The hidden ‘mini Lake District’ in Cheshire that’s perfect for a quick summer getaway

While thousands flock to the Lake District for their summer staycations, there’s some lesser known spots near Manchester that make for the perfect and secluded getaway.

The Delamere and Oakmere parish and its surrounding areas boasts an array of tranquil lakes and stunning woodlands, including Blakemere Moss, Hatchmere Lake, Oak Mere and Nunsmere. 

Each year, the beauty spots attract around three quarters of a million visitors looking to swap the hustle and bustle of the city for some time out with nature – and, better yet, it’s only an hour’s drive from Manchester.

The area is particularly popular among hikers, with there being a vast choice of walking routes, one of which takes you in a three-mile circle around Blakemere Moss.

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One of the more popular walking trails is the Old Pale Trail, which will take visitors nearly two miles of wild flower meadows. 

Forestry England says of the trail: “Old Pale is a haven for wildlife and nature, with a wildflower meadow and a natural amphitheatre where we hold events.

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“At the viewpoint, standing stones represent the seven different counties that you can see from the top of the hill.”

Other nearby activities and attractions include the historic Nunsmere Hall and, for those looking for an adventure, the Wild Shore Delamere water sports and aqua park, which boasts a ‘unique, dynamic and adrenaline-charged outdoor activities’ including a water assault course, wakeboarding, stand-up paddle boarding and open water swimming.

Forest Holidays

There are also a number of unique and luxury accommodation options, including forest cabins courtesy of Forest Holidays. Here, the company offers an array of different cabins for a variety of different groups, ranging from cosy hideaway cabins with hot tubs to spacious treehouses.

And visitors won’t be hard finding somewhere to eat, with there being an abundance of pubs and restaurants within the vicinity. 

The historic, 200-year-old Vale Royal Abbey Arms is located just off Chester Road, while the swanky Fishpool Inn can be found just down the road Delamere.  

For more information on the Delamere Forest and its surrounding beauty spots, visit the Woodland Trust website.