We got our Chester local members to vote on their top 5 active things to do in & around Chester. Here are the ones that made the cut.
1) Walk the Sandstone Trail
The Sandstone Trail is an integral part of any outdoor loving Cestrian’s life. This walking trail runs 55km from Frodsham to Whitchurch following sandstone ridges through beautiful Cheshire & Shropshire countryside. Many people take on the epic challenge of hiking the whole trail in one day, however, it is very common to do it in sections with many circular routes available integrating parts of the trail. Our local tip is to start your walk off from the Pheasant Inn in Burwardsley. There are many routes leaving from here & on a Sunny evening the Pheasant has a amazing sunset views over the Cheshire plains.
2) Run/Walk the Romans walls
Did you know Chester was once the most important Cities in Roman Britain & was set to become the capital of Roman Britain! The Romans used Chester (formerly known as Deva) as a military strong point against the Celtic North & also an important trading port. A large amount of the original Roman city walls are still standing and can be walked or ran around in almost a complete circle. The full circuit is just 3.2km (almost 2miles) and provides great views of Chester & the surrounding area.
3) Hike the HILL - Moel Famau
Although many locals like to think of this as somewhat of a mountain, Moel Famau is in fact a hill standing at 1818ft tall. Do not let this put you off, Moel Famau is situated a short drive from Chester over the boarder into Wales in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). It can be seen from many areas around Chester including the walls. At Moel Famau there is cheap parking with a few different walking routes up to the top usually taking between 30-45minutes to walk depending on your fitness. At the top you can climb the Jubilee tower & have great views of Snowdonia & on a clear day you can even see Chester.
4) Hilbre Island
Hilbre Island is located a short drive from Chester near the town of West Kirby. Hilbre island is a 2mile walk across the sands of the Dee estuary. Ensure you check the tides for safe crossing times. If you’re a wildlife lover this is the perfect opportunity to see a large variety of birds and even grey seals in the warmer months.
5) Stroll along the meadows
The Chester meadows footpath follows the edge of the River Dee almost from the City Centre. Cross the Queens Park suspension bridge at the groves (Chester’s river side) & follow the river upstream and onto the meadows. You can make this a short 20mins walk by looping back through the affluent suburb of Handbridge. Alternatively, if you fancy more of a trek you can continue along the meadows riverside footpath to the small village of Eccleston and walk back to Chester along Dukes drive (Around a 6 mile loop taking roughly 2 to 2 & half hours walking).
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(Photo Credit thanks to Synergy member James Roberts)