BROKEN CROSS WALKERS Macclesfield

BROKEN CROSS WALKERS Macclesfield

A Summary of our walks in 2019

Last updated 05/08/2020

Walk No	Date	Area	Walk details	Weather	Miles	Ft Ascent	Walkers
201	13/01/19	Cheshire	Gawsworth and Sutton.	Overcast	7	386	16
202	27/01/19	Cheshire	Gawsworth and Heskey Wood	Overcast, windy	7	414 ft	15
203	10/02/19	Staffordshire	Rushton Spencer and Rudyard	Overcast	7	1051 ft	11
204	24/02/19	Peak District	Whaley Bridge and Taxal	Sunny periods	7	1493 ft	13
205	10/03/19	Cheshire	Teggs Nose and Langley	Sunshine and showers	7	1242 ft	5
206	24/03/19	Cheshire	Mottram St Andrews and Nether Alderley	Sunny periods	7	989 ft	10
207	07/04/19	Derbyshire	Harpurhill and Brierlow Dale	Overcast	8	938 ft	8
208	21/04/19	Cheshire	Bosley Reservoir circular	Sunny periods	8	694 ft	17
209	05/05/19	Cheshire	Prestbury and Butley Town	Sunny periods	7	685 ft	12
210	19/05/19	High Peak	Chinley Churn and Cracken Edge	Overcast	8	1424 ft	11
211	02/06/19	Peak District	Goyt Valley and Goytsclough	Sunny periods	7	1152 ft	15
212	16/06/19	Cheshire	Bollington and Rainow	Sunny periods, heavy showers	7	1377 ft	13
213	30/06/19	Staffordshire	Rudyard Lake circular	Sunny periods	6		10
214	14/07/19	Cheshire	Chelford and Nether Alderley	Sunny periods	7	253 ft	14
215	11/08/19	Cheshire	Adlington and Wood Lanes	Sunny periods	7	400 ft	12
216	25/08/19	High Peak	Whaley Bridge and Buxsworth	Sunny	7	711 ft	11
217	08/09/19	Cheshire	Higher Hurdsfield and Kerridge	Sunny periods	6	568 ft	12
218	22/09/19	Cheshire	Sutton Common and Oakgrove	Overcast then showers	8	1364 ft	2
219	06/10/19	Cheshire	Ashley and Mobberley	Overcast	7	409 ft	8
220	20/10/19	Cheshire	Allostock and Lower Peover	Sunny periods, showers	7	123 ft	12
221	03/11/19	Cheshire	Lower Peover and Peover Hall	Misty, sunny periods	7	294 ft	12
222	17/11/19	High Peak	Whaley Bridge		7	711 ft	9
223	01/12/19	Cheshire	Redesmere and Capesthorne	Sunny periods	7		9
224	15/12/19	Peak District	Castleton and Hope	Sunny periods then rain	7	661 ft	13
225	29/12/19	Cheshire	Tytherington, Prestbury and Butley Town	Sunny periods	7	435 ft	15

Walk 201 - 13/01/19 Gawsworth and Sutton with Broken Cross Walkers

Area	Cheshire			Distance	7 miles	Ascent	386 ft
Walk	Gawsworth and Sutton with Broken Cross Walkers			Maximum altitude	614 ft	Minimumum altitude	451 ft
Start from	Gawsworth Church	Post	code	Duration including stops
Weather	Overcast
Map	Explorer 268			Information from Viewranger app on my Samsung S7 phone
Route - Gawsworth - Woodhouse Green Farm - Sutton Reservoir - Sutton Village- Sutton Hall - Canal - Danes Moss - Gawsworth

Sixteen of us set off from Gawsworth and followed the path across the fields and along the lane to Woodhouse Green Farm, more field paths took us up to the Canal and then it was across the road and up the muddy and slippery path to the Dam on Sutton Reservoir, an easy path then led us alongside the Reservoir and into Sutton Village where we stopped for lunch in the small public park by the school. Afterwards the field path took us past Sutton Hall and onto the canal towpath which we followed south to Danes Moss. A nice easy path took us across the Moss and then more field paths brought us back to Gawsworth Church and our start point. Many thanks to Kati, Wendy, Hans, Chris J, Alec, Judith, Irene, Janet, Una, Marlene, Diana, Chris R, Sue V, Rita and Sue P for joining me on this walk

Nearly back at Gawsworth

Heading across to Sutton

Gawsworth Church

Walk 202 - 27/01/19 Gawsworth and Heskey Wood

Area	Cheshire			Distance	7 miles	Ascent
Walk	Gawsworth and Heskey Wood			Maximum altitude	464 ft	Minimum altitude	344 ft
Start from	Gawsworth	Post	code	Duration including stops	3½ hours
Weather	Overcast, windy7
Map	Explorer 268			Information from Viewranger app on my Samsung S7 phone
Route - Gawsworth - Marton Lane - Walkersheath - Henshall Hall - Heskey Wood - Tidnock Wood - Shellow Lane - Cloverbank Gawsorth

Fifteen of us set off from Gawsworth and followed the field paths over to Marton Lane, then after some distance along the lane we passed through Walkersheath and across the fields to Henshall Hall, Heskey Wood gave us some shelter from the wind for a coffee stop and then it was through the wood and along the lane to Tidnock Wood. Once past the wood a track took us through Great Tidnock Farm and shortly afterwards we stopped for lunch at a farm track junction, not ideal but the best shelter we could find from the incessant wind. Afterwards we carried on along the track and over the A536 and onto Shellow Lane which we followed for some distance. An easy field path then headed north past Cloverbank Organic Farm and the nearby fishing ponds and then back to the cars near Gawsworth Church.

Many thanks to Anita, John, Wendy, Judith, Diana, Kim, Kane, Julie, Trevor, Shirley, Kati, Chris R, Sue V and Sue P for joining me on the windy walk around Gawsworth and Heskey Wood.

Coffee break in the shelter of Heskey Wood

A lovely avenue of trees as we head away from Gawsworth

Heading back to Gawsworth

Walk 203 - 10/02/19 Rushton Spencer and Rudyard

Area	Staffordshire	Walking time	3 hours	Average speed
Walk	Rushton Spencer and Rudyard	Minimum altitude	517 ft	Maximum altitude	787 ft
Start from	Staffordshire Way Car Park Rushton - Post Code -	Altitude loss		Altitude gain	1051 ft
Weather	Overcast	Distance	7.24 miles
Map	Explorer 268	Information from Viewranger app on my Samsung S7 phone
Route - Rushton Spencer - Rushton Church - Barns Lee, Birch Trees Farm - Horton Lodge - Rudyard - Cliffe Park - Rushton Spencer

Eleven of us set off from Rushton Spencer and followed the disused rail track south and then across the fields to the lovely Rushton Church which sits on the hillside looking down on Rushton Spencer. Once down the drive we followed the lane and after passing Rushton Hall and Barns Lee we took the muddy field path up the hillside and across to Birch Trees Farm stopping for coffee in a sheltered area. Once through the farm we followed the long farm drive out onto the road and then after a short distance a narrow path took us past Horton Lodge and down to the Cafe by the Rudyard Dam. Comfy benches enabled us all to sit comfortably for lunch and then it was back up the track and along the lakeside path through Rea Cliffe Wood and past the derelict Cliffe Park which appeared to be possibly ripe for renovation. We continued on along the Staffordshire Way and rejoined the disused railway track fro the walk back to the start at Rushton Spencer. Many thanks to Kati, Rob, Hans, Wendy, Chris J, Alec, Sue P, Dianna, Judith and Irene for joining me on this walk.

Rudyard Lake

Heading towards Birch Trees Farm

Heading back to Rushton Spencer

Walk 204 - 24/02/19 Whaley Bridge and Taxal

Area	Peak District			Distance	7 miles	Ascent	1493 ft
Walk	Whaley Bridge and Taxal			Maximum altitude	954 ft	Minimum altitude	504 ft
Start from	Whaley Bridge	Post	code	Duration including stops	4½ hours
Weather	Sunny periods
Map				Information from Viewranger app on my Samsung S7 phone
Route - Whaley Bridge - Toddbrook Reservoir - Kishfield Bridge - Gap House - Taxal - Hillbridge Nature Reserve - Whaley Bridge

Thirteen of us set off from Whaley Bridge on a lovely sunny day and took the paths and tracks up alongside Toddbrook Reservoir, the hillside paths gave some stunning views across the valley and then we descended to Kishfield Bridge and then across to Taxal passing Gap House on the way. We stopped in Taxal Churchyard for lunch and then it was across the fields to Hillbridge Nature Reserve and after crossing the foot bridge over the River Goyt we headed north along the river bank past New Horwich and back into Whaley Bridge. Many thanks to John, Alec, Derek, Judith, Diana, Wendy, Rob, Trevor, Sue V, Susanna, Kati and Hans for joining me on this scenic walk.

Nice place for a coffee break

Looking towards Taxal Moor

Heading back through Shallcross Wood

Heading up the lane above Toddbrook Reservoir

Heading towards Hillbridge and Parkwood Nature Reserve

River Goyt

Walk 205 - 10/03/19 Teggs Nose and Langley

Area	Cheshire			Distance	6.90 miles	Ascent	1242 ft
Walk	Teggs Nose and Langley with Broken Cross Walkers			Maximum altitude	1233 ft	Minimum altitude	514 ft
Start from	Higher Hurdsfield	Post	code	Duration including stops	4 hrs 20 mins
Weather	Rain and hail showers and sunshine
Map				Information from Viewranger app on my Samsung S7 phone
Route - Higher Hurdsfield - Gritstone Trail - Teggs Nose - Langley - The Hollins - Macclesfield Canal - Higher Hurdsfield

Five hardy walkers braved the elements as we set off from Higher Hurdsfield in the rain, we headed up Cliff Lane and avoided the muddy hillside further up the lane the rain eased off and we climbed up through the wood with several inches of snow on the ground, glimpses of blue sky and the sun gave us hope as we followed the Gritstone Trail across the fields to Teggs Nose Cafe. It was too early for lunch but the warm fire and smell of hot coffee proved too much. After our break we followed the track through the quarry with some great views across the hills. A steep descent down the snowy hillside into Langley needed caution but we were soon down onto level ground and through the village. After lunch in the Churchyard we passed Langley Hall and took the field path up and over the Hollins, once again we had some great views over Macclesfield and the Cheshire Plain. After passing the Golf Course we joined the canal and followed this back to Hursdfield Road and then up the road and back to the car park. A great walk which started out in rainy weather and then improved considerably as the day wore on. many thanks to Kati, John D, Sheila and Diana for joining me on this seven mile walk.

Looking across to Macclesfield Forest from Teggs Nose

Heading down to Langley

On the Gritstone Trail

A bench with a view on Teggs Nose

Heading to the Hollins from Langley

Walk 206 - 24/03/19 Mottram St Andrew and Nether Alderley

Area	Cheshire			Distance	6.34 miles	Ascent	989 ft
Walk	Mottram St Andrew and Nether Alderley			Maximum altitude	626 ft	Minimum altitude331 ft
Start from	Mottram St Andrew	Post	code	Duration including stops	4 hours
Weather	Sunny periods
Map	Explorer 268			Information from Viewranger app on my Samsung S7 phone
Route - Mottram - Clock House Wood - Dickens Wood - Armada Beacon - Bradford House - Finlow Hill - North Cheshire Way - Mottram

Ten of us set off from Mottram St Andrew and followed the field path to Clock House Wood and then along woodland path which took us through Dickens Wood to the Armada Beacon. We crossed the road and passed White Barn and along the Bradford Lane for a short distance. We found a sunny spot for lunch and then carried on across the fields past Finlow Hill and Mount Farm. A short stretch along the North Cheshire Way took us to Goose Green Farm and then a final field path brought us back to Mottram St Andrew.

Many thanks to Anita, Kati, Judith, Rita, Derek, Sue P, Rob, Ken and Diana for joining me on this pleasant walk.

Heading up though the woods

Just finished lunch and ready for the off

Spring is on the way shortly

Looking out from the Edge over to Manchester

Heading back to Mottram

Walk 207 - 07/04/19 Harpurhill and Brierlow Dale with Broken Cross Walkers

Area	Derbyshire			Distance	7.63 miles	Ascent	938 ft
Walk	Harpurhill and Brierlow Dale with Broken Cross Walkers			Maximum altitude	1257 ft	Minimum altitude	968 ft
Start from	Poole Cavern, Buxton	Post	code	Duration including stops	4½ hours
Weather	Overcast
Map				Information from Viewranger app on my Samsung S7 phone
Route - Buxton - Harpurhill - Disused track - Brierlow Bar - Brierlow Dale - KIngs Sterndale - Cowdale - Staden - Buxton

Eight of us set off from near Pooles Cavern in Buxton and followed the tracks and paths across to Harpurhill, a path between the house took us up the hillside where we joined the disused railway track that used to service the hillside quarries. We followed this for several miles and then field paths took us down to Brierlow Bar where we stopped lunch. Afterwards we crossed the main road and took the path down through Brierlow Dale before eventually taking the steep path up the hillside and out of the Dale. Easy field paths and tracks then took us across to King Sterndale and then across to Cowdale and then Staden. A downhill path then led us down into the outskirts of Buxton to join the path back to our start point near Pooles Cavern. Many thanks to Anita, Chris R, Ken , David I, Marlene, Diana and Bernie for joining me on this walk.

Descending down towards Brierlow Dale

Marlene stroking the friendly bull, he was a big hefty beast

Heading down Brierlow Dale

Heading towards Cowdale

Walk 208 - 21/04/19 Bosley Reservoir Circular

Area	Cheshire			Distance	7.50 miles	Ascent	694 ft
Walk	Bosley Reservoir Circular			Maximum altitude	692 ft	Minimum altitude	357 ft
Start from	Bosley	Post	code	Duration including stops	4 hours
Weather	Sunny
Map	Explorer 268			Information from Viewranger app on my Samsung S7 phone
Route - Bosley - Macclesfield Canal - Bosley Locks - Cowley - Stoneyfield - Primrose Bank - Bosley Reservoir - Bosley

Seventeen of us set off from Bosley and followed the field paths and tracks across to the Macclesfield Canal, after a pleasant coffee break on the towpath we headed over the aqueduct and north past Bosley Locks to Cowley and then it was up the narrow lane and across the main road to Stoneyfield, tracks and field paths took us along the hillside where we found a shady spot to stop for lunch with outstanding views across the valley, We passed Primrose Bank and joined the easy footpath along the shore of Bosley Reservoir and then along the dam and then across then fields and back to Bosley. Many thanks to everyone for coming along on this sunny walk of just over seven miles. Our group consisted of Irene, Diana, David I, Judith, Marlene, Sue P, Chris R, Wendy, Hans, Pauline, Kati, Derek, Rob, Ros, Sheila, Trevor and David P the leader.

Macclesfield Canal

Walking across the dam on Bosley Reservoir

Heading away from Bosley

Looking across to the Radio Tower on Croker Hill

Bit of a queue

Walk 209 - 05/05/19 - Prestbury and Butley Town

Area	Cheshire				Distance	7.25 miles	Ascent	685 ft
Walk	Prestbury and Butley Town				Maximum altitude		Minimum altitude
Start from	Riverside Park, Beech Lane	Post	code	SK10 2SL	Duration including stops	4 hours
Weather	Sunny periods
Map	Explorer 268				Information from Viewranger app on my Samsung S7 phone
Route - Riverside Park - River Bollin - Prestbury - Park House Farm - Butley Town - Dumbah Hollow - Clarke Lane - Middlewood Way - Riverside Park

Twelve of us set off from the Riverside Park and followed the path alongside the River Bollin and into Prestbury. Once through the village a track took us through Park House Farm where we stopped for a coffee break in the field. An inquisitive horse meant we did not stay long and then we crossed the railway line and the main road and into Butley Town. Once through this small hamlet we stopped for lunch and then after crossing several fields we entered Dumbah Hollow, a little sanctuary beside the busy main road. Our route then lay along the Middlewood Way and then back down the lane to our start at the Riverside Car Park. Many thanks to Anita, Chris R, Wendy, Janet D, Dianna, Rob, Derek, Anne, Kati, David I, Judith and David the leader

Diane practising her horse whispering

Heading across the fields towards Butley Town

Bluebells in Dumbah Hollow

Our group today from the left, Kati, Anne, Chris R, Janet, Wendy, Anita, Derek, Judith, David I, Rob, Diana and myself behind the camera

Walk 210 - 19/05/19 Whaley Bridge and Chinley Churn

Area	High Peak				Distance	7.63 miles	Ascent	1434 ft
Walk	Whaley Bridge and Chinley Churn				Maximum altitude	1482 ft	Minimum altitude	469 ft
Start from	Whaley Bridge	Post	code	SK23 7NT	Duration including stops	4¼ hours
Weather	Overcast
Map	OS The Peak District - Dark Peak area OL1				Information from Viewranger app on my Samsung S7 phone
Route - Whaley Bridge - Waterside - Green Head - Clough Head - Overhill Road - Chinley Churn - Crackern Churn - Buxsworth - Whaley Bridge

Eleven of us set off from Whaley Bridge and after a short distance along the canal we passed through Waterside and began the steady ascent up the hillside passing Green Head and Clough Head Farm where we stopped for a coffee break. Then it was to Overhill Road with its very welcome flat sections. At the track junction we took the path east and began the final uphill stretch which brought us to Chinley Churn. A convenient place for lunch with extensive views across to Kinder Scout and the surrounding hills. After lunch we headed south along Cracken Edge with a few sections which needed care on the narrow path. The route then led its way down to the road where we joined a level track which eventually brought us to Brierley Green and Bugsworth Canal Basin. An easy walk along the towpath brought us back into Whaley Bridge where some of us sampled the coffee and cakes at the nearby cafe. Many thanks to everyone for coming along on this hilly walk. Our group consisted of Anita, Judith, Kati, Diana, Sheila, Rita, David I, Ken, Kim, Anne and David P our leader

Ken near Chinley Churn

Coffee break near Clough Head Farm

Heading along Cracken Edge

Walk 211 - 02/06/19 Goyt Valley and Goytsclough

Area	Peak District				Distance	6.84 miles	Ascent	1152 ft
Walk	Goyt Valley and Goytsclough				Maximum altitude	1636 ft	Minimum altitude	996 ft
Start from	Derbyshire Bridge	Post	code	SK17 6TT	Duration including stops	4¼ hours
Weather	Sunny periods & showers
Map	OS Peak District - White Peak OL24				Information from Viewranger app on my Samsung S7 phone
Route - Derbyshire Bridge - Burbage Edge - Disused Railway - Wild Moor - Goyts Moss - Goyts Clough - Derbyshire Bridge

Fifteen of us set off from Derbyshire Bridge and followed the old coach road east from Derbyshire Bridge. On reaching the high point of the track we headed north and then onto Burbage Edge where we stopped for a coffee break with some outstanding views across the valley to the Cat & Fiddle. We then continued on along the ridge and then took the side path avoiding the steep section which brought us down to the disused rail track with its bricked up tunnel. This was the original route of the Cromford and High Peak Railway, constructed around 1700. An easy walk along the track eventually brought us to Goyts Lane where we stopped for lunch. Afterwards we descended down the hillside to Wild Moor and then joined the hillside path which brought us to Berry Clough where we joined the lane by Goytsclough Quarry where Thomas Pickford started his Transport business from in the 1700. Once on the lane it was an easy walk back to the start at Derbyshire Bridge. Many thanks to Anita, Judith, Irene, Chris R, Sue V, Ken, Marlene, Diana, Anne M, Sheila, Wendy, Hans, Rita and Karen for joining me on this walk.

After the walk ten of us visited St Stephens Church at Forest Chapel for the Walkers and Cyclists Service which is held each year in June. Tea and cakes were enjoyed after the Service and donations collected for the Buxton Mountain Rescue Team.

Heading down into the Goyt Valley

Heading back to the Derbyshire Bridge car park

Heading up the old coach road

Pausing for a breather above Errwood Reservoir

Forest Chapel

Walk 212 - 16/06/19 Bollington and Rainow

Area	Cheshire			Distance	7.54 miles	Ascent	1377 ft
Walk	Bollington and Rainow			Maximum altitude	1315 ft	Minimum altitude	475 ft
Start from	Bollington	Post	code	Duration including stops	4½ Hours
Weather	Sunny periods and heavy showers
Map	Explorer 268			Information from Viewranger app on my Samsung S7 phone
Route - Bollington - Hedge Row - Harrop Fold Farm - Saddle Cote - Erwin Lane Waggonshaw Brow - Common Barn Rainow - Bollington

Thirteen of us set off from Bollington on a sunny day and headed out of Bollington and up Hedge Row, we passed through Harrop Fold Farm and crossed the main road and headed up the hillside passing Saddle Cote where we stopped for lunch in a sunny and sheltered spot. We then followed the lane up to Waggonshaw Brow as dark clouds appeared on the horizon. We crossed the fields near Common Barn Farm as the rain started. Very soon the torrential rain started accompanied by thunder and lightning. Despite all having their waterproofs on we tried to shelter in the lee of the drystone walls as the storm raged. After about ten minutes the rain eased and we set off again down into Rainow. After passing through the village the rain stopped and we followed the paths back across the fields and into Bollington. An interesting walk despite the torrential rain. Thanks to everyone for coming along on the walk. Our group consisted of Anita, Wendy, Chris R, Sue V, Eileen, Judith, Ken, Tom, Chris J, Alec, Kim, Irene and David P our leader.

Lunch break in a sheltered spot

Heading towards Waulkmill Farm

Heading up to Saddle Cote

Pause for a breather near Common Barn Farm as the storm approaches

Walk 213 - 30/06/19 Rudyard Lake

Area	Staffordshire			Distance	6 miles	Ascent
Walk	Rudyard Lake			Maximum altitude		Minimum altitude
Start from	Rudyard Lake Station	Post	code	Duration including stops	3 hours
Weather	Sunny periods
Map	Explorer 268			Information from Viewranger app on my Samsung S7 phone
Route - Rudyard Station - Railtrack path - Cliffe Park - Staffordshire Way - Rudyard Station

Eight walkers set off from Rudyard Lake Station and followed the track alongside the Lake to the north end and then returned along the Staffordshire Way stopping at the Cafe for refreshments and then back to the start at the Station. Thanks to everyone for coming along on the walk. Our group consisted of Wendy, Marlene, Ken, Chris R, Tom, David I, Una and Sue P.

Rudyard Lake

Walk 214 - 14/07/19 Chelford and Nether Alderley

Area	Cheshire			Distance	7.71 miles	Ascent	253 ft
Walk	Chelford and Nether Alderley			Maximum altitude	305 ft	Minimum altitude	200 ft
Start from	A537 Chelford	Post	code	Duration including stops	4½ hours
Weather	Sunny periods
Map	Explorer 268			Information from Viewranger app on my Samsung S7 phone
Route - A537 - Heawood Hall - Nether Alderley Church - Sossmoss Lane - David Lewis Centre - Chelford Village - Astle Farm - A537

Fourteen of us set off from the layby on the A537 and using field paths and tracks we passed Mere Farm and Heawood Hall and then it was over the bypass and into the grounds of Nether Alderley Church where we stopped for a coffee break. As we finished our break the Church Warden Michael kindly offered to show us the may interesting features of the beautiful Church which dates from the 14 century including the Stanley Pews. Afterwards we took the path away from the Church and crossed the bypass again and followed Sossmoss Lane to the junction and then across the road and back onto the field paths and tracks which took us past the David Lewis Centre where we stopped for lunch. Afterwards a path blocked for safety reasons gave us a problem but with a bit of ingenuity and caution we managed to get round the problem, then it was down the track and into Chelford Village, another path took us over Chelford Heath and then after passing Chelford Church a field path and track brought us back to the start. Many thanks to Christine John D, Wendy, Judith, Marlene, Irene, Eileen, Chris J, Alec, Dave I, Shirley, Kati, and Sue P for joining me on this walk.

Following the track away from the Church

Here come the girls

http://www.alderleychurch.co.uk/

Nether Alderley Church on Wikipedia

Nether Alderley Church

Heading for our lunch spot

Crossing the potato field

Walk 215 - 11/08/19 Adlington and Wood Lanes

Area	Cheshire				Distance	7 miles	Ascent	400 ft
Walk	Adlington and Wood Lanes				Maximum altitude	524 ft	Minimum altitude	289 ft
Start from	Adlington	Post	code	SK10 4NA	Duration including stops	4 hours
Weather	Sunny periods
Map	Explorer 268				Information from Viewranger app on my Samsung S7 phone
Route - Adlington - Woodford - Hope Green - Wood Lanes - Macclesfield Canal - Brookledge Lane - Adlington

Twelve of us set off from Adlington and followed the field paths and tracks across towards Woodford, we passed the Golf Course and then headed east along the track crossing the main road at Hope Green. Footpaths and tracks took us to Wood Lanes and then we joined the Canal and stopped for lunch. Afterwards we headed south along the towpath and then found our footpath blocked due to overhead work on the electricity pylons, we retreated back up the towpath for a short way and then joined Brookledge Lane for the walk back to the start at Adlington. A nice flat walk of seven miles with sunny periods. Our group consisted off Christine John, Wendy, Alan, Chris R, David I, Judith, Marlene, Irene, Ken, Sheila and David P our leader. many thanks to everyone for coming along on this walk.

Zooming in on the pylon workers Yop need a head for heights for this.

Heading along the towpath

Walk 216 - 25/08/19 Whaley Bridge and Buxsworth

Area	High Peak			Distance	6.51 miles	Ascent	711 ft
Walk	Whaley Bridge and Buxsworth			Maximum altitude	697 ft	Minimum altitude	440 ft
Start from	Whaley Bridge	Post	code	Duration including stops	4 hours
Weather	Sunny
Map	OS Dark Peak OL1			Information from Viewranger app on my Samsung S7 phone
Route - Whaley Bridge - Peak Forest Canal - Newtown - Gowhole - Brierley Green - Buxsworth- Whaley Bridge

Eleven of us set off on a bright sunny morning and followed the Peak Forest Canal north to the outskirts of Newtown and then crossed the River Goyt and followed the field paths and tracks to Gowhole. Overgrown paths and muddy places were negotiated and once under the railway arch we found a sunny spot for lunch on the hillside. More field paths and tracks eventually brought us to Brierley Green and then onward to Bugsworth Canal Basin where we stopped for refreshments at the Navigation Inn. Afterwards an easy walk back down the towpath brought us back to the start in Whaley Bridge. Many thanks to Anita, Judith, Irene, Ken, Chris R, Sue V, Andy, Alison, Kati and Wendy fore joining me on this sunny walk.

Heading across the fields to Buxsworth

River Goyt

Whaley Bridge Canal Basin

Walk 217 - 08/09/19 - Higher Hurdsfield and Kerridge

Area	Cheshire			Distance	5.30 miles	Ascent	568 ft
Walk	Higher Hurdsfield & Kerridge			Maximum altitude	847 ft	Minimum altitude	420 ft
Start from	Higher Hurdsfield	Post	code	Duration including stops	3.50 hours
Weather	Sunny periods
Map	Explorer 268			Information from Viewranger app on my Samsung S7 phone
Route - Higher Hurdsfield - Calrofold Lane - Kerridge End - Kerridge Ridge - Kerridge - Higher Swanscoe Farm - Higher Hurdsfield

Twelve of us set off from the car park and after reaching the field path we headed across Cliff Hill we reached Calrofold Lane and followed this to Kerridge End, we crossed the main road and joined the hillside track where we stopped for a coffee break. Then it was along the hillside passing many of the important historical features which included the California Coal Mine and the Wedding Steps with Hough Hole Gardens in the valley below. We rounded the hillside beneath White Nancy and stopped for lunch on the hillside overlooking Bollington. Afterwards we continued on along the track past the old Redway Tavern, now closed and then along the lane passing the Bulls Head where we joined the field path which took us across to Higher Swancoe Farm and the Random Apple Company. A short walk down the lane brought us back to the car park. Many thanks to Christine, Anita, Kim, Ken, Chris J, Derek, Ros, Andy, Kati, Sue V, Chris R and David for leading us on this walk.

Heading across the fields to Higher Swanscoe Farm

Lunch break overlooking Bollington

The Random Apple Company

Walk 218- 22/09/19 Sutton Common from Lyme Green

Area	Cheshire			Distance	8.17 miles	Ascent	1364 ft
Walk	Sutton Common from Lyme Green			Maximum altitude	1325 ft	Minimum altitude	496 ft
Start from	Lyme Green	Post	code	Duration including stops	4 hours
Weather	Overcast, showers
Map	Explorers 268			Information from Viewranger app on my Samsung S7 phone
Route - Lyme Green - Sutton Reservoir Hawkeshead Quarry - Croker Hill - Sutton Common - Gawsworth Common - Oakgrove - Lyme Green

Just two of set off from Lyme Green and headed along the canal towpath, the early morning heavy rain had ceased and although it was overcast it was quite warm. We left the canal and passed Sutton Reservoir and then began the walk up the lane past Hawkwhead Quarry and Croker House. Further on we passed Hanginggate Farm and then onto the ridge over Croker Hill. Further on we arrived at the Radio Tower on Sutton Common. We then followed the track down the hillside stopping for lunch with some great views across the Cheshire Plain. The path descended the hillside and into the woods above Oakgrove. On reaching the lane we crossed the main road and joined the canal just as the rain started again. It was waterproofs on and a steady walk back along the towpath top the start at Lyme Green. many thanks to Dave I for joining me on this walk.

Looking up at the Radio Tower

The Radio Tower on Sutton Common

Heading down to Oakgrove

Walk 219 - 06/10/19 Ashley and Mobberley with Broken Cross Walkers

Area	Cheshire			Distance	7.48 miles	Ascent	677 ft
Walk	Ashley and Mobberley with Broken Cross Walkers			Maximum altitude	197 ft	Minimum altitude	80 ft
Start from	Ashley	Post	code	Duration including stops	4 hours
Weather	Overcast
Map	Explorer 268			Information from Viewranger app on my Samsung S7 phone
Route - Ashley - Arden House - New Mills - Castle Mill - Bollin Valley Way - Hale Golf Club - Tanyard Farm - Ashley

Eight of us set off from Ashley and followed the field path past the cricket ground and over the fields to Arden House, a magnificent Georgian building which is very close to the proposed HS2 rail line. Then it was along the field paths and tracks to the small hamlet of New Mills. Then more field paths took is over some very boggy fields and it was with difficulty that we eventually managed to find a dry spot to eat our lunch, Afterwards we continued on passing Castle Mill and joined the Bollin Valley Way, the river was running quite high due to all the recent rain. We passed under the noisy M56 and then after more woods we passed Hale Golf Club and then up the path to join the road near Tanyard Farm/ An easy walk along the lane brought us back to the start in Ashley. Many thanks to Wendy, Eileen, Judith, Irene, Andy, Chris J and Alec for joining me on this walk.

Heading back towards Ashley

Arden House

Andy studying a wooden sculpture on the Bollin Valley Way

Walk 220 - 20/10/19 Allostock and Lower Peover

Area	Cheshire			Distance	6.40 miles	Ascent	123 fty
Walk	Allostock and Lower Peover			Maximum altitude	152 ft	Minimum altitude	98 ft
Start from	Allostock, Shackerley Mere	Post	code	Duration including stops	4 hours
Weather	Sunny periods, showers
Map	Explorer 268			Information from Viewranger app on my Samsung S7 phone
Route - Shakerley Mere - Hulme Hall - Cheadle Heath - Lower Peover - Fox Covert - Dams Lane - Shakerley Mere

Twelve of us set off from Shakerley Mere car park and walked along Hulme Hall Lane, we passed the historic Hulme Hall along the previously blocked path which was very overgrown with nettles. The nettles were again completely blocking the path so we used the adjacent farmers field to bypass the problem and eventually emerged back on the track near Hulme Hall Mill. Then it was across the road past New Farm and along the track over the M6 where we stopped for lunch by the Chalet at the abandoned Plumley Golf Course. More paths took us across the fields and into Lower Peover. Then it was through the Churchyard and along the track that led south and past Mill Bank Farm and Fox Covert and then back to Shakerley Mere. Thanks to Anita, Wendy, Judith, Irene, Sheila, Rob, Kim, Alec, Chris J, Anne and Andy for joining me on this walk.

Lunch by our little Chalet

Some nosey cattle

Alec is in charge of directions

Walk 221 - 03/11/19 Lower Peover and Peover Hall with Broken Cross Walkers

Area	Cheshire			Distance	7.54 miles	Ascent	294 ft
Walk	Lower Peover and Peover Hall with Broken Cross Walkers			Maximum altitude	207 ft	Minimum altitude	112 ft
Start from	Radbroke Hall	Post	code	Duration including stops
Weather	Misty then sunny periods
Map	Explorer 268			Information from Viewranger app on my Samsung S7 phone
Route - Radboke Hall- Freegreen Farm - Lower Peover - Woodend Farm - Peover Hall - Radbroke Hall

Twelve of us set off on a misty morning from the lay-by near Radbroke Hall, we followed track known as Sandy Lane down to Freegreen Farm and then down the road to the outskirts of Lower Peover. Field paths and tracks took us to Millbank Farm as the sun finally broke through the early morning mist. We crossed the lane and followed the brook named Peover Eye to the A50. A short way up the road we took the field path stopping for lunch in the fields before continuing along the path to Boots Green. WE followed the lane eastwards and then a field path took us up through Great Wood and into the grounds of Peover Hall, an Elizabethan house with origins dating back to 1585. We passed St Lawrence's Church close by and then followed the track out to the entrance on the A50 and then it was a short walk back up the road to the start. Many thanks to Christine, Anita, Wendy, Chris R, Derek, Andy, Ken, Chris J, Alec, Anne, and Kati for joining me on this interesting and scenic walk.

Walking through Great Wood

Peover Hall

Alec showing us the way again, who needs maps?

St Lawrence's Church. Over Peover

Walk 222- 17/11/19 Whaley Bridge, Toddbrooke and Taxal

Area	High Peak				Distance	7 miles	Ascent
Walk	Whaley Bridge, Toddbrook and Taxal				Maximum altitude		Minimum altitude
Start from	Taxal Layby	Post	code	SK23 7JX	Duration including stops	3½ hours
Weather	Showers
Map					Information from Viewranger app on my Samsung S7 phone
Route - Taxal layby - Shallcross House - Cadster House - Buxworth Basin - Bridgemont - Toddbrook - Tasxal

Seven of us set off on a damp morning from Taxal Layby, we followed the track up to Shallcross Hall Farm and then down the road to cross by the foundry along to Cadster House. From there we crossed Chapel Road and continued along to skirt Throstledale and had coffee and cupcakes (courtesy of Andy) by Roosdyche. Next we headed to Buxworth Basin for lunch by the canal and then walked along to Bridgemont where we crossed the A6 to pass through fields to head back by Stoneheads. Crossing Whaley Lane we turned into Start Lane to return via Toddbrook and Taxal.

Many thanks to Wendy, Andy, Kati, Sheila, Judith and Alan for joining me on this walk. And also thanks to Sue Vernon who led the walk.

Taxal Church

Walk 223- 01/12/19 Redesmere and Capesthorne

Area	Cheshire				Distance	7 miles	Ascent
Walk	Redesmere and Capesthorne				Maximum altitude		Minimum altitude
Start from	Redesmere	Post	code	SK11 9JR	Duration including stops	3½ hours
Weather	Frosty start, sunny
Map	Explorer 268				Information from Viewranger app on my Samsung S7 phone
Route - Redesmer - Capesthorne - Siddington - Redesmere

Eight walkers set off from the car park by Redesmere Lake in lovely sunshine after a very frosty start. We walked from Redesmere then crossed into Capesthorne and across farmland around Siddington. Still muddy in places despite the frost, The walkers today were Irene, Andy, Ken, Derek, Trevor, Rob, Hans and Wendy A special thank you to Wendy for organising and leading the walk.

The lake at Capesthorne

Walk 224 - 15/12/19 Castleton and Hope

Area	Peak District				Distance	6.90	Ascent	661 ft
Walk	Castleton and Hope				Maximum altitude	898 ft	Minimum altitude	531 ft
Start from	Treak Cliff	Post	code	S33 8WA	Duration including stops	4¾ hours
Weather	Sunny periods then rain
Map					Information from Viewranger app on my Samsung S7 phone
Route - Treak Cliff - Odin Mine - Dunscar Farm - Losehill Hall - Spring House Farm - Hope Church - Peakshole Water - Castleton - Treak Cliff

Thirteen of us set off from Treak Cliff near Castleton and after a short distance up the road we passed Odin Mine, the oldest documented lead mine in Derbyshire and is thought to be the oldest lead mine in England.

Muddy tracks and paths took us to Dunscsar Farm.and then across the fields to Hope via Losehill Hall and Spring House Farm. Most of the paths and tracks were wet and muddy and we became quite adept at squelching along and dodging the boggy bits. On arrival in Hope we made our way to the Church yard and ate our lunch.

Afterwards we continued on alongside the Peakshole Water towards Castleton. The sunny weather had disappeared and was replaced by rain as our muddy contingent arrived into Castleton. Some of the group carried on back to the cars and the rest of us went into a Cafe for coffee and cakes. Suitably refreshed we emerged to find the rain had stopped and we followed the lane back up to the start by Treak Cliff Cavern.

Luckily most of the walk was sunny with some great views but a bit wet at the end. Many thanks to everyone for coming along on the walk.

Our group consisted of Christine, Jackie B, Kati, Derek, Trevor, Alec, Judith, Jim, Katherine, Chris R, Sheila, Shirley and David P the leader.

Heading towards Hope with Mam Tor behind

Looking across to Mam Tor with its dusting of snow

Ready to leave Hope after our lunch

Walk 225 - 29/12/19 Tytherington, Prestbury and Butley Town

Area	Cheshire				Distance	2.40 miles	Ascent	607 ft
Walk	Tytherington, Prestbury and Butley Town				Maximum altitude	1325 ft	Minimum altitude	606 ft
Start from	Riverside Park Tytherington	Post	code	SK10 2SL	Duration including stops	4 hours
Weather	Sunny periods
Map	Explorer 268				Information from Viewranger app on my Samsung S7 phone
Route - Riverside Park - Bollin Valley Way - Prestbury - Butley Town - Dumbah Hollow - Middlewood Way - Riverside Park

Fifteen of us set off from Riverside Park Macclesfield and followed the Bollin Valley Way to Prestbury, were stopped for a while for a coffee break in Parrots Field. We then continued along the lane and through Park House Farm, across the fields and over the railway bridge to the A523. A path then led us over the field which turned out to be one of the muddiest fields we have ever crossed, we emerged eventually onto firm ground and headed into the small hamlet of Butley Town where David the leader assured us there should be a bench and a suitable place for lunch. Alas, we discovered the bench was missing and we were told by a lady nearby that it was her bench and it had been relocated to her paddock. She kindly invited us into the paddock to eat our lunch. Once seated on the various benches she offered us refreshments and soon produced a bottle of Champagne and glasses and some truffles which we all enjoyed immensely. A second bottle was produced and enjoyed and it was with some difficulty that we eventually set off on the remainder of our walk. A wonderful experience and many thanks to Caroline, David, and Emily for the wonderful hospitality. Field paths led us across to Dumbah Hollow and eventually, we arrived at the Middlewood Way which we followed back towards Macclesfield and then it was a short distance back to the start. A great walk that will forever be known as the "Mud and Champagne Walk" Our group consisted of Chris J, Alec Kim, Irene, Wendy, Derek, Chris R, Sue V, Jim, Catherine, Kati, Judith, Trevor, Sheila, and David our leader.

Heading towards Butley Town

Heading back towards the Middlewood Way

Coffee break in Prestbury

Wonderful hospitality at Butley Town

David enjoying his Champagne with one of our hosts David on the left.

Another great year with over 150 miles of walking in 25 walks and lets look forward to more great walks next year.

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