Marvellous Days Out

The Mid Cheshire Community Rail Partnership

Marvellous
Days
Out

The Mid Cheshire Line

Narrated by John Hulme BEM

The

Mid Cheshire

Community Rail Partnership

Contents

1 Introduction
4 Manchester
6 Stockport
8 Navigation Road
10 Altrincham
12 Hale
14 Ashley
16 Mobberley
18 Knutsford
20 Plumley
22 Lostock Gralam
24 Northwich
26 Greenbank
28 Cuddington
30 Delamere
32 Mouldsworth
34 Chester
35 Just the Ticket

Foreword the Mid Cheshire
Line

David Briggs MBE KStJ
The Lord-Lieutenant of Cheshire
My first involvement with the Mid Cheshire Community Rail Partnership was in 2006 when, as High Sheriff of Cheshire,
I experienced the delight of travelling on their Steam Special between Chester and Altrincham.
It was pure nostalgia and Cheshire at its best.
Since then the Community Rail Partnership has gone from strength to strength and in 2015 was named the top
Partnership in the country by the Association of Community Rail Partnerships.
Cheshire is very proud of this accolade.
Nostalgia is now back with us on the Mid Cheshire Line with the evocative and iconic Railway Posters that have been
developed to market the Line.
Nicky’s colourful 1930’s posters, Bernice and Gordon’s superb watercolours and John’s storylines makes this booklet a
unique way of promoting the Mid Cheshire Line and its local attractions.
Enjoy the booklet, look out for the posters at our stations and take the train to visit our local attractions.
Then pass this booklet on to your family and friends so they can enjoy the Marvellous Days Out that Cheshire
has to offer.

Introduction the Mid Cheshire
Line

From John Hulme
If you search “Passion for Railways” on the Internet you will not be surprised to find celebrities like Michael Portillo and
Fred Dibnah popping up on your tablet or smartphone.
You may be surprised when Pete Waterman, Phil Collins and Rod Stewart come up too. Even Frank Sinatra.
For some it is a hobby. Some a livelihood. For some it is the real thing. Some it is models.
The Community Rail Partnership has a passion for railways. Much of it based on volunteering.
It has a passion for its Line, for the people along it and for the community organisations that support the Line.
My passion for railways started when Dad took me to Northwich Railway Station in the 1950s to spot trains and see
those mighty steam engines on the shed opposite.
Just look at Gordon Wilkinson’s watercolour opposite. It paints a thousand words of those bygone days.
Between the trains, Dad and I would speak to the station staff and, with a firm hand, Dad would show me the classic
railway posters on the wall proclaiming Sunny Southport; Summer Holidays in Blackpool – inviting you to contact the
council publicity office for more information of how to get there and what to enjoy.
This is what this booklet and the companion website, MarvellousDaysOut.org.uk, is all about.
It has classic iconic posters, nostalgia and memories. It has details about all our stations on the Mid Cheshire Line which
connects Manchester to Chester via Stockport,Altrincham, Knutsford and Northwich.
Most of all it is a guide to help you to use the Line and to find out what each village, town and city has to offer.
It also has some hidden gems for your delight and for you to explore.
Enjoy yourself when you next take a Marvellous Day Out with us on the Mid Cheshire Line.

1

2

Our Grey Wagtail is looking over the City of
Manchester and, as our poster depicts, the city
where the industrial revolution was born.
To find more about what the city has to offer
search Visit Manchester.
Our Tip – Why not take a trip around some of
Manchester’s museums and art galleries.
Some to consider:

• Museum of Science and Industry
on Liverpool Road, Castlefield

• The Manchester Museum
on Oxford Road

• Manchester Art Gallery
on Mosley Street

• Greater Manchester Police Museum
on Newton Street

• National Football Museum
at Cathedral Gardens, Urbis Building

• People’s History Museum
on Bridge Street

• Whitworth Art Gallery
on Oxford Road

They are all terrific places to explore and learn
with most having cafés or somewhere to eat and
drink nearby.

3

Manchester the Mid Cheshire
Line
If you go back to the halcyon days of rail travel, when the
publicity departments of our great rail companies were It was a trip around the city that showed us the sights
developing their iconic posters, times would be different. including a roller coaster ride up to Media City past
Salford Quays and the docks.
You would be looking at and listening to the clattering What better way to see what the city has in store.
of the old mechanical destination boards and the station You can even get out to Bury for some black pudding on
tannoy would be announcing your train’s departure. the Metrolink and Rochdale at the foothills of the
South Pennines.
“Platform 11 for the Mid Cheshire Line train to Chester One of the city’s hidden gems is the Museum of Transport,
via Stockport,Altrincham, Knutsford and Northwich”. Greater Manchester at Cheetham Hill.
Here you can explore the story of the city’s public
Yes, that is the route of the Mid Cheshire Line but today transport from its beginning in 1824 to the Metrolink
you may have chosen to spend the day in the bustling city tram of today.
of Manchester where there are so many things to see. There are over 70 old buses to see ranging from horse
buses to motor buses to trolley buses.
It could be shopping, going to a museum or art gallery, There is memorabilia to view, documents to research and
sightseeing or visiting an exhibition or festival. thousands of photographs.
Even iconic posters. Just like ours!
If you are new to the city why not start with a
day’s sightseeing?

Last time we had friends over, we took to the tram.

An off-peak tram travelcard cost us a fiver each and
the ticket allowed us to travel from one end of Greater
Manchester to the other.

The Lord Mayor of Manchester says:“Manchester has a proud past and a progressive future and is bursting with
places to visit.Today, it is one of the most exciting places in the UK. Enjoy your visit”.

4

Our Grey Heron, with its long legs, is looking out from
the River Mersey at the immense red brick structure
that spans Stockport.
Opened in 1842, the Viaduct has 28 arches spanning
some 600 yards across the town. This Grade II listed
structure took only 21 months to build and is reputed
to include 10 million bricks.
Our Tip – Opposite we suggest a trip to
The Plaza Cinema or a Robinsons Brewery Tour.
You may also like to visit:

• The Hat Works Museum
on Wellington Road South

• Stockport Air Raid Shelters
on Chestergate

• Staircase House
in Market Place

• Stockport Old Town and Market
in Market Place

The good news is, there is a free bus shuttle from
outside Stockport Station, every 12 minutes seven days
a week, to take you to these fascinating attractions.
For further details search:
Stockport Museums
Stockport Old Town
Stockport Metroshuttle

5

Stockport the Mid Cheshire
Line
Stockport used to have two railway stations - Stockport
Tiviot Dale and Stockport Edgeley. This is what The Plaza offers today.
In January 1967,Tiviot Dale closed and was demolished the As well as classic films, music and theatre,The Plaza has a
following year. lavish Art Deco Café which is open Monday to Saturday,
Stockport Edgeley then became the principal station for 10am to 4pm.
Stockport and that is why some locals still refer to today’s Whether it is the Famous Plaza Bacon Butty or the Plaza
Stockport Station as “Edgeley”. Afternoon Tea with strawberry preserve and Devonshire
If you are travelling into Piccadilly for a trip on the Mid clotted cream, your visit is bound to be memorable
Cheshire Line, you can also join the Line here. and delightful.
Our Mid Cheshire Line trains depart from Platform 2 Our other hidden gem is one of the few attractions on the
where you can also pick up a sandwich and drink. Mid Cheshire Line restricted to the over 18s.
Stopping off in Stockport for the day can be an experience It is the Robinsons Brewery Experience, which you must
in itself and, if you enjoy good hospitality, there are two book before your visit. Search “Robinsons Brewery Tour”
hidden gems you must visit. for more details.
Our first gem is the restored Plaza Super Cinema and On this tour, you will not only learn about Robinsons’
Variety Theatre in Mersey Square. award-winning brewery process and taste some beer but
Here you can take yourself back to the 1930s, when our also, if they are on site, meet their renowned shire horses -
iconic posters were common place on Edgeley Station. who have served the Brewery for over 100 years.
It was also a world of style, elegance and indulgence. Their restaurant, with its Brunch Menu, is excellent value
for money and perhaps some Old Tom bottled beer to
take home to remind you of your visit?

The Mayor of Stockport says:“We welcome all to the Metropolitan Borough of Stockport which has a great story
to tell.A great place to start is our museums and then perhaps Afternoon Tea at The Plaza”.

6

The Mid Cheshire Community Rail Partnership have published three Rail Booklets – Rail Walks in Greater Manchester,
Rail Walks in Knutsford and surrounding villages and Rail Walks in Cheshire West.

All are available on our website. An ideal trip for your dog? The good news is your dog now travels for free!
7

Navigation Road the Mid Cheshire
Line

Navigation Road Station serves not only the Mid Cheshire Most of our walks are less strenuous, although if you pick
Line but also the Manchester Metrolink. up our “Walks in Greater Manchester” booklet, you will
find you can link all the walks together to make a 15-mile
The station opened in 1931 on the Manchester South trek into Manchester.
Junction & Altrincham Railway when 3 car electric multiple This walk takes you down the linear and flat towpaths of
unit trains started to run between Altrincham the Bridgewater Canal and can be easily picked up from
and Manchester. Navigation Road Station.
The canal is ten minutes away from the station.
Today, the station may seem like a suburban halt but it is a
popular place to alight and discover the joys of walking.

Just like classic railway posters were used to promote rail There is nothing better than a good walk along a canal
travel, you will see the Cheshire Lines Committee used because not only are you getting the perfect exercise but
Walking Tours to promote their Lines. you will take in lots of history and scenery. Perhaps even
Today, the Mid Cheshire Community Rail Partnership has see a kingfisher!
three very successful Rail Walks booklets. These are all At each station along the Mid Cheshire Line, we have walks
available on our website. for you to enjoy with refreshment stops built in to help
The March 1928 booklet has no fewer than 300 different you along the way.
tours and quite a lot are on the Mid Cheshire Line. From Navigation Road, you will enjoy your walk into
Tour 122 suggests you take the train from Stockport to Manchester, whether it is 3 miles to Sale, 7 miles to
Northwich and return from Crewe. Cornbrook or over 9 miles to Manchester Piccadilly.
That’s a 12-mile hike from Northwich to Crewe! All these options are in our booklet.
Walking. A healthy way of using the Mid Cheshire Line.

Harry Arnold MBE, a National Vice President of the Inland Waterways Association says:“Our waterways provide
some of the best urban walks in the country. Sometimes visiting places you have never seen before.”

8

Our Wren, with its striking loud voice, is asking what
food is in store today at the refurbished Altrincham
Market and Market House.

The Market House, with its Victorian-style shop fronts, is
home to some of the finest independent food and drink
outlets in the area.

With its long wooden communal tables accommodating
over 150 diners, it is a must if you are visiting Altrincham.

It is a place to linger and enjoy your food whether it be
breakfast, lunch, tea or evening supper.

To find out more about this delightful and exciting eating
venue search Altrincham Market House

Our Tip – It has got to be to visit this superb Market
as it is only a five-minute walk across the road from
Altrincham Interchange.

When we visited, we were lured into the traditional
covered market by the aroma of the fresh fish counter
with the artisan bread maker and cheesemonger having
just what we were looking for.

But beware, the freshly made traditional French crêpes,
complete with fresh strawberries and white chocolate
filling, are just too tempting to say no!

Is it surprising that the market was named Best Market
2015 by the Observer Food Monthly?
9

Altrincham the Mid Cheshire
Line
Your station for Altrincham is now called Altrincham
Interchange as it not only serves the Mid Cheshire Line Over the last couple of years, with the success of its
but is the Metrolink station for services to Bury and the popular festivals including the Goose Green Festival and
Etihad Campus. the Food and Drink Fortnight,Altrincham has become a
foodie hot spot.
It is also a bus interchange with local services and routes We took the train for the Altrincham Tapas Trail.
out to Manchester Airport, the Trafford Centre, Lymm, It made us realise how many good fine eating places there
Warrington and other destinations. were close to the railway station on Stamford New Road,
Goose Green and around the new Market Square.
My memories of Altrincham are of the green Altrincham Your choice of food was Altrincham Unlimited.
Electrics that served Manchester London Road Station – It was a tasting trip of some of the best cuisines from all
now Manchester Piccadilly. over the world.
There was Japanese fried chicken, Italian meat balls, Spanish
I also remember the electrics’ carriage depot on the site of tortillas,Andalusian fried squid and Lebanese kebabs to
the old Bowdon Station in Lloyd Street - built in 1849 but name a few.
closed in 1881 when the present station was opened. Not forgetting, for those that know Altrincham of old, the
locals’ favourite fish and chip shop opposite the market.
If you live locally, you probably recall using the train to visit Next stop on the train perhaps, the Be heALThy Here
the old Altrincham Ice Rink in Devonshire Road. program to lose some pounds!

Since 2007 Altrincham Silver Blades has been our local
Ice Rink and is certainly worth a visit with its full-size ice
pad, 2 cafes and licenced bar especially as it is less than a
5-minute walk from the station.

Martin Duff, Chair of Altrincham Unlimited, says:“Altrincham has something for everyone and a warm welcome for
all its visitors. With an ideal mix of high street names and specialist stores, an award-winning market and excellent
food and drink, it’s a must-visit on the Mid-Cheshire Line.”

10

Our Goldfinch, with its bright red face, is
looking at the Millennium Clock in the centre
of the pretty village of Hale.
With its fashionable boutiques and many first-
rate eating places next to the station, the clock
is telling you an anytime visit to the village by
train will be a worthwhile visit.
Perhaps an evening outing for dinner or drinks?
Our Tip – Enjoy a trip to Denzell Gardens
but leave the Gardens by the access road from
Denzell House to the main road.
Turn left and take the 10-minute walk down
Dunham Road to the traffic lights, turn left,
where you will find on Park Road on the right
a bus stop for the hourly No 5 bus to Dunham
Massey Hall and Gardens.
The bus takes you to outside the main gates.
Later, you can take the bus back direct to
Altrincham Interchange and the train home.
For further details search:
Denzell Gardens Bowdon
Bus 5 Bowdon Dunham Massey
National Trust Dunham Massey

11

Hale the Mid Cheshire
Line
In the early sixties, my sister Ruth was a student nurse at
Denzell Hospital in Bowdon. Hale is one of the wealthiest areas of the UK so don’t be
She often talked about the train trip from Greenbank surprised if you stumble on a premiership footballer or
to Hale Station followed by the walk up to the hospital, television celebrity.
through the leafy lanes of Bowdon and past the sandstone Around the station you will find chic boutiques with the
Bowdon Church. latest labels and about 20 cafés and restaurants within a
When the station was built in 1862, by the Cheshire 2-minute walk of getting off the train.
Midland Railway, it was called Bowdon Peel Causeway. The 20-minute walk up to Denzell Gardens was well
It is now a Grade II listed building. worth the trip. You are nearly there when you pass the
Not surprising, with its Victorian style canopies, footbridge Bowdon Lawn Tennis Club on the right.
and much-loved signal box. The distinctive black and white Lych Gate is your entrance
The signal box is not used today but look out for its sign. to Denzell Gardens from Green Walk.
This was funded by the Mid Cheshire Rail Users Beyond that you will find the stunning Gardens and
Association which looks after the passengers’ interests on Denzell House. It is a real hidden gem.
the Line. You can still walk around the House, but not inside, and
The grounds of Denzell Gardens are now a public park it does not take much to imagine how the Cottontots of
and cared for by the Friends of Denzell Gardens and The Manchester lived in the 19th century.
Devisdale. Most of the visitors to The Devisdale, which sits beside
Retracing that walk made for a lovely morning out. Denzell Gardens, are dog owners – so why not make your
trip to Hale on the train one for your pet dog as well?

John Lloyd, Chairman of the Friends of Denzell Gardens and The Devisdale says:“Our gardens are free to enter and
open from dawn until dusk for all to enjoy. Come and see what our volunteers have achieved in the community.”

12

You will find on our website three Rail and
Ride Cycle Routes.
These start from Ashley, Lostock Gralam
and Northwich stations on the Mid
Cheshire Line.
Our Tip – Take the train to Ashley Station
and enjoy the Ashley Amble through
Cheshire’s rural countryside.
There are tea tooms and toilets at the
National Trust Dunham Massey House.
The gardens at this great house is just the
place to unwind whatever the season.
Then cycle on to Tatton Park via the
Transpennine Trail, through Bucklow Hill
and Rostherne.
Tatton Park is a great place to have lunch,
or cycle through its grounds and enjoy the
afternoon in Knutsford before boarding
your train at Knutsford station for your
journey home.
For further information on taking your bike
on our trains search:
Bikes on Trains Northern

13

Ashley the Mid Cheshire
Line
As a child Dad would take me on the steam train from
Hartford and Greenbank station, with our bikes, up to You then return to Knutsford Railway Station and take the
Delamere. We would then cycle back through Cheshire’s train home.
leafy lanes having an ice cream cornet on the way home. Cycling is fun, friendly and enjoyable.
In those days, bicycles went in the guard’s van and you had It has tremendous health benefits and provides you with an
to buy a ticket for a few pennies. adventure where you visit different places with an ever-
The good news today is bikes travel free. changing scenery on the way.
Many people use the Mid Cheshire Line to get out into Stopping off for coffee, cake and a chat and then jumping
the countryside for a cycle ride and what better place to on your bike to burn off some more calories is just the
start than Ashley - a small rural scattered village beside the ticket!
River Bollin. You will also enjoy our Jodrell Jaunt from Lostock Gralam
You would not believe that you are only 2 miles from Station, where you cycle to Cheshire’s astronomical
Altrincham and the start of the Greater Manchester telescope complete with café and visitor centre and return
metropolis. to Mobberley Station.
Visit our website and you will find the Ashley Cycle Amble This is another superb ride with a spectacular attraction at
published by the Chester Cycling Campaign. your destination.
You start your journey from Ashley Station and the route Remember, as there is only limited space for bikes on our
takes you along Cheshire’s Cycleways out to the Dunham trains, it is best to travel off-peak and please be courteous
Massey Estate and Tatton Park. with your bicycles when on the train.
Cycling. A great way of using the Mid Cheshire Line.

Sara Braidwood, Cycling Ambassador for Cheshire say s:“Cycling is fun and healthy, enjoyable and safe.
It provides one of the most flexible and affordable ways of seeing our Cheshire countryside, towns and villages.”

14

15

Mobberley the Mid Cheshire
Line
Mobberley is one of those quintessential English villages
frozen in time. The walk is mostly flat but has numerous stiles and
because there are some wet and boggy areas, walking
Waiting to be appreciated. Waiting to be explored. boots are recommended.
Although you are in the heart of the Cheshire countryside,
You can imagine, in the days of steam hauled passenger do not be alarmed if the odd jumbo jet nearly touches
trains on the Mid Cheshire Line, villagers pedalling down to your head as a stretch of the walk crosses the approach to
the railway station, propping their bicycles against the fence nearby Manchester Airport.
and taking the train into Knutsford 3 miles away. As an intrepid explorer on this walk, when passing St
Wilfrids Church, you may be tempted to look at the
The charm of its station, with its small waiting shelter, level window in memory of George Leigh Mallory.
crossing, signal box and pub 100 yards from the platform is George Mallory, whose father was a rector of St Wilfrids,
the ideal destination for those who enjoy a morning’s was the mountaineer who took part in three expeditions
walk - finishing at a typical Cheshire village pub that offers to Mount Everest and sadly died in 1924 when attempting
cask ales and home cooked food. the north-east ridge with Andrew “Sandy” Irvine.
Mobberley has another claim to fame.
Look out for the special deals at the Railway Inn and the In 2004, it was named Cheshire’s Best Kept Railway Station.
Pensioners Special available Monday to Friday. This was a first for the Mid Cheshire Line.
I remember it well as the award was presented by the
The Mobberley Rail Trail Route can be found in the formidable late Gwyneth Dunwoody – a great supporter
Rail Partnership’s popular “Rail Walks in Knutsford and of our Cheshire railways.
surrounding villages” booklet or on our website.

It is approximately 4 miles and will take you at least 2
hours.

David Roberts says:“Roberts Bakery are proud to support Cheshire Best Kept Stations.
Community Rail Partnerships and their volunteers do so much to improve our Cheshire Railway Stations.”

16

Our birdie is looking at the Cross Keys Inn,
with the Belle Epoque Restaurant in the
background, on Kings Street, Knutsford.
These and many other eating places, along
with some fabulous shops, are just 5
minutes’ walk from the station.
Other places to look out for in Knutsford
on your Marvellous Day Out include:

• Knutsford Heritage Centre
• Penny Farthing Museum
• Tatton Park
• Many Independent Shops
• Bars, Pubs, Cafes
Our Tip - Visit the Heritage Centre and
view the Millennium Tapestry.This amazing
tapestry is more than 13 metres long and
was created by over 3,000 local residents.
Also at the Centre, learn all about Elizabeth
Gaskell who is buried in the Unitarian
Chapel churchyard. Knutsford is the setting
for her Cranford novel.
For more details search:
Knutsford Heritage Centre

17

Knutsford the Mid Cheshire
Line
Knutsford has a rich history. Literally!
Showing the latest block-busters and Curzon Classics,
Whenever I visit the station, I often wonder whether Knutsford’s small cinema with its barista coffee and yummy
Henry Royce of Rolls-Royce fame, who lived in the town, cakes has a devoted audience.
used the Line when he travelled into Manchester for that If you like a walk and hold a National Trust card, you will
notable meeting with Charles Rolls at the Midland Hotel in appreciate a visit to Tatton Park.
1904? 10 minutes along Bottom Street, you will enter the King
Street gates of Tatton Park and then it’s another 30 to 40
The town is certainly classic and vintage. minutes walk up to the Cheshire’s magnificent
stately home.
Visit the town and you will revel in the small shops and But what a walk.
lovely eating houses that you find on Princess Street, With 1,000 acres of the deer park to explore and
known locally as Top Street and King Street, known as centuries of history awaiting at the neo-classical mansion
Bottom Street. and Tudor Old Hall, you will not be disappointed.
There are also gardens and a working farm.
Be prepared for choice. Knutsford has probably the best Make sure, before the trek back to the station, you relish
selection of restaurants and cafes in Cheshire. the home grown, home made and seasonal produce in the
Stables Café.
My wife, Joan, always likes to engross herself in the Even some jam or chutney from the Housekeeper’s Store
many dress shops, art galleries and other independent to take home on the train?
establishments. You will find me checking out the book
shops or perhaps taking tea at one of the many tea rooms.

The Curzon Cinema, with its own café and bar is well
worth a visit, especially as it is right next to the station.

The Mayor of Knutsford says:“Enjoy Knutsford’s heritage, quaint streets, great eating places and lovely shops.
Our fine Knutsford hospitality will be there waiting for you when you step off the train.”

18

19

Plumley the Mid Cheshire
Line
Retired Cheshire Life artist, Gordon Wilkinson’s
watercolour of Plumley Station House has a story to tell. If you travel to the station to enjoy the Plumley Rail Trail
In 1998, I moved my business to Plumley Station House in the “Rail Walks in Knutsford and surrounding villages”
which was a school boy’s dream. booklet, I am sure you will be tempted to visit
I was also honoured to invite, Ian Moss. my school teacher The Golden Pheasant.
of over 50 years ago to open the building. This 200-year-old village inn and hotel, following a huge
He probably taught me more about railways than physics makeover in 2016, offers award winning cask ales and
but the station opening was only the start of the story. excellent home cooked food.
From here, with Bob Mitchell whose memorabilia is From April through to October,The Golden Pheasant is a
featured in this booklet, we brought to life the Cheshire monthly destination of our very successful Mid Cheshire
Best Kept Station Competition. Line Music Trains. Visit our website for details.
Travel along the Mid Cheshire Line and the other lines in The train usually leaves Chester just after 7pm and returns
Cheshire and you will see many totems proclaiming the from Plumley just after 10pm.
work of Cheshire’s volunteers in the community. There is music on the train, music at the pub and music on
Although I retired as Station Master at Plumley 12 years the return journey.
ago and sold the family silver, I am very proud to be still Music includes jazz, string quartets, bluegrass,Americana,
President of Cheshire Best Kept Stations. folk and pop. If you wish to eat at the Pheasant that is
Cheshire is the only county to have its own Best Kept another option.
Station Competition. Don’t be disappointed if you live at the Altrincham end
of the Line. We also have regular music trains from
Altrincham to Alexander’s in Chester.

Ian Moss, Past President of The Railway and Canal Historical Society says:“When I taught John and Bob at school in
the 1960s, little did I know where this story would end. I give all full marks for what has been achieved.”

20

Our Kingfisher on the canal is looking at
the 30,000-gallon brine tank at the Lion Salt
Works Museum.
A Marvellous Day Out for all the family.
There is a café, fully stocked gift shop,
children’s play area, smithy and lovely
butterfly garden. All free to enter.
There is a charge for the Museum, which
has regular guided tours, where you will
enjoy:

• Pan House 3 in a theatrical setting
• Stove Houses 2, 3 and 4
• Loading Bay and Link Areas
• The Boiler House
• The Manager’s Office
• The Red Lion Inn
For more details search Lion Salt Works
Our Tip – Across the road is the Salt Barge
Pub where you can take lunch and liquid
refreshments.
Afterwards, enjoy a walk around the
Northwich Woodlands which is just down
the road.

21

Lostock Gralam the Mid Cheshire
Line

If you have passed through Lostock Gralam station you will My wife has close and personal memories of the Salt
have noticed the large running-in boards that say Take the Works in its heyday because Joan was born in Marston and
Train. Walk the Canal. Visit the Lion Salt Works. her grannie lived in the house next door to the Works.

If you are a heritage hunter who enjoys a ramble, this is She would often visit Grandma Buckley and see the
just the day out for you. “lumpmen” at work skimming out the hot salt crystals into
Your trip starts with a 45-minute walk down the Trent and the elm tubs which rested on a rail beside the pan.
Mersey Canal. It was a tough life working the brine pans and in the
Completed in 1777 under the direction of James Brindley, steamy, sticky hot-houses.
the canal in those days was the commercial lifeline for You can imagine after hours in the Works your throat
Josiah Wedgewood’s business in the Potteries. would be dry and salty as though you had crossed a desert.

Today you will see holidaymakers on their colourful That is perhaps why at the entrance to the Works was the
narrowboats. Red Lion Inn!

Be sure to give them a wave and look out for the herons Grandma would also talk about Mr Thompson arriving
and kingfishers on your walk. early for work, opening his office, and then awaiting the
You will know when you have arrived at the Lion Salt workers to clock in.
Works. In front of you will be the black 30,000-gallon
brine tank which used to feed the evaporating pans At the Lion Salt Works today, you can learn all about the
in the Works. Works’ history, get steamed up in Pan House 3, see Mr
You can enter by the gate on the canal. Thompson’s office and even visit a recreation of the Red
Lion Inn.

Nick Hunt, Chairman of The Lion Salt Works Trust says:“The Trust have been working since 1993 to restore the
Works. Following a £10m restoration, the Lion Salt Works is now open for all the family to enjoy.”

22

Our Pied Wagtail is busily looking at a narrowboat
on the River Weaver entering the caisson of the
Anderton Lift.

The Anderton Boat Lift is one of the Seven
Wonders of the Waterways but no description,
only a visit, can convey the scale of this Victorian
engineering feat.

Close by is the Northwich Woodlands which
includes Marbury Country Park with its walks, trails,
magnificent lime avenues, arboretum and
raised terraces.

Our Tip – Northwich town centre is not very far
away on foot or bike via Carden’s Ferry Bridge and
Carey Park.

You will love the Tudor style black and white
buildings with its lively High Street and many
independent shops.

There are many inviting cafés, coffee shops and pubs
to enjoy.

With its own state-of-the-art multiplex Odeon
Cinema in the new Barons Quay development, why
not extend your trip and take a later train home.

For more details search:
Northwich Town Centre

23

Northwich the Mid Cheshire
Line
Bradshaw’s 1863 Handbook recommends a trip
to Northwich. Another way to find out about Northwich’s rich heritage is
In 1863, it was for the curious traveller to visit the Salt to take our Northwich Rail Trail, which provides for a visit
Mines and excavated chambers. to Weaver Hall Museum.
Today there is still plenty to unearth in Northwich because This former Victorian Workhouse is also accessible from
salt and the chemical industry have become its heritage. our walk from Greenbank Station overleaf – which is the
Whether by bike or on foot, you will enjoy the Northwich next station on the Mid Cheshire Line.
Woodlands which sits between the Weaver Navigation and Your Rail Trail from Northwich takes you beside the
the Trent and Mersey Canal. Weaver Arches that dominate the Northwich skyline.
Nearby is the iconic Anderton Boat Lift, known as the Alongside the arches is Vickersway Park where you can
Cathedral of the Canals, which opened in 2002 as a stop off for an ice cream or perhaps more?
visitor attraction. Crazy golf, tennis, bowls or even a visit to their outside
Opened in 1875, it was a wonder of its day. gym or skate park.
Now you can enjoy a boat trip down the Lift on the Whilst a visit to Weaver Hall Museum to learn about
glassed sided Edwin Clark boat which takes you 50 feet Northwich’s past is a must, be sure to carry on the Rail
from the Canal to the Navigation. Trail.
There is also the visitor centre, a café, gift shop, picnic and You have still got the River Dane to walk alongside and St
play areas which are free to enter. Helens Church to visit.
Yes, Northwich has a lot to offer its visitors.

The Mayor of Northwich says:“You will not be disappointed with your trip to Northwich with its many hidden
delights. Our heritage in salt and the Weaver was once toil for our townsfolk. Now it is tourism.”

24

25

Greenbank the Mid Cheshire
Line
As a lad, I spent many an hour at Greenbank Station
spotting trains. Most people who take this walk fall in love with the river
but know little about its route and history.
In those days, it was called Hartford and Greenbank and
my memories include helping the porter and sitting in his The river rises in the Peckforton Hills, flows south towards
mess room keeping warm in front of a roaring coal fire. Audlem and then turns north over the Cheshire Plain,
passing through Nantwich,Winsford and Northwich. It
Who would have thought then the station building would joins the River Mersey close to Frodsham.
become a Church?
To find out more about the river’s history and its impact
Greenbank is your Mid Cheshire Line station if you want on Northwich and the surrounding area, why not extend
to discover the River Weaver. the route of your walk and visit Weaver Hall Museum
which sits below the viaduct?
The Greenbank Rail Trail in our “Rail Walks in Cheshire
West” booklet provides you with a circular route that If you walk towards the viaduct you will see Hunts Lock.
takes you down to the banks of the River Weaver and Cross the lock and the Riversdale Bridge into the Crescent
through the Marshall’s Arm Nature Reserve. and where it joins London Road you will find the Museum.

Just look at that mighty viaduct, depicted in Bernice’s The Museum was a former workhouse and is a great place
watercolour, which takes the Mid Cheshire Line over the to learn about the social, cultural and industrial history of
River Weaver and the adjacent River Dane. West Cheshire.

Built in 1860 of red sandstone, blue brick and iron it is There is lots to see and discover and there is a coffee shop
about 900 metres long with 48 arches. It sits about 12 and gift shop – and toilets for your convenience!
metres above the Weaver’s water level.

John Tackley, Chairman of the River Weaver Navigation Society says:“The River Weaver has a fascinating history
and has played a significant role in shaping Northwich. Visit the River. Enjoy, then tell your family and friends.”

26

27

Cuddington the Mid Cheshire
Line
If you take the train to Cuddington, you will find the
Station House is now an art gallery. As you take the path of the long-gone salt trains, keep your
eyes open for the beautiful flora and fauna. I often saw
Way back, the station name boards at Cuddington used to badgers, buzzards and foxes, especially when I walked to
say ‘Cuddington. Change here for Whitegate and Winsford’. work in a morning. It’s all a reminder of how lucky we are
to live in such a lovely area.”
In 1870, the Cheshire Lines Committee built the railway
to Winsford to profit from the lucrative salt trade. This Bernice’s pretty watercolour shows the former station
freight traffic ran until 1967 but its passenger service was at Whitegate.
less successful. Its claim to fame was that it was one of the
few railway lines that was closed to passenger traffic But you will be in for a surprise at Whitegate.
three times!
Since Bernice was out there painting, volunteers have
Stretching from Cuddington to the Salt Union mines at opened the Station as a community café.
Winsford, the track bed is now a delightful 6-mile walkway.
With tasty homemade food, delicious hot and cold drinks,
No one can explain the way better than my old pal, Rock it is a welcome break for the walker.There are even treats
Salt Jim, who is a retired face worker at the Winsford Salt for your dog.
Mine.
The café is open 7 days a week from 10am to 3pm on
“I often walk the Whitegate Way. No trains these days weekdays and 10am to 4pm weekends and bank holidays.
but watch out for the fleeting joggers and cyclists. It really
makes a perfect day out that can capture your imagination. Even trikes for hire for your children!

And, you don’t need to ask.There are toilets a few steps
away from the café.

Gary Cliffe, Director of Whitegate Station Community Group says:“A warm welcome awaits you at Whitegate
Station Café.You will enjoy our friendly, volunteer led, good old-fashioned service.”

28

Our Willow Goose, with its distinctive black head, is
looking out over one of the meres at Delamere and
probably thinking how these wooded areas and their
visitors have changed over the years.

100 years ago, station master Harry Burton had
three coal merchants in the station yard and would
be taking packages on the platform for the local
draper, saddler and stonemason.

Yes, how things have changed.

Delamere Forest is now one of the busiest tourist
attractions on the Mid Cheshire Line that folk visit
by train.
Our Tip – Take the train to Delamere and enjoy the
great outdoors.

Delamere Station is in the heart of the Forest.

With its dry sandstone paths, the forest is a great
destination for walking and cycling.

Try either the Linmere or Blakemere waymarked
trails returning to the Forestry Commission Visitor
Centre for freshly made food and drinks.

It is an ideal place to take the kids at weekends or
during the school holidays. They’ll love the idea of
becoming a Gruffalo Spotter or a Tree Explorer!

For further details search:
29 Delamere Forest

Delamere the Mid Cheshire
Line
Whenever I mention Delamere to my grandson William he
always talks about the fantastic school trip they made to For all your information, the Forestry Commission Visitor
Delamere on the train. Centre and Café is a 15-minute stroll from the station.
Getting our children out on the train and learning about Food made from local sources and fresh roasted coffee is
Cheshire’s rural escapes is one of our Community Rail their speciality.
Officer’s key objectives. There is a myriad of walking and cycling trails for you to
Certainly beats the biology lessons I had at school! explore the forest and even a bike hire shop
Delamere station, with its superb station café, is situated in The TRACS bike hire shop has a variety of top-spec bikes
the heart of Delamere Forest. and equipment suitable for families and enthusiasts.
The forest is a place for families to let off steam, escape Whilst at the Forest, the Cheshire Wild Life Trust invites
the crowds and offers a variety of outdoor pursuits. you to take a look at wildlife close up by checking out the
Delamere Forest, once a royal hunting ground in Norman plants and animals living in and around the meres
times and now a haven for wildlife, is managed and and mossland.
sustained by The Forestry Commission. The mosses are home to many rare species. Depending on
The GoApe Tree Top Adventure is less than a five-minute the season, look out for the green hairstreak butterfly or
walk from the station. the azure damselfly in the sphagnum moss.
With its long zip wires and panoramic views, this provides If time permits take the stroll up Old Pale Hill.
a unique, exciting trek through the tree-tops. From there you can see Derbyshire, Lancashire, Shropshire,
Staffordshire, Denbighshire and Flintshire.

Felicity Goodey CBE DL, President of the Cheshire Wildlife Trust says:“There be dragons to discover at Delamere!
Particularly rare ones! This part of Mid Cheshire has an abundance of wildlife to spot, beautiful woodland songbirds
to hear and very special plants and fungi to see. It’s a fantastic place to visit all year round.”

30

31

Mouldsworth the Mid Cheshire
Line
For a small village halt, Mouldsworth Station has an
extraordinary story to tell. For those who travel to the station to take our
Until 2006, there was a signal box just beyond the bridge. Mouldsworth Rail Trail, you cannot miss The Goshawk
This was originally built in 1869 to control the junction to pub directly opposite the station and shown in Bernice’s
the Helsby and Alvanley branch line. watercolour. It used to be called the Station Hotel.
Although the line closed to freight services in 1991, if you
check out the 1938 Bradshaw timetable there were 2 Their extensive food menu comes highly recommended.
Sunday summer holiday trains from Birkenhead
to Northwich. Before you leave the village, take a left turn outside the
Yes, the Mid Cheshire Line has its roots as a tourist station and walk down Station Road for 100 yards and you
destination but I often wonder what those happy travellers will see on the right a church - St Cuthbert by the Forest.
found to do in Northwich until 8pm on a summer’s
Sunday evening! You cannot miss its standalone campanile bell tower.
For 15 years, the Station House at Mouldsworth has been
a hairdressing salon. When I spoke to Father Joe, he told me an
Whistles Hair and Beauty Salon is based in the Old extraordinary story.
Ticket Office and if you look inside you will see they have
retained the old wooden ticket draws from bygone days. Back in the 1920’s there was an influx of Irish farm
workers and the landlady of the Station Hotel persuaded
a curate from St Werburgh’s to come out and say Mass in
a pavilion behind the hotel but it had to coincide with the
Mid Cheshire Line train times.

After the war, the landlady purchased the land next to the
hotel and St Cuthbert was opened in 1953.

John Oates, Chair of the Mid Cheshire Community Rail Partnership says:“As we approach the end of our journey
on our Line, many thanks to all those that have contributed to this excellent booklet. I hope you find it useful in
planning your Marvellous Days Out on the Mid Cheshire Line.”

32

Our Willow Tit, with its large sooty-black cap, is looking
down on the River Dee in Chester watching visitors
revel in a cruise up the river.

They are probably on one of the half hourly cruises
that leaves The Groves and sail upstream under the
suspension bridge, past Grosvenor Park and to the
city limits.

Perhaps having a tea or coffee or cold beer or glass of
wine as they enjoy this family day out.

Our Tip – Take the Rail Link bus into the centre of
Chester. Five minutes later you will be at the Chester
Bus Interchange.

Or, take the X8 from outside the station for a visit to
Chester Zoo where you can explore 500 species of
animals and 125 acres of habitats.

In the city, you can use the walls as your walking
route around the city’s rich heritage or take the red
Chester City Sightseeing Hop-on Hop-Off Tour with its
informative commentary.

The tour lasts 35 minutes and picks up at 15 stops in
the city.

For further details of the city and its attractions search:
Visit Chester
Chester Zoo by Rail

33

Chester the Mid Cheshire
Line
Back in the 1960s, the western terminus of our Line was
the two 100-yard platforms of Chester Northgate Station. My memories of Chester include walking around the Walls.
The city is entirely surrounded by its soft freestone walls
In October 1969, Northgate Station was closed and and is the most perfect example of such fortifications in
the Mid Cheshire Line services were diverted at Mickle the United Kingdom.
Trafford into Chester General. With a paved walk on top, sometime 40 feet above ground
level, the walls are 2 miles in circumference.
This is the current terminus of the Mid Cheshire Line and It is easy to imagine in the 1930’s, when the classic
now provides onward connections to North Wales and railway posters were inviting people to explore the city,
Liverpool as well as other destinations including Cardiff, promenaders strolling around the walls and taking in the
Crewe, London and the North Cheshire Line out to panoramic views.
Warrington via Helsby and Frodsham. Just like today those views would have included the
Roodee racecourse, the River Dee, the Castle, the Roman
From the station, it is a 15-minute walk into Chester or Amphitheatre and the famous and much photographed
you can catch the Rail Link bus from outside the station. clock on the Eastgate.
The Grosvenor Museum is your centre to discover the
Chester is a classic, contemporary city full of history with history of Chester.
many treasures to find. Finally, don’t forget Chester Cathedral.
An ancient abbey and an archaeological treasure.
Its two-tiered rows and cobbled streets makes it a unique
destination for shopping with all the big names alongside
many independent shops.

It is also a great place for eating out.

The Lord Mayor of Chester says:“A warm welcome awaits you at Chester which is steeped in history and tradition.
You will find lots of interesting things to do including exploring 2000 years of history, spectacular shopping, culture,
entertainment and great places to eat and drink”.

34

Just the Ticket the Mid Cheshire
Line

In the 1960s the Mid Cheshire Line termini were
Manchester Central and Chester Northgate.

Today if you are looking to board the Mid Cheshire
Line, you can join it at Manchester Piccadilly, Stockport,
Altrincham (from the Metrolink) and Chester.

Further details including timetables and the best ticket
to buy for your journey can be found on our website.

You will also find some superb offers to enjoy at
some of the attractions on our Line.

Look out for the regular prizes on offer.

Many Thanks

Many thanks for all those that have contributed to this booklet especially:

For the iconic posters For the railway memorabilia
Nicky Thompson Bob Mitchell
devabob.com
lemondropcreative.co.uk

For the watercolours For technical help with the booklet
Diana Bernice Tackley (aka Bernice Barrett-Brown) Ian Hulme

dianabernicetackley.com designed2use.co.uk

Gordon Wilkinson Our print partners
gordonwilkinson.com The NeuroMuscular Centre,Winsford

nmcentre.com

35 MarvellousDaysOut.org.uk

il: [email protected] Parking available the Mid Cheshire
book: /northernassist Staff in attendance Line
ter: @northernassist Bicycle store facility
ost: Customer Experience Centre Bike & Go Manchester Piccadilly
post NORTHERN RAILWAY Metrolink
: northernrailway.co.uk Interchange stations Stockport
Disabled assistance Altrincham
cess, disabled information available
cycle assistance Navigation Road
Hale
0800 138 5560 Chester Ashley
il: [email protected] Mobberley
phone: 0800 138 5561
Knutsford
t PropeMrtyeander the Plumley
il: [email protected] Lostock Gralam
tional Rfaoirl Eanquiries Northwich
03457 4M8 4a9r5v0ellous Day Out Greenbank

phone: 0345 60 50 600 Cuddington
: nationalrail.co.uk
Mouldsworth northernrailway.co.uk
ish Transport Police Delamere

0800 40 50 40
: 61016

John Hulme lives in Northwich and is the former Chairman and owner of JPD Group Ltd, a management training
company, that was based at Plumley Station House on the Mid Cheshire Line.
It was from here in 2003 that he initiated the Cheshire Best Kept Station Competition, of which he is now President.
He is a member of two Community Rail Partnerships, Vice Chairman of the Mid Cheshire Rail Users Association and
was honoured in the Queen’s 90th Birthday Honours for his community services to railways in Cheshire.
John is married to Joan and has two children and a grandson.
Locally he is a Trustee of The Lion Salt Works Trust, The Friends of Weaver Hall Museum and Castle Community Church.
He is also an officer of the River Weaver Navigation Society.
In retirement, he passionately promotes community involvement in Cheshire’s railways and waterways.

Professor James C Makens, joint author of the world’s leading textbook Marketing for Hospitality and Tourism says:
“This superb way of promoting Cheshire’s railways and its attractions with classic rail art posters is

exceptional marketing. What is mind blowing, it is being led by a volunteer community organisation.”

The Mid Cheshire Community Rail Partnership is grateful for all those that have helped with this publication.

Mid Cheshire Rail Users Association

MarvellousDaysOut.org.uk