Walks and Dates December 2016

Thursday 1st December 2016.

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.

Saturday 3rd December 2016.

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.

Thursday 8th December 2016.

Cwm Conwy, Moel Y Gaer and Moel y Crio.

Distance:10 miles. Climb: 1200'.

Start: Rhosesmor. Parking area next to the children's play area. Grid ref:SJ214684.

Leave Chester at 9-00 a.m.This walk combines two walks from Dave Berry's book "Walks Around Holywell and Halkyn Mountain".  The Cwm Conwy walk is one of my favourite walks in the Halkyn area at any time of the year. The Moel-y-Crio will use only part of second walk, so we will have to take care that we are vigilant after going through Moel-y-Crio, otherwise we will be extending the walk more than we want to!

Saturday 10th December 2016.

Clip-y-Orsedd, The Druid Circle. 
Postponed - troops falling by the wayside, but not believed to be chicken flu!
This walk will appear again on 14th January 2017.

Distance: 9 miles. Climb:2400'.

Leave Chester 8-00 a.m.

Start: Car park behind the bank in Llanfairfechan. Turn right of Village Road. Grid ref:SH682747.

his walk uses two walks Dave Berry's book "Walks on the North Wales Coast." These two walks combine to make one of my favourite walks in this area as they explore the hills behind  Llanfairfechan and Penmaenmawr. We will visit the impressive Druids' Stone Circle, but on this occasion we will miss out Foel Lus.  On a good day we should get good views, especially towards the coast and Tal y Fan. As we need to be back in Chester early, we will only extend the walk as far as the Druids Circle.

Thursday 15th December 2016.

Marion Frith, Moel Hiraddug, Cwm and Coed Yr Esgob.

Distance:10.4 miles; Climb:1600'.

Start:Car Park at the Western edge of Dyserth on the A5151. Grid ref: SJ062793.

Leave Chester 9-00 a.m.

It's over a year since we last did these two walks together. Both walks are taken from Dave Berry's book "Walks on the Clwydian Hills - New revised edition". He describes the first walk as delightful and the second one as providing a fascinating exploration of the low hills North of Dyserth.

Saturday 17th December 2016,

A Plumley Rail Trail.

Distance: 6-8 miles. Climb: 225' (excluding stiles!)
Start: Plumley Railway Station Moor Road Car Park. Grid ref: SJ721753.
Leave Chester: 09-00.
This is a walk produced by East Cheshire and is one suggested as a suitable Winter walk by David S for our Thursday group. Not knowing the area at all, I thought that I would explore the  area on a Saturday when I know we will only need to consider parking for one car.
The walk is described as exploring the beautiful countryside around Plumley, taking you through magnificent scenery from streams to farmland through woodland and leafy lanes. We will probably explore Plumley Lime Beds Nature Reserve. At this time of the year some sections across farmland are likely to be muddy.

Thursday 22nd December 2016.

Halkyn, Limestone, Lead and Moel Ffagnallt.

Distance:10 miles; Climb:1000'.

Start: Common Land opposite the Blue Bell Inn, Halkyn. Grid ref: SJ209702. 

Leave Chester at 09-00.

We haven't started a walk from this location for quite some time. I thought that as this is the last walk before Christmas that it was a good time to do so. It combines two walks from Dave Berry's book "Walks Around Holywell and Halkyn Mountain". This walk combines two of my favourite walks in this fascinating area on our local patch and is our annual treat just before Christmas.

Saturday 24th December 2016.

No walk as I anticipate that most of the group will be busy getting things ready for Christmas.
However, if you are already organised and fancy a walk to relieve the boredom give me a call.

Thursday 29th December 2016.

Mynydd Marian.

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

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

Leave Chester at 09-00.

This walk is one that we often usually do on a Thursday. I am assuming that I will have recovered sufficiently from my cough and there are any takers for a walk.

This walk is taken from Dave Berry's book, "Walks on the North Wales Coast". It combines an interesting section of the coat line with the attractive limestone countryside between, Old Colwyn, Llysfaen and Llandulas.

Walk and Dates November 2016

Updated 16th November 2016.

Ed contacted me earlier today informing me that the High Street in Llanfairfechan will be closed all day on the 19th, so I have brought the Prestbury walk forward to the 19th and moved the Clip y-Orsedd walk to the 10th December 2016. 

Thursday 3rd November 2016.

Big Covert and Bryn Alyn.

Distance: 10 miles. Climb: 1900'.

Start: Layby on the A494 Mold to Ruthin Road, about 1/2 mile South of Llanferres. Grid ref: SJ187597.

Leave Chester 09-00 a.m.

This walk uses two walks from Dave Berry's book More Walks in the Clwydian Hill".  We have combined these walks on several occasions before and the section over Bryn Alyn is always good. However this time our route will only use part of one walk and will take us on both sides of Big Covert, one path quite close to Burley Hill Quarry.

It will also give us another opportunity to test our route finding skills through Nercwys Forest, although last year we did get right!

Saturday 5th November 2016.

Hidden Gwertherin.

Distance: 8-9 miles. Climb:1500'.

Start: Lay-by on the B5384, West of Pandy Tudor. Grid ref: SH855641.

Leave Chester at 08-30 a.m.

This walk is taken from an old Walking Magazine.  It describes Gwytherin as a compact village tucked into a fold of the hills to the East of the Conwy Valley, in an area that is not as rugged as Snowdonia, but it gives a feeling of space that is not found in the higher mountains. The western horizon is dominated by the high peaks of Snowdonia.

Thursday 10th November 2016.

Pen-y-Ball, Pantasaph and the Gorsedd Round.

Distance:10-11 miles,. Climb:1000’.

Start: Roadside parking at Lloc. Turn left by the public house if approaching from Holywell on the A5026 on right if approaching on the A5026 from its nearest junction with the A55. Grid ref:SJ145765.
Leave Chester at 09-00 a.m.

This walk combines two walks from Dave Berry's book " Walks Around Holywell and Halkyn Mountain". we have done both walks many times before, but not often together. One walk explore the area between Holywell and Pantasaph, including the grounds of the friary. The other walk explores the attractive undulating countryside North of Gorsedd and Carmel.

 Although this walk can be upto 11 miles, we usually take a few short cuts to make the walk under ten miles.

Saturday 12th November 2016.

Jumbles, Wayoh, Turton and Entwistle Reservoirs. 
Postponed - weather forecast suggests it would be very wet and misty.

Distance:10-11 miles. Climb:1200'.

Start:Waterfold Car Park, off Bradshaw Road (A676), Jumbles Country Park.

Leave Chester 8-30 a.m.

This walk is based on a walk taken from Terry Marsh's book "Fifty Classic Walks in Lancashire". He describes the walk as a pleasant walk on good paths. The extension to Turton and Entwistle Reservoirs includes another section of the Witton Weaver Way and crosses Turton Heights and a hill called Cheetham Cross. A good and varied walk. Has been known to be on the boggy side on the descent from Cheetham Cross!

Thursday 17th November 2016.

A Ceiriog Trail East of Pontricket.

Distance: 8.5 miles. Climb: 1700'.
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.

Saturday 19th November 2016.

Prestbury, Mottram and Whitley Green.

Distance: 10 miles. Climb: 500'.
Start: Springfields Car Park behind the Admiral Rodney, Prestbury. Grid ref: SJ902773.
Leave Chester at 08-30 a.m.
This involves two walks from Graham Beech's book "East Cheshire Walks" and isa figure of eight walk around Prestbury. The walk includes sections along the River Bollin and gentle hills with good views. . The walk is described as easy/moderate and will probably include a slight detour to visit the restored Mottram Cross. These are two new walks for me, an added bonus.

Thursday 24th November 2016.

Moel Findeg, Deborah's Well, Bryn Alyn and Nercwys Mountain (A Tale of Two Mountains).

Distance:11 miles. Climb: 1800'.

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 Pekforton 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 26th November 2016.

Beaumaris and Penmon. Postponed.
This walk will be replaced by the Ceiriog Valley walk described on the 17th November 2016. 
See above for details.

Distance:13 miles. Climb: 1300'.

Start: The car park on the left just past Beaumaris Castle. Grid ref: SH609762.

Leave Chester 8-00 a.m.

This walk combines one walk from Carl Roger's book "Coastal Walks Around Anglesey - Volume 1" with a walk from his book "Coastal Walks Around Anglesey - Volume 2" .  These are walks that we have enjoyed doing in the past.  High tide is at 08-30 and is only 27.5', so hopefully it will be possible to walk along the beach for the first part of the walk.  This is a good and varied walk, passing Penmon Priory and the site of Castell Aberlleiniog. Although it is nominally 13.0 miles, I'm sure a few short cuts will be made to reduce the challenge to under 10 miles!

Walks and Dates October 2016

Updated 19th October 2016.
The walk on the 27th October has been cancelled as I will be going to a funeral on that day.
I have switched the walk to Wednesday 26th October, so hopefully some of the Thursday group will be able to join me.

Saturday 1st October 2016.

The Morda Valley.
Cancelled -I've lost the desire to walk in the rain all day!
This walk will replace the walk originally planned for the 8th October 2016.

Distance: 9.0 miles. Climb: 1270'.
Leave Chester: 08-30 a.m.
Start: Craignant Car Park and Picnic Site. Grid ref: SJ254349.
This is a walk by Neil Coates that appeared in the Ramblers Summer magazine 2016. It is described as a leisurely walk, following sections of the Offa's Dyke path and the Ceiriog Trail. In addition sections it follows narrow lanes and upland tracks leading in to beautiful backwaters of the Welsh Marshes.
This walk in fact overlaps at one point with the last walk that we did from the Pontricket start point, so it will probably appear on the Thursday list in the near future.

Thursday 6th October 2016.

The Sandstone Trail - Rock Farm to Birch Heath.

Distance: 10-11 miles. Climb: 640'.

Start: Tarporley. Car Park adjacent to the Rising Sun. Grid ref: SJ553628.

Leave Chester at 09-00 a.m.

This is the third in our walks along the Sandstone trail. It involves part of Walk 4 and  probably all of Walk 5 from Carl Rogers' book "Circular Walks on the Sandstone Trail".  Perhaps not the most inspiring section of the trail, but I'm sure we'll get the best out of it, providing it doesn't rain!

Saturday 8th October 2016.

Skelmanthorpe Circular Trail.
Postponed - see 1st October above for the replacement 
Morda Valley walk.

Distance: 10 miles. Climb: 1500'.
Start: New Street Car Park, Skelmanthorpe. Grid ref: SE231105 or Savoy Youth & Community Centre, 32A Elm Street, Skelmanthorpe. Grid ref: SE232106.
Leave Chester 08-00 a.m.
This another walk in the Kirklees area. It is described as a 10 mile walk introducing you to stretches of  Denby Dale, including parts of he Dearne Way and the Kirklees Way. The Kirklees Light railway also operates in this area.
It is always good to explore new areas.

Thursday 13th October 2016.

Gop Hill, Golden Grove and Sea Views From Llanasa.

Distance: 8-9 miles. Climb: 1500'.

Start: Car Park in Llanasa opposite the pub and church.  Grid ref: SJ106815

Leave Chester at 09-00 a.m.

We have walked in this area many times, so this is a walk that uses sections of  each of them as well as exploring a few new paths.
 The walk includes mainly field paths to Trelawnyd and then visits the cairn on the Gop. The walk then follows a path that goes all the way round Gop Hill past the caves before joining the Clwydian Way to Gwaenysgor and on to a section of Offa's Dyke Path. 
The final part of the walk passes St. Elmo’s Summer House and Golden Groves on the way back to Llanasa. 
This should be an exhilarating walk with breathtaking contrasting views or at least that is how the route description is described.

Saturday 15th October 2016.

Y Bala and Beyond Llanfor. 

Distance: 10-11 miles. Climb:1600'.
Start: Pont y Bala car park. Grid ref: SH929362.
Leave Chester at 08-00 a.m.past we have parked next to the football field.)
This walk uses two walks from Dave Berry's book"Walks Around Y Bala and Penlylyn". The main walk explores the varied countryside North of Bala, including the wild remote upland around Moel Emoel. The second walk allows us to explore Bala itself and discover some of its history.

Thursday 20th October 2016.

The Alun Valley, Moel y Waun, Llyn Gweryd and Limestone Pastures.

Distance: 9-10 miles; Climb: 1000'.
Start: Llandegla Village car park, adjacent to the bus shelter and opposite the Post Office. Grid ref: SJ196523.
Leave Chester at 9-00 a.m.
This walk combines another two walks from Dave Berry's book "Walks on the Clwydian Hills". He describes one walk as being delightful and the other as being an easy walk with scenic delights. What more could we want from a walk, and as we know Dave Berry is frequently delighted on his walks! From past experience parts of the route can be muddy underfoot.

Saturday 22nd October 2016.

Llangernyw and More.

Distance: 8-9 miles. Climb: 1500'.
Start: Llangernyw, Near PC, down the lane by the church. Grid ref: SH876674.
Leave Chester 8-30 a.m.
This is a figure of eight walk around Llangernyw. part of the walk is based on a walk from Lorna Jenner's book "Walks in the Vale of Clwyd and in the Denbigh Moors". It is described as being a delightful walk centred on the pretty village of Llangernyw. It includes terraced woodland paths besides a cascading stream through former pleasure gardens of Hafodunos Hall. The extension to the walk, explores the countryside North of the village and follows a section of the Afon Elwy, passes the remains of  a motte and then  explores the area North west of the village on the way back to Llanefydd.

Wednesday 26th October 2016.

Erddig, Wat's Dyke and Sontley.

Distance: 10 miles. Climb: 500'.

Start: Felin Puleston Car park, Wrexham. Grid ref: SJ325492. To get to the car park, take the A483 towards Wrexham, turn left onto the A5152 to Rhostyllen and Wrexham. Turn right onto a side road sign-posted Erddig, and almost immediately turn left down a side track sign-posted Felin Puleston Countryside Centre to a parking area by farm buildings.

Leave Chester at 09-00 a.m.

This walk combines two walks from Dave Berry's book "Walks Around Rhuabon Mountain, the Clywedog Valley and Hope Mountain". They are described as a walk through the Erddig Estate and the attractive farmland of Felin Puleston. It also includes an impressive section of Wat's Dyke.
Hopefully this time it won't be as muddy and the dead calf seen last time has been removed!

Thursday 27th October 2016
Walk cancelled.
Saturday 29th October 2016.

Jumbles, Wayoh, Turton and Entwistle Reservoirs. 
Postponed until 12th November 2016.
See below for new walk.

Distance:10-11 miles. Climb:1200'.
Start:Waterfold Car Park, off Bradshaw Road (A676), Jumbles Country Park.
Leave Chester 8-30 a.m.
This walk is based on a walk taken from Terry Marsh's book "Fifty Classic Walks in Lancashire". He describes the walk as a pleasant walk on good paths. The extension to Turton and Entwistle Reservoirs includes another section of the Witton Weaver Way and crosses Turton Heights and a hill called Cheetham Cross. A good and varied walk. Has been known to be on the boggy side on the descent from Cheetham Cross!

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.

Walks and Dates September 2016

Updated on the 9th September.

Thursday 1st September 2016.

No walk.

I am unable to walk on the first , so the walk this week will now be on Wednesday 31st August 2016.

Saturday 3rd September 2016.

Y Bala and Beyond Llanfor. Postponed

Distance: 10-11 miles. Climb:1600'.
Start: Pont y Bala car park. Grid ref: SH929362.
Leave Chester at 08-00 a.m.past we have parked next to the football field.)
This walk uses two walks from Dave Berry's book"Walks Around Y Bala and Penlylyn". The main walk explores the varied countryside North of Bala, including the wild remote upland around Moel Emoel. The second walk allows us to explore Bala itself and discover some of its history.

Thursday 8th September 2016.

The Upper Ceiriog Valley.

Distance: 10 miles. Climb: 2000'.
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 walk from a layby suggested as a good start point by David S.
The walk starts by heading North on a minor lane to meet the Upper Ceiriog Way at Rhyd Caledwynt. The route then follows the Upper Ceiriog Way to Llanarmon Dyffryn-Ceiriog. Leaving  Llanarmon Dyffryn-Ceiriog using field paths to pick up the Upper Ceiriog Way again at Llidiart-cae-hir. The Upper Ceiriog Way is then followed to a track West of Cefn-y-braich that heads North back to our start.
There is no description for this walk, so it's back to basics and map reading.

Saturday 10th September 2016.

A Walk in the "Last of the Summer Wine" Territory.

Distance: 9-10 miles. Climb: 1000'.
Start: Crown Bottom Car Park on Huddersfield Road, Holmfirth. Grid ref: SE14250837.
Leave Chester at 08-00 a.m.
This is a walk taken from "Great Walks In Great Britain - The Peak District". This walk is described as being moderately strenuous exploring the Holmfirth Valley. Talking to a walking group from Holmfirth when they were staying in the Mill in Chester, they described their home patch as being a superb area in which to walk. That couple with the fact that I like the series based there, made me decide to put this walk on, even though it is a little further than we normally travel. It looks as though I'll be driving!

Thursday 15th September 2016.

Moel y Gaer, Moel Fammau and the Western Fringes.

Distance: 9 miles. Climb: 2000'.

Start: Car park at Bwlch Penbarras. Pay and display (£1 the last time we were there). Grid ref: SJ162606.

Leave Chester 9-00 a.m.

This walk combines two walks from Dave Berry's book "Walks on the Clwydian Hills". An opportunity to explore the Western slopes of Moel Fammau before climbing its summit. The return route uses the main path of Offa's Dyke back to Bwlch Penbarras.  An easy start, a stiff climb in the middle and a stroll back to the car. Plenty of opportunity for good views in all directions, if it is clear when we get to the Jubilee Tower.

Saturday 17th September 2016.

Cadair Idris.

Distance: 6-7 miles. Climb: 3150'.
Start. Minffordd Car park on the B4405 Tal-y-Llyn Road., near to its junction with the A487.
As it will take us about 2 hours to get to the start, we will leave Chester at 07-30.
This is the classic circuit of the Llyn Cau, climbing to the summit of Penygadair along the Minffordd Path and descending South from Mynydd Moel towards Nant Caenewydd.
It is anticipated that this will be a long day out and will onlt take place if the weather forecast is good.

Thursday 22nd September 2016.

A Ceiriog Trail North of Rhiwlas.

Distance: 10 miles. Climb: 2000'.  or Distance: 8.2 miles. Climb: 1725'.
Start:  The Pontricket Layby on the B4500 , about 3 miles South of Glyn Ceiriog. Grid ref: SJ186343.
Leave Chester at 09-00.
 On the 9th we found the proposed 10 mile walk was a little on the long side would have meant that we would be a little late getting back to the car. I have looked at the planned route and found a short cut that reduces the the length of the walk to about 8 miles, so this will probably be the one that we will do.
This walk explores the Ceiriog Valley to the South and East of our start point at the Pontricket Layby. Only about a mile of this walk is on minor roads with most of the walk being on the Ceiriog Trail and a small section of the Upper Ceiriog Way. There is no description for this walk, so it's back to basics and map reading.

Saturday 24th September 2016.

The Roaches and Lud's Church.

Distance: 9 -10 miles. Climb: 2000'.

Start: Roadside parking below the Roaches North of Upper Hulme. Grid ref: SK004621.

Leave Chester at 8-00 a.m. 

This walk is taken from the Pathfinder Guide to the Peak District.  The Roaches has become one of our annual favourite walks, but this route is one that we have only done once before.  It includes the main Roaches ridge, and possibly Hen Cloud. The planned return route will be back along Black Brook. Can be boggy, especially on the lower route back from Lud's Church. Hopefully conditions underfoot will be better than the muddy experiences we have had on previous visits.

Thursday 29th September 2016.

Newton Mountain Forest, Cae-Llwyd and Ty Mawr Reservoirs.

Distance: 10 miles. Climb: 1000'.
Start: Lay-by near Bethlehem Chapel, Rhosllanerchrugog. Grid ref: SJ289468.
To get to the lay-by enter Rhos on the B5097 from the North.go past Ysgol y Grango, and just past the Coach and Horses pub turn right along Mountain Street. At the junction by the Sun Inn, turn left along Hall Street to find a lay-by by Llys-y-Mynydd and opposite Bethlehem Chapel.
Leave Chester at 09-00 a.m.
This walk combines another two walks from Dave Berry's book "Walks Around Ruabon Mountain, the Clyweog Valley and Hope Mountain". The walks explore the edges of Rhuabon Mountain and visits two of Rhosllanerchrugog's upland reservoirs.

Walks and Dates August 2016

Updated 4th August 2016.

I can't walk on Thursday 1st September, so I am hoping that everyone can walk on Wednesday 31st of August instead.

Thursday 4th August 2016.

The Afon Maes Valley.

Distance: 7-8 miles. Climb: 800'.
Start: Llanelidan. Grid ref: SJ108503. To get to the parking area, take the A494 Ruthin to Bala road, 2 miles after Pwllglas, turn left towards Llanelidan. Keep ahead at the crossroads as you enter the village, then go down a "No through road" past houses, telephone and a chapel to the end of the road where there is a parking area.

Leave Chester 9-00 a.m.

This walk is taken from Dave Berry's booklet "Walks in the vale of Clwyd." In the past we have always done this walk after having completed the Craig Adwy-wynt walk and have only completed it once before. On the last two occasions, it was on very warm days and we opted to head to a local hostelry for refreshments instead.

 I decided that the only way to complete this walk was to to actually make this the walk.

Dave Berry describes this walk as a splendid figure of eight walk exploring the beautiful unspoiled undulating countryside around Llanelidan.

Saturday 6th August 2016.

See notes below concerning Saturday Walks.

Thursday 11th August 2016.

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

If all goes to plan this could be the last walk that Annie can make with the group before she moves.

Distance: 8-10 miles; Climb:1000'.
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 Claudian'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.

Saturday 8th August 2016.

See notes below concerning Saturday Walks.

Thursday 18th August 2016.

Graig Fawr, and Coed yr Esgob from Prestayn.

Distance:9-10 miles; Climb:1500'.
Start: Prestatyn beach car park. Grid ref: SJ068840. There is a large car park by the toilet block, just before the beach car park. The last time we started at Barkby Beach, we used the Beach Hotel Car Park, tickets obtained from rececption. (cheaper than the Pay and Display car park by the toilet block.
Leave Chester at 9-00 a.m.
This is a walk that I have done many times before and always enjoy. The route uses the North Wales Path and Offa's Dyke path to link up with the walk from Dave Berry's book "Walks in the Clwydian Hills".

Saturday 20th August 2016.

See notes below concerning Saturday Walks.

Thursday 25th August 2016.

Owain Glyndwr's Mount, Nant Friddisel and the Pen y Grog Mines,

Distance: 6-7 miles. Climb: 1400'.

Start: Grid ref: SJ115437. Road side parking on B5437 on the South side of Pont Carrog.

This walk is a little shorter than usual, but takes in to account that route finding might be more difficult than usual. The main objective is to visit the Pen y Grog disused mines using a footpath that would be an extension to our normal walk which we last did in July, but having climbed Moel Fferna no-one has been very keen to extend the walk further. The call of the Grouse Inn might have had something to do with it!

 This route starts by heading alongside the river, before taking the paths that climb up to the mine. After retracing our steps the walk uses a path through the Carrog Plantation that we have used before and may take some finding. Having successfully negotiated our way through the forest and on to open moorland we then follow familiar paths towards Carrog-uchaf, but just before the farm we head back South in to the Carrog Plantation to contour on forest paths around Owain Glyndwr's Mount and finally descend to Llidiart y Park and along the B5437 back to Pont Carrog. 

Saturday 27th August 2016.

Llyn Caer Euni from Llanderfel.

Distance:9-10 miles. Climb:1600’

Start: Roadside parking by the stream in the village of Llanderfel. Grid ref:SH982371.

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.
 This walk involves crossing boggy terrain and at some times of the year head high bracken can hinder the way forward.

Wednesday 31st August 2016.

Along the River Weaver, Kingsley and Around Frodsham.

Distance: 12 miles. Climb: 500'.

Start: Centre car park on the south side of the railway station.

Grid ref: SJ519779.

To get to the car park from Chester. Turn right at the traffic lights in the centre of Frodsham (traffic lights with the Bears Paw Pub on the left and the Golden Lion on the right). After a short distance turn left by the Helter Skelter Wine Bar. Follow the road round past a recycling centre to a large car park.
The distance given relates to the last time that we did the walk. I will probably look to see if the walk can easily be shortened by a couple of miles.

This walk is not taken from any book, so we will just following footpaths on the OS map. The initial part of the walk takes us through the north side of Frodsham, partly on the Eddisbury Way to the Weaver Navigation System. Here we will follow the riverside footpath for 3-4 miles. The Weaver is a good place to see water birds, so don't forget to bring your binoculars with you. After leaving the river we will take field paths to reach the village of Kingsley where we will follow the Eddisbury Way back to Frodsham.

Saturday Walks August 2016.

On most dates in August 2014 and 2015 there have been not takers for Saturday walks. Consequently rather than planning walks for every Saturday and then cancelling them on most occasions, I have decided not to post any walks at the same time as posting Thursday Walks for the month.
 However, if you decide that you want to walk on a particular Saturday, let me know by the Thursday before and it may be possible to arrange one.

Walks and Dates July 2016

New walk for Thursday 28th July 2016.

Saturday 2nd July 2016.

Morfa Conwy, Conwy and Deganwy. 
Postponed. See below for new walk.

Distance: 10-11 miles. Climb: 300'.

Start: Conwy Morfa Car park. Grid ref: SH762787. To get to the car park, leave the A55 at Junction after going through the Conwy Tunnel, follow signs for the Marina and then Aberconwy Park. (PC also there).

Leave Chester at 08-30 a.m.

This walk combines one walk  from Dave Berry's book "Walks on the North Wales Coast and two walks from his book "Best Coastal walks in North Wales". The Deganwy walk we have done several times before, but never at this time of the year, so hopefully it won't be so muddy underfoot as our usual Winter excursion! We may also take the opportunity to explore the Conwy town walls.

Saturday 2nd July 2016.
Cadair Bronwen and Cadair Berwen from Lladrillo.

Distance:10-11 miles; Climb: 2500'.
Start: Llandrillo riverside car park. Grid ref:SJ035372.
Leave Chester 8-00 a.m.
This walk is taken from John Trentor's book "Walks in and Around the Berwyn Mountains". The last time we did this walk, the weather wasn't very kind to us and we resisted the temptation to explore a little further the main ridge on the Berwyns. Nevertheless this is a really good walk and in good weather the extension to Moel Sych is a very likely option. Can be rather boggy, especially as we descend from the moors towards Llandrillo.

Thursday 7th July 2016.

Owain Glyndwr's Mount, Nant Friddisel and Moel Fferna.

Distance: 8-10 miles; Climb: 1600'.

Start: Pont Carrog. Grid ref: SJ115437.

Leave Chester 9-0 a.m.

This walk is taken from Dave Berry's book "Walks Around Llangollen and The Dee Valley", along with an extension to visit the summit of our old friend Moel Fferna. The exact approach and route of descent will be decided on the day depending on the weather conditions!

After walk drinks will be at the Grouse Inn at Carrog, and hopefully it will be good weather and we can sit outside overlooking the Dee valley.

Saturday 9th July 2016.

The Roaches and Lud's Church.

Postponed until 24th September 2016.

Distance: 9 -10 miles. Climb: 2000'.

Start: Roadside parking below the Roaches North of Upper Hulme. Grid ref: SK004621.

Leave Chester at 8-00 a.m. 

This walk is taken from the Pathfinder Guide to the Peak District.  The Roaches has become one of our annual favourite walks, but this route is one that we have only done once before.  It includes the main Roaches ridge, and possibly Hen Cloud. The planned return route will be back along Black Brook. Can be boggy, especially on the lower route back from Lud's Church. We usually do this walk in the Autumn, so hopefully conditions underfoot will be better at this time of the year.

Thursday 14th July 2016.

Craig Adwy-Wynt, Nant Clwyd Hall and the Afon y Maes Valley.

Distance: 9-12 miles. Climb:1500'.

Start: Llanelidan. Grid ref: SJ108503. To get to the parking area, take the A494 Ruthin to Bala road, 2 miles after Pwllglas, turn left towards Llanelidan. Keep ahead at the crossroads as you enter the village, then go down a "No through road" past houses, telephone and a chapel to the end of the road where there is a parking area.

Leave Chester 9-00 a.m.

This walk is taken from Dave Berry's book "Walks in the Vale of Clwyd", and explores the beautiful, unspoilt undulating countryside around the Nant Clwyd Estate.  Last time we did this walk, it was so warm that decided to shorten the walk slightly and head for refreshments. Hopefully we will complete the whole walk and explore one or to new paths that link the start point and the described walk.

Saturday 16th July 2016.

Cadair Idris - as requested. 

Postponed until 17th September 2016.

Distance: 10-11 miles. Climb: 3400'.

Start: Minffordd Car Park on the junction of the B4405 (Tal-y-Llyn Road) and the A487 (Machynlleth Road). Grid ref: SH732115.

This walk is taken from John and Anne Nuttall's book " The Mountains of England and Wales Volume 1 Wales". It is a long time since this walk has been on the list. This will be by far the greatest climb on any walk planned this year, and considering the speed at which I walk uphill these day, I anticipate it being a long day. Although this walk can be up to 11 miles, it is possible to shorten the walk considerably, although the shortened route does involve quite a steep descent.

 As the most centrally placed mountain in Wales the panorama from the summit stretches from Plumlumon in the South to Snowdon in the North and the coast in the West. It is claimed that on a good day Ireland can be seen.

Thursday 21st July 2016.

Moel Maenefa and Coed Cwm.

Distance:11 miles; Climb: 1500'.

Start: Off road parking just East of Tremeirchion. Grid ref:SJ095740.

Leave Chester 9-00 a.m.

This walk combines two walks from Dave Berry's book "Walks On the Clwydian Hills - New Edition". The Moel Maenefa walk is a new one for me and is described as being a walk of great variety, exploring the foothills of the Northern Clwydians and the Vale of Clwyd, offering expansive views. One of the walks also goes around Coed Cwm and explores the attractive countryside between Rhuallt and Cwm. Route finding through Coed Cwm could be intresting, if I remember correctly from our previous visits!

Saturday 23rd July 2016.

The Ceiriog Valley and Y Foel.

Distance: 11 miles. Climb:2139’.

Start: Pontfadog Car Park. Grid ref:SJ234380.

Leave Chester at 9-00 a.m.

We usually do this walk on a Thursday, but car parking is limited, so I thought that I would switch it to a Saturday, when there is likely to be one car involved.

This walk is based on a walk taken from the “Walking Wales” magazine called “Churches in the Valley Walk”. However we will extend it to include the summit of Y Foel and the Biddulph Tower. Our return route from Y Foel will be decided on the day, but won’t be the heather hopping route chosen last time! The main route in the beautiful Ceiriog valley passes 7 churches and eventually rises to the hill top road where there are superb views to be had, especially towards the Berwyns and the Shropshire Hills.

Thursday 28th July 2016. 

The Three Lakes Walk. 
Postponed. Heavy rain has been forecast for the week before and this area can be boggy enough even when it hasn't rained for a long time.
See below for new walk.

Distance:11.6 miles; Climb:1523'.

Start: Park on grass verge just before crossing over the dam (Eastern side of the Llyn Aled). Grid ref:SH916579.

Leave Chester at 08-45 a.m.

The start of this walk is a little further than we usually go, so I have brought the leave Chester time 15 minutes earlier.

This walk is taken from Dave Berry's books "Walks in the Hidden Heart of North Wales" and Walks Around Hiraethog Moors and Lakes" whichever you prefer. Same walks, just different covers, and one walk has been extended a little in the former book. Llyn Aled, Llyn Alwen and the Alwen Reservoir are the three "lakes" visited. In the past sections have been quite boggy to say the least, but hopefully it won't be too bad at this time of the year.  This walk is not everyone's cup of tea, but over the years, it has become one of my favourite walks on the Denbigh Moors.

New Walk. Thursday 28th July 2016.

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

Distance: 10-11 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". It;s nearly two years since w last did these two walks together! Always a good walk, if you try to forget that climb up the road to the Pen-y-Ball Monument!

Saturday 30th July 2016.

St. Celynnin's Church and Tal y Fan.

Distance: 8 miles. Climb: 2000'.

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!

Walks and Dates June 2016

Updated 9th June 2016.

Thursday 2nd June 2016.

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 at this time of the year.

Saturday 5th June 2016.

The Llyn Padarn Circuit and the Powdr Oil Walk.

Distance: 10-11 miles; Climb:1500'.
Start: Lakeside car park close to Llanberis (Pay and Display). Grid ref: SH750770 .
Leave Chester 8-00 a.m.
This is a walk that the group attempted in October 2008, when the weather was somewhat too wet for me and I abandoned the second half of the walk. The rest of the group did complete the walk and agreed it would be good to do the walk again when they could see where they were going! The walks are taken from Dave Salter and Dave Worrall's book "New Walks in Gwynedd From Mountain Tops to Valleys". Fine views are anticipated on a fine day. We did complete the walk again in 2009, so I thought that it was time we did it again.

Thursday 9th June 2016.

Around Minera Mountain.

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 - do we count? 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 a good dry spell of late.

Saturday 11th June 2016. Postponed

Cadair Bronwen and Cadair Berwen from Lladrillo.

Distance:10-11 miles; Climb: 2500'.
Start: Llandrillo riverside car park. Grid ref:SJ035372.
Leave Chester 8-00 a.m.
This walk is taken from John Trentor's book "Walks in and Around the Berwyn Mountains". The last time we did this walk, the weather wasn't very kind to us and we resisted the temptation to explore a little further the main ridge on the Berwyns. Nevertheless this is a really good walk and in good weather the extension to Moel Sych is a very likely option. Can be rather boggy, especially as we descend from the moors towards Llandrillo.

Thursday 16th June 2016.

Cwm Dulas, Cefn yr Ogof and Gop Wood.

Distance:10 miles; Climb:1300'.
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. Once again we may decide to explore Gop Wood a little more or even be tempted to paddle in the sea at the end of the walk.

Saturday 18th June 2016.

Wylfa, Cemlyn Bay and More.

Distance: 9 miles.

Climb:750'.

Start: Mynydd Wylfa LNR Car park. Grid ref: SH356937

This walk combines one walk from each of the books by Carl Rogers on walks on the Anglesey coast. This walk explores the coast to the West of the power station. It will also allow us to explore he area around "the lagoon" nature reserve. If time allows it will also allow us to explore again the Mynydd Wylfa LNR. Don't forget to bring binoculars with you.

Thursday 23rd June 2016.

Prestatyn, Talacre and The Point of Ayr.

Distance: 10 miles. Climb: 200'.

Start at Prestatyn Barkby Beach Car Park. I suggest that you park on the large parking area by the PC, rather than the one that overlooks thee sea. Both are Pay and Display. Grid ref: SJ068839

Leave Chester at 09-00 a.m.

This is a walk that is always on the list at this time of the year, as it is always a good time to see Little terns, so bring binoculars with you. Hopefully we will see orchids too.

As a change, we will complete the walk in the opposite direction to the one that we will normally take. 

High tide is at about 13-30, and is about 29', so we will walk along the beach to Talacre. We will take lunch using one of the picnic tables along the path leading to the Point Of Air. We will decide on the day whether to extend the walk as far as the RSPB observation point.

Our return route will be through The Warren Nature Reserve, Caravan Park and Golf Course.

Saturday 25th June 2016.

Rowen, Llanbedre-y-cennin and Caerhun.

Distance: 10 miles. Climb:1500'.

Start: Roadside parking opposite the post office in Rowen. Grid ref: SH761719.

Leave Chester 08-00 a.m.

This walk combines one walk from Carl Rogers's book "Walkng in the Conwy valley with one walk from Dave Berry's book " Walks Around Betws-y-coed and the Conwy Valley". One walk is described as a walk exploring the attractive undulating countryside between two attractive villages with a possible extension to the top of Moel y Gaer.  The other walk is described as an easy walk, visiting a Medieval church and a the site of a Roman fort. Both Llanbedr-y-cennin and Caerhun are known locations for Hawfinch.  Will we be lucky this time! Bring binoculars, just in case.

Hopefully the weather will be kind enough to encourage us to complete the Caerhun section of the walk.

Thursday 30th June 2016.

World's End and Cyrn-y-Brain from the Ponderosa.

Distance: 9-10 miles. Climb: 1600'.

Start: Car parking area opposite the Ponderosa Cafe. Grid ref: SJ192480.

Leave Chester at 09-00 a.m.

This walk is taken from Dave Berry's book " Walks Around Ruabon Mountain, the Clywedog Valley  and Hope Mountain."  This is described as an exhilarating walk of great variety, on good upland paths and tracks with panoramic viewscapes.

Walks and Dates May 2016

Updated on 25th April with errors remedied.

Thursday 5th May 2016.

Coed Pen-y-Gelli and the Gorsedd Round.
The First Bluebell Wood Walk of the Year.

Distance:11-12 miles. Climb:1050’.

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.

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 nearer 10 miles as we will only complete a small section of the Gorsedd Round.

Leave Chester at 09-00 a.m.

Saturday 7th May 2016.

Bluebell Woods Around Parbold. 

Distance: 10 miles. Climb: 800'.
Start: Hunter's Hill Quarry Nature Reserve. Grid ref: SD503123
Leave Chester at 08-45 a.m.
This walk is a walk that we did for the first time last year. This walk is on the East of Parbold, and visits up to ten different woods, so hopefully some will still have 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 couple of times now. There is no description, just the OS map.  The walk includes a section around Anderton Mill and High Moor. Last time the Bluebells and wild garlic in Fairy Glen were quite stunning. Bring binoculars with you just in case.

Thursday 12th May 2016.

Eglwyseg Escarpment and Trevor Rocks.

Distance:9-10 miles. Climb:1200'.

Start: Off road parking on the Panorama road just East of the monument. Grid ref: SJ247426.

Leave Chester at 09-00 a.m.

This must be one of the best walks in the Llangollen area, especially on a sunny day. a walk that makes you feel like you're  on top of the world with superb views in all directions, including the Dee Valley, Dinas Bran, the Llantysilio Mountains and the Berwyns. Always a favourite walk and on the
list at least once every year. Good whatever the time of the year. We might even hear a Cuckoo!

Saturday 14th May 2016.

The Lawley and Caer Caradoc.Postponed

Distance:10 miles; Climb:2000'.

Start:Church Stretton centre car park (pay and display). Grid ref:SO454911.

Leave Chester 8-00 a.m.

It's Dotterel time again, so this is another walk that may give us the chance of seeing them again. The walk combines two walks taken from Ian Jones' booklet "20 Walks From Church Stretton".It is a walk that we first did in 1998 and have done several times since then. This is a superb walk, especially on a good day. It is the nearest that you can get to a ridge walk, particularly along the Lawley!

Thursday 19th May 2016.

Moel Fferna and Nant-y-Pandy.

Distance: 9-10 miles. Climb: 2000’.

Start: Lay-by adjacent to the Butterfly Man Craft Centre on the A5 Llangollen to Corwen road near Glyndyfrdwy. Grid ref:SJ11584360.

Leave Chester 9-00 a.m.

The described part of the walk is taken from Dave Berry’s book “Walks Around Llangollen and the Dee Valley”. He describes it as a fascinating walk through the wooded Nant-y-Pandy with its old slate works.  The extension takes us to the summit of Moel Fferna, let’s hope for a good day so that we can linger on the top and taken in the excellent views.

Saturday 21st May 2016.

Holyhead Breakwater Country Park and South Stack.

Distance:10 miles. Climb:1326'.

Start: Holyhead Breakwater Country Park (Pay and Display). SH225833

Leave Chester 8-30 a.m.

This is another walk that has become an annual favourite. Along the coastal section there should be  good chances of seeing Choughs, Guillemots, Razorbills and even Puffins. Bring binoculars if you can. If time and energy reserves allow we may visit the summit of Holyhead Mountain.

 As we start at the Country park, we will again do the walk in a clockwise direction,  finishing the  walk along the Coastal Path.

Thursday 26th May 2016.

Lady Bagot's Drive with St Christopher's Blessing.

Distance:10-11 miles. Climb: 500'.

Start: Ruthin Riverside Car park (Pay and display). Grid ref: SJ121582.

Leave Chester 9-00 a.m.

This walk combines two walks from Dave Berry's book "Walks in the Vale of Clwyd".  We have completed this walk many times before in all sorts of weather conditions. Conditions underfoot have been particularly challenging after lots of rain and the Afon Clwyd is in spate.  We didn't see Kingfishers last year, so hopefully we may this year..

Saturday 28th May 2016.

Rowen, Llanbedre-y-cennin and Caerhun.
Cancelled - may be included later in the year.

Distance: 10-11 miles. Climb:1500'.

Start: Roadside parking opposite the post office in Rowen. Grid ref: SH761719.

Leave Chester 08-00 a.m.

This walk combines one walk from Carl Rogers's book "Walkng in the Conwy valley with one walk from Dave Berry's book " Walks Around Betws-y-coed and the Conwy Valley". One walk is described as a walk exploring the attractive undulating countryside between two attractive villages with a possible extension to the top of Moel y Gaer.  The other walk is described as an easy walk, visiting a Medieval church and a the site of a Roman fort. Both Llanbedr-y-cennin and Caerhun are known locations for Hawfinch.  Will we be lucky this time! Bring binoculars, just in case.

Last time we attempted this walk, two of us chickened out of the Caerhun part as the weather wa so bad, hopefully the weather this time will be a little better than on that January day!

Walks and Dates April 2016

Updated on 6th April 2016.

Saturday 2nd April 2016.

Around Bosley Cloud. 

Distance: 9-10 miles. Climb:1020'.

Start: Lay-by on the A523, South of its junction with the A54. Grid ref: SJ917657.

Leave Chester at 08-30.

This walk is taken from Jen Darling's book "Best Pub Walks in Cheshire", although we won't take her advice on the local hostelries! The walk takes us to the top of Bosley Cloud with its panoramic views over the Cheshire plain.. After visiting the trig point on Bosley Cloud, the walk heads West to meet up with the Macclesfield Canal, which we follow for an easy four mile stretch.

Thursday 7th April 2016.

Barber Hill, Vivod Estate and the Horseshoe Falls.

Distance:10 miles.

Climb: 2000'
Start: Llantysilio Green car park. Grid ref: SJ198433

Leave Chester 9-00 a.m.
This walk combines two walks taken from Dave Berry's book "Walks Around Llangollen and the Dee Valley".  This can be a glorious walk, if the weather is good.
 We usually start this walk in the centre of Llangollen, but I thought this would be a good place to start. It's probably a little late, but with a bit of look the Snowdrops in Llantysilio Green churchyard will still be in flower.

Saturday 9th April 2016.

The Pentrefoelas Round, Foel las Motte and Ffridd-y-Foel.

Distance:11 miles; Climb:1800' .
Start: Penrefoelas village car park. In the village turn left over the river. Grid ref:SH874514.
Leave Chester 8-00 a.m.
This walk combines two walks from Dave Berry's book"walks Around Hiraethog Moors and Lakes" or his last slightly revised version called "Walks in the Hidden Heart of North Wales". The only new bit as far as I can see is the complete circuit of the Alwen Reservoir which we have already done!
He describes one walk as using paths, old coaching roads and drovers routes and quaint lanes and rises to Bryn Prys at just over 1000' and skirts moorland reaching over 1100'. The second walk passes an old earthwork castle - Foel Lass Motte.

Thursday 14th April 2016.

Moel Arthur and Around Moel Plas-yw.
This walk and the start place has changed from that originally posted at the start of the month.

Distance: 8.0 miles; Climb:1250'.
Start: Car park area West of Cilcain. Grid ref: SJ170652.
To get to the parking area, at the crossroads in Cilcain turn right (Eastward), past the White Horse, Church and Village hall, at the end of a few houses on the right turn, left and the parking area is a few hundred yards further on on the right. 
This walk is one we did last year and includes most of  one of the walks from Dave Berry's book ""More Walks on the Clwydian Hills". The Moel Plas-yw walk impressed us last time with its excellent views and delightful woodland valley paths. I suggest a visit to the summit of Moel Arthur could be an extension at the end of the walk for most of us!
Leave Chester at 9-00 a.m.

Saturday 16th April 2016.

Grinllwm and Llyn Gerionydd.

Distance:9 miles; Climb:1400'.

Start:Llanrwst Plas yn Dre car park. Grid ref:SH782630.
Leave Chester 8-00 a.m.
This is another walk that combines another two walks from Dave Berry's book "Walks Around Betws-y-coed and the Conwy Valley". Whilst many of the group have already done this walk, it is one that I missed out on last time. Hence the repeat. The walk included two waterfalls and the remote ancient Llanrhychwyn church. In the past we have heard Cuckoos calling on this walk.

Thursday 21st April 2016.

Craig Bron-Banog and Part of Cwm Alwen. 

Distance:11 miles; Climb:1100'.

Start:Llanfihangel Glyn Myfyr. Riverside picnic site. Grid ref:SH987496. Take the Ruthin to Cerrigydrudion road. Turn right just after the bridge by the Crown Inn. Continue down the road past the church. The picnic area is on the right just before the school.

Leave Chester 9-00 a.m.

Both walks are taken from Dave Berry's book "Walks In the Hidden Heart North Wales". The Craig Bron-Banog walk is new to us. He describes it as an eight mile figure of eight walk exploring the afforested undulating countryside South-east of Llyn Brenig. The route meanders through Clocaenog Forest, passes a hidden waterfall and an ancient standing stone before reaching the highest point of Craig Bron-Banog with its panoramic views.

Saturday 23rd April 2016.

Barthomley, Englesea-brook, Weston and its Western Fringes.

Distance: 12 mile. Climb: 1100'.

Start: Roadside parking near Barthomley Church or the village Hall car park. Grid ref: SJ767524.

Leave Chester at 08-30 a.m.

This walk is taken from the "Pathfinder Guide to Cheshire". It describes the walk as one which explores the pleasant and gently undulating countryside, visiting the interesting villages of Barthomley and Englesea-brook. Can be muddy in places and there are over 50 stiles, some requiring reasonable agility!

Thursday 28th April 2016.

A 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 another walk by Debbie Hamilton and is taken from 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.

Saturday 30th April 2016.

Long Mynd, Wild Moor and Pole Bank.

Distance:10-11 miles. Climb:2100’.

Start: Centre of Church Stretton car park (Pay and display). Grid ref: SO454930.

Leave Chester 8-00 a.m.

This walk is taken from Ian R. Jones’s booklet “20 Church Stretton Walks”.  All of the walks around Church Stretton are popular, although this walk does include a few sections that are a little less visited by the throngs.  Another possible Dotterel day, but if we do see any, it will be our first on the Long Mynd.  Even without Dotterels this is a superb area of the country to walk in, especially as you explore the moors around Pole Bank.