Gathurst Station Loop

Sunday was, to say the least, windy and the request, from my better half was, 

"...find a walk that's sheltered!"

Hence revisiting Dean Wood which, although I knew it was muddy near the River Douglas end, was very sheltered and we hadn't been there for some time.

Our 3.7625 miles (6.0552 km) route, starting and ending at Gathurst Station, is available at... http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=6513148

Today's Meander (11th January 2015)

From the carpark, we started by heading East along Ackhurst Lane then right across the railway line.

At the junction at the top of the hill, we stayed on  Ackhurst Lane until we reached the B5206. Here we turned left and passed St John Rigby College, The Vale Royal Country Lodge and the entrance to Vale Royal Golf Course.

Just past the entrance to the golf course we joined a footpath that ran parallel to the M6.

Emerging onto Spring Road we turned right, heading uphill to rejoin the B5206.

Crossing the B5206 at the appropriate crossing, we took the first right across the fields to Dean Wood.

This was probably the windiest section of our walk.

 Down into the Dean Brook Valley, we followed the clear footpaths to the "expected Muddy end" of Dean Wood.

Spot the two bridges (either side of the fallen tree)

The high winds, as you can see, has brought down lots of trees but, as always, Dean Wood is quite magical.

The sounds of Dean Brook...

Dean Brook

...as it flows over rapids, 

...waterfalls and fallen trees, 

...along with sightings of fungi,

Large beautiful coloured Fungi

Ear-shaped fungi again!

...ferns

Ferns

...birds and grey squirrels.

Having negotiated the muddy end of Dean Wood, we emerged onto a welcome track that runs parallel to the River Douglas, then, after passing under the M6, the railway embankment.

Left when we reached Gathurst Road and immediately right, once we had passed under the railway.

On our left were youngsters having riding lessons as we passed their mums waiting to pick them up later.

Back to the car but, sadly a little early to try out the Station Public House.

If you don't mind the mud at the end of the walk, it is well worth following our steps. Dean Wood is a lovely environment.