Best local walks & runs near The Hive at 52, Cheshire

From walks near Delamere Forest to a stroll along the River Weaver.Now that warmer days and brighter evenings are finally here, there is no better time to get on those trainers and explore the stunning Cheshire countryside. Whether you are staying with us for a relaxing weekend getaway or a fast-paced work trip, the area surrounding The Hive at 52 is a great place for walkers, runners, and cyclists alike.

To help you plan your stay, we have put together our top 4 local walks and runs. These routes range from steps outside our front door to a short drive away, and they can all be tailored to your preferred distance. In fact, Harro has personally tested these trails clocking up everything from a gentle 5k stroll to epic 15-mile training runs!

Here are our favorite ways to get back to nature during your stay at our Weaverham B&B.

1. Walks near Delamere Forest (short drive away)

Best for: Tree huggers, reluctant walkers, cyclists, and varied distances. Distance: 5k walks up to 15+ mile runs.

Delamere Forest is Cheshire’s largest woodland and an absolute must-visit. What makes it so special is its incredible diversity. On any given route, you will find yourself wandering through thick evergreen forests, tracking wildlife around quiet mossland lakes, and crossing open fields complete with grazing cows.

If you are up for a slight climb, make sure to head up Old Pale Hill. The reward is a breathtaking panoramic view that stretches right across the Cheshire plain all the way to the hills of Wales.

Make a day of it: Delamere isn’t just for footpaths. Bring your bike to explore miles of dedicated cycle trails, test your heights at Go Ape, or try your hand at a round of frisbee golf. Did you know that Forestry Commission also organising Forest Live, which Delamere Forest being one of the locations? This year you could have seen UB40, The Kooks, Fat Boy Slim or Skunk Anacy in a wonderfull open air arena.

Link for more information: https://www.forestryengland.uk/delamere-forest

2. The river Weaver & Trent & Mersey canal (right from our doorstep)

Best for: Wildlife spotting, peaceful waterside trails, and historical interest. Distance: Circular route from 3 miles up to 16+ miles.

You don’t need to hop in the car to find incredible nature. This route can be started right from The Hive at 52 and forms a beautiful circular loop. It’s the perfect antidote to a busy week, designed to take you right back to a world of absolute calm.

You can follow the paths where the historic Trent & Mersey Canal runs parallel to the River Weaver. Watch the narrowboats drift by and keep your eyes peeled for kingfishers.

Harro’s Trail Tip: The canal paths can get a bit muddy after a rainfall. If you want to keep your footwear clean, stick closer to the river paths and loop your walk or run through the lovely nearby village of Acton Bridge.

Link for more information: https://www.alltrails.com/en-gb/trail/england/cheshire/river-weaver-and-mersey-canal-circular

3. The Whitegate Way (Short Drive Away)

Best for: History buffs, flat running surfaces, and great pit-stops. Distance: Entirely customizable; out-and-back trail.

A short drive from Weaverham takes you to the Whitegate Way, a beautifully preserved linear nature trail with a fascinating history. This path was once a bustling railway line connected to the national network, branching off from the mid-Cheshire line at the nearby village of Cuddington, passing through Whitegate, and terminating at Winsford.

Today, the tracks are gone, replaced by a peaceful, tree-lined haven for walkers, runners, and horse riders. Because it follows an old rail line, the terrain is beautifully flat and easy underfoot.

The Best Part? The Pit-Stops: You can stretch your legs as far as you like, then pause for coffee and a slice of homemade cake at the historic Whitegate Station café (lovingly manned by local volunteers). If you prefer something a bit stronger to reward your efforts, finish your excursion with a crisp glass of wine or a local ale at the Blue Cap pub.

Link for more information: https://visitcheshire.com/trails/the-whitegate-way

4. Marshall’s Arms to Vale Royal Locks (Right From Our Doorstep)

Best for: Stunning engineering, river views, and shaded woodland. Distance: A moderate, highly scenic circular stroll.

Another wonderful walk located right on our doorstep in Weaverham. This route takes you through the beautiful, shaded woodland of Marshall’s Arms Local Nature Reserve, leading you out along the banks of the River Weaver.

The highlight of this walk is passing two magnificent, historic river locks (Vale Royal Locks), which showcase the area’s rich industrial waterways history. The route takes you across the iconic Blue Bridge, down to Hunter’s Lock, and loops beautifully back through Marshall’s Arms. It’s an incredibly scenic, quintessential Cheshire walk.

Link for more information: https://www.marshallsarm.org/

Let Us Build Your Perfect Route!

The beauty of staying at The Hive at 52 is that you don’t have to figure it out alone. We know these trails like the back of our hand. Whether you want a gentle morning stroll before breakfast or a mapped-out half-marathon trail run, just let us know!

We are always happy to help you find the trailheads, suggest the best parking spots, or map out a custom digital route for your phone.

Ready to explore Cheshire? Book your stay directly with us at thehiveat52.co.uk for the best rates and local insider tips!