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United Kingdom
England
West Midlands Region
Staffordshire
Staffordshire Moorlands

Cheadle

The best walks and hikes around Cheadle

4.4

(823)

5,377

hikers

30

hikes

Hiking around Cheadle offers a diverse landscape characterized by ancient woodlands, tranquil river valleys, and rolling hills. The area features a mix of well-maintained paths and natural trails, often passing through nature reserves and alongside scenic water features. Elevation changes are generally moderate, providing accessible options for various fitness levels. Many walks near Cheadle provide opportunities for wildlife spotting.

Best hiking trails around Cheadle

  • The most popular hiking route is Earl’s Drive, Dimmingsdale – Dimmingsdale Mill Pond loop from Oakamoor, a 4.3 miles (7.0 km) trail that takes 2 hours to complete. This easy route loops through Dimmingsdale, featuring a mill pond and woodland paths.
  • Another top favourite among local hikers is Hawksmoor Wood loop from Oakamoor, an easy 1.6 miles (2.5 km) path. This trail winds through the ancient woodlands of Hawksmoor Wood, offering a tranquil experience.
  • Local hikers also love the Ramblers Retreat – The Lord's Bridge loop from Oakamoor, a 6.4 miles (10.3 km) trail leading through varied terrain including woodlands and open areas near The Lord's Bridge, often completed in about 2 hours 55 minutes.
  • Hiking around Cheadle is defined by ancient woodlands, tranquil river valleys, and scenic nature reserves. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy family friendly walks to more moderate excursions.
  • The routes in Cheadle are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 500 reviews. More than 3000 hikers have used komoot to explore Cheadle's varied terrain.

Last updated: May 9, 2026

4.8

(23)

85

hikers

#1.

Earl’s Drive, Dimmingsdale – Dimmingsdale Mill Pond loop from Oakamoor

7.36km

02:06

170m

170m

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Moderate

5.0

(5)

33

hikers

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
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Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
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Tips from the Community

Roy
November 18, 2024, Picnic Table at Hawksmoor Nature Reserve

Hawksmoor NT Nature Reserve . Good place to take a lunch break

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0

Threap Wood sits on the border between Alton and Oakamoor in Staffordshire. It's a beautiful woodland that is a far cry from much of the hustle and bustle that surrounds the area, and features a wonderful variety of flora and fauna.

1

0

Pretty waterfall to stumble upon as you make your way through the woods.

1

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Adie
March 16, 2023, Earl's Road

Quiet track with good views of the surrounding countryside.

1

0

A really nice woodland area to explore with plenty of routes, whether you choose to follow the gravel roads or walk through the forest following the footpath signs. A very peaceful and pretty forest. There are some parking spaces just off Oakamoor Road.

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Cookie's keen eye spotted this natural cavity in the rock face and she seemed to claim it. It was on a slope that was slippy with the showers so it was fun getting up (and back down😉) to photograph what she had found.

11

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The kilns at Oakamoor were continuous draw kilns. The kiln was a brick lined pot with a stone face, built into a bank. Being on a bank made it easier to load the kilns fron the top with the heavy alternate layers of coal and limestone. It also made collection of the quicklime at the base of the kilns simpler operation. The steep sides of the Churnet Valley were ideal for limekilns of this type. The last lime was produced in Oakamoor in 1921. Source: Churned Valley Guide

9

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As part of Dimmingsdale’s transformation in the 1800’s, the Earl of Shrewsbury commissioned the design of two gatehouses within the Alton Towers Estate – Dimmingsdale Lodge (now the Ramblers Retreat) and Pink Lodge (opposite the lower gates to Alton Towers). These gatehouses were strategically positioned on Earls Drive, the main thoroughfare through the estate. The gatekeepers would keep a watch for the Earls carriage from the tower to ensure that gates were opened promptly & thus avoid an interrupted journey.

4

0

Frequently Asked Questions

How many hiking trails are available around Cheadle?

Cheadle offers a wide variety of hiking experiences, with over 30 distinct trails to explore. These range from easy strolls through woodlands to more moderate excursions across varied terrain.

Are there easy or beginner-friendly hiking trails in Cheadle?

Yes, Cheadle is well-suited for beginners and those looking for easier walks. More than two-thirds of the trails, specifically 21 out of 30, are rated as easy. A great option is the Hawksmoor Wood loop from Oakamoor, which offers a tranquil experience through ancient woodlands.

Are there family-friendly walks around Cheadle?

Many of Cheadle's trails are suitable for families, featuring moderate elevation changes and well-maintained paths. The easy routes, such as the Earl’s Drive, Dimmingsdale – Dimmingsdale Mill Pond loop from Oakamoor, are particularly popular for family outings, offering scenic woodland paths and a mill pond.

Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails in Cheadle?

Generally, Cheadle's trails are dog-friendly, especially those passing through woodlands and open areas. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a lead, particularly in nature reserves or areas with livestock, and to check specific signage for any restrictions.

Are there circular walking routes in Cheadle?

Yes, many of the hiking routes around Cheadle are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Earl’s Drive, Dimmingsdale – Dimmingsdale Mill Pond loop from Oakamoor and the Hawksmoor Wood loop from Hawksmoor Nature Reserve, which are perfect for a complete exploration without retracing your steps.

What kind of scenery and natural features can I expect on Cheadle's trails?

Cheadle's landscape is characterized by ancient woodlands, tranquil river valleys, and rolling hills. You'll find scenic water features like the Dimmingsdale Mill Pond and even a Waterfall and Stepping Stones on Churnet River Tributary. The area also boasts several nature reserves, offering opportunities for wildlife spotting.

Are there any interesting landmarks or attractions near the hiking routes?

Absolutely. Along the trails, you can discover natural monuments like The Chained Oak and Toothill Rock. The area also features the Dimmingsdale Mill Pond, which is a picturesque spot often included in local walks.

Where can I find parking for hiking trails in Cheadle?

Many popular trailheads, particularly those starting from areas like Oakamoor, offer designated parking facilities. It's advisable to check specific route details for the most convenient parking options near your chosen starting point.

Are there places to stop for refreshments along the trails?

Yes, some routes pass by or near establishments where you can find refreshments. For instance, the Ramblers Retreat – The Lord's Bridge loop from Oakamoor explicitly mentions 'Ramblers Retreat' in its name, indicating a potential stop for hikers.

What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Cheadle?

The hiking experience in Cheadle is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 500 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the tranquil woodlands, the well-maintained paths, and the diverse scenery that makes each walk enjoyable and refreshing.

What is the best time of year to hike in Cheadle?

Cheadle offers enjoyable hiking experiences year-round. Spring brings vibrant greenery and wildflowers, while autumn showcases stunning foliage. Summer is ideal for longer days, and even winter walks can be beautiful, especially through the ancient woodlands, provided you are prepared for cooler temperatures and potentially muddy conditions.

Are there any less crowded hiking options in Cheadle?

While popular spots like Dimmingsdale can attract visitors, Cheadle's extensive network of trails means you can often find quieter paths. Exploring some of the slightly longer or moderate routes, such as the Ramblers Retreat – Toothill Wood loop from Oakamoor, can lead to a more secluded experience, especially during off-peak hours.

Most popular routes around Cheadle

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