Barbridge - Little Bache House - Wardle Hall - Wardle Hall Bridge - S.U. Canal - Barbridge

Derek Smith

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Save Our Footpaths - get off the beaten track, this circular walk is along footpaths which are not often used. It's a walk for the exploring serious walker and for the most part very pleasant with lots of variety, but there are several footpath deviations and old wooden stiles that are difficult to use and at one point missing. In addition to the more normal plank bridges over ditches by hedges, there are two stand-alone bridges. One is old and quite good but with nothing to cross the muddy deep puddle, and the other is brand new. You have several fields to cross, and footpath marker posts are often missing.

There were no farm animals, the route is quite flat, and you are very unlikely to meet another walker. Towards the end of the route are large warehouses and one is under construction. I met half a dozen huge dumper trucks churning up the footpaths across an old airfield and creating a new big hill.

The canal towpath return route is more normal and very pleasant, and the walk includes instructions for moored canal boat users.

The walk is probably most suitable for older teenagers, senior citizens and anyone agile in-between. Excellent for dogs, but hopeless for wheelchairs and buggies. Suitable footwear will be anything flat soled, but boots will be best and there should be no problems for anyone wearing shorts. Some stiles may be partly overgrown so taking some small secateurs would be very useful.

Except for the pub at the start and finish there are no refreshments or other facilities apart from a few bench seats near the end. The pub has good food so if you book in advance, you should be able to get a good meal with a drink; an excellent finish to a good walk.

England - North England - Cheshire - Canal Walk