Lush local countryside ideal for walking

This week, with the countryside 'freshened' by the Bank Holiday weekend's weather and looking green and lush, we are re-publishing a series of local walks. We start with a popoular circuit that takes in Hankelow Mill. The walks can be used in conjunction with the Audlem Parish Paths map or OS Explorer 257.

The Canal and Hankelow Mill

A 60 – 70 minute circuit with fine views from the canal and passing a magnificent mill by the River Weaver.

Leave the Square along Shropshire Street past the Methodist church. Turn right at the Bridge Inn and join the canal towpath northwards past the Shroppie Fly pub. Stay on the towpath for a mile with fine views of the fishing lakes and River Weaver. At a bridge (Number 80), leave the canal – the exit is immediately after the bridge, climb up and turn left down the lane eastwards.

The footpath soon leaves the farm track to the right through a gate. Cross the field parallel to the hedge towards a stile, then two more stiles and past a fourth where the fence is missing, to join a metalled farm lane. Go straight ahead on the lane and descend to Hankelow Mill.

After crossing the River and the Millrace, take the path to the right over a stile. Climb the bank and follow the path, vague in places, towards a wire fence. Keep the fence to your left until it veers sharp left where you go straight ahead towards the trees. Veer left until you see a double stile with a small footbridge. Head towards the right hand large tree, then to a stile. Head to the telegraph pole and then the cream painted cottages where a stile takes you to the road.

Turn right and follow the pavement past Little Heath Farm and continue along Cheshire St to Audlem and the Square.

Another local walk will be published tomorrow.

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