Chester: Guilden Sutton - Great Barrow - Vicars Cross Golf Course - Guilden Sutton

Derek Smith

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With far more footpath than road, this is an easy circular walk over the pleasant and attractive Cheshire plain. The footpaths are used enough to be able to follow their route. Best walked in spring and summer as the fields by the river tend to become a bit of a flood plain in autumn and winter or after a lot of heavy rain. While most of the route is fairly clear you will not be without dilemmas; having started along part of the Longster Trail do you keep with best practice and follow the proper trail, even though it may be overgrown, or take the obvious and easy alternative? (Photo on the right). The most attractive part is the stroll across the very scenic and delightful golf course near the end. All the stiles and bridges are in good order and fitted with yellow route indicators, most of which are correct, with some indicating a better route than shown on the map. This is a shorter and much easier version of walk 7997.

The walk is suitable for children, senior citizens and anyone in-between. Difficult for dogs, and hopeless for wheelchairs and buggies. Suitable footwear will be stout trainers in summer, but boots in winter or wet weather; and due to extensive encounters with thistles and nettles avoid wearing shorts. There are refreshments, toilets and picnic tables at the pub near the start and finish. You will also come across the occasional bench seat on the route. If you book in advance, you should be able to get a good meal with your drink; (see 'Additional info' below). An excellent finish to a challenging walk.

England - North England - Cheshire - Countryside