April Walk - Styal Circular

Twelve members, on what was surprisingly a sunny Saturday,set out to explore the Styal Country Park and surrounding countryside. We started at the Twinnies Car Park or is this Linnies Car Park - opinions seem to differ and followed the River Dean in a northerly direction for about a mile where we left the river and headed through woodland towards Styal. Once through the woods it was time for a coffee break before continuing our ramble through the fields and a golf course to Styal.

Styal village was built in the 18th century and the buildings are mainly terraced cottages for the mill workers at Quarry Bank. In the centre of the village stands a medieval cross which had to be restored following damage in a motor accident and there is also the interesting Norcliffe Chapel which dates from the 18th century.

From the village we left to explore the Northern Woods but after a short distance we realised the path on our route was not passable and we had to return to the village and walk to Quarry Bank Mill by an alternative route.

When we arrived it was just lunchtime at the National Trust restaurant we enjoyed a good lunch and a welcome break. After lunch there was time to explore the shop before we left for the return leg. The route followed the River Bollin and we were able to view the old mill stream on our way back to the start point.

Our thanks to Hilary for organising and leading the walk.

All ready to go!

Spring lambs in the River Dean valley.

Medieval Cross - Styal Village.

Norcliffe Chapel

We set off into Northern Wood

Quarry Bank Mill

Mill Lodge in River Bollin valley

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