Dates and Walks December 2018.

Advanced Notice: Walkers Meal 2019.

Date: Wednesday 13th March 2019.

Proposed Location Pant-yr-Ochain, Gresford.

This is later than usual in order to avoid the February half-term holidays in Flintshire and Cheshire which together spread from 18th February to 3rd March 2019.

I will post more details early in 2019, and will endeavour to contact everyone I think may be interested.

Saturday 1st December 2018.

Tegg's Nose and Macclesfield Forest.

Postponed.

Distance: 9 miles. Climb: 1000'.

Start: Tegg's Nose Country Park Car park. Pay and Display. Grid ref: SJ950732.

Leave Chester at 08-30 a.m.

This walk is taken from the "Pathfinders Guide to Cheshire". It is described as a varied walk with good views from Tegg's Nose. We will visit Tegg's Nose first, rather than at the end of the walk. The walk is also described as an undulating walk exploring the countryside on the edge of the Peak District. This is a walk that we have come to like and regularly appears on the list at this time of the year. Wintering birds sometime visit the many reservoirs we walk around, so it is useful to bring binoculars just in case.


Wednesday 5th December 2018.

A Walk Around Waen, Aberwheeler and Llandyrnog.

Postponed due to heavy rain in the weather forecast to last all day.

Distance : 9 miles. Climb: 600'.

Start: Aberwheeler  is on B5429. Approaching from the Mold road, turn left and after passing the play area and Bro Lleweni. This lane is opposite the chapel and the bus stop turning area. Park carefuly in the lane next to the houses. Grid ref: SJ096693.

Leave Chester at 09-00 a.m.
This is a walk taken from R.J.A. Dutton's book "Hidden Highways of North Wales". It explores the  Roman and Medieval Roads between Waen Aberwheeler and Llandyrnog. 



Saturday 8th December 2018.


Traeth Lafan and Its Foothills


Distance:7-8 miles. Climb:1000'.



Start: Abergwyngeryn Free Car Park Grid ref: SH 6527282. PC (opens about 09-30) nearby and a cafe at the outdoor centre that allows walkers to use the toilets (opens earlier than PC.)



This walk taken from Dave Berry's book "Walks On the North Wales Coast". The Traeth Lafan and it Foothills. This walk is an annual favourite and has in the past given us some wonderful experiences, especially in Winter trampling through soft fluffy knee deep snow, that didn't stick or wet our legs.  You never know we may get some  snow, this time too. It should be worthwhile bringing binoculars with you as we may visit The Spinnies Nature Reserve on the way back to our car.



This walk is described as walk of contrasting coastal and upland scenery with good views from the higher points on the North Wales path.



 This time we may investigate a new path that avoids a path that goes through a farm yard near The Spinnies, a very unpleasant smelly muddy experience even in July.



 High tide is at about 11-10 and is about 9.3 m (30.6'), so the coastal birds may still be a little fairly close around the time we get there mid afternoon.


Wednesday 12th December 2018.




The Sandstone Trail - Beeston and Peckforton.

Distance: 10 miles. Climb: 1000'.

Start: Pay and display car park at Beeston Castle. Grid ref: SJ540591. The Pay and Display machine only starts at 10-00.

Leave Chester at 09-00 a.m.

In the past we have done this walk,as part of a sreies of walks along the Sandstone trail. It involves Walk 6 and Walk 7 from Carl Rogers' book "Circular Walks on the Sandstone Trail".

 I will probably look for ways of reducing the mileage a little.


Saturday 15th December 2018.

The Trent and Mersey Canal, Great Budworth and More.


Start: Marbury Country Park car Park (Pay and Display £2-50 last time). Grid ref: SJ652763.



Distance: 7-10 miles. Climb: 1000'.



Leave Chester at 09-00 a.m.



The main 7 mile walk is taken from the "Pathfinders Guide to Cheshire". This is described as a varied walk with plenty of historic interest, including the Anderton Boat Lift.. The extra mileage will be made by exploring the Anderton Nature Park, Marshall's Wood, Carey Park, Ashton's Flash and Neumann's Flash.  Bring binoculars with you if you can.


Wednesday 19th December 2018.




Holywell, Bagillt and Flint.

Distance: 10 miles. Climb:430' at a guess.

Start: Flint Castle Car park adjacent to the Lifeboat Station. Grid ref: SJ247732.

Leave Chester at 09-00 a.m.

This walk uses three walks from Dave Berry's book "Walks Around Chester and the River Dee."  This is essentially a linear walk, so we will have to arrange enough cars to have cars at both Flint and Holywell or use the bus to take us from Flint to Holywell. (Leaves Flint McDonald's on Holywell Road, at 10-14) .

Last time we all caught the bus up to Holywell, so we will probably do the same today.

High tide 07-45, 8.0 m / 26.3'.


Saturday 22nd December 2018.


Around the Little Orme to Rhos On Sea.


Distance: 8-9 miles. Climb: 700'.



Start: Roadside parking next to Paddling Pool and PC on Coast Road at Craig y Don, East side of Llandudno.



Leave Chester at 08-45 a.m.



This has become a regular walk at any time of the year, but it will be the first time that we have done it in December. The views from the top of the Little Orme are always superb, but the main reason for doing the walk so early in the year is to see if there are any Seals around Porth Dyniewaid.



Bring binoculars with you if you have them.

High tide 10-00 9.3 m / 30.6'.


Wednesday 26th December 2018.

No walk.

Saturday 29th December 20128.




Rhuddlan L.N.R ., the Rhuddlan to Rhyl Riverside Walk with possible extensions to the Brickworks Pool N.R. and the Forydd.


Distance: 8 -11 miles. Climb: 200'.



Start: Park at the Rhuddlan L.N.R. car park. Grid ref: SJ020776. 

The car park is on the Western side of Rhuddlan. To get to the car park, from the A55, turn right on to the A525 (St. Asaph Road towards Rhyl and Rhuddlan), at the next roundabout take the 3rd exit onto Station Road (to Rhuddlan centre / Castle). The car park is on the right, opposite a new hotel. If you get to the bridge over the river you've gone too far!

This walk is an annual favourite, at least for those that like to do as little birdwatching as well. It is a good time of the year as there are lots of Winter visitors that frequent coastal areas and river estuaries. Bring binoculars with you.  Last time we had lunch by the Marine Lake, near the Foryd.  We have also had lunch on the beach at the Foryd. Although we didn't see Snow buntings on the Foryd last year, with a bit of luck we may see them this year. 

High tide at the Foryd is at 03-30, 8.5 m / 27.7'.

Last year we didn't do any of the extensions!  Extension, if any will  be taken at each appropriate point in the walk and decided on the day depending on how everyone feels.

Tuesday 1st January. 2019.


Hilbre Island.

Distance: 4-5 miles. Climb: 100' at a guess!

Start: South Parade, West Kirby Marine Lake. Park between the old baths and the Sailing Club at the Southern end of the lake Grid ref: SJ214860.

Leave Chester at 09-00.

It's a few years since we last did this walk on New Year's Day, but after looking at the Tide Guide, it looks like being a good option today. High tide is about 07-19, so we should be able to cross the sands following the tide as it goes out.

 Bring binoculars, their should be plenty of Wintering birds to see and hopefully seals too.

Fortified fruit cake will be provided, assuming that it hasn't all been eaten by those on the last two walks in December!

Walks and Dates November 2018

Updated 16th November 2018.

Saturday 3rd November 2018

Mow Cop, Congleton Edge and More. 

Distance: 9-10 miles. Climb: 1100'.

Start: New start Point. Cheshire's Close lay-by on Congleton Road, Mow Cop. Grid ref: SJ8673058565

Leave Chester at 08-30 a.m.

This walk combines a walk from Carl Rogers's book "Circular Walks Along The Gritstone Trail" and part of a walk taken from the "Pathfinder Guide to Cheshire". This walk is a little shorter than the one that we did in 2008. Good views from the ridges.

Wednesday 7th November 2018.

The Sandstone Trail. Primrose Hill And Pale Heights.

Distance: 10-11 miles. Climb:1260' .

Start: Gresty's  Waste car park on the A54. Grid re: SJ540686.

Leave Chester 09-00 a.m.

This is another walk on the Sandstone Trail.The main walk is a  route described in Carl Rogers's book "Circular Walks Along the Sandstone Trail". This includes the section as far as Fishersgreen and returns via Utkinton and Primrose Hill Wood.  We will start with the extension that includes a visit the viewpoint on Pale Heights before heading to The Yeld and King's Gate where we pick up the described route.
I n all proababilty we will probably take a few short cuts to reduce the mileage a little.

Saturday 10th November 2018.

The Ceiriog Trail East of Pontricket.

Distance: 8.5 miles. Climb: 1100'.

Start: The Pontricket Layby on the B4500 , about 3 miles South of Glyn Ceiriog. Grid ref: SJ186343.

Leave Chester at 09-00.

This is a variation of the walk we did in September, but includes much more of the Llwybr Ceiriog Trail and visits the Pen-y-Gwely Reservoir. We may also be able to explore paths that avoid having to descend the steep unpleasant bridleway from Cefn-y-braich-uchaf with its concrete enclosed drainage pipes.

Wednesday 14th November 2018.

Wepre Park, Aston Hill and Northop Hall.

Distance: 9.5 miles. Climb: 800'.

Start: Wepre Park, South of Wepre Drive, Connah's Quay. Grid ref: SJ295684.

Leave Chester at 09-00 a.m.

This walk includes the four mile "Wepre" walk from the booklet "Rural Walks in Flintshire", but has been extended to explore the area around Northop Hall. The Wepre walk is described as a moderate walk and includes a wooded river valley and a ruined castle.

 The extension heads for Ewloe Green via Aston Hill on the way to Northop Hall. After exploring the countryside North of Northop Hall, it eventually rejoins the dismantled railway track shown on the original route that will leads us back to Wepre.

Saturday 17th November 2018.

Ramshaw Rocks and the Roaches.

Distance: 8 miles. Climb: 1400’.

Start: Lay-by on West side of Hen Cloud, opposite the track to Windygates. Grid ref: SK006618.

Leave Chester at 08-00.

This walk allows us to explore Ramshaw Rocks seen so many times as we have walked over the Roaches. Ramshaw Rocks from a distance have always looked to be an interesting place in which to walk. This time Ramshaw Rocks will be our main objective with a North to South traverse of the Roaches a bonus towards the end of the walk. If time and legs permit, Hen Cloud may be included as an extension.

The route heads North and then North west leading to Well Farm. From Well Farm field paths are used to reach the Churnet Way near Naychurch. The Churnet Way is followed North over Ramshaw Rocks and then leaves the Churnet Way and heads North to visit Black Brook Nature Reserve, After a complete circuit of the Reserve the route drops down to the road South of Newstone Farm. The road is then followed North for about a mile before heading west across Goldstich Moss in to the Black Brook Valley. After crossing the brook on a footbridge the path then rises to Roach End. At Roaches End the main path over the Roaches is followed past the trig point and Doxy Pool back to the start.

Wednesday 21st November 2018.

Deborah's Well, Moel Findeg and Big Covert

Distance:7-8 miles. Climb: 1300'.

Start: Lay-by on the  Cadole to the Pantymwyn road. Grid ref: SJ205627. after passing the former Rainbow Inn (now a building site), take the next road on the right just before the newsagent. The lay-by is almost immediately on the right by the telephone kiosk.

Leave Chester 9-00 a.m.

This walk combines two walks from Dave Berry's book "More Walks in the Clwydian Hills".  This is another chance to visit the summit of Moel Findeg with its fine views of the Northern Clwydians  and across the Cheshire plain to Peckforton and Beeston.  Hopefully we will make it as far as the ancient Deborah's well this time. We may even do it first this time, if we park in the Cadole lay-by.

Saturday 24th November 2018.

A Third Llandulas Adventure Revisited.

Distance: 7-8 miles. Climb: 1200'.

Start Llanddulas Beach Car Park at the end of Station Road/Beach Road. Grid ref: SH906786

Leave Chester at 08-30 a.m.
The route from Llanddulas is essentially South along the Afon Dulas Valley, heading for Cefn Fran Farm.

Both times that we have completed ths walk, once in July 2015 and again in January 2018, we encountered difficulties locating the route through Derwen farm and fields heading North.  This time, we will not attempt to go anywhere near this farm and will use the minor roads around it. We will use field path and minor roads as far as Llysfaen where we can pick up the North Wales Path back to the cars.

Wednesday 28th November 2018.


Hope Mountain, Waun-y-llyn and Wood Pit.

Distance: 9-10 miles. Climb: 1000'.

Start: Coed Talon Car Park by the old chapel. Grid ref: SJ268588. To get to the car park, approach Coed Talon from Pontybodkin on the A5104. At the Railway Inn, just past the speed camera) turn left along Tir y Ffron lane, signposted "Country Park". The small car park is on the right.

This walk combines two walks from Dave Berry's book " Walks Around Ruabon Mountain, The Clywedog Valley and Hope Mountain". He describes the walks as exploring the attractive countryside between Coed Talon, Llanfynydd, Herob and Ffrith.

Walks and Dates September 2018

Important Update - 28th August 2018.

The Walks originally planned for Wednesday 5th September and Wednesday 12th September will now be on the Thursday 6th September and Thursday 12th September respectively.

Saturday 1st August 2018.

Cnicht.

Distance 6-7 miles. Climb: 2270'.

Start: Near quarry and Nanmor Mountain Centre. Grid ref: SH633485.

Leave Chester 08-00 a.m.

Cnicht is sometimes described as the Welsh Matterhord due to its similar shape. Cnicht lies in an area of quite rugged moorland, that in places can be quite boggy. Around Cnicht, there are no paths marked on the OS map, but thankfully they are more evident on the ground. It is a long time since I have climbed Cnicht, and even longer from the Nant Gwynnant side of the Mountain. a good walk, with some challenges as far as route finding in the offing.

Thursday 6th September 2018.

Moel Fenlli and Cwm Blaenant.
Postponed due to unfavourable weather conditions.
This walk will appear again in October or November.

Distance:6-7 miles.

Climb: 1524'

Start: Bwlch Penbarras car park (Pay and display).

Grid ref:SJ162606.

This walk is taken from Dave Berry's booklet "Walks on the Clwydian Hills". It is described as an interesting walk, visiting an impressive iron-age hill-fort. Sections mender along the Offa's Dyke footpath as far as the Clwyd Gate. The return route will take us through little known Western fringes of the Clwydian Hills. It includes attractive woodland paths  and explores a delightful hidden valley. Most of the walk is along clear paths with excellent views throughout.

 The walk is nominally shorter than usual, but the last time we completed this walk it was in August 2017, and we didn't bother with any extension, admittedly the weather wasn't good! However if the group are keen to extend the walk, it will be easy to do so. This is a decision we can leave until we get back to the cars if need be. There are plenty of tracks through the forest at Moel Famau Country Park to create a loop of whatever length we want.

Saturday 8th September 2018.
Visit to Bersham Ironworks followed by an Afternoon Walk.

Bersham Ironworks - Guided Tour (Free).
Start: Bersham Iron Works. Grid ref: SJ306492.

At Junction 4 on the A483, turn left onto the A525 and follow brown signs marked Bersham and Clywedog Trail. Take the first turn on the right, the B5098 (Berse Road). At the T-junction turn right onto the B5099 and take the next right. Look out for brown signs marked Gwaith Haearn Ironworks. For off road parking continue past the Ironworks for 150m and turn off opposite Bersham Church.

Leave Chester at 09-00 a.m.The Guided Tour starts at 10-00 a.m. and lasts for about 1 hour 30 minutes.
After the Tour it is proposed that we head for Minera Lead Mine Centre, have lunch using one of the picnic benches before setting off on the walk.
The Walk - Minera, Nant Mill and Bersham.
Distance: 5-6 miles. Climb: 500'.
Start: Minera Lead Mines Centre Car park. Grid ref: SJ 276509.
Leave Chester at 11-15 a.m. (Walk only)
This walk combines two walks from Dave Berry's book " Walks Around Rhuabon Mountain, Clywedog Valley and Hope Mountain".  One walk is described as a delightful walk following the waymarked  Clywedog Valley Trail to Nant Mill. The second walk starts at Nant Mill and continues along the Clywedog Valley Trail as far as Bersham Iron Works through an ancient woodland, and returns along the South side of the river. The return from Nant Mill to Minera Lead Mine Centre is on the North side of the river.
If you don't fancy the guided tour of Bersham Ironworks, but want to join us on the walk, meet at the Minera Lead Mine Centre at about 12-00.

Thursday 12th September 2018.

Holywell Common, Racecourse, Pantasaph and Pen-y-Ball.

Distance: 9-11 miles. Climb: 950'.

Start: Opposite the Crooked Horn Inn, Brynford (don't park in the Crooked Horn Car Park)
Grid ref: SJ185740

Leave Chester 9-00 a.m.

Another two walks from Dave Berry's book "Walks Around Holywell and Halkyn Mountain"

One walk explores open common land  North of Holywell, and includes the old Holywell Racecourse. The second walk explores the hills above Holywell before returning to the Pen-y-Ball Monument. Rather than complete both walks in their entirety, we will adapt the second one so that the overall walk will be about 9 miles oe even shorter.

Saturday 15th September 2018.

Moel y Garneddd.
Postponed - this walk will appear again later in the year

Distance: 7-8 miles.

Climb: 1200'.

Start: Fronfeuno Snowdonia National Park Lakeside Car park Grid ref: SH917351.

Leave Chester 08-30 a.m.

This walk is taken from Dave Berry's booklet "Walks Around Y Bala and Penllyn". The walk explores the undulating countryside West of Bala. The route follows a a bridleway up to moorland, eventually crossing Moel y Garneddd at a height f 1170'. We can expect to see superb views as we cross the open moorland. The return route goes through attractive woodland. This is a walk for experienced walkers only and should not be attempted in poor visibility. Careful navigation is required.

Wednesday 19th September 2018.

Cwn Dulas, Cefn yr Ogof and Gop Wood.
Cancelled.

Distance: 9.2 miles; Climb:1130'.

Start location. Abergele, Pensarn Beach car park by PC. Grid ref:SH942786.

Leave Chester 9-00 a.m.

The bulk of the walk is taken from Dave Berry's book "Walks on the North Wales Coast", with an extension to include the small hill Cefn yr Ogof. Always a good walk with several opportunities to have extensive views. We may decide to explore Gop Wood a little more. If we miss out Cefn yr Ogof, the walk will be a mile or so shorter and the climb reduced by about half.

Saturday 22nd September 2018.

Is-afon and Cwm Glyn with Lakeland Views and Upland Pastures.

Distance: 9 miles. Climb:1800'.
Start: Snowdonia National Park Lakeside Car Park, Llangower. Grid ref:SH903321.
Leave Chester at 08-00 a.m.
This walk combines two walks from Dave Berry's book "Y Bala nd Penllyn".  One walk explores the hills above Llangower, giving superb views and scenery. The second walk explores the attractive open hills South of Bala, giving the opportunity to enjoy panoramic views of the hills surrounding Llyn Tegid. The last time this walk was on the list was in November 2011.

Wednesday 26th September 2018.

Llandegla, Llyn Cyfynwy and Graianrhyd.

Distance: 8-9 miles; Climb:1250'.
Start: Llandegla village car park opposite the primary school and Post Office adjacent to the bus stop. Grid ref:SJ197525.
Leave Chester 9-00 a.m.
These two walks are taken from Carl Rogers' book "Walking in the Clwydian Hills". One walk is described as an excellent walk which combines the craggy limeston escarpment of Graig with its wide views of the Clwydian Range and the flat moors of Llandegla. The other walk is described as a pleasant walk on parts of Offa's Dyke Footpath and visits Llyn Cyfynnwy with its delightful (my word) views.

Saturday 29th September 2018.

Chester to Shotton via the North Wales Coastal Path.

Distance: 8.0 miles. Climb: 100'.
Start: New Gorse Stacks Bus Station, Chester.
After my Flu jab at 09-00, weather permitting, I intend to walk from Chester to Shotton and have my lunch at Wetherspoons in Shotton.
I will be using the local bus serrvice for the return journey.
from the new bus station Westward up Gorse Stacks, Canal Street, Raymnond Street and South View Road to meet the Coastal Path at The Cop on Seaand Road.
However if anyone wishes to join me, they are welcome to do so, but please let me know and we can arrange to meet up (probably near Stand At the Bus Station just after 09-00).

Walks and Dates August 2018

Important update - 19th August 2018.

The walk on Wednesday 22nd August has been switched to Thursday 23rd August so that nyone from the Upton area can attend the funeral of Rev Norman Ryder the Wednesday.
Wednesday 1st August 2018.
Walk Cancelled.
The walk this week will now be tomorrow.
See below for details.
Thursday 2nd August 2018.

Whitchurch Walk 5 The Ash Brown Walk.

Distance: 8 miles. Climb: Not a lot.
Start: JubileePark, Car park Sherrymill Hill, Whitchurch SY13 1BN. Grid ref: SJ537416. 
Directions to the Jubilee Car Park:
On approaching Whitchurch on the A41, at the roundabout turn right, continuing on the A41 (Whitchurch by-pass), take first road on left Chemistry/Smallbrook Road and then take the next left . Smallbrook Road leads into Sherrymill Hill with the Jubilee Park on the right. 
Leave Chester 09-00 a.m.
This walk is described as a flat to undulating town, village, countryside walk featuring the Brown Moss. Problems encountered on previous Whitchurch walks are not part of this walk!

Saturday 4th August 2018.

Conwy Mountain and Around Maen Esgob and Craigfedwen

Distance: 8 miles. Climb:1447'.
Start: Long stay car park on the B5106 at Conwy. Pay and Display. Grid ref:SH781773.
Leave Chester 08-30 a.m.

The walk starts by heading through the castle walls and on the North Wales Coastal Path along the harbour as far as the secondary school. The North Wales Path is the followed over Conwy Mountain through Castell Caer Seion and onto the Sychnant Pass.

 The views from the Conwy Mountain Ridge can be superb, with the Great Orme in one direction and Tal y fan in the other, as well as good views towards Conwy castle and the Conwy Valley.

 After crossing the Sychnant Pass Road, the North Wales Path is once more folowed. At the point where there is a definite fork, it is possible to make a short there and back extension to visit the site of a monument. Returning to the North Wales Path, it is then followed along the East side of Maen Esgob as far as the head of the Fairy Glen. A path heading eastward then takes us past Llyn y wrach.

 Once the West side of Maen Esgob is reached, the main track is followed parallel to the stone wall towards Craigfedwen, where the footpath goes South of Waeny-fedwen and onto the minor road near Llechwedd. The route goes Northward on the road ad then takes the first path on the right which leads around Bryn-mawr to a minor access road. It is along this road that several large and/or interesting properties can be seen. at the T-junction, the route goes right and in a very short distance a broken kissing gate leads the way to a field path leading  to the Sychnant Pas Road at Mount Pleasant on the outskirts of Conwy. The Sychnant Pass Road  is then followed back to Conwy.

Wednesday 8th August 2018.
Bersham Iron Works and Ty Mawr Reservoir.

Distance: 9-10 miles. Climb: 1000'.
Start: Nant Mill Visitor Centre. Grid ref: SJ289501.
Leave Chester at 09-00 a.m.
This walk combines two walks from Dave Berry's book "Walks Around Ruabon Mountain and the Clywedog Valley and Hope Mountain".  The Bersham Iron Works Walk  walk explores the Clywedog Valley Trail, and includes Offa's Dyke . The Ty Mawr walk is a figure of eight walk that explores the attractive varied countryside South of the Clywedog Valley.
 Last time we did this walk in 2012, we encountered a very muddy section that David S. declared as a no go area! We will make a small diversion to avoid this section, rather than investigate it to see if things have improved.

Saturday 11th August 2018.

By the Tryweryn.

Distance: 7-8 miles. Climb: 1600'.
Start: National Whitewater Centre. Grid ref: SH882403.
Leave Chester at 08-30.
This walk is taken from Dave Berry's booklet "Walks around  Bala and Penllyn". It starts by following a delightful nature trail along the river towards Llyn Celyn as far as the Celyn Fish Trap.
The second part of the walk explores the upland pastures and moorland North  of the A4212.

Wednesday 15th August 2018.

Around Minera Mountain. 
Cancelled as it is to near the Llandegla moorland areas that have been on fire.
See below for the new walk.

Distance: 9-11 miles. Climb: 1000'.

Start: Minera Lead Mine Centre Car park. grid ref: SJ276509.

Leave Chester at 09-00 a.m.

This walk is taken from Dave Berry's book "Walks Around Ruabon and Hope Mountain". The walk is described as being quite demanding, especially on the open access moorland. A walk for experienced walkers only. This will be the third time that mot of us have done the walk, so we should be OK . Can be boggy underfoot as we found out in 2013 when we first did the walk,  Hopefully it won't be too bad at this time, especially as we have had very little rain of late. The last time we did this walk, it was very hot and we cut the walk short, we may decide to do the same this year.

Wednesday 15th August 2018.
Mynydd Marian.

Distance: 7-8 miles. Climb: 1000'.

Start: Llandulas Beach Car Park. Grid ref: SH907786.

Leave Chester at 09-00.

This walk is taken from Dave Berry's book, "Walks on the North Wales Coast". It combines an interesting section of the coast line with the attractive limestone countryside between, Old Colwyn, Llysfaen and Llandulas. This is one of my favourite walks at any time in the year, but I haven't done it in the Summer for quite a while.

Saturday 18th August 2018.

Moel y Garneddd.

Distance: 7-8 miles.

Climb: 1200'.

Start: Fronfeuno Snowdonia National Park Lakeside Car park Grid ref: SH917351.

Leave Chester 08-30 a.m.

This walk is taken from Dave Berry's booklet "Walks Around Y Bala and Penllyn". The walk explores the undulating countryside West of Bala. The route follows a a bridleway up to moorland, eventually crossing Moel y Garneddd at a height f 1170'. We can expect to see superb views as we cross the open moorland. The return route goes through attractive woodland. This is a walk for experienced walkers only and should not be attempted in poor visibility. Careful navigation is required.

Thursday 22nd August 2018.

Around Minera Mountain. 

Distance: 9 miles. Climb: 1000'.

Start: Minera Lead Mine Centre Car park. grid ref: SJ276509.

Leave Chester at 09-00 a.m.

This walk is taken from Dave Berry's book "Walks Around Ruabon and Hope Mountain". The walk is described as being quite demanding, especially on the open access moorland. A walk for experienced walkers only. This will be the third time that mot of us have done the walk, so we should be OK . Can be boggy underfoot as we found out in 2013 when we first did the walk,  Hopefully it won't be too bad at this time, especially as we have had very little rain of late. The last time we did this walk, it was very hot and we cut the walk short, we may decide to do the same this year.

Saturday 25th August 2018.

Under Moel Siabod.

Distance: 8 miles ;Climb: 1000+ .
Start: On the railway bridge, just North of Pont y Pant Station. Grid ref: SH754537.
Leave Chester 8-00 a.m.

This is another walk taken from Mike Burnett's book "Walks East of Snowdon". He describes it as a wild walk which crosses the high moorland to the East of Moel Siabod. Does that mean we can expect wet feet too! The walk apparently gives spectacular views of Moel Siabod and the Carneddau. The last time we did this walk, it could be derscribed as the wettest walk that we have ever done, and ended with us wading knee deep through water for about 30 minutes. Hopefully it won't be quite as wet this time.

Wednesday 29th August 2018.

Coed Ceunant and the River Clwyd with and extension to Rhewl.

Distance: 9-10 miles. Climb: 680'.
Start: Ruthin riverside car park (Pay and display). Grid ref:SJ121582.
Leave Chester 9-0 a.m.

This walks from Dave Berry's book "Walks In the Vale of Clwyd" that we have done several times before, but not since 2009. In the past we have linked them with other walks that take the mileage to about 13 miles, more than most of us want these days. He describes the walk as  one exploring varied countryside, with excellent views and visits the charming ruins of a Medieval church using field paths and some delightful bridleways between Ruthin and Llanbeddr Dyffryn-Clwyd. It explores the attractive lower slopes of the Clwydian's, including a lovely wooded area.
 The extension to Rhwl  follows the riverside path Northwards before heading towards Rhewl on quiet country lanes to Rhewl and back to the river where we again follow the riverside path, South to Ruthin.

Walks and Dates July 2018

Wednesday 4th July 2018.

 Farms and Halls - the Southern Circular.

Distance: 9.3 miles. Climb: 450!
Start: New starting place. Jubilee Park, Car park Sherrymill Hill, Whitchurch SY13 1BN. Grid ref: SJ537416. 
As we didn't like the narrow lanes leading t the Brown Moss car park, I have switched to a different car park, the Jubilee Park Car Park.
On approaching Whitchurch on the A41, at the roundabout turn right, continuing on the A41 (Whitchurch by-pass), take first road on left Chemistry/Smallbrook Road. Smallbrook Road leads into Sherrymill Hill with the Jubilee Park on the right. 
Leave Chester 09-00 a.m.
The walk description starts from the centre of Whitchurch, but we will start at the Brown Moss Nature Reserve as this is on the route.
This is described as a longish walk that takes in part of the revised Shropshire Way, passing plenty of interesting houses and farms, including Blackoe Cottages, Alkington Hall and Dearnford Hall.

Saturday 7th July 2018.

St. Celynnin's Church and Tal y Fan.

Distance:7-8 miles. Climb: 2600'.
Start: Roadside parking in Rowen, on the right by houses just after passing the Post Office. Grid ref:SH761719.
Leave Chester 8-30 a.m.
This walk is taken from Dave Berry's book "Walks Around Betws-y-coed and the Conwy Valley". This walk is described as exploring the scenic upland pastures, full of antiquity, featuring a remote ancient church, Maen Penddu (standing stone), a burial chamber and Cae Bach (hill fort). Visiting Cae Bach may involve a there and back extension! Although this walk is shorter than our usual walks, Dave Berry does suggest that we should allow at least 5 hours and is for experienced walkers only!

Wednesday 11th July 2018.

Corwen to Llidiart-y-Park.

Distance: 10 miles. Climb: 1500'.
Start: A long lay-by 1/4 mile West of Llidiart-y-Park: SJ118433.
Leave Chester at 09-00 (08-15 if we decide to use the bus to Corwen from Llidiart-y-Parc.
This is a linear walk, so we will need to have sufficient cars to leave at least one at the start, and take everyone to Corwen, the start of the walk.
 It is possible to use public transport, but that would probably mean leaving Chester at about 08-15 to make sure that we didn't miss the 09-45 bus to Corwen.
 This walk is taken from Dve berry's booklet " Walks Around the Berwyn Mountains and the Ceiriog Valley".
 The walk is described as a wlk for experienced walkers only. It features the North Berwyn Way to Moel Fferna. After following the River Dee past Llangar Church to Cynwyd, the route climbs steadily up a wooded valley and through a forest before crossing moorland to the top of Moel Fferna.  Some of the routes up Moel Fferna have not been to our liking, so it will  be interesting to explore this new route. On a good day the views from Moel Fferna can be be superb.
The descent of Moel Ferna to Llidiat-y-Parc is the most direct route, and one that we are familiar with, having followed it many times.

Saturday 14th July 2018.

To be decided.

Wednesday 18th July 2018.

Tremeirchion, Y Graig, Sodom and Moel Yr Gaer.

Distance: 9 miles; Climb:1600'.
Start: Off road parking, minor road East of Tremeirchion. Grid ref:SJ095740.
Leave Chester 9-00 a.m.
The walk is based on two walks from Dave Berry's book "Walks on the Clwydian Hills". This is another walk that is one of my favourite walks and one that often appears on the list most years. At this time of the year it should give us the opportunity to look for Spring/Summer flowers, particularly around Y Craig Nature Reserve. We will probably visit St Beuno's chapel on the hill again. In the past it has been quite muddy in places, but hopefully not this year.

Saturday 21st July 2018.

To be decided.

Wednesday 25th July 2018.

A Pentre-celyn Round
(A part of the Clwydian Trio.)

Distance: 9 miles; Climb:1900' '.

Start: Pentre-celyn car park . Grid ref: SJ150534.

The car parking area is on the left adjacent to the sign for Pentre-celyn, just off the B5429.

Leave Chester 9-00 a.m.

This is a walk based on a  walk by Debbie Hamilton in the "Walking" magazine. This walk includes the section of Offa's Dyke Path goes near Moel y Plas, Moel Gyw, Moel Llanfair and Boncyn y Waen-grogen. Her walk starts from Llanfair Dyffryn Clwyd, but we will start at Pentre Celyn about half a mile beyond Graigfechan.
 In recent years we have shortened the walk by mising out the Norther section towards Moel Gyw. This reduces the walk by about 2 miles and the climb by about 800'. Although shorter it still makes a very good walk.

Saturday 28th July 2018.

Cnicht.
Postponed due to very strong winds and gust up to 40 m.p.h. the forecast.

Distance 6-7 miles. Climb: 2270'.
Start: Near quarry and Nanmor Mountain Centre. Grid ref: SH633485.
Cnicht is sometimes described as the Welsh Matterhord due to its similar shape. Cnicht lies in an area of quite rugged moorland, that in places can be quite boggy. Around Cnicht, there are no paths marked on the OS map, but thankfully they are more evident on the ground. It is a long time since I have climbed Cnicht, and even longer from the Nant Gwynnant side of the Mountain. a good walk, with some challenges as far as route finding in the offing.

Last minute change to a walk from Llanrwst suggested by Ed.

Llyn Geirionydd and Llyn Crafnant from Llanrwst.

Distance: 11 miles Climb 1900'.
Start: Llanrwst or Trefriw.
The walk involves sections of three different trails and takes in the Gray mares tail waterfall and Llanrhychwyn Church before reaching the woodland path from Trefriw to Llyn Geirionydd. This path contours high above the Crafnant Valley, giving good views of the Klondyke mill and mine below.
From  Llyn Geirionydd The route then follows unpleasant tree root challenge path on the West side of Llyn Geirionydd, but there is the much easier route is to walk along the road on the East side of the lake, one I will take if ever we do this walk again.
From Llyn Geirionydd the walk climbs through the woods, currently guided by blue footpath indicators and later red footpath and yellow footpath indicators are added to the post.
On reaching the road on the East side of Llyn Crafnant, the road is followed past the Northern end of the lake. This could be followed all the way back to Trefriw, but a pleasant Trefriw Trail footpath (7) leads directly to Trefriw. 
 An interesting diversion is to include a visit to the Clogwyn y Fuwch Slate mine and  Klondyke mill and mine and then retuning to the road. Visiting the Clogwyn y Fuwch Slate mine can if you wish involve going through a short tunnel (head torch recommended), but there is an alternative path around it.
 The route finishes by taking in the Fairy Glen falls to Trefriw and returns to Llanrwst via the 

Gowers bridge.

Walks and Dates April 2018

Update 24th April 2018

As the Bluebells look as though they will be flowering later this year the walks planned for Wednesday 18th April, Saturday 21st April and Wednesday 25th April will be moved to May.
Replacement Walks for these dates in April have been posted and are to be found below the originally planned walk.

Wednesday 4th April 2018
Helsby and Frodsham Hills.

Distance: 7-8 miles. Climb; 1500'.
Start: Helsby Quarry Woodland Car Park. Grid ref: SJ490750
Leave Chester at 09-00 a.m.
This walk is taken from the book "Pathfinder Guide to Cheshire". Much of it we have done before when following walks on the Sandstone Trail. However part of the walk around Helsby Hill is new to me and it is the first time that we have started from this car park. On a clear day, the views across the estuary is superb. The walk is described as being energetic. As the walk is a little shorter than usual, we may wish to explore the Woodhouse Hill fort a little more.

Saturday 7th April 2018.

Big Low, Berristall Vale and the Saddle of Kerridge.
Postponed - weather forecast only fit for ducks all day!

Distance: 8-9 miles; Climb: 2000'
Start: The Adlington Street car park Grid ref: SJ931782.
Leave Chester 8-00 a.m. and meet in the car park.
This is another walk that combines two walks from Graham Beech's book "East Cheshire Walks". He describes the walks as moderate to strenuous and includes some of the most scenic surroundings around Bollington. We have already strolled along Kerridge Hill and can vouch for that part of the walk.
After walk drinks will be in the Vale Inn, a hostelry that impressed us on earlier visits.

Wednesday 11th April 2018.

Melin-y-Wig and Derwen.

Distance: 8.2 miles. Climb: 950' .

Start: Boncyn Foel-bach Forest Car Park Grid ref: SJ055520. This is on the B5105 Ruthin to Clawdd Newydd road.
Leave Chester at 09-00.

This walk is taken from Lorna Jenner's book "Walks in the Vale of Clwyd".  We last did this walk in February 2016 and I enjoyed it then. I thought that it would be good to do it again, but in a different season. It is described as being a varied walk through forest, quiet lanes, including one that was used on a pilgrims' route and an attractive riverside path.

 Part of the route, particularly sections of the riverside path have in the past been rather boggy (Remembered from it being on walks starting from Melin-y-Wig). The section through the forest can be boggy too. The final section involves climbing out of the valley up to the car park - not the most ideal way to end a walk, but it isn't that steep.

Saturday 14th April 2018.

Wem  Walks - By the Bridges to Soulton Hall.
Postponed- Billy no mates again!

Distance: 8 miles. Climb: 130'.
Start: Wem Centre Car park. SJ524289.
Leave Chester 8-30 a.m.
This is another of a series of walks from Wem and is the first time that we have walked in this area of Shropshire.
The walk starts by heading North and includes par of the Shropshire Way, eventually arriving at Edstaston. The walk description suggests that it is worthwhile visiting the Norman church of St Mary the Virgin. After visiting the church heads east and then South through farmland and involves crossing many stiles. Soulton Hall is reached, a majestic 17th century manor house.
 The last part of the walk, heading West back to Wem is largely on quiet country lanes.

Wednesday 18th April 2018.

Coed Pen-y-Gelli and More.
This walk has been moved to Wednesday 9th May when hopefully there will be  a better chance of seeing Bluebells.

Distance:9-10 miles. Climb:700’.

Start: Roadside parking at Lloc. If approaching from Holywell on the A5026, turn left by the public house (now a private house) into St Asaph Road. Park in left. If approaching on the A5026 from its nearest junction with the A55 (Prestatyn junction), Turn right in front of the public house (now a private house) into St Asaph Road. This is just after the the Pant Y Wacco sign and the road starts to bear left. St Asaph Road is one way and can only be approached from then A5026.
Grid ref:SJ145765.
Leave Chester at 09-00 a.m.

This is a annual Bluebell Wood Walk, and is effectively a figure of eight walk based on Lloc. This walk combines two walks from Dave Berry’s book “ Walks Around Holywell and Halkyn Mountain”.  The walk will probably will be near to 10 miles as we will only complete a small section of the usual Gorsedd Round. 
 This is nearly a month earlier than last year, so hopefully we will catch more of the Bluebells in flower.

Replacement Walk.

Golden Grove Sea Views, Coed Bell and Voelnant.

Distance: 8.5 miles. Climb: 1700'.
Start: Llanasa. Car park opposite church. Grid ref: SJ106814.
Leasve Chester at 09-00 a.m.
This walk has been adapted from walks found in Dave berry's booklets "More Walks in the Clwydian Hills" and "Wals on the North Wales Coast".
 One walk is described as an exhilarating walk with contrasting views of coast, sea, estuary, hills and mountains. The other walk explores the Northern end of the Clwydian Hills and includes part of the Offa's Dyke Footpath through the Prestatyn Hillside Nature Reserve

Saturday 21st April 2018.

Bluebell Woods Around Parbold. 
This walk has been moved to Saturday 19th May when hopefully there will be  a better chance of seeing Bluebells.
At this time I anticipate that all of the usual Saturday walkers won't be able to walk, so a replacement walk will be provided on request.

Distance: 10 miles. Climb: 800'.

Start: Hunter's Hill Quarry Nature Reserve on Bannister Lane WN6 9QD. Grid ref: SD503123
It is 48 miles from Saltney, so should be a little less from Chester and should take just over an hour to get there.

Leave Chester at 08-30 a.m.

This walk is a walk that we have done for the last three years, and each time the Bluebell have been superb. This walk is on the East of Parbold, and visits up to ten different woods, This is nearly three weeks earlier than we have done on the past, so hopefully the Bluebells on show.  The walk also includes part of the Leeds - Liverpool Canal as far as Appley Bridge. This is a walk that we have done a few times now.    Last time the Bluebells and wild garlic in Fairy Glen were quite stunning.  In the past we have seen Brown hares, so hopefully we will today too. Bring binoculars with you just in case. There is no description, just the OS map.

Wednesday 25th April 2018.

Maen Achwfan, Llyn Helyg, Crown Bach and Coed Pen-y-Gelli.
This walk has been moved to Wednesday 16th May when hopefully there will be  a better chance of seeing Bluebells.

Distance:9-10 miles. Climb:1000’.

Start:Roadside parking opposite the church in Whitford. Grid ref:SJ147782.

Leave Chester 9-00 a.m.

This is a Bluebell Woods walk we first did in 2011.

The walk starts off by using one of the walks in Dave Berry’s book “ Walks Around Holywell and Halkyn Mountain. We have completed this one several times, including visiting the beautifully carved Maen Achwfan.  However this time we include exploring two new woods, Glol and Llyn Helyg woods.  Hopefully we will return through Crown Bach woods to Lloc and then return to Whitford via Twll Bach.

Replacement walk.
Ysceifio-Lixwm-Nannerch.

Distance: 9 -10 miles. Climb: 1400'.

Start: Ysceifiog, park adjacent to the children's play area. Grid ref: SJ152715.

Leave Chester 9-00a.m.

This walk combines two walks from Dave Berry's book "Walks Around Holywell and Halkyn Mountains".  This walk explores the area around Ysceifiog using field paths, woodland paths and bridleways.  The walk also explores the countryside between the Wheeler Valley and Lixwm.

Saturday 28th April 2018.

Llyn Caer Euni from Llanderfel.
Postponed - no one available to walk.

Distance: 9 -10 miles. Climb:1600’

Start: Roadside parking on B4402 North of the War memorial near an old chapel in the village of Llanderfel. Grid ref: SH982369

Leave Chester 8-15 a.m.

The described part of the walk is taken from Dave Berry’s book “Walks Around Y Bala and Penllyn”. This is only a 5 mile walk, but the extra miles is linking the start of the walk in Sarnau with Llanderfel, using different paths on the outward and return journeys.

The outward route will include using a path through the Nature Reserve Cors y Sarnau. There is a good chance of seeing Red kites in this area, so bring binoculars with you if you have them.