Chester: Guilden Sutton - Bird in Hand - Vicars Cross Golf Course - Guilden Sutton

Derek Smith

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A good route for a brisk circular walk in the Chester countryside, starting in the suburbs of Chester. Why not enjoy a bit of exercise before enjoying a nice meal at an old quiet village pub with a very small car park and mainly used by locals. The scenery is not spectacular but quite pleasant, especially as much of the route crosses the Vicars Cross golf course twice. Following a short walk along a dead-end road you reach the 'Bird in the Hand' inn which is popular with hikers. The route soon crosses the golf course and after a short noisy section beside the busy A51, returns to the relative tranquillity of the golf course for a much longer footpath walk across it back to Guilden Sutton village. A curiosity here is the bell you have to ring to warn golfers you're about to cross their line of play (see photo on the right). The paths are all good and unlikely to be muddy, and the kissing gates and stiles are in good order.

The walk is suitable for children, teenagers, senior citizens and anyone in-between. Difficult for dogs unless they can be carried over several stiles, some of which have high steps. Buggies would also need to be lifted over these, and regrettably the route is hopeless for wheelchairs. Suitable footwear will be anything flat soled and there should be no problems for anyone wearing shorts. There is a bench seat at the back of the golf club house, and picnic table sets outside the 'Bird in the Hand' inn. Drinks, food and toilets are at the pub, if you book in advance, you should be able to get a good meal with your drink, an excellent finish to a good walk. (See 'Additional info.' below). The village church was built in 1815 on the site of a previous church and the interior was restored in 2001. You will find it next to the village car park at the end of your walk, just past Vicarage Close.

England - North England - Cheshire - Countryside