As a Chester resident, I know the best places to go for a great walk. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful stroll or an adventurous hike, there are plenty of great options in and around Chester.
Here I’m going to share some of my favorites with you, from the ever-popular Chester City Walls to the lesser-known Sandstone Way.
So get your walking shoes on and let’s explore the best walks in Chester!
Chester City Walls
Stretching nearly two miles around the city, the Chester City Walls offer stunning views and an impressive walk through history.
The walls, which date back to the Roman occupation of Britain, offer a unique experience as they are the most complete circuit of city walls in the country.
As you walk, you’ll take in the stunning views of the city and the countryside that surrounds it.
Along the way, you’ll come across the famous Eastgate Clock, the largest clock in the world, along with the many towers, gates, and other structures that make up the city walls.
You’ll also find a number of plaques that tell the history of the walls and the many battles that have taken place within them.
Taking a walk along the Chester City Walls is an unforgettable experience, and one that you’ll never forget.
The Sandstone Trail
Take a stroll along the Sandstone Trail and explore the stunning Cheshire countryside! The Sandstone Trail is a 30-mile long footpath that runs from Frodsham in the North to Whitchurch in the South.
It passes through some of the most picturesque areas of Cheshire, such as Delamere Forest, Beeston Castle, and along the River Dee. Along the trail, you’ll be able to admire the stunning views of the Cheshire landscape, including rolling hills, open fields, ancient woodlands, and the majestic Welsh Mountains.
The trail is a great way to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy some peace and quiet in nature. You can take the trail at your own pace, stopping to take in the views or to enjoy a picnic in the countryside.
A great way to experience the trail is to take a guided walk with a knowledgeable guide who’ll be able to provide you with interesting facts about the area and its history.
So if you’re looking for a relaxing, scenic walk with a touch of history, the Sandstone Trail is the perfect choice!
River Dee Walk
Stroll along the River Dee for spectacular views of the Cheshire landscape! The River Dee Walk offers a wonderful opportunity to explore the nature and history of Chester. Starting near the iconic Chester Cathedral, the route follows the River Dee for 10 miles, taking in the rural beauty of Cheshire and the charming villages of Farndon, Aldford, and Shocklach.
You’ll pass many historic sites, including the ruins of Farndon and Aldford Castles, and plenty of wildlife-spotting opportunities. Along the way, you can take a break in one of the many riverside pubs or tea rooms, and enjoy a picnic lunch with a stunning view.
The River Dee Walk is a great way to appreciate the picturesque countryside of Chester and make some unforgettable memories.
Northgate to Eastgate
Meander through the ancient walls of Chester, from Northgate to Eastgate, and discover a historic cityscape full of fascinating architecture and culture. Built in 70AD, the walls are a fantastic insight into the city’s past and are still in remarkably good condition.
Take in the view as you walk the entire length of the walls to Eastgate, the original entrance into the city. Along the way, you’ll marvel at the unique features and intricate details of the wall’s design, from the numerous towers and battlements to the original Roman steps. You’ll also be able to spot some of the city’s oldest buildings and landmarks nestled within the walls, such as the iconic Eastgate clock.
This two-mile stroll is the perfect way to explore the city and experience some of its most historic features.
Delamere Forest
Explore the lush woodlands of Delamere Forest, where the beauty of nature is on full display. The ancient forest is home to a plethora of wildlife, including deer, foxes, badgers, and birds of prey.
The winding trails and paths offer a wonderful opportunity to explore the forest and take in the sights and sounds of nature. With over 8,000 acres of land to explore, the possibilities are endless.
Delamere Forest also provides many activities, such as cycling, fishing, and camping, that the whole family can enjoy. The forest also boasts a number of attractions, including a lake, a Victorian folly, and a range of sculptures.
Delamere Forest is a great place to spend the day, or even a weekend, exploring the wild and wonderful sights and sounds of nature.
Eddisbury Hill
Climb Eddisbury Hill for a breathtaking view of the Cheshire countryside.
A moderate walk that should take around an hour, Eddisbury Hill is a great spot to take in the stunning views of the west Cheshire plains.
The hill is a popular spot for local walkers and hikers, as it offers a great vantage point to take in the surrounding landscape.
The hill is rich in history, with the Eddisbury Iron Age hill fort and a Bronze Age cemetery located nearby.
With its winding paths, lush vegetation, and wildlife, Eddisbury Hill is a great spot for those looking for a peaceful walk in nature.
The hill is also part of the Sandstone Trail, a long-distance walk that stretches from Whitchurch to Frodsham.
Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a more challenging hike, Eddisbury Hill is the perfect spot for all levels of walking enthusiasts.
Wepre Park
After exploring the beauty of Eddisbury Hill, I’m now ready to head over to Wepre Park.
This park is located in the North East area of Chester and is a great place to take a leisurely stroll. The park is filled with a variety of lush trees, including oaks and chestnuts, and many wildflowers from the spring months. It also has several ponds and streams running through it, making it the perfect spot to enjoy a peaceful afternoon.
The park also has plenty of trails to explore, including a nature trail that takes you around the entire park. Along the trail, you can find many interesting sights, such as the ruins of a medieval castle, an old chapel, and a large lake.
Not only does the park offer nice walks, but it also provides plenty of activities such as fishing, boating, and bird watching.
Wepre Park is the perfect place for those looking for a peaceful and scenic walk in Chester.
Bickerton Hill and Moel Famau
Venturing further out from Chester, the next destination on my list is Bickerton Hill and Moel Famau.
Nestled in the Clwydian Range Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, this area offers a stunning landscape with rolling hills and ancient woodlands. This is a great spot for a long and leisurely walk, with plenty of paths to explore.
In addition to the beautiful landscape, there are a number of interesting historical sites to discover, including Iron Age hill forts, ancient burial mounds, and the ruins of Bickerton Castle.
This walk is perfect for those who want to take their time, as the numerous paths and trails take you through a stunning natural environment. The views from the top of Moel Famau are some of the most breathtaking in the area, and for those who are feeling adventurous, there are plenty of challenging trails to explore.
Bickerton Hill and Moel Famau is an incredible destination for a day of walking and exploration, and is sure to leave an unforgettable impression.
Peckforton Castle
Leaving behind the sweeping views of Bickerton Hill and Moel Famau, I’m now heading to Peckforton Castle, located just outside Tarporley in Cheshire, England.
This is one of the best walks in the area, and it’s worth the trip just to witness the beauty of the castle.
This walk is a great way to enjoy the rolling countryside and stunning views of the Peckforton Hills.
As you meander through the countryside, you can expect to see plenty of wildlife, including a variety of birds, rabbits, and foxes.
The path is well marked and easy to follow, with plenty of places to stop and take in the surrounding beauty.
When you reach the castle, you’ll be able to explore the grounds, which includes a stunning lake, and admire the architecture of the castle.
The grounds are also home to a variety of plants and flowers, and you can even see a glimpse of the Welsh hills in the distance.
Whether you’re a keen hiker or just looking for a nice walk, Peckforton Castle is a great option.
The Groves
Heading away from the castle, you’ll soon come across The Groves, a picturesque wooded area just a few minutes from the castle.
A great spot for a leisurely stroll, the area is home to a sprawling network of trails that make it easy to explore the rolling hills and picturesque woodland.
The Groves has something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a peaceful walk or a more challenging hike.
There are several benches along the paths so you can take a break and enjoy the views.
In spring and summer, the area bursts with color from wildflowers and flowering trees, while in autumn you can admire the changing leaves.
No matter the season, The Groves is a great spot to enjoy a peaceful walk and take in the beauty of nature.
Delamere to Frodsham
From The Groves, a short drive takes you to the nearby towns of Delamere and Frodsham, perfect for a day of exploring.
Delamere Forest is one of the most popular spots, with plenty of trails, waymarked walks, and breathtaking views of the surrounding Cheshire countryside. You can meander along the sandy path around the lake, or take a more challenging route up to Old Pale Hill and Beeston Castle.
You can also follow the River Weaver which takes you up to Frodsham, a market town surrounded by open countryside and spectacular views of the Mersey Estuary. Here, you can take a leisurely stroll along Frodsham Hill, visit the local church, or explore the nearby woods.
It’s a great place to take a break and enjoy the fresh air, with plenty of restaurants and cafes nearby.
The Sandstone Way
Exploring the Sandstone Way, you can take in stunning views of Cheshire’s rolling hills and picturesque villages as you make your way along the ancient bridleways and pathways.
This walking route is a stunning way to explore the rolling countryside of Cheshire, taking in views of famous landmarks like Beeston Castle, Peckforton Castle, and Delamere Forest.
The route is well signposted and maintained, and is suitable for anyone looking to experience the beauty of the county.
The route is approximately 50 miles in length, and can be completed in one day or in sections, depending on your preferences and the weather.
There are plenty of options for food and drink along the route, with plenty of pubs and cafes you can stop at to refuel or take a break.
The Sandstone Way is a great way to experience the beauty of Cheshire, and is definitely worth a visit.
Peckforton Hills
Climbing the majestic Peckforton Hills, you can take in breathtaking views of the rolling Cheshire countryside and feel the invigoration of the fresh air.
The Peckforton Hills are a popular spot for walkers, with a variety of different routes to choose from. The hills are also home to a wide range of wildlife, including red deer, badgers, and a variety of birds.
The routes vary from gentle strolls to more challenging climbs, making them suitable for all levels of fitness. For those looking for a more strenuous walk, there are plenty of steep hills and rocky pathways to test your mettle.
The paths are well marked and easy to follow, so it’s easy to explore the area and take in the stunning views. There are also plenty of places to stop along the way for a rest or a picnic.
Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, the Peckforton Hills offer something for everyone.
Parkgate to Neston
Stretching from Parkgate to Neston, the Peckforton Hills provide a scenic backdrop for a variety of exciting adventures. Hiking this trail is a wonderful way to explore the area, as it provides incredible views of the rural landscape and also has plenty of historical features to explore.
Starting in Parkgate, the path takes you through a variety of different terrains, including dense woodland and open fields. Along the way, you’ll spot plenty of wildlife, including rabbits, foxes, and birds of prey. You can also explore the many historical features, such as ancient monuments and old mine shafts.
At the end of the trail, you will find the stunning Neston Lake, which is surrounded by lush greenery and peaceful countryside. All in all, this is a great walk for anyone looking for a peaceful and scenic experience.
Helsby Hill Circuit
Discovering the Helsby Hill Circuit is a scenic way to take in the breathtaking views of the Welsh countryside. The circuit is a 7.5-mile hike that begins at the small village of Helsby, located in the Cheshire West and Chester district.
The trail brings you through a variety of terrains, from open fields to woodland paths, passing by historic monuments and iconic views of the River Dee. The trail is well signposted and offers plenty of opportunities to stop and take in the beauty of the countryside.
The highest point of the hill is at Helsby Hill, where you can enjoy magnificent views of the Dee Estuary and surrounding hills. The circuit is ideal for a day trip, allowing you to take in the sights and sounds of the local environment. It’s a great way to explore the area and get some fresh air.
Conclusion
Walking in Chester is a great way to get out and explore the area. With so many great options, you can find something to suit everyone’s needs. Whether it’s a leisurely stroll to take in the sights or a challenging hike up one of the area’s hills, Chester has something to offer.
So lace up your shoes and get out there to discover the beauty of Chester and its surroundings.