Top trails & Delamere Forest walks in Cheshire
Explore the beautiful Cheshire countryside
Discover a different world on your doorstep at Delamere Forest, Cheshire
Wake up after a night sleeping in Delamere Forest and head straight out to explore this beautiful part of the country. With wide woodland paths that start from your cabin doorstep, a walking holiday in Delamere Forest is one of the easiest ways to discover Cheshire.
Spend time together in nature as you venture around one of the many Delamere walks. Wander through woodland with your four-legged friend by your side. Or head out on a countryside stroll that ends with a classic pub lunch. Whatever kind of holiday you’re planning, there’s a walking route for everyone in Delamere Forest.
A quick guide to walking at Delamere Forest
Delamere Forest is managed by Forestry England for everyone to enjoy. And as the largest woodland area in Cheshire, it’s the ultimate setting for your outdoor adventures.
If you’re into hiking, the famous Sandstone Trail cuts right through the forest, taking you from Frodsham to Whitchurch in Shropshire. For those after a slower pace, try the three main walks in Delamere Forest that take you around the woodland. Perfect for meandering through trees and seeking out wildlife.
Got little ones or your dog in tow? There’s lots of sandy paths and open spaces ideal for a good run around. And after your walk, don’t forget to drop into the Forest Retreat to refuel with some tasty refreshments and a well-earned drink.
The Sandstone Trail
The longest Cheshire Walk is the Sandstone Trail, which passes through Delamere Forest. It starts in nearby Frodsham and runs along a ridge down to Whitchurch in Shropshire, 55km away. A good day’s walking for a seasoned hiker takes you from Delamere Forest to Larkton Hall, a hike of about 29km. Along the way, discover intriguingly named landmarks such as Urchin’s Kitchen, Old Gypsy Lane and Bloody Bones caves. It’s dog-friendly too.
Family-friendly walking trails
Old Pale is a family-friendly forest walk which guides you through gravelled forest tracks and evergreen trees to Old Pale Heights, where the views are amazing. Old Pale also has lots of places to sit (including benches along the way) so you can take in the scenery at your own pace.
The Linmere Trail takes you straight to the Delamere Forest Gruffalo trail which is fun if you have mini-explorers with you. It’s a great way to introduce little ones to using a map for the first time as they play, explore and use their imaginations.
Walks for families
A haven for nature and bird lovers, Blakemere trail is sheltered by mature trees which provide cool cover as you explore its winding pathways. This is one of the easiest Delamere Forest walks which makes it fantastic for families looking for a fuss-free day out.
Further afield, Marbury Country Park is a delightful open space with lime tree avenues, an arboretum and an outdoor pool which is open during the summer months. With handy picnic stops and a children’s play area Marbury Country Park is a great idea for a family day out.
The Countess of Chester Country Park is a rural gem hidden in the suburban heart of Chester. Look for bluebells and butterflies, kestrels and kingfishers on a day trip close to Delamere Forest. Ideal for a fun detour on the way home.
Challenging walks
On the eastern edge of Cheshire, you can climb Shutlingsloe. This hill stands to the south of Macclesfield Forest, is on the edge of the Peak District National Park and has stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Scale Shining Tor (the highest point in Cheshire) for some of the most spectacular views in the area, including the hills of the Clwydian Range in North Wales and several other famous landmarks. This walk is challenging but well worth the effort.
Axe Edge Moor is a scenic area where you can stand at the Three Shires Head (the place where the three counties of Staffordshire, Derbyshire and Cheshire meet). Enjoy exploring stony tracks and quaint bridges as you navigate your way through the trail.
Delamere Forest dog walks
Bring your furry friend on an adventure and explore one of the many Delamere Forest trails, where acres of woodland and country roads make a great spot for a scamper. Then return to your pet-friendly cabin to unwind under forest skies.
- Dutton Locks: an easy, flat trail with some off-lead areas and interesting landmarks, such as a sunken boat and 22 arches of the Dutton viaduct.
- Little Switzerland: one of the best Delamere Forest walks for dogs, this circular route takes your through this pretty valley, finishing at The Morris Dancer. A dog-friendly pub in Kelsall.
- Raw Head: this five-mile walk circular walk has everything - including views from the highest point on the Sandstone Trail and a nearby dog-friendly pub, The Bickerton Poacher.
Be the first to stay at Delamere Forest, Cheshire
Discover Cheshire on your next staycation, with a few nights in Delamere Forest. Tucked away in woodland and with all the comforts of home, it’s a great base for your walking and hiking adventures. Spend your days exploring the countryside and your evenings in a cosy hot tub cabin under the stars.