Tucked away on the edge of Delamere Forest, Old Pale Hill is one of those walks that takes you by surprise in the best way.One minute youre weaving through peaceful woodland, the next youre standing on a summit with panoramic views across seven counties. Its a gorgeous mix of forest, history, and big wide-open skies - and a walk that instantly reminds you why getting outdoors is so good for the soul.Its also a trail I come back to time and time again, especially with my toddler in tow. Its fun, varied, and just adventurous enough to keep little ones excited without being too full-on.Keep reading for everything you need to know about exploring one of the best walks in Cheshire - the beautiful Old Pale Trail at Delamere P.S This post may contain affiliate links. If you click and purchase, I'll earn some cuppa money, which I promise to drink while continuing to create content for you. I only ever recommend products that I personally love and use myself. Old Pale TrailImagine quiet forestry paths, sweeping hillside views, and a summit marked by ancient county stones - thats Old Pale Hill.This circular route sits on the fringes of Delamere Forest and takes you up to Old Pale Summit at 176m, where an incredible viewpoint celebrates the surrounding counties: Cheshire, Derbyshire, Staffordshire, Lancashire, Shropshire, Denbighshire and Flintshire.On a clear day you can pick out everything from Liverpools skyline to Moel Famau and even Jodrell Bank.The Old Pale Trail is 3km (1.9 miles) and follows a clear loop up and around the hill. It's classed as more challenging than other Delamere routes, but still achievable for most walkers with a reasonable fitness level - and its brilliant for school-age kids or confident toddlers.Its one of those walks that instantly gives you that ahh this is why I love being outdoors feeling.Right lets explore the Old Pale Trail The Details. Old Pale Hill Map. Komoot Route Guide OS Paper Map - Delamere Forest The Route.This route begins at the Delamere Forest Visitor Centre, where youll find toilets, maps, clear signage, and a good caf for a post-walk treat.1. Start at the Visitor CentreFrom the car park, walk past the visitor centre towards the main trail junctions. Here, look out for the brown Old Pale Trail marker on your left - thats the start of your loop.Follow the path through a small woodland section. Its gentle to begin with, and little explorers always enjoy weaving between the trees.2. Begin the climbAs the trail curves to the right, youll start your uphill stretch. Its about 1 mile of steady climbing on wide forest paths.There are benches placed along the trail - perfect for catching your breath or admiring the views that begin to open up behind you.Ignore any paths leading off to the left; the brown waymarkers keep you on track.3. Wildflower meadow & amphitheatreAbout halfway up, the forest opens into a wildflower meadow and natural amphitheatre. In summer, this area is buzzing with bees and butterflies, and its one of my favourite peaceful spots in the whole forest.This is also where youll find the shortcut back to the visitor centre if you want to make the walk shorter.4. Reach the Old Pale SummitThe final pull takes you past the transmitter masts and up onto Old Pale Heights, the highest point in Delamere.At the summit, youll find:A ring of standing stones, each representing a visible countyA central Cheshire stoneViewpoint plaques showing landmarks such as Manchester, Liverpool, Jodrell Bank, Moel Famau, and the Shropshire HillsA trig point and history plaque marking the sites Iron Age connectionsOn a clear day the views are absolutely stunning and even on a cloudy day, the sense of space is incredible.5. Follow the loop back downOnce youve soaked in the views, its time to head down. Face the path you climbed up, then take the path to your right - this leads you back towards Delamere Forest.The descent is much gentler and winds you through peaceful woodland until you reach the flat forest floor again.At the bottom, turn left and follow the trail back towards the Visitor Centre, where cafs, loos, and picnic benches are waiting. Parking for The Old Pale TrailParking is in the Delamere Forest Visitor Centre Car Park (Linmere).Postcode: CW8 2HZwhat3words: ///accent.scripted.alreadyCharges (pay on exit):Up to 1 hour 3.80Up to 2 hours 7.30Up to 3 hours 10.50All day 12.00You can also reach the trail from Delamere Station, which is only a short walk away great if you want a car-free adventure. Other Walks Near Old Pale HillThe Blakemere Trail (Delamere Forest)Bulkeley Hill Circular WalkBickerton Hill Circular WalkThe Chester Walls Walk FAQs.Where is Old Pale Hill?Old Pale is located on the southern edge of Delamere Forest in Cheshire, just off the A54.How long is the Old Pale Trail?The official Forestry England route is 3km (1.9 miles) and takes about an hour.Is the walk suitable for kids?Yes! Its a wonderful family walk in Cheshire with lots for kids to explore. Do note the summit can be windy and exposed, and some paths are steep or muddy.Are dogs allowed?Absolutely - Delamere is very dog-friendly. Keep dogs on leads around livestock and busy paths.Is the trail muddy?In winter? Very. Think wellies or proper boots. Top Tips.Check the weather the summit gets windy, and the views are best on clear days.Wear sturdy footwear the paths can be slippery and muddy.Keep little ones close at the summit the viewpoint is open and exposed.Pack snacks the perfect spot for a summit picnic.Talk about the county stones its a fun geography moment for kids.Explore the hillfort a great way to add extra adventure to the day.Visit the Delamere Forest Caf perfect for a warm drink or ice cream afterward. Whether youre a local looking for a weekend wander or a visitor exploring Cheshires gorgeous countryside, the Old Pale Trail is a brilliant walk with big views, peaceful paths, and just the right amount of adventure.Take your time, enjoy the climb, and let the landscape unfold around you. Other Posts You Might Like .12 Best Things to Do in Cheshire7 Things to do in Cheshire with KidsTop Nine Family Walks in CheshireThe Best Pram Friendly Walks in Cheshire follow our adventures.