Woodland valley walk
Wander through this peaceful area of Alderley Edge filled with history and wildlife, where past generations have mined and farmed the landscape.
Total steps: 10
Total steps: 10
Start point
Picnic area near the Alderley Edge car park, grid ref: SJ859773
Step 1
Start at the picnic area by the car park and follow the broad farm track that runs straight ahead.
Step 2
Continue to follow the path which leads straight into the woods. After it has bent to the left look for an opening on your left-hand side, this is Engine Vein.
Step 3
Continue walking along the path until it bends sharply to the right and walk through the gate on your left hand site into Dickens Wood.
Step 4
Once through the gate take the path to the right, passing a bench on your right-hand side. As the path drops downhill alongside fields, the view opens out looking towards the Peak District. Soon after the path forks into two. Follow the purple arrow and take the higher path which descends into a deep gully at the heart of Waterfall Wood.
Step 5
Continue to follow the route until you reach a stream and use the stepping stone to cross into Clockhouse Woods. Begin to climb up the crude steps and you will soon arrive at the majestic Beech Cathedral, where the trees measure over 100ft (35m) high.
Step 6
Continue to follow the path as it bends 180 degrees around the top of the slope and runs downhill, between dark hollies, to emerge between Clockhouse farm.
Step 7
Continue up the ancient sunken lane. Near the top of the slope on the right hand side is a rock overhang.
Step 8
At the top of the lane turn right over a stile, towards two ponds. Bear left at the ponds, and then go right, over another stile. Ahead, a fenced in footpath crosses open pastures to join a sandy lane at the top of Waterfall Wood.
Step 9
Go straight on, towards Edge House Farm. At the top of the lane, turn right and then left, uphill on a grassy track. The hollow on the right-hand side is the site of Abadine's Smelting House.
Step 10
At the top of the slope, the path crosses the old Carriage Drive. Continue straight ahead on a narrow footpath between wire fences to rejoin the farm track, and turn left, back to the car park.
End point
Picnic area near the Alderley Edge car park, grid ref: SJ859773
Trail map
More near here
The Wizard's Wander at Alderley Edge
Enjoy an easy-access circular walk in the heart of the Cheshire countryside exploring mining remains and the popular legend of Alderley Edge.
Get in touch
Macclesfield Road, Nether Alderley, Macclesfield, Cheshire, SK10 4UB
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