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Best medium hikes in Cheshire East
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Best medium hikes in Cheshire East

Ready for a bit more of a challenge? These medium-difficulty hikes offer the perfect balance between effort and reward.

Here are some great hikes to explore in Cheshire East.

Most popular hikes


Reviews for medium hikes in Cheshire East

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Gritstone Trail

RangerMountainlover48 · reviewed almost 2 years ago

star star star star star


Shona  Gregory avatar

Staffordshire Way

Shelly Shakes It 🐚 · reviewed 5 months ago

star star star star star

On the 1st August 2025 I started this trail at mow cop - I managed 37.1km this day - absolutely stunning views from mow cop, met lots of dark animals along the way, the elevations at the cloud made it more difficult but what a view when I got to the top. I saw so so much is Staffordshire’s history, parts of rudyard and the lake I didn’t know were there, churnet valley and the water way walk along consall is also stunning. Advice - I walked on a fair and average British weather day, there was one bout of a heavy rain shower, nothing too sloppy or dangerous underfoot but can imagine there would be just one or two small boggy areas to navigate around if rainfall had been heavy the few days before. I had to go through multiple fields at different stages with live cattle and all but one field the cattle were calm and unbothered. Also, on the way to the cloud near tillingsdale, the public right of way access has been deferred by a house which has bricked up next to the stream and completely blocked the area with multiple pieces of barbed wire, however it is easily navigated by returning to the previous field and heading up the hill towards the row of houses to find a hidden stye tucked in the corner next to the ends house back garden fence, through that field you can then rejoin the route. 10/10 I recommend. Commuting to any amount of distance at any part of this route - I’m working my way through the whole way route and honestly my breath was taken away at multiple parts of these stages. I am a novice hiker, I was able to cover 37.1 km on the first day, most under footing is easy to medium as a novice the elevations around the cloud I personally found harder and it set me back on time. But it was still achievable and very much worth it. I would suggest carrying light and essential, and consider walking in trail shoes as oppose to heavier boots - I used water proof altra trail runners and I haven’t got a single blister.


Fr. Domenic MacGyver avatar

Manchester Walk from south of Macclesfield to Horwich

TundraBirchwanderer32 · reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star


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Shutlingsloe - Cat and Fiddle and Macclesfield Forest

NatureSkytracker73 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star


No reviews available for Rossendale Ramble.


Frequently asked questions for hikes in Cheshire East

What is the climate like for hiking in England?

In England, hiking in the spring (March to May) sees milder temperatures and flourishing wildlife, however trails may be muddy due to showers. Summer (June to August) offers the most stable weather with longer daylight hours but trails can be crowded, especially in national parks. Autumn (September to November) can be wetter but displays vibrant fall colours.

Winter hiking (December to February) is more challenging due to short days and colder, often unpredictable weather. Snowfall can make some trails inaccessible. Always check the weather forecast and equip accordingly. Experienced hikers may enjoy the tranquility and stark beauty of the winter landscape. 

Ultimately, the best time to hike in England depends on personal preferences and preparedness. England's official tourist site (https://www.visitengland.com/) provides in-depth information about various hiking trails and their seasonal characteristics. Be sure to research specific areas as climate can vary across the country.


Do I need a permit to hike in England?

In England, the "Right to Roam" allows hikers access to certain public lands without a permit. Some areas like national parks or Sites of Special Scientific Interest may have specific rules. Before hiking, check with the landowner, National Trust, or local council. Information on access rights can be found on the Natural England website (https://www.gov.uk/guidance/open-access-land-management-rights-and-responsibilities).


Is wild camping allowed in England?

Wild camping in England is generally not allowed without landowner permission, except in some parts of Dartmoor National Park. Breaching this can result in fines. It's advised to use official campsites or seek landowner consent for a more immersive experience. For more, visit the Dartmoor National Park's website (https://www.dartmoor.gov.uk/visiting/planning-your-visit/camping).


Are there mountain rescue services in England?

In emergencies while hiking in England, dial 999 and ask for the police, then request Mountain Rescue. The Mountain Rescue England and Wales (MREW) is a volunteer-run organization that provides assistance in upland and lowland areas. More information can be found on their website (https://www.mountain.rescue.org.uk/).


Are there dangerous plants in England?

England's diverse hiking trails present a range of flora. Expect bluebells in ancient woodlands, gorse on coastal paths, and heather on moorlands. In protected areas, refrain from picking or damaging plants. The Woodland Trust provides more details on the UK's native species (https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/trees-woods-and-wildlife/plants/).


What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in England?

While hiking in England, you may encounter a variety of wildlife including deer, foxes, badgers, and numerous bird species. Beware of ticks in tall grass and midges in damp, shaded areas. The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (https://www.rspb.org.uk/) offers useful information on encountering wildlife responsibly.