Gawsworth Hall, Bosley Reservoir, Croker Hill (14 Miles, Moderate)

Cheshire's full of these little wonders that go unnoticed until one day curiosity gets the better of you. For me it was Gawsworth Hall and the surrounding parklands.

Just a stone's throw from Macclesfield, this idyllic slice of rural toffery, straight off the cover off Cheshire Life magazine, is somewhere I'd never thought to explore until recently. Having now done so I had to plot a route around it. And here it is.

As well as the hall and parklands we'll also swing by Croker Hill with its prominent telecommunications tower, Oakgrove Wood and Bosley Reservoir.

It's a slightly longer route than usual due to Macclesfield Canal being closed but there's only one proper hill so it's not too strenuous.

Starting point

Outside St. James' Church next to Gawsworth Hall:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/4jp3JfhAvwE6iy3h7

If you fancy a cuppa before the hike there's a café in Gawsworth a ten minute walk/two minute drive from the start point.

Parking

There's free on-street parking by the church and on the road between Gawsworth and the hall.

Public Transport

The number 38 D&G bus runs regularly between Congleton and Macclesfield and stops at Gawsworth:
https://www.dgbus.co.uk/bus-services/38/

After the hike

We'll head to the Harrington Arms for a drink or two after the walk.

As a bonus, for fans of Fleetwood Mac, there's a tribute band playing at Gawsworth Hall later that evening. A couple of us are already going. Tickets available here:
https://gawsworthhall.com/product/fleetwood25/

Dogs

Well behaved dogs are welcome on the walk and in the pub afterwards.

What to bring

Please bring a packed lunch, water and appropriate clothing/footwear for the weather and terrain.

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DISCLAIMER

Please acknowledge the following:
• The walk is entirely free of charge. You only arrange for your own travel and pub expenses.
• Understand our terms and conditions below (the "IMPORTANT" part).
• Understand how to stay safe outdoors, as you will be responsible for yourself.
• Walk distances can be up to 15 miles or more and we can be out for as long as 5-7 hours.
• We usually stop for a packed lunch and pop in to a country pub for a post or mid-hike drink.

Feel free to ask any questions in the comments section!

Here's a guide to the difficult rating:

• Easy - Short distance, less than ten miles and mostly flat. Suitable for anyone capable of a brisk stroll.

• Moderately Easy - Shortish distance, around ten miles, some gentle hills. For those who walk regularly but don't have too much hiking experience.

• Moderate - Between ten and twelve miles, a few decent hills with potentially steep sections. For those with some hiking experience.

• Moderately Challenging - Longer distance, twelve miles or over with lots of hills. Suitable for hikers who enjoy being out for most of the day.

• Challenging - Around fifteen miles or more, with hills, mountains and maybe the odd scramble. For experienced hikers who like pushing themselves.

• Hard - Long distance, sometimes over twenty miles, with mountains and difficult terrain. Only suitable for fit, experienced hikers.

IMPORTANT
Please bear in mind this is a free of charge, self-guided trip with a hobby group. It is not organised by a business nor any entity with commercial purposes. Any trip details, travel advice, route planning, instructions and other content in our group merely represent our shared personal knowledge, research and suggestions as outdoor enthusiasts. As this is not a business, there is no "product", "service" or "package" and also no "tour guide", "operator" or "walk leader". Each participant is responsible for their own safety. Even if some of us are very experienced walking outdoors, nobody assumes responsibility for any kind of injury, damage or loss that may happen. Our experienced members volunteer their time and effort to shape a pleasant and quality adventure for everyone. By participating you acknowledge and agree with this disclaimer.