small steps. big impact. 2 West Cheshire Walking Festival 2017

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2 2 West Cheshire Walking Festival 2017 Active Cheshire Active Cheshire are so excited to be involved in the coordination of the West Cheshire walking festival in Active Cheshire s main aim is to increase the health and wellbeing of residents through physical activity and there is no easier way to get active than going for a walk. The UK Chief Medical Officer recommends adults do frequent moderate intensity physical activity. One way to achieve this would be to walk for 20 minutes on five days of the week. At a time where only a third of adults hit their recommended levels, it s more important than ever for organisations to work together to develop, support and grow opportunities at a local level. The festival gives you the opportunity to kick start a regular walking habit which we hope will continue for life. The walks featured in the festival bring together different length walks with a social atmosphere and will take you into some of the most stunning scenery in Cheshire West and Chester both new and familiar, whilst experiencing the pleasure and benefits of walking. All walks are led; routes are risk assessed and there is something for everyone. Last year, Active Cheshire and our partners sparked a MOVEment to encourage people to get more active and share their experiences via social media using #PartOfTheMOVEment. By sharing images, videos and stories about how you get active and who with, you can inspire others to do the same. We would love for you to a take a picture on your walk and share it with us via social media or via our address. We will feature the best ones in our newsletter in May! small steps. big impact. Don t forget to tag us and

3 West Cheshire Walking Festival Welcome to the West Cheshire Walking Festival For several years we have had walks in the North East part of the Borough as part of the Wirral Walking Festival. This is the first year we have run our own Festival, which now includes walks across the whole of Cheshire West and Chester. Walking is a simple but effective way to keep physically fit; a daily 20 minute walk can reduce your risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes and some cancers. It improves your mood through the release of endorphins and can slow the aging process. But it s also a great way to meet new people and to see the wonderful sights that our Borough has to offer; and it s fun. In this brochure you will find over 130 walks catering for a huge range of interests. And because it s Borough-wide you should be able to find a walk close to where you live or work. The Festival runs throughout May but I hope it will encourage people to walk more often during their normal week. With so many benefits (physical, social and educational), walking is a cheap and easy way for everyone to enjoy life. The walking festival is possible thanks to the walk leaders who enter a fantastic variety of walks showcasing our wonderful outdoor open spaces. Finally, I would like to thank our partners, Active Cheshire, Brio Leisure, Age UK Cheshire, Macmillan Cancer Support and our internal teams for making the festival happen. Louise Gittins Cllr Louise Gittins, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Communities and Wellbeing

4 4 West Cheshire Walking Festival 2017 West Cheshire Walking Festival 2017 Accessibility Many of the walks in this brochure are accessible to people with limited mobility. However, it is recommended that you check with the walk organiser for each event if you have specific requirements including wheelchair access or are unable to step over stiles. In many cases, the walk route can be adapted to provide access for all. Also, if you are unable to attend the walk at the times shown, again please contact the walk leader who will be able to advise of alternative meeting points for you to join the walk at a different location later on. Additionally, if you need to leave a walk early please let the walk leader know. Finally, we recommend that you check with the walk leaders prior to attending to ensure that schedules have not been changed! Getting there Plan your journey and download a timetable using Traveline, telephone: or visit: Download the itravel smart phone app - a free journey planning app for Cheshire West and Chester, with up to date travel information, interactive maps and public transport timetables. Visit: Accessibility We hope you enjoy attending the 2017 West Cheshire Walking Festival and welcome your feedback. Feedback form can be completed at: Accessing Cheshire West and Chester Council information and services. Council information is also available in Audio, Braille, Large Print or other formats. If you would like a copy in a different format, in another language or require a BSL interpreter, please us at: equalities@cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk Telephone: Textphone: equalities@cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk Web:

5 Calendar of Walks West Cheshire Walking Festival Page Walk Start / Location Monday 1 May 13 Frodsham Festival of Walks Grand Finale: Overton s Heritage St Laurence Church Car Park 20 Blacon Gentle Walk United Reformed Church 13 Parkgate and Neston Circular Parkgate, opposite Nicholson's Ice cream shop Tuesday 2 May 25 Chester Grosvenor Walks Chester Grosvenor Park, Activity Zone (entrance by park cafe or from city centre by Vicars Lane) 27 Treadmill Walk Northgate Arena Northgate Arena, Chester 13 Frodsham Walk Mill Lane, by Frodsham Bridge 20 Rivacre Valley Rivacre Valley, Ranger Cabin, Riveracre Road 21 Countess Chester Walks Countess of Chester Hospital Country Car Park 22 Westminster Park Walk The Golf Cafe, Westminster Park 13 Malpas Walk High Street Church, Malpas Page Walk Start / Location Wednesday 3 May 22 Northwich Walk Marbury Park Rangers' Cabin 21 Frodsham Walk Inside Castle Park House, Frodsham Castle Park 22 Christleton and Caldy Valley Walk The Ring o Bells, Village Road Thursday 4 May 25 Chester-Blacon Health Walks United Reform Church, Blacon 21 Countess Chester Walk (Thursdays) Countess of Chester Hospital Country Car Park 20 The Amblers walk the Flashes The Flashes Northwich 27 Treadmill Walk Winsford Winsford Lifestyle Centre Friday 5 May 22 Ness Walk Ness Gardens Car Park

6 6 West Cheshire Walking Festival 2017 Saturday 6 May 14 Northwich Walk Waitrose car park, Northwich town centre 14 Nordic Walking Taster Session Barnsbridge Car Park, Ashton Road, Delamere Sunday 7 May 15 Arley Walk Walkers CP at County Hall 15 Tree and Wildflower Walk in Willaston, South Wirral Hadlow Road Station, Wirral Country Park 15 Walkabout Wyvern Wyvern House Main Reception, Winsford Monday 8 May 20 Blacon Gentle Walk United Reformed Church Tuesday 9 May 25 Chester Grosvenor Walks Chester Grosvenor Park, Activity Zone (entrance by park cafe or from city centre by Vicars Lane) 26 Walk and Talk - Whitby Park Whitby Park, Cafe 20 Rivacre Valley Walk Rivacre Valley, Ranger Cabin, Riveracre Road 21 Countess Chester Walk Countess of Chester Hospital Car Park 22 Westminster Park Walk The Golf Cafe, Westminster Park Wednesday 10 May 22 Northwich Walk Marbury Park Rangers' Cabin 21 Frodsham Walk Inside Castle Park House, Frodsham Castle Park 22 Christleton and Caldy Valley Walk Sainsbury's Superstore, Caldy Valley Road 26 Neston Walk and Talk Neston Youth and Community Centre to walk in Stanney fields

7 West Cheshire Walking Festival Thursday 11 May 27 Treadmill Walk Ellesmere Port Ellesmere Port Sports Village 25 Chester Blacon Health Walk United reform church, Blacon 14 Nordic Walking Taster Session Barnsbridge Car Park,Delamere Forest 16 Kelsall Walk Kelsall Community Centre 21 Countess Chester Walk (Thursday) Countess of Chester Hospital Car Park 26 Photowalk Grosvenor Park café, Chester Friday 12 May 27 Treadmill Walk Northwich Northwich Memorial Court 22 Ness Walk Ness Gardens Car Park Saturday 13 May 16 Plumley Walk The Watermead Pub, Lostock Gralam Sunday 14 May 16 Marbury Walk Marbury Country Park 13 Malpas Walk High Street Church, Malpas 16 Burton Marsh Birdsong and Breakfast Station road /Denhall Lane Junction, West of Burton Village Monday 15 May 20 Blacon Gentle Walk United Reformed Church 29 Walk to School Week Tuesday 16 May 25 Chester Grosvenor Walks Chester Grosvenor Park, Activity Zone (entrance by park cafe or from city centre by Vicars Lane) 20 Rivacre Valley Walk Rivacre Valley, Ranger Cabin, Riveracre Road 21 Countess Chester Walk Countess of Chester Hospital Country Car Park 22 Westminster Park Walk The Golf Cafe, Westminster Park 13 Malpas Walk High Street Church Malpas 29 Walk to School Week

8 8 West Cheshire Walking Festival 2017 Wednesday 17 May 17 Maiden Castle and Bickerton Hill Walk The Sandstone, Nantwich Road, Broxton 22 Northwich Walk Marbury Park Rangers' Cabin 21 Frodsham Walk Inside Castle Park House, Castle Park Frodsham 22 Christleton and Caldy Valley Walk Sainsbury's Superstore, Caldy Valley road 29 Walk to School Week Thursday 18 May 27 Treadmill Walk Northgate Arena Northgate Arena, Chester 25 Chester-Blacon Health Walk United Reform Church, Blacon 21 Countess Chester Walk (Thursday) Countess of Chester Hospital Car park 27 Treadmill Walk Winsford Winsford Lifestyle Centre 29 Walk to School Week Friday 19 May 27 Treadmill Walk Northwich Northwich Memorial Court 26 Walk and Talk Grosvenor Park Grosvenor Park, meet at lodge 22 Ness Walk Ness Gardens Car Park 29 Walk to School Week Saturday 20 May 17 Chester Meadows Walk Chester Rail Station 17 Lostock Gralam Walk The Watermead Pub, Lostock Gralam Sunday 21 May 14 Nordic Walking Taster Barnsbridge Car Park, Delamere Forest 18 Beeston Walk Beeston Castle 18 Neston Circular Walk Lees Lane Car Park

9 West Cheshire Walking Festival Monday 22 May 14 Nordic Walking Work Out Walk Barnsbridge Car Park, Delamere Forest 20 Blacon Gentle Walk United Reformed Church Tuesday 23 May 25 Chester Grosvenor Walks Chester Grosvenor Park, Activity Zone (entrance by park cafe or from city centre by Vicars Lane) 26 Walk and Talk Frodsham Frodsham Library 20 Rivacre Valley Walk Rivacre Valley, Ranger Cabin, Riveracre Road 21 Countess Chester Walk Countess of Chester Hospital Country Car Park 22 Westminster Park Walk The Golf Cafe, Westminster Park

10 10 West Cheshire Walking Festival 2017 Wednesday 24 May 18 Eccleston Walk Eccleston Ferry Riverside Car Park 22 Northwich Walk Marbury Park Rangers' Cabin 21 Frodsham Walk Inside Castle Park House, Frodsham Castle Park 22 Christleton and Caldy Valley Walk Sainsbury's Superstore, Caldy Valley road Thursday 25 May 27 Treadmill Walk Ellesmere Port Ellesmere Port Sports Village 25 Chester-Blacon Health Walk United Reform Church 21 Countess Chester Walk (Thursday) Countess of Chester Hospital Car Park Friday 26 May 22 Ness Walk Ness Gardens Car Park Saturday 27 May 18 Neston to Heswall Walk Neston Sainsbury's 19 Wincham Walk The Watermead Pub lostock Gralam Sunday 28 May 13 Malpas Walk High Street Church, Malpas

11 West Cheshire Walking Festival Monday 29 May 20 Blacon Gentle Walk United Reformed Church Tuesday 30 May 25 Chester Grosvenor Walks Chester Grosvenor Park, Activity Zone (entrance by park cafe or from city centre by Vicars Lane) 20 Rivacre Vally Walk Rivacre Valley, Ranger Cabin, Riveracre Road 21 Countess Chester Walk Countess of Chester Hospital Car Park 22 Westminster Park Walk The Golf Cafe, Westminster Park Wednesday 31 May Date and time to be confirmed 25 Neston Walk To be confirmed 25 Frodsham Castle Park Walk Castle Park, Frodsham 25 Whitby Park Walk Ellesmere Port Whitby Park 17 The Old Pale, Delamere The Yeld Car Park, Kelsall Signposting 30 Living With and Beyond Cancer 31 Norley Wildflower Memorial Walk 32 Sandstone Trail 33 Saltscape Trail at Anderton and Marbury 34 Ashtons and Neumanns Flashes 34 Chester Rambling and Hill Walking Club 34 The Wirral Footpaths and Open Spaces Preservation Society 19 Christleton Walk Plough Inn, Plough Lane, Christleton 22 Northwich Walk Marbury Park Rangers' Cabin 21 Frodsham Walk Frodsham Community Centre 22 Christleton and Caldy Valley Walk Sainsbury's Superstore, Caldy Valley Road 19 The Secret Paths of Backford and Stoak Outside The Hospice of The Good Shepherd, Gordon Lane, Backford Village

12 12 West Cheshire Walking Festival 2017 Walk details

13 West Cheshire Walking Festival Frodsham Festival of Walks Monday 1 May, 3-5pm Dogs permitted Distance: 1.5 miles A gentle 1½ mile 2 hour walk taking in the Mersey Estuary view, local geology and woodland, the historic heart of Overton and a meal at The Bull s Head (please enquire regarding walk & meal options). Dogs on short leads welcome. Start postcode: WA6 7DU Meeting point: St Laurence Church Car Park, Church Road, Frodsham Walk leader: Kath Gee and Caroline Ashton Telephone: or council@frodsham.gov.uk Parkgate and Neston Circular Monday 1 May, 10am-3pm Dogs permitted Duration: 9 Miles Easy walking along field paths, Wirral way and Banks of the Dee Marshes. Option to leave the walk after about 6 miles Start postcode: CH64 6SA Meeting point: Parkgate, opposite Nicholson s Ice Cream Shop Walk leader: Victoria Doran Telephone: or info@wirralfootpaths.org.uk Frodsham Walk Tuesday 2 May, 10:30am, but recommended Duration: 12 Miles Booking not essential but encouraged, this is an all-day walk so bring packed lunches. Woodlands, bluebells galore and other spring flowers on both sides of the River Weaver. Start postcode: WA6 7JA Meeting point: Mill Lane by Frodsham Bridge Walk leader: Steve Thomas Telephone: or coord@nmc-ramblers.org.uk Malpas Walk Tuesday 2, Sunday 14, Tuesday 16 and Sunday 28 May, 10:30am Dogs permitted Duration: minutes A countryside walk starting in Malpas village and heading out into the clear country air mins duration. For more information about this walk contact Sue on Meeting point: High Street Church, Malpas Walk leader: Sue Telephone:

14 14 West Cheshire Walking Festival 2017 The Ambers walk the Flashes Thursday 4 May, Contact Theresa for the start time Duration: 60 minutes Contact Theresa for more information about this beautiful walk. Meeting point: The Flashes Northwich Walk leader: Theresa Bateman Telephone: fabbfitness@hotmail.com Nordic Walk Taster Session Saturday 6 May, 9:30-10:15am Thursday 11 May, 10:45-11:30am Sunday 21 May, 12pm-2:45pm Booking required: Yes Cost: 5 Distance: 1-2 miles No dogs permitted Get a taste of how light you will feel on your feet, how the whole body is mobilised and why you need to take the time to learn the technique. A 45 minute session that will help you understand just how beneficial Nordic walking can be and how it is far more than just walking with poles!). Book online at Meeting point: Barnsbridge Carpark, Ashton Road, Delamere Walk leader: Elizabeth Kerley Telephone: or kerley@bankhousefarm.fsworld.co.uk Nordic Walking Work out walk Monday 22 May, 9:30-10:30am Booking required: Yes Cost: 6 Distance: 3 miles No dogs permitted I hour Nordic walk for trained Nordic walkers who have completed a Learn to Nordic walk course. Nordic walking in Delamere Forest offers a great variety of circular walks, allowing you to explore the hidden, quieter parts of the Forest and appreciate the benefits of being close to the natural world. The varied terrain is ideal for interval training to raise your heart rate and improve your fitness levels. Strength, balance exercises and workouts can be included but sometimes we just walk and talk and enjoy the scenery and good company. Book online at Meeting point: Barnsbridge Carpark, Ashton Road, Delamere Walk leader: Elizabeth Kerley Telephone: or kerley@bankhousefarm.fsworld.co.uk Northwich Walk Saturday 6 May, 10:30am Dogs permitted Duration: 1 hour Start postcode: CW9 5HD Meeting point: Waitrose car park in Northwich Walk leader: Sean Ray Telephone: sean.ray@ageukcheshire.org.uk

15 West Cheshire Walking Festival Arley walk Sunday 7 May, 2pm, but recommended Duration: 6 Miles Start postcode: CW9 6LZ Meeting point: Walkers CP at Arley Hall Walk leader: Ken Hal Telephone: or coord@nmc-ramblers.org.uk Walkabout Wyvern Sunday 7 May, 12:30-1:45pm Dogs permitted Duration: 1.5 miles Return path is on a steep incline but all areas are accessible. Start postcode: CW7 1PG Meeting point: Wyvern House Main Reception Walk leader: Patricia Johnson Telephone: or Tree and Wildflower Walk in Willaston Sunday 7 May, 3:30pm This walk is especially for families Dogs permitted Duration: 1.5 miles There are some buildings of historic interest on the walk. Access is generally on level terrain but with some grass and some uneven meadow land. Start postcode: CH64 2UG Meeting point: Hadlow Road Station, Wirral Country Park Walk leader: Hilary Morris Telephone: or dnind@lineone.net

16 16 West Cheshire Walking Festival 2017 Kelsall Walk Thursday 11 May, 10:30am Dogs permitted Distance: 8 miles A full day walk so bring a packed lunch. Booking not essential but is encouraged Start postcode: CW6 0SB Meeting point: Kelsall Community Centre, Chester Road Walk leader: Sylvia Morrell Telephone: Marbury Walk Sunday 14 May, 2pm Distance: 5 miles Dogs permitted Start postcode: CW9 6AT Meeting point: Marbury Country Park Walk leader: Christine Martin Telephone: sean.ray@ageukcheshire.org.uk Plumley Walk Saturday 13 May, 10:30am Dogs permitted A springtime country walk from Lostock Gralam to Plumley and return. Start postcode: CW9 7UA Meeting point: The Watermead Pub, Lostock Gralam Walk leader: Sean Ray Telephone: sean.ray@ageukcheshire.org.uk Burton Marsh Birdsong and Breakfast Sunday 14 May, 7-10am Booking required: Yes Cost: 8 Distance: 3 miles Dogs not permitted A gentle walk with an expert guide along Burton Marsh greenway to Burton point, listening and looking for the variety of song birds that make their home on the inner marsh; various warblers, water rails, reed buntings and skylarks nest here. Price includes cooked breakfast at the Nets Café afterwards. Start postcode: CH64 0TG Meeting point: Station road/denhall Lane Junction, West of Burton Village Walk leader: Dan Trotman Telephone: or Daniel.Trotman@rspb.org.uk

17 West Cheshire Walking Festival Maiden Castle and Bickerton Hill Walk Wednesday 17 May, 7-9pm. Booking required: no Distance: 3.5 miles Dogs not permitted A pleasant walk through National Trust Woodland, then up to Maiden Castle via rough steps. From here, we join the Sandstone trail to Bickerton Hill with superb views en route. We return via field paths and tracks to the pub car park. Start postcode: CH3 9JH Meeting point: The Sandstone, Nantwich Road, Broxton Walk leader: Helen Holyoak Telephone: or hholyoak@hotmail.co.uk The Old Pale, Delamere Date to be confirmed Time: 10:30am-12:30pm Dogs permitted Distance: 4 miles A circular walk around the historic Old Pale, a medieval enclosure in Delamere Forest. It takes in the splendid viewpoint on the Old Pale Heights, an Iron Age hillfort, Roman Road and medieval quarry. Please call Peter to confirm the date of the walk. Meeting point: The Yeld Car Park, Kelsall (OS grid ref: SJ ) Walk leader: Peter Winn Telephone: or peter@winnbrookcottage. freeserve.co.uk Chester Meadows Walk Saturday 20 May, 10:40am-4pm Dogs not permitted Distance: 7 miles Route through Chester Grosvenor Park, across suspension bridge, along meadows to village of Eccleston (lunch here). Then returning along Dukes Drive to Chester via Westminster Bridge and locality called Nowhere, thence along River Dee Groves, returning to Chester Town Centre/Chester Rail Station. Start postcode: CH1 3NS Meeting point: Chester Rail Station Walk leaders: Janet Quigley/Gerry Barlow Telephone: or gerrybarlow@talktalk.net Lostock Gralam Walk Saturday 20 May, 10:30am Dogs not permitted A walk from Lostock Gralam to Lostock Green and return. Start postcode: CW9 7UA Meeting point: The Watermead Pub Walk leader: Sean Ray Telephone: sean.ray@ageukcheshire.org.uk

18 18 West Cheshire Walking Festival 2017 Beeston Walk Sunday 21 May, 10am Duration: 5 hours Start postcode: CW6 9TX Meeting point: Beeston Castle Walk leader: Harold Bennetton Telephone: Eccleston Walk Wednesday 24 May, 7-9pm Dogs not permitted Distance: 3.75 miles From the car park we follow the river for a short distance before walking up through the attractive village of Eccleston. We then walk north along a section of Dukes Drive before returning to the river edge at Heronbridge to return to the start. Several kissing gates but no stiles. Start postcode: SJ Meeting point: Eccleston Ferry, riverside car park Walk leader: Mike Clark Telephone: or mikeclark46@yahoo.co.uk Neston Circular Walk Sunday 21 May, 10:30am-2:30pm This walk is especially for families Dogs permitted Distance: 5 miles The route is almost entirely off road, traverses the Ponds and Marl Pits, Wirral Way, the Dee estuary and industrial heritage and Cuckoo Lane! The walk is led by members of Friends of Lees Lane Ponds. We can stop at the Harp Inn at lunchtime and/or bring your own food. Start postcode: CH64 7TH Meeting point: Lees Lane Car Park Walk leader: Robert Perry Telephone: or hookeperry@gmail.com Neston to Heswall Walk Saturday 27 May, 11:15am-3:30pm Dogs not permitted Distance: 6 miles A pleasant level walk, starting at Sainsbury's Supermarket, using public footpaths, Wirral Way and fieldtracks and some minor roads/lanes via Parkgate and Gayton. Finish at Heswall bus station. Lunch spot yet to be chosen, but will be at an approximate half-way point. Start postcode: CH64 9XJ Meeting point: Neston Sainsbury's and finish at Heswell Bus Station Walk leader: Sandi Mason Telephone: or gerrybarlow@talktalk.net

19 West Cheshire Walking Festival Wincham walk Sunday 27 May, 10:30am Dogs permitted Following a well-trodden path, this walk goes from Lostock Gralam to Wincham and return. Start postcode: CW9 7UA Meeting point: The Watermead Pub, Lostock Gralam Walk leader: Sean Ray Telephone: sean.ray@ageukcheshire.org.uk Christleton Walk Wednesday 31 May, 7-9pm Dogs not permitted Distance: 4.5 miles A pleasant circular walk through fields and along the Shropshire Union Canal. It is a flat walk, with a few stiles and kissing gates. There is an option to join everyone for a drink at The Plough at the end of the walk. Start postcode: CH3 7PT Meeting point: Plough Inn, Plough Lane, Christleton Walk leader: Joan Thomas Telephone: or hholyoak@hotmail.co.uk The Secret Paths of Backford and Stoak Wednesday 31 May, 10:30am-2pm Dogs not permitted Distance: 6 miles A pretty, circular walk along little-known footpaths to stoak and back with a possible stop at the Bunbury Arms. Route can be rather muddy in parts if weather has been wet so please wear appropriate footwear. Please bring plenty of water and lunch as required. There are several stiles. Start postcode: CH2 4DG Meeting point: Outside The Hospice of The Good Shepherd, Gordon Lane, Backford Village Walk leader: Geoff Holland Telephone: or happyrambler1@gmail.com

20 20 West Cheshire Walking Festival 2017 Weekly Health Walks Strolls on level ground with lots of stops. Ideal for people recovering from illness or in rehabilitation (maximum 1-2 miles, very slow pace). Remember to keep hydrated bring a bottle of water with you. No special equipment is required but a pair of sensible walking boots/shoes and a waterproof jacket is advisable. Important notice: whilst we try to make sure that a trained walk leader is available to guide the walk, on some occasions this may not be possible. In this case, walkers are advised that if they choose to walk without the leader, they do so entirely at their own risk. Age UK Cheshire cannot be held responsible for their health and safety. Blacon Gentle Walk Every Monday of the month at 10:30am Dogs permitted Duration: 1 hour A gentle walk at a pace to suit all, taking in the Greenway and areas around Blacon. There is an option to do a 30 minute or 60 minute walk. This walk is run in conjunction with Macmillan. Start postcode: CH1 5EY Meeting point: United Reformed Church, Saughall road, Blacon For more details contact: Sean Ray Telephone: sean.ray@ageukcheshire.org.uk Rivacre Valley Every Tuesday of the month at 10:30am Dogs permitted Duration: 1.5 hours There are slight inclines on this walk and participants are recommended to wear sturdy shoes. Start postcode: CH66 2UQ Meeting point: Rivacre Valley, Ranger Cabin, Riveracre Road For more details contact: Sean Ray Telephone: sean.ray@ageukcheshire.org.uk

21 West Cheshire Walking Festival Countess of Chester Tuesday and Thursday Walks Every Tuesday and Thursday of the month at 1.30pm Distance: 2 miles The Countess of Chester Country Park Health Walk, approx. 2 miles, led by Alistair. For more information about this walk contact Alistair on Meeting point: Countess of Chester Hospital Country Park Car Park (off Countess Way). For more details contact: Alistair Cook Telephone: a.cook@tcv.org.uk Frodsham Walk Every Wednesday of the month at 10:30am Duration: hours Start postcode: WA6 6SE Meeting point: Inside Castle Park House, Frodsham Castle Park, Frodsham. Please note: On the last Wednesday of each month this group meets at Frodsham Community Centre WA6 7QN. For more details contact: Sean Ray Telephone: sean.ray@ageukcheshire.org.uk

22 22 West Cheshire Walking Festival 2017 Westminster Park walk Every Tuesday of the month at 10:30am Duration: 1.5 hours A slightly longer but very sociable walk exploring the local area. A gentle stroll option is also available (in and around the Park). Start postcode: CH4 8JQ Meeting point: The Golf Café, Westminster Park For more details contact: Sean Ray Telephone: sean.ray@ageukcheshire.org.uk Northwich Walk Every Wednesday of the month at 10:30am Duration: 1.5 hours A gentle walk around the Marbury park area. Start postcode: CW9 6AT Meeting point: Marbury Park Rangers Cabin Walk leader: Sean Ray Telephone: sean.ray@ageukcheshire.org.uk Christleton and Caldy Valley Every Wednesday of the month at 10:30am Duration: 1.5 hours An ideal starter walk, at a pace to suit all, taking in the Caldy Valley Nature Park. Start postcode: CH3 5QJ Meeting point: Café in Sainsbury s superstore on Caldy Valley Road. Please note: On the first Wednesday of each month, this group meets at the Ring o Bells, Village Road, Christleton, CH3 7AS. For more details contact: Sean Ray Telephone: sean.ray@ageukcheshire.org.uk Ness Walk Every Friday of the month at 10:30am Duration: 1.5 hours This walk goes into the estuary and sometimes the woods. There are some hills and paths which may be muddy. This walk is not suitable for absolute beginners. Start postcode: CH64 4AY Meeting point: Ness Gardens car park, Ness For more details contact: Sean Ray Telephone: sean.ray@ageukcheshire.org.uk

23 West Cheshire Walking Festival Guided walking tour of Chester When: Every day of the year Where: Meet at Time: pm Description: Discover Chester s glorious heritage with the Guild of Chester Tour Guides. Sunday, Secret Chester: King Charles Tower, Water Tower and Shropshire Union Canal. Monday, Secret Chester: Chester Castle, River Dee, Grosvenor Park and St. John s Church. Tuesday, Secret Chester: Racecourse, Chester Castle and St. Michael s Church. Wednesday and Friday, Curious Chester: hidden gems, including the Rows. Thursday and Saturday, Chester Walls: Water Tower, King Charles Tower and Eastgate Clock. Secret Chester and Chester Walls include steps. Routes may vary subject to conditions. Contact: Grosvenor Museum Telephone: grosvenormuseum@cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk Age range: adult Cost: 7, 6 concession, tickets from guide or online at

24 24 West Cheshire Walking Festival 2017 Brio and Macmillan Partnership Nearly all of us will be affected by cancer in one way or another and it can feel like you re totally alone. From the physical effects of treatment to worries about the future, to missing your old life, or simply not having enough money to do the things you used to, cancer can be a very lonely place, and friends and family may not know what to say. Macmillan Cancer Support and Brio Leisure are working in partnership to create a social network in West Cheshire to help people affected by cancer combat the feelings of isolation many experience during or after treatment. The project aims to ensure that people affected by cancer get the right care and support they need right on their doorstep, in order to lead as healthy and active a life as possible, for as long as possible.

25 West Cheshire Walking Festival Physical activity is important for cancer patients at all stages of their cancer care pathway, during treatment, after treatment and in both early and advanced stages. There are significant positive benefits and physical activity can reduce the risk of cancer recurrence and mortality for some cancers and can reduce the risk of developing other conditions. The Brio/Macmillan short health walks are a great place to start moving more, building things up gradually, connecting with others and enjoying the outside. All health walks are open to all, both people affected by cancer, their families or carers and anyone wanting to improve their health through walking. We are introducing 6 and 12 week walk programmes for people who feel motivated by a goal and we will help you measure the difference to your mental and physical wellbeing over the 6 or 12 week time period. However, if you just want to turn up and walk that s fine too! Chester Blacon Every Thursday in May, 10.30am Duration: 30 Minutes Meet point: United Reform Church, Blacon Toilets and refreshments available, wheelchair accessible. Free parking at the church and at the Parade Shops opposite. Support to progress to longer walks. Walk is run by Vintage Blacon and supported by Brio/Macmillan volunteers. Chester Grosvenor Park Every Tuesday at 10.30am Duration: 30 minutes Tea and chat after Toilets available and wheelchair accessible Walk and chat and admire the beautiful park and it s heritage. Plan gardening and outdoor activities in the park and check out the photo walk on the next page too. Meeting point: Activity Zone (entrance by park café or from city centre by Vicars Lane) Nearest parking Pepper Street Ellesmere Port Whitby Park Details to be confirmed We will be looking at developing other activities in this park working with local partners such as Nature4Health looking at gardening and other nature related activities, using the fantastic existing resources at the park such as the café and allotment. Frodsham Castle Park Details to be confirmed We will be starting the walk at the Brio/ Library site on Princeway and running a Brio/Macmillan information drop in alongside the walk and can signpost to longer health walks in Frodsham so people can progress. Neston Details to be confirmed For more information and to book onto any of the above walks, contact the Brio/Macmillan team on or macmillan@brioleisure.org or see or you can book on a walk online at

26 26 West Cheshire Walking Festival 2017 Walk and Talk Come and Walk and Talk at our May health walks specifically for people affected by cancer and their families, carers, friends and partners. Tuesday 9 May, 11am Meeting point: Whitby Park café Wednesday 10 May, 11am Meeting point: Neston Youth and Community Centre to walk in Stanney fields Friday 19 May, 2pm Meeting point: Grosvenor Park Lodge, Activity Zone (entrance by park café or from city centre by Vicars Lane) Tuesday 23 May, 11am Meeting point: Frodsham Library Please call to check that all of these activities are going ahead and to book a place. Telephone: macmillan@brioleisure.org Visit: Photo Walk Join one of the Brio/Macmillan volunteers for a fun beginners photowalk in the beautiful surroundings of Grosvenor Park, Chester. 11 May 2017, 11am-1pm Meeting point: Grosvenor Park, Activity Zone (entrance by park café or from city centre by Vicars Lane) Bring along your smartphone, ipad, tablet, camera or other device and enjoy the chance to get out and about, take notice of our environment, enjoy the outdoors and capture some of the details of spring at a leisurely pace. The session will include guidance on the basic principles of taking a good photograph, a two-hour walk around Grosvenor Park, and a chance to ask questions, discuss ideas and explore your environment in a mindful way.

27 West Cheshire Walking Festival Come and walk on a treadmill at a local Brio leisure centres for free! In addition to the short walks offered by the Brio and Macmillan partnership, during the month of May any person affected by cancer who lives in the Cheshire West and Chester area can come into one of the Brio Leisure hub sites FREE for seven days! Our hub sites include Northgate Arena in Chester, Ellesmere Port Sports Village, Northwich Memorial Court and Winsford Lifestyle Centre. Whether you want to have a walk on the treadmill (it is a walking festival after all) or a quick swim, we know that every little helps. Brio Macmillan volunteers will also be on hand to give advice and support at drop-ins following the workout sessions at each Brio centre. At Brio we have staff qualified in cancer rehabilitation and they re on hand ready to get you up and running (or walking) with one of our Walking Festival Workout Sessions on the following dates. Dates and locations Tuesday 2 May, 11.15am-12.15pm Northgate Arena, Chester, with Nichola Thursday 4 May, 11.30am-12.30pm Winsford Lifestyle Centre, with Tomoko Thursday 11 May, 11.15am-12.15pm Ellesmere Port Sports Village, with Nichola Friday 12 May, 12.30pm-13.30pm Northwich Memorial Court, with Tomoko Thursday 18 May, 2-3pm Northgate Arena, Chester, with Nichola Thursday 18 May, 11.30am-12.30pm Winsford Lifestyle Centre, with Tomoko Friday 19 May, pm Northwich Memorial Court, with Tomoko Thursday 25 May, 3-4pm Ellesmere Port Sports Village, with Nichola Please note these workouts are limited to six people per session to ensure you get the best possible introduction. To secure a place on any of the activities, please call the team on , macmillan@brioleisure.org or see our website and fill out the contact sheet at

28 28 West Cheshire Walking Festival 2017 Volunteer at Brio/ Macmillan Partnership Volunteering has been shown to have a positive impact on our general health, and as walking also improves our sense of wellbeing, becoming a walk leader can be a doubly fulfilling role. Walk leaders we have talked to say that they enjoy giving something back, seeing lonely people make friends and get a new lease of life, whilst thoroughly enjoying the walks themselves. We also have a range of other volunteering roles including buddying, helping with practical tasks and listening and connecting people affected by cancer support that they need as well as enjoyable activities in the community. Why not come and find out about our range of volunteering roles, including becoming a walk leader to support people affected by cancer. 5 May, 11am-12pm Ellesmere Port Civic Hall, Ellesmere Port 15 May, 2-3pm Neston Civic Hall, Neston Volunteering is good for your health and wellbeing!

29 15-19 May 2017 West Cheshire Walking Festival Daily Mile Creating active schools and children in West Cheshire Walk to school week Join thousands of children across the country to celebrate the benefits walking brings. Over 70 percent of today s parents walked to school when they were children but less than half of children walk to school today. A quarter of peak hour traffic is people driving their children to school. The school run alone is responsible for generating around two million tonnes of CO² per annum. Why not convert your school run to a walk. Even walking once a week you ll make a real difference towards children s happiness, your stress levels and local air quality. Ask your school about running The Living Streets Walk to School program. Now in its 20th year this ground-breaking programme supports over one million children in 4,000 schools to walk more. info@livingstreets.org.uk Visit: Telephone: Why the Walk to School matters? Happier children It s been proven that children who do some form of exercise, especially a walk before school, do better in class because they arrive refreshed, fit and ready to learn. Less congestion During morning peak traffic times, one in five cars on the road are taking children school, contributing to congestion, air pollution and carbon emissions. Cleaner air The school run alone is responsible for generating two million tonnes of CO2 per year. Imagine what we could achieve if we began converting some of these rides to strides? If parents are interested about the pedestrian programme they just need to approach the school who may already be running sessions so worth the parents asking.

30 30 West Cheshire Walking Festival 2017 Signposting Living with and beyond cancer The Living With and Beyond Cancer in Merseyside and Cheshire programme was launched in This joint project draws together over 30 partners, including the NHS and Macmillan Cancer Support, to improve access to specialist support to patients and families living with and beyond cancer in the region. One element of our work focusses on promoting health and wellbeing among people living with and beyond cancer and physical activity is an important part of this work. We are offering walks from the Clatterbridge Centre Outpatient Department for people affected by cancer, their friends and families. This is a great opportunity to try low impact exercise, meet new people and get outdoors. Further information: Michael Clinton, Macmillan Programme Officer, Living With and Beyond Cancer Programme Merseyside and Cheshire. Michael.clinton1@nhs.net

31 West Cheshire Walking Festival Norley Wildflower Memorial Walk In the Great War, 87 Norley men went to war but only 77 returned - one, Christopher Fletcher was so badly injured that he died some years later. Norley has no public war memorial as such, there is a beautiful stained glass window and brass plaques in St John the Evangelist but very few now know anything about these men. The walk is intended to take these names and put them back into the community where they in the words of Lt Col McCrae in his poem In Flanders Fields... lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow loved and were loved... Two of the men are buried in St John s churchyard where the walk starts. A further 11 memorial plaques are sited around the village, often close to where they lived. Plaques in season are surrounded by wildflowers, red poppies in remembrance and other flowers they would have seen as they walked about the village all those years ago. Norley Wildlife Group has arranged a walk around Norley, passing all the plaques. The walk is 3 miles long with lots of bluebells, daffodils and the native bluebells (1000 extra bulbs planted) in the church wood will also be in flower. The wildflower meadow will also be beginning to be in flower and there will be a display board informing people as to the flowers/pollinators they will be able to see. A map of the walk can be found below. If you would like to walk and wish to donate something to ensure that every year wildflowers will continue to commemorate these men contact Phil Gifford on or ansellpgifford@gmail.com

32 32 West Cheshire Walking Festival 2017 Sandstone Trail Cheshire s Sandstone Trail is undoubtedly one of the finest and most popular walks and walking routes, not just in Cheshire but in North West England. For many, it s probably the best Cheshire walk and the ultimate Cheshire Way. As well as the ever-popular long distance linear route along the Sandstone Trail, there are a wealth of less well-known but equally unmissable circular walks and strolls exploring the surrounding countryside. These varied circular Cheshire walks link naturally to the main Trail, and are clearly waymarked and maintained by the Sandstone Trail ranger. Not surprisingly, they are increasingly popular. Some of the circular routes in Cheshire explore favourite areas such as Delamere Forest or the Bickerton Hills in more depth; some visit unexpected places along the way such as the earthen ramparts of Eddisbury hillfort or ancient Utkinton Hall; some take you to special places such as bluebell-dense Bodnick Wood or the picturesque and unhurried Norman market town of Malpas.

33 West Cheshire Walking Festival Saltscape Trail at Anderton and Marbury Self-Guided through Anderton and Marbury Nature Parks. Joining Anderton Boat Lift and The Lion Salt Works. The route is ideal for families. The complete route is 6 miles of beautiful scenery from Anderton Boat lift up to The Lion Saltworks through The Northwich Woodlands. It crosses over into a figure of eight so there is the option to split the walk into two shorter 3 miles each named differently, the Dragonfly Trail or the Orchid Trail. Each trail has been way-marked with attractive posts displaying either a dragonfly or an orchid in different colours as well as interpretation boards situated along the route to educate users of the salt history and significance of the area. It consists of both new and existing paths, together with a brand new wooden bridge with the purpose of crossing over the pipelines to give easy access onto the trail. For more information contact info@saltscape.co.uk

34 34 West Cheshire Walking Festival 2017 Ashtons and Neumanns Flashes These reclaimed lime beds provide an excellent area for short walks and bird watching. Its industrial past creates unique conditions that allow many unusual species to thrive. The presence of salt has allowed many seaside plants to establish and the areas recent use as lime beds provide ideal conditions for the rare Dingy Skipper butterfly. Chester Rambling and Hill Walking Club Chester Rambling and Hill Walking Club offers a choice of full day walks on Sundays and Wednesdays in Cheshire and the surrounding counties, the Clwydian Hills and the mountains of Snowdonia. Expect to be out all day. Bring flasks, food and water, waterproofs & walking boots, and something to sit on whilst we take a break and admire the view. New members and visitors are welcome to try our walks before joining our club. We also have shorter walks on Tuesday evenings in the Summer. Booking essential in May. Phone or chesramclub@yahoo.com. For our full programme of walks visit The Wirral Footpaths and Open Spaces Preservation Society The Wirral Footpaths and Open Spaces Preservation Society organises walks for the walking festival in Cheshire West and the Wirral. The society also organises a full and varied programme of guided walks throughout the year and undertakes practical footpath maintenance tasks including vegetation control, clearance, installation of accessible gates and maintenance of direction markers. For further information about the society phone info@wirralfootpaths.org.uk or visit

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