Sankey Valley Walk 

The Sankey Valley Walk is one of Walking Mums’ most varied routes, offering a little bit of everything in just one walk. Starting at the Seven Woods Pub (where Walking Mums Supporter Members receive 10% off 🙌), this circular route takes you through open green spaces, along peaceful canalside paths, around the beautiful Bewsey Park and into the tranquil surroundings of Ladies Walk Wood.

Throughout the walk there’s plenty of wildlife to look out for, including buzzards soaring overhead, swans, ducks, coots and the occasional heron standing quietly beside the canal. The changing scenery keeps the walk interesting from start to finish, making it a favorite for mums who enjoy exploring somewhere new without travelling far from a major town.

The route is suitable for most pushchairs and provides the perfect opportunity to enjoy fresh air, gentle exercise and great conversation. Whether you’re joining us for the first time or returning with friends, Sankey Valley is a walk you’ll find yourself coming back to throughout the year.

Route Description

Turn left out of the Seven Woods car park and follow the footpath to the roundabout. Cross Westbrook Crescent using the pedestrian island, then follow Westbrook Way east towards Cromwell Avenue.

Cross Cromwell Avenue using the dropped kerbs to join the Sankey Valley path. Follow the main path for approximately one mile until you reach a T-junction, then turn right towards Bewsey Lock.

Cross the lock bridge, then turn right and follow the path towards Bewsey car park. Cross the footbridge near the parking area before turning right into Bewsey Park.

Take the left-hand path through the park and continue to the bandstand. Turn right after the bandstand, then take the next left-hand path away from the canal.

Continue until you see a large pile of tree trunks on your left. Turn left immediately after the logs and follow the path into Ladies Walk Wood, continuing along the gravel path through the woodland.

At the end of the woodland path, cross the entrance road to Gulliver’s World using the dropped kerb. Head towards the roundabout before picking up the path on your right and following Cromwell Avenue back towards the Sankey Valley path.

Cross Cromwell Avenue and follow Westbrook Way back to the Seven Woods Pub.

Potential Risks

• Open water alongside the canal and at Bewsey Lock – children should be supervised at all times.
• Cyclists and runners regularly use sections of the Sankey Valley path.
• Several road crossings are included along the route. Please use the pedestrian crossings and dropped kerbs where available.
• The woodland section contains uneven ground, loose gravel and tree roots.
• Paths may become muddy and slippery after prolonged wet weather.
• Wildlife, including swans and other water birds, may be close to the paths.
• Please take extra care around the lock bridge and canal edges.
• Wear suitable footwear appropriate for the weather conditions.

Please note: These are new walks, so if you spot any errors or inaccuracies, please email hello@walkingmums.com; the potential risks listed are not comprehensive, so please also consider any specific risks for your family and the conditions on the day.