Walks from the door…
Dust off your hiking boots or lace up your trainers and discover a bit more of our beautiful countryside. It’s the season of freshly cut grass, bees and bird song and like any British summer time, probably a light shower or two. These long bright days and warm weather make stepping out for a longer than usual leg stretch feel that bit more inviting. And for those we can’t convince that a summertime walk is appealing, we’ve created a selection of walks leaving straight from the doors of our pubs. From gentle loops to more strenuous climbs, there’s a route for everyone. There’s no beer better that tastes better than a well-earned one. You can find the full routes for these pubs on their website or by asking for a leaflet at pub itself.
The Mill Inn, Mungrisdale
7.75 miles, 4-5 hours
One of the Lake District’s most well-known fells, this walk offers dramatic mountain views with the mountain peak sitting at 868m above sea level. There are many routes up Blencathra, and some do require a good level of walking ability and mountain knowledge. Do a little research before setting off and be sure to be well equipped with food, drinks and warm waterproof clothing. It’s not a walk to be undertaken in bad weather conditions.
The Bulls Head, Castleton
6.5 miles, 3-4 hours
The picturesque village of Castleton sits beneath the Peak District’s famous Mam Tor and Great Ridge. Mam Tor & the Great Ridge form part of a large horseshoe of mountains known as the ‘Edale Loop’ spanning more than 30 km and featuring other famous Peaks such as Kinder Scout. This hike takes in a few peaks with incredible views looking down the Valleys, where you’ll see winding hairpin roads, grassy pastures, & views across to the cities on a clear day.
Waggon & Horses, Matley
3.3 miles, 2.5 hours
A climb up Wild Bank Hill greets you with views spanning across Greater Manchester. On a clear day views span as far as the mountains of Snowdonia and some of Cheshire’s hills. The view from the top of Wild Bank isn’t the only picture worthy moment of this walk, as you’ll pass by three reservoirs each with their own pretty backdrops, and views of some of The Peak District’s bigger fells such as Bleaklow and Kinder Scout from Harrop Edge.
The Swan Inn, Wybunbury
1.75 miles, 1 hour
Take a gentle short stroll round a National Nature Reserve and enjoy being amongst wildlife and their natural habitats. The reserve is home to a rare bog habitat known as a schwingmoor – a bog floating on a 12 metre deep underground lake! You can expect to spot a variety of wildlife and birds on your route as you pass through pathways, fields and boardwalks. This walk is relatively flat and suitable for most ages and fitness abilities.
The Smoker, Plumley
6.3 miles, 4 hours
A fairly gentle walk for those who can be tempted by a half way pub stop. Enjoy a walk around Pick Mere, a body of water which formed thousands of years ago as a result of flooding. After making your way around the lake, you have the option a refreshment stop off at The Red Lion, before making your way back towards Holford Mill to The Smoker. You’ll also spot a huge astronomical radio telescope enroute from Jodrell Bank!
Pilot Boat, Anglesey
8.5 miles, 3.5 hours
The Pilot Boat is located on the Benllech to Amlych road in Dulas, Anglesey near to Bryn Refail. Take in the captivating views across Fae Dulas Bay and Traeth Lligway beach in Anglesey. This circular walk includes an optional short climb to the top of Yr Arwdd / Bodafon sitting at 178m above sea level. It may be worth noting this walk has lots of ladder stiles and gates.
Egerton Arms, Astbury
3 miles, 1-1.5 hours
The Priesty Walk is Congleton’s most famous walk, steeped with history. Dating back to
early sixteenth century the path was the main connecting walkway used by the priests and clergy who serviced both the village of Astbury and Congleton.
The Drum & Monkey, Alderly Edge
6.5 miles, 4 hours
Explore Nether Alderley and discover a fine church, a historic watermill, and some
lesser-known paths on Alderley Edge. Stormy Point (en-route) provides superb views across the Cheshire Plain to
Lyme Park and Kinder Scout.
The Seacroft, Trearddur Bay
4.5 miles, 2-3 hours
The Llanddwyn Island walk is an easy walk which takes you to one of Wales’ most romantic historic sites, with lots of wonderful wildlife on the way. There is a car park at the start & half way, a main larger car park with toilets, water refill & picnic area (with designated BBQ areas).
The White Lion, Alvanley
2 miles, 1.5 hours
Enjoy the Alvanley stroll – A pleasant stroll around the village and surrounding
farmland, with wide views in all directions. The views from craggy Helsby Hill stretch from the Clwydian mountains in the west to the cathedrals of Liverpool to the north!
Egerton Arms, Broxton
8¼ miles, 4 hours
The Bickerton Hill and Raw Head walk is moderately strenuous. It is an extended walk along the Sandstone Trail, giving fine views and including highlights of the mid-Cheshire ridge. *The Sandstone Trail passes above some steep drops*.
Alvanley Arms, Cotebrook
3¾ miles, 2 – 2.5 hours
The Utkinton walk includes field paths over rolling Cheshire farmland, passing
an attractive millpond and historic houses. (Some paths may be muddy, so don’t forget your wellies or appropriate walking shoes!)