QUARRY BANK LOOP, STYAL

An exceptionally easy Sunday stroll starting at an exceptionally good pub…

Start: The Ship Inn, Styal

Distance: 5 miles

Elevation: 275 feet

Duration: approx. 2 hours

Navigation: follow the route here

From enchanting woodlands to proper pub grub, Styal beckons you to explore its surrounds… and with most of the routes on offer under cover of a leafy greenscape, Quarry Bank makes for a great day out, rain or shine.

The Southern Woods provide a great opportunity to explore the wider estate at Quarry Bank and to watch the river twist and turn and make its way to the mill. There are also some hidden gems... take a look at the mill pond and weir.

As well as some fantastic routes along the river Bollin on sections of the Bollin Valley Way, Quarry Bank Mill is well worth a day out of its own. Whether you prefer to take an extended pit stop here or make it your main event, there’s plenty of routes on offer. Ours takes you through Styal Woods, up to The Giant’s Castle Bridge, Norcliffe Chapel and on into Chapel Wood, before dropping down to the River Bollin at the rear of the Quarry Bank Mill Gardens.

From here, we head west following the river coming out next to Manchester Airport runway at the edge of Wilmslow and head across the fields to Pownall Park, back through Quarry Bank Mill and on to The Ship Inn — ready for some much needed pub grub and a well-deserved pint.

Looking for a longer route? This 6.5 mile walk is another great alternative for exploring Styal’s serene surroundings. Check out the route details above, and take your pick.

Fancy following along? Check out the step-by-step route here