Put on your best fleece, lace up your walking boots and grab your waterproof jacket, it's time for a journey out!
Worsley Old Hall (Worsley Canals / Worsley Woods)
Worsley Old Hall is located just off junction 13 of the M60. The pub itself is as impressive as the surrounding walks, it's a grade 2 listed building with a rich history dating back as far as the 1300's. You'll be able to bring the whole family (including your dog) along to enjoy a diverse menu, traditional Sunday roast or simply a nice drink.
Worsley Old Hall have their own circular walk, which takes you across the golf course located right on their doorstep, following on towards an old rail line, before ending through Worsley Woods. Walking this route doesn't let you experience everything the local area has to offer though, as the nearby canal located down by Worsley Courthouse also makes for a great walk through the historic village, as detailed in this leaflet by Manchester's Countryside.
Swan with Two Nicks (Dunham Massey)
Located a stone throw away from a National Trust site, the Swan with Two Nicks is a traditional English pub both in design and atmosphere. It's situated in the countryside between Altrincham and Lymm.
Walkers have a choice of either a walk down Bridgewater canal or a trip to Dunham Massey park, both of which are recommended by the venue itself. There's lots to explore, certainly over in the park - you'll find over 300 acres of land to wander around as well as spot lots of local deer and honey bees throughout the parkland.
Over by the canal, you'll be able to spot narrow boats drifting along and the kids will enjoy reading aloud some of the punny boat names. Bridgewater canal is extremely long, so you'll only want to explore the local section before looping around back towards the Swan with Two Nicks.
The Wizard Inn (Alderley Edge / Wizard Walk)
The Wizard takes its name from the local legend about the wizard of Alderley Edge, a tale of a farmer's mysterious trip into an ancient cavern after an encounter with an old man whilst on his way to Macclesfield to sell a horse.
The pub/restaurant itself is located right along the local walking route "the wizard walk" where you'll get to follow in the very footsteps of the legend and learn about its history, it's one of the many great walks the Cheshire countryside has to offer.
Whilst there is a designated walking route for the wizard walk, there's plenty of paths that allow you to explore deeper into the woods if you wish to go off the beaten track.
The Strawberry Duck (Entwistle Reservoir)
Over in Entwistle, Bolton, is the Strawberry Duck, a pub often visited by walking enthusiasts due how scenic the local area is. Those travelling from outside of Greater Manchester (or those that just fancy a nice weekend away) can stay overnight at the Strawberry Duck for roughly £70 per night.
The Strawberry Duck recommends a 2.8 mile walk around the nearby Entwistle Reservoir and surrounding woodland, however you can also stop by the Wayoh Reservoir before making the trek around Entwistle if you fancy a longer day out. Whichever reservoir you choose, you'll get to soak up the view of the local waters
The Old Sessions House (Knutsford / Tatton Park)
If you're willing to walk the extra mile, walkers will enjoy a visit to the Old Sessions House right in the heart of historic Knutsford, after a relaxing day out visiting Tatton Hall, the Mere or any of the 1000 acres that Tatton Park has to offer. Old Sessions is a family friendly pub that also allows dogs. On the inside, you'll find a blend of traditional English pub design mixed with some modernisation towards the bar and seating areas.
Whilst the natural beauty of Tatton Park does have its appeal, history buffs will enjoy a walk through the centre of Knutsford, admiring the architecture of many of the towns listed buildings and cobbled streets - there's also a heritage centre if you'd like to get the full experience.
Jackson's Boat (Sale Waterpark / River Mersey)
Located just off the M60 and right on the River Mersey, Jackson's Boat pub is easily accessed by car or tram (parking is available right near the metrolink stop) and offers walkers a lovely trip down the river, with the option to hire a bike from The Bike Barn next door to the pub so you can work up an appetite and explore further along the river. Jackson's Boat is a dog friendly pub, even going as far as offering 'doggy dinners' and other snacks for your furry friend.
In the hotter months, sale water park is home to all kinds of water sport activities like jet skiing, but it can be enjoyed all year round by walkers who enjoy spotting nearby nature such as cormorants and mute swans.
Yew Tree Inn (Rivington Pike)
The Yew Tree is a dog friendly pub based across the reservoir from Rivington Pike, so on your way to the pub you'll be able to admire the view of the open water. Seasoned walkers will welcome a trip to Rivington Pike, it's one of the hills upon Winter Hill in Chorley with a tower located at the summit, which is now a grade 2 listed building. There are many local walking routes for Winter Hill, so you can experience more than just Rivington Pike on your day out. If you're looking to enjoy a circular walk, you can plan to end your route at the Yew Tree Inn.
We hope you enjoyed our guide to the best pub walks around Greater Manchester. If you liked this post and want to read similar articles, check out some of our other Manchester based walking content:
