The early bird misses the rain.

Today we combined a 6.4028 miles walk with a train ride. 
The URL for this route is at http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=5928301.
Starting at Maghull Station we headed towards Rutherford Road to access the towpath on the Leeds Liverpool Canal.

Spot ducklings

Having crossed the footbridge we headed towards Maghull (Leeds) and, opposite the boatyard  

Boatyard

that one time we had planned buying, headed across the playing fields.
Crossing the A59, over the footbridge, we took a short cut over the King George V Playing fields to reach the path down alongside Maghull High.
This is turning into a "visit your past" walk. Both Chris & I have worked there when we first moved "up North".

I deviate

Crossing, what is now part of the Merseyside Forest, we followed what was once Chapel Lane. Turning off Chapel Lane, we headed across fields to cross the "Old" Netherton Lane which, before the Northern Perimeter Road was built, used to be the main road.
Back through another small part of the Merseyside Forest, we ended up at Buckley Hill.

Fire station isn't there :-)

Crossing Edge Lane, we made our way into Rimrose Valley Country Park.

Spring Flowers

We were both surprised to see crab-apple blossom out this early.

Crab-apple blossom

In the distance we could see signs of the Freeport; close to our destination of Seaforth Station.

Wind farm & docks on horizon

Passing, what has become a very sad, Chatters Athletic track...

Yes this is Chatters Athletic track

... we eventually reached the exit from Rimrose Valley...

Sign at our departure from Rimrose Valley

and, something we didn't need after 6+ miles, crossed the footbridge to catch the train back to Maghull, from Seaforth Station.

The car park shows it's Sunday

An enjoyable walk that we were glad we did early. Once back in Maghull... 

"Down came the Rain"