Chester: Backford - Lee by Backford - Railway - Axes Farm - Backford

Derek Smith

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Save Our Footpaths - get off the beaten track, this circular walk close to Chester includes several footpaths which are rarely used. However, you will have a very pleasant start as the first is in good condition, easy to follow and the scenery is quite pretty and takes you over a very pleasant brook via an excellent footbridge (photo on the right). Although the route is rated as easy the second footpath which takes you some distance alongside the railway and may cause a few problems, partly with overgrowing brambles in places, but in winter or after heavy rain there are likely to be deep extensive puddles which you will need to work round or get wet feet. Surprisingly there was very little mud. There are a variety of gates and stiles, most of them in good order, as were the bridges. The two stiles that were broken were being replaced by the council as I passed, so you should have a couple of quite new stiles to climb over. Some paths were of tarmac and excellent quality.

The walk is probably most suitable for teenagers, senior citizens and anyone in-between. The route is good for dogs, but hopeless for wheelchairs and buggies. Suitable footwear will be boots in summer and wellies in winter; and wearing shorts should be avoided as you may have to contend with nettles and brambles. Taking some small secateurs would be very useful in places to help you on your way. On your route there are no refreshments, picnic tables, bench seats, toilets or any other facilities, but it's quite a short walk.

England - North England - Cheshire - Countryside