The best walks and hikes around Hankelow

Yes, the area is generally dog-friendly. The wide-open fields and canal towpaths offer great spaces for dogs. However, you will be walking through active farmland, so it's essential to keep your dog on a lead, especially around livestock. Also, be mindful of cyclists and other walkers on the narrower towpath sections.

The towpath of the Shropshire Union Canal, known locally as 'the Shroppie', provides a level and well-maintained walking surface. It offers elevated views over the surrounding Cheshire countryside. The section near Audlem is particularly scenic, featuring a series of 15 locks. The towpaths can be narrow in places and are shared with cyclists and boaters.

Yes, many routes in the area are circular, allowing you to start and end in the same place without retracing your steps. These loops often combine different types of terrain, such as quiet country lanes, field paths, and canal towpaths, to create a varied hiking experience. The St James' Church, Audlem – The Shroppie Fly, Audlem loop from Audlem is a great example of a moderate circular walk.

Absolutely. The terrain around Hankelow is predominantly flat, making it ideal for families and casual walkers. For a shorter, accessible option, consider the St James' Church, Audlem – Audlem Centre loop from Buerton. This 4.1-mile (6.7 km) walk follows a mix of field edges and quiet lanes and is rated as easy.

Many walks in the region pass through or near the village of Audlem, which has several canalside pubs. A popular choice is to incorporate a stop at The Shroppie Fly pub, which is a highlight on the The Shroppie Fly, Audlem – St James' Church, Audlem loop from Audlem. This allows you to enjoy a rewarding break during your hike.

The landscape is classic Cheshire Plain: mostly flat or gently rolling. You'll encounter a mix of well-maintained canal towpaths, grassy tracks along the River Weaver, paths across open farmland, and quiet country lanes. While generally not strenuous, some field paths can become muddy after rain, so waterproof footwear is recommended.

Yes, for those seeking a longer day out, there are more substantial routes. The Nantwich Aqueduct – Nantwich Historic Town Centre loop from Audlem is a great option. At 12.3 miles (19.9 km), this trail takes you through the River Weaver valley and requires a good level of fitness, typically taking around 5 hours to complete.

There is no central car park for all the trails. For routes starting in Hankelow, on-street parking is available but can be limited, so please park considerately. For walks beginning in the nearby village of Audlem, there is a public car park which can be a convenient starting point for many of the canal and countryside loops.

The trails around Hankelow are highly regarded by the komoot community. With an average rating of over 4.3 stars from more than 150 reviews, hikers often praise the peaceful countryside, the scenic canal sections, and the variety of well-marked paths that make the area a pleasure to explore.

There is a wide selection of routes to explore, with over 120 trails documented on komoot. These range from short, easy strolls of just a few miles to more demanding long-distance hikes, ensuring there's a walk to suit every ability level.

Yes, a short distance from Hankelow is the Wybunbury Moss National Nature Reserve. It's one of the UK's best examples of a floating peat bog, a rare habitat supporting unique plants and insects. You can explore the reserve via circular boardwalks, which help protect the fragile ecosystem while allowing for excellent wildlife viewing.