Winter Walks in Cheshire

A canal and river walk near Acton Bridge

I did this walk with some friends on Boxing Day, we started at about 10am and were finished in good time for lunch. The walk follows the Trent and Mersey canal in a north west direction from the A49 just north of Acton Bridge. It then turns south, away from the canal, to meet the River Weaver for the return journey south eastwards.

Parking near the Leigh Arms (just off the A49) follow footpath signs to get on to the canal towpath close to Bartington Forge and the Black Prince Holidays boatyard (signposted from the A49).

Route of walk

Once on the towpath turn left and follow the canal towards the north west passing bridges 210 and 211.

Bridge 210 

Bridge 211

Looking to the left from the towpath you get a wide view over fields towards the River Weaver and Dutton Locks.

Signpost on the canal towpath

The walk follows the Trent and Mersey Canal to bridge 212.  Once at this bridge leave the canal and turn left down Lodge Lane passing Bluebell Cottage Gardens and Nursery on the right.


A footpath sign on the left shows the route through a small wooded area which crosses a stream and rises up to meet a path.

Small wooded area 

After walking up through the woods we joined the path facing a plantation of trees planted in clear lines. Turn left here and follow the path to meet the River Weaver on the left.

Plantation of trees

As it was winter when we did this walk there were few leaves on the trees but plenty of berries.

Soon the path leads alongside the River Weaver and the route continues to a wide bridge over the river which you cross to reach Dutton Locks.

Red berries on the trees

River Weaver

Arriving at Dutton Locks there is an area of picnic tables perfect for a short break and we made use of this for a quick drink of coffee and some Christmas cake. There are information boards giving the history of the locks, and this part of the river has been straightened to provide a navigation route whereas the 'true' river meanders around the back of the locks. 

Bridge over the River Weaver

View from Dutton Locks

Leaving the locks behind head westwards, following the direction of Northwich along the Weaver Way, passing a derelict boat moored at the side of the river.

Weaver Way sign

Derelict boat 

Looking back towards the derelict boat

The path finally passes under the bridge for the A49 and after walking under the bridge turn left and return to the car park.

After the walk we headed for the village of Comberbach near Great Budworth, about 4 miles away, and had a good pub lunch at the Spinner & Bergamot Inn.