The Old Pale Trail, Delamere Forest
Tucked away on the edge of Delamere Forest, Old Pale Hill is one of those walks that takes you by surprise in the best way.
One minute you’re weaving through peaceful woodland, the next you’re standing on a summit with panoramic views across seven counties. It’s a gorgeous mix of forest, history, and big wide-open skies - and a walk that instantly reminds you why getting outdoors is so good for the soul.
It’s also a trail I come back to time and time again, especially with my toddler in tow. It’s fun, varied, and just adventurous enough to keep little ones excited without being too full-on.
Keep reading for everything you need to know about exploring one of the best walks in Cheshire - the beautiful Old Pale Trail at Delamere…
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Old Pale Trail
Imagine quiet forestry paths, sweeping hillside views, and a summit marked by ancient county stones - that’s Old Pale Hill.
This circular route sits on the fringes of Delamere Forest and takes you up to Old Pale Summit at 176m, where an incredible viewpoint celebrates the surrounding counties: Cheshire, Derbyshire, Staffordshire, Lancashire, Shropshire, Denbighshire and Flintshire.
On a clear day you can pick out everything from Liverpool’s skyline to Moel Famau and even Jodrell Bank.
The Old Pale Trail is 3km (1.9 miles) and follows a clear loop up and around the hill. It's classed as more challenging than other Delamere routes, but still achievable for most walkers with a reasonable fitness level - and it’s brilliant for school-age kids or confident toddlers.
It’s one of those walks that instantly gives you that “ahh… this is why I love being outdoors” feeling.
Right … let’s explore the Old Pale Trail…
The Details.
Old Pale Hill Map.
The Route.
This route begins at the Delamere Forest Visitor Centre, where you’ll find toilets, maps, clear signage, and a good café for a post-walk treat.
1. Start at the Visitor Centre
From the car park, walk past the visitor centre towards the main trail junctions. Here, look out for the brown Old Pale Trail marker on your left - that’s the start of your loop.
Follow the path through a small woodland section. It’s gentle to begin with, and little explorers always enjoy weaving between the trees.
2. Begin the climb
As the trail curves to the right, you’ll start your uphill stretch. It’s about 1 mile of steady climbing on wide forest paths.
There are benches placed along the trail - perfect for catching your breath or admiring the views that begin to open up behind you.
Ignore any paths leading off to the left; the brown waymarkers keep you on track.
3. Wildflower meadow & amphitheatre
About halfway up, the forest opens into a wildflower meadow and natural amphitheatre. In summer, this area is buzzing with bees and butterflies, and it’s one of my favourite peaceful spots in the whole forest.
This is also where you’ll find the shortcut back to the visitor centre if you want to make the walk shorter.
4. Reach the Old Pale Summit
The final pull takes you past the transmitter masts and up onto Old Pale Heights, the highest point in Delamere.
At the summit, you’ll find:
A ring of standing stones, each representing a visible county
A central Cheshire stone
Viewpoint plaques showing landmarks such as Manchester, Liverpool, Jodrell Bank, Moel Famau, and the Shropshire Hills
A trig point and history plaque marking the site’s Iron Age connections
On a clear day the views are absolutely stunning — and even on a cloudy day, the sense of space is incredible.
5. Follow the loop back down
Once you’ve soaked in the views, it’s time to head down. Face the path you climbed up, then take the path to your right - this leads you back towards Delamere Forest.
The descent is much gentler and winds you through peaceful woodland until you reach the flat forest floor again.
At the bottom, turn left and follow the trail back towards the Visitor Centre, where cafés, loos, and picnic benches are waiting.
Parking for The Old Pale Trail
Parking is in the Delamere Forest Visitor Centre Car Park (Linmere).
Postcode: CW8 2HZ
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Charges (pay on exit):
Up to 1 hour – £3.80
Up to 2 hours – £7.30
Up to 3 hours – £10.50
All day – £12.00
You can also reach the trail from Delamere Station, which is only a short walk away — great if you want a car-free adventure.
Other Walks Near Old Pale Hill
FAQ’s.
Where is Old Pale Hill?
Old Pale is located on the southern edge of Delamere Forest in Cheshire, just off the A54.
How long is the Old Pale Trail?
The official Forestry England route is 3km (1.9 miles) and takes about an hour.
Is the walk suitable for kids?
Yes! It’s a wonderful family walk in Cheshire with lots for kids to explore. Do note the summit can be windy and exposed, and some paths are steep or muddy.
Are dogs allowed?
Absolutely - Delamere is very dog-friendly. Keep dogs on leads around livestock and busy paths.
Is the trail muddy?
In winter? Very. Think wellies or proper boots.
Top Tips.
Check the weather – the summit gets windy, and the views are best on clear days.
Wear sturdy footwear – the paths can be slippery and muddy.
Keep little ones close at the summit – the viewpoint is open and exposed.
Pack snacks – the perfect spot for a summit picnic.
Talk about the county stones – it’s a fun geography moment for kids.
Explore the hillfort – a great way to add extra adventure to the day.
Visit the Delamere Forest Café – perfect for a warm drink or ice cream afterward.
Whether you’re a local looking for a weekend wander or a visitor exploring Cheshire’s gorgeous countryside, the Old Pale Trail is a brilliant walk with big views, peaceful paths, and just the right amount of adventure.
Take your time, enjoy the climb, and let the landscape unfold around you.
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