Lyme Park Estate
A long wander into the moors, through woods, and past a reservoir. Take in views of rolling landscapes, try to spot deer and see the majestic Lyme Hall.
The Route
This route starts and ends at Disley Train Station. The trains are normally about an hour apart, but run early and late. There are plenty of options for cafés and pubs in the local area for pre- or post-walk refreshments.
Bollinhurst Reservoir
You'll head up a reasonable steep climb at first. The first section is a garlic grove, with most of the floor covered in wild garlic.
Then, head over the bridleway path and you'll cross fields descending to Bollinhurst Reservoir. A beautiful area to walk through that feels far more remote than it is. The animals in the field are friendly too.
The Woods
The paths roll up and down the hills heading into the woods. It's a sheltered area, both from the sun and rain in a walk. You'll hear and see plenty of local wildlife round this area, and cross a peaceful stream over an old brick bridge.
The East Lodge
The path takes you through the East Lodge. This marks your entrance to Lyme Park. The path here is good and flat. This is the best spot for deer spotting. The red deer aren't normally hard to spot. They are surprisingly big, and there's lots of them.
You'll have a choice here. Following this path takes you straight to the house. Or turn left and head up the footpath, into Lantern Wood. You'll be rewarded with magnificent views for choosing this option, well worth it in my opinion.
The House
The house at Lyme Park is large and impressive. You can enter the forecourt and some parts of the house for free. However, the gardens and most of the house are paid entry.
Here you'll also find the Timberyard café. Looking over you is the Cage. A great landmark with a striking profile overlooking the estate, the wider moors and Manchester.
The West Gate
On the map, you'll notice this loop brings you back to the house. It's a lovely walk through woods, fields, along the stream and part of the old main driveway to the house that is well worth doing if you can. It is optional, however, and if you've spent time in the House or gardens, you can take the path back towards Disley.
The Walk Back
Heading back towards Disley, you'll descend most of the way. My route takes you through Crow Wood. It's a beautiful bit of nature, and shadows the driveway. On my journey, I saw a Mandarin Duck, and other surprisingly uncommon birds. Following the brook down, you'll have a pleasant walk along a leaf covered floor and climbing a couple styles.
For an easier path, you can walk alongside the drive. There is a footpath in the grass at the side of the road.
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Getting to the start
Train
Disley is reachable from Manchester Piccadilly. It's a half hour journey, but watching the view from the window graduate from city centre to countryside makes it worthwhile. The station itself has few amenities, but the village centre is a couple hundred metres away with cafés and micropubs. The station has several trails heading straight out into the countryside.
Bus
Going by bus will take some time. The Skyline 199 bus route goes from Stockport Interchange. It's a fairly quick trip once you're on this bus. Stockport Interchange is well served by buses from around Manchester. Disley is within Manchester's Bee Network, and the cheap day rover will get you there and back for £5.
Car
Driving to Disley is straightforward down the A6. Parking is possible around the town, but is mostly pay and display. The nearby National Trust site Lyme Park has parking, but this is paid for.
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