there will be refreshments and conveniences. It is likely that "the cage" will be open to view red deer in the park before walking to west park gate across farmland to return along the middlewood way and canal. As similar walk this time last year saw a dramatic stand off between two of the Fallow deer stags. Sadly the Mr Darcy model is no longer resident in the pond at Lyme Park, the scene of the period drama 'Pride and Prejudice" (just to avoid disappointment). Walk length: 12 miles Walk grade: Strenuous Start point: SK10 5JT Adlington road car park Leader: Tracy

Sunday 26 October 2014: : Lyme Park circuit Description: Initially skirting the park, we'll walk via Bollinhurst Reservoir onto ridge. Then down past the old Moorside Hotel to start a climb up Sweet Hill onto Sponds Hill. The Gritstone Trail will then take us to Bowstonegate and the entrance to the Park. More deer spotting may be possible in the Park as we take in the Hall and the Cage folly. Walk length: 7-8 miles Walk grade: Easy Start point: Station car park (SK12 2AE) Leader: Ade

Sunday 02 November 2014: Hilbre Island, Wirral Description: We will walk along a section of the Wirral Way to West Kirby, out to Hilbre Island and then back via Caldy Hill and Thurstaston Common. The walk out to Hilbre Island is across a large area of sand that is covered every high tide. The sand can sometimes have standing water on it after the tide has ebbed so walking boots are recommended (if you wear trainers you will get wet feet). Please bring lunch and gloves/scarf/hat as the walk to Hilbre Island is rather bracing if there is a cold wind blowing. Waterproofs recommended. Walk length: 11 miles Walk grade: Moderate Start point: Wirral Country Park, Thurstaston Centre Car Park Leader: Claire Cailes

Sunday 09 November 2014: Peak District : Burbage Rocks & Padley Gorge Description: The walk takes in many of the highlights of the Peak District National Park in the vicinity of the Longshaw Estate. The walk incorporates stunning views, tors, moorland, woodland, water, an ancient fort and even a National Trust cafe. Walk length: 11 miles Walk grade: Moderate Start point: Hay Wood, Car Park off the A625 near the Grouse Inn, Longshaw, S11 7TZ Leader: Phil Anstee

Sunday 16 November 2014: Peak District: to Description: This is a linear walk from Edale to Chinley. It follows the through the to reach Edale Cross via a climb up Jacob's ladder. The PW is left behind at that point, instead heading South then West, to skirt towards the obvious target of South Head. Its summit is soon followed by Mount Famine, Peep o Day, Big Stone and Chinley Churn, which provide the key landmarks on the way back to the station car park. The train to Edale departs from Chinley at 09:59. A single fare is £3.50. There are toilets in Edale. Walk length: 10 miles Walk grade: Moderate Start point: Chinley train station car park (SK23 6AT) (SK038826) Leader: Ade Sunday 23 November 2014: Wrenbury, Cheshire Description: 10 mile circular route along Llangolen canal, fields and lanes. Approx finish time 4pm for anyone wishing to book a meal at the pub after. Walk length: 10 miles Walk grade: Moderate Start point: Wrenbury near Nantwich, Cheshire, Parking in front of Cotton Arms Pub, post code CW5 8HG Leader: Jane

Sunday 30 November 2014: Cheshire: AGM Walk Description: The walk will incorporate a stop for lunch at the Ship Inn, Wincle. During this lunch stop, we will hold the group's AGM. Walk length: 8 miles Walk grade: Moderate Start point: Gradbach car park, SJ998663 Leader: Tom

Sunday 07 December 2014: Loggerheads - Ffrith - - Bwlch Penbarras - Loggerheads Description: Ample parking at the start of the walk, as well as toilets and refreshments. Parking fee the last time I was there ( earlier in the year) was £3 for more than 4 hours. At the end of the walk there is a choice of the Caffi Florence which serves Fair Trade drinks, homemade soups, lunches and traditional teas, or the ' We Three Loggerheads' inn. This walk starts from Loggerheads Country Park and follows a relatively little-used bridle way around the base of Moel Famau , the highest summit in the . The Jubilee Tower on the top is a superb viewpoint (weather permitting!). The descent is on the more popular side following a stretch of Offa's Dyke National Trail, before quiet lanes and field- paths lead back to the country park. I consider this a moderate walk but with what some would consider a strenuous 1300m climb up to the summit of Moel Famau Walk length: 9 miles Walk grade: Moderate Start point: Loggerheads Country Park, CH7 5LH SJ200628 Leader: Stephen McDowell

Sunday 14 December 2014: Christmas Walk and Meal Description: Join us for the annual Cheshire Walkers Christmas Walk and Meal (with the traditional raffle and quiz!). This year we're going to The White Lion in Alvanley, near Helsby. The walk will be a short 4-5 miler around the local area, possibly including Helsby Hill, Frodsham Hill and parts of the Sandstone Trail. Walk length: 4-5 miles Walk grade: Easy Start point: The White Lion, Alvanley Leader: Kirsty and Ian (walk); Charles (meal)

Sunday 21 December 2014: River Dee Marshes and the Wirral Way Description: This weeks walk starts at a disused railway station preserved as it was in 1952, shortly before the line closed to passengers. Much of the route follows the former tree lined embankments and deep cuttings through the sandstone, in complete contrast between Parkgate and Little Neston, we walk along the edge of the extensive River Dee marshes, with views of the Clwydian hills, and Flint Castle, the marshes being a popular bird watching location. There is also evidence of the area coal mining past, and its use of a former sea port, and some of the old quayside can be seen, looking out of place in the grassland. The part along the marshes is quite muddy, boots and gaiters are advisable! Walk length: 8 miles Walk grade: Easy Start point: Wirral Country Park Car Park at Hadlow Road Station, Hadlow Road, Willaston, CH64 2UQ Leader: Ashley Timmins

Sunday 28 December 2014: Cat and Fiddle - Christmas breakfast and a stroll Description: Come join us for breakfast at the renowned Cat and Fiddle inn, Englands second highest tavern, followed by a braceing walk including Forest, and Three Shires Head. Breakfast will be from 9.00, and the walk itself will start at 10.00. This is a new improved version of the walk I led this time last year, now with an ascent of the most recognisable peak in the Western Peak District, Shutlingsloe. Consequently, this will have to start at 10.00 sharp and will border on strenuous with several inclines, lots of mud and I've ordered clear skies to provide stunning views as well. This is a great way to finish the Christmas period, and will be our last walk of the year. Start those new year's resolutions a week early and get fit with Cheshire Walkers! Note in the event of inclement weather, a walk of equal excellence will be substituted, although in this case breakfast cannot be guaranteed. There may be a possibilty of eating at the Cat and Fiddle after the walk as well. There is often live music playing on a Sunday afternoon, so if this is the case we will stay for a while. Walk length: 12 miles Walk grade: Moderate Start point: Cat and Fiddle Inn on the Macclesfield to Buxton Road Leader: Neil Talbot

Sunday 04 January 2015: Cheshire: Dunham Massey Description: An 11 mile walk around Lymm and Dunham Massey, featuring the Transpennine Trail, the Bridgewater Canal and (time permitting) a visit to the Lavender Barn tea room. Walk length: 11 miles Walk grade: Easy Start point: Transpennine Trail car park in Broadheath, nearest postcode WA14 5RF Leader: Charles

Sunday 11 January 2015: Moel Famau & Foel Fenlli Description: A 9 mile walk through valleys and foothills: We start by climbing Foel Fenlli, the second highest mountain in the Clwydians, and then explore the grassy ramparts of an ancient Celtic fort. The route then goes to the Jubilee Tower, the highest point on the Clwydian range via the flanks of Moel Famau. We will be following lesser known footpaths. There are toilets at the start. Walk length: 9 miles Walk grade: Moderate Start point: Forest Car Park situated one mile along the narrow lane which leaves the A494 Mold to Road, about half a mile west of Loggerheads. Grid ref 172 611. Leader: Sarah

Sunday 18 January 2015: Peak District: Description: Starting in , the walk takes us up onto Stanage Edge, a popular and busy centre for rock climbers. This is a classic gritstone edge giving good views across the Derwent Valley and . The route up there will pass North Lees Hall, the inspiration for Thornfield Hall in Jane Eyre and Hathersage boasts its own connection with Robin Hood. That's enough of the story telling so just come and enjoy the walk. Walk length: 9 miles Walk grade: Moderate Start point: Start point: Car Park on Oddfellows Road, S32 1DU opposite the Memorial Hall and close to the outdoor swimming pool Leader: Kate Bouchier

Saturday 24 to Sunday 25 January 2015: January Lakes weekend: Loweswater Saturday 24 Description: An exploration of the fells to the south of Loweswater: Burbank Fell, Blake Fell, Gavel Fell and Hen Comb. Walk length: 12 miles Walk grade: Moderate Start point: Maggies Bridge NY135211, parking area located at the south-east end of Loweswater. Leader: Andrew

Sunday 25 Description: Mellbreak Walk length: 10 miles Walk grade: Moderate Start point: Maggies Bridge NY135211, parking area located at the south-east end of Loweswater. Leader: Ali S.

Sunday 01 February 2015: Lancashire: Silverdale, Warton Crag & Leighton Moss Description: The Silverdale/Arnside area is a hidden gem, not well known, but is designated an "Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty". Not surprisingly, as the area is predominately limestone, the aesthetics of the surrounding countryside are varied and scenic. A moderate walk, yet interesting with its continuous changes of scenery. Walk length: 9-10 miles Walk grade: Moderate Start point: Eaves Wood car park near Silverdale. Leader: Jay

Sunday 08 February 2015: Lancashire: coast and canal Description: This walk starts at Glasson Dock where the Glasson branch of the Lancaster canal meets the Lune estuary. We enjoy the 360 degree views (weather permitting) from the view point - including Scafell Pike, Helvellyn, Lancaster Castle, Whernside, Winter Hill and Blackpool Tower. Following the Lancashire Coastal Path south along a beautiful coastline we pass the ruins of Cockersand Abbey before turning inland via the Black Knights parachute centre - skydive optional! Eventually joining the Lancaster canal we head north to join the Glasson branch of the canal and back to our start point. Expect to see egret, oyster catchers, lapwings and deer as well as windsurfers and parachutists. This route will be very muddy in places at this time of year so good footwear is essential. Walk length: 12 miles Walk grade: Moderate Start point: Glasson Dock car park Leader: Clare Ridgley

Sunday 15 February 2015: Peak District: Southern Gritstone Edges Description: A high level footpath along six edges including Baslow, Curbar, Froggatt and Chatsworth. We should hopefully get some great views and a finish through Chatsworth Park. There is a steep start to the walk but then it is fairly undulating along the ridges. A great tea shop for the finish. Walk length: 12 miles Walk grade: Moderate Start point: Baslow Pay and Display car park which costs £5.50 for the day. Leader: Helen

Sunday 22 February 2015: North East Wales: Hope Mountain - a walk of optimism! Description: Starting in the village of Hope we will wind our way up short steep hillsides past Bryn Yorkin Manor onto country lanes (with views of Eastern Cheshire) to the villages of Cymau and Frith. There we gently ascend woodland paths, later opening out onto farmland with views of rolling hillsides to the village of Llanfynydd. We progress through fields and lanes around the side of Hope Mountain to the village of Horeb and onto our finale landscape 360 degree vista at Hope Mountain Country Park at 289m. Hoping we will have a clear day for views over Cheshire, Wirral (possibly Liverpool) and North Wales too! Descending lanes and paths we return to the village of Hope. This varied walk has some short steep ascents and descents. It is a long walk requiring good fitness and is a good way to build up stamina for the more strenuous higher level moorland and short, lower-level mountain walks in the programme. Walk length: 12 miles Walk grade: Moderate Start point: GR SJ 308577: lay-by car park by the children's park just off the A550 (Hawarden Road) in the village of Hope (opposite the primary school). Leader: Rebecca

Sunday 01 March 2015: Rudyard – Walk cancelled Description: A very pleasant stroll around the Moorlands starting at Ladderedge Country Park near Leek. Although a long walk, it's not particularly hilly. Rolling countryside rather than steep inclines and a plethora of wiildlife was encountered on the reccy. We'll reach the cafe at Rudyard in time for afternoon tea and then its a couple of miles of flat walking back to the start. Walk length: 15 miles Walk grade: Moderate Start point: Ladderedge Country Park Leader: Neil Sunday 08 March 2015: Saddleworth - Delph, Castleshaw and Harrop Edge Description: Saddleworth is an enchanting mix of gritstone mill villages, moorland, ridges gorges and endless views. This walk takes in the heart of this hilly area, and its industrial mill villages passing through a roman fortlet before reaching Dobcross, an picturesque example of a south pennine weaving hamlet, Dobcross was also used as the filming location for the 1979 film Yanks. Walk length: 8 miles Walk grade: Moderate Start point: Wool Road British Waterways Car Park. Leader: Ashley Timmins

Sunday 15 March 2015: Castleton Walk Description: The walk will include the steep but rewarding Cave Dale where the ruins of stand guard above. We will go up to and follow the ridge to before descending to Hope village and following the valley back to Castleton Walk length: 11 miles Walk grade: Moderate Start point: In front of Information Centre/Toilets at Car Park in centre of village Leader: Emma

Sunday 22 Mar 2015: Calf and Cautley Spout from Sedbergh Description: This walk will take in the Calf (the highest point of the Howgill Fells) and the waterfall of Cautley Spout. Shortly after leaving Sedbergh, we will climb steeply and then more gently to the Calf. We will then head off the fell via Cautley Spout, a steep descent, partly down steps to the valley, followed by a pleasant walk back to Sedbergh. On a clear day there are views to the Lake District and Yorkshire Hills. Please wear walking boots and lunch. Warm clothes (including hat/gloves) and waterproofs advised. Walk length: 10 miles Walk grade: Strenuous Start point: Joss Lane Car Park, Sedbergh. Grid ref: SD 659922. Leader: Claire Cailes

Sunday 29 March 2015: South - Dovestone Description: The walk starts from Dovestone reservoir, Greenfield, Oldham, actually not too far away from Ash’s walk 2 weeks ago, but it feels like you are in the Lake District rather than just outside Oldham. There are spectacular features on this walk. Apart from the views across the Reservoirs the route includes Ashway Rocks, Great Dovestone Rocks, Hoarstone Edge and Alphine Pike. Walk length: 12 miles Walk grade: Moderate Start point: Dovestone Reservoir car park Leader: Jane