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United Kingdom
England
North West England
Cheshire West and Chester
Delamere

Whitemoor Trail

Moderate

4.0

(55)

184

hikers

Whitemoor Trail

02:15

8.68km

60m

Hiking

Hike the moderate 5.4-mile Whitemoor Trail in Delamere Forest, exploring tranquil woodlands, Blakemere Moss, and Black Lake.

Last updated: February 26, 2026

Waypoints

A

Start point

Parking

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1

1.03 km

Blakemere Moss

Highlight • Natural Monument

Blakemere Moss is a flooded area of Delamere Forest. The lake is rich in biodiversity and is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest. It is a great place for birdwatching and is home to species such as greylags, Canada geese, black-headed gulls, coots, mallards, and lapwings. The area was drained in the 1800s, supposedly by prisoners from the Napoleonic Wars, and planted with trees. It was turned back into a lake in the 1990s and tree stumps still poke through the water’s surface.

Tip by

2

2.49 km

Hatchmere Nature Reserve

Highlight • Trail

Cared for by Cheshire Wildlife Trust, Hatchmere Nature Reserve covers the mere itself and the surrounding fens, woodland and heath. With this range of rare and important wildlife habitat, it's a great place to see birds such as great crested grebe, reed bunting and willow warbler, and many flying insects including dragonflies and damselflies.

Tip by

3

4.30 km

Delamere Forest Wetlands

Highlight • Forest

Delamere, which means ‘forest of the lakes’, is Cheshire's largest area of woodland. However, the forest you see today is all that remains of the vast forests of Mara and Mondrem, which covered more than 60 square miles (160 km2). They were established in the 11th century as hunting forests for the Norman Earls of Chester. These days, the forest is a serene place to explore and has three walking trails, as well as an activity centre and cafe, among other conveniences.

Tip by

4

6.84 km

Black Lake Nature Reserve, Delamere Forest

Highlight • Natural Monument

Black Lake is a tranquil nature reserve within Delamere Forest. The reserve is home to many species of dragonfly and damselfly, as well as unusual mosses. The lake is a small pool and bog lying in a natural depression in the land. It is a wonderful place to stop for a moment and contemplate your surroundings.

Tip by

B

8.68 km

End point

Parking

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Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

6.33 km

1.92 km

265 m

103 m

< 100 m

Surfaces

3.39 km

2.25 km

1.77 km

975 m

174 m

< 100 m

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Elevation

Elevation
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Weather

Powered by Foreca

Monday 5 October

19°C

13°C

66 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 9.0 km/h

to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route

Comments

February 22, 2025,Blakemere & Hatchmere Nature Reserve loop — Delamere Forest
Had to go off route due to some parts being flooded so not quite the 10k we planned.
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Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I park to access the Whitemoor Trail?

The Whitemoor Trail is located within Delamere Forest, which offers several parking options. Specific parking areas like Blakemere or Delamere Station are good starting points, providing easy access to the trailheads. Parking fees may apply, so check the official Delamere Forest website for current rates and payment methods.

Is the Whitemoor Trail suitable for dogs?

Yes, the trail is dog-friendly! Delamere Forest welcomes dogs, but they should be kept under control, and on a lead in certain areas, especially near wildlife or livestock. Always remember to clean up after your dog to keep the forest enjoyable for everyone.

What is the best time of year to hike this trail?

The Whitemoor Trail can be enjoyed year-round. Spring brings fresh foliage and wildflowers, while autumn offers stunning colours. Summer is great for longer days, and even winter can be beautiful with crisp air and fewer crowds. Be prepared for potentially muddy sections after rain, regardless of the season.

Are there any entrance fees or permits required for Delamere Forest?

There are no entrance fees to access Delamere Forest itself or to hike the Whitemoor Trail. However, parking charges apply at the various car parks within the forest. No special permits are needed for general hiking.

What is the terrain like on the Whitemoor Trail?

The trail primarily follows forestry tracks with generally good, compacted surfaces. You'll experience a varied woodland environment, passing by still lakes and ponds like Blakemere Moss and the Black Lake Nature Reserve. The route also features wetlands and extensive treelines, offering a tranquil escape into the heart of the forest.

What can I see along the route?

Along the route, you'll encounter beautiful natural features such as Blakemere Moss, the serene Hatchmere Nature Reserve, and the Delamere Forest Wetlands. Keep an eye out for diverse wildlife and enjoy the peaceful woodland scenery away from busier areas.

Does the trail intersect other well-known paths?

Yes, the route intersects with several other paths within Delamere Forest. You'll find sections that overlap with the Delamere Blue Cycle Trail, the Cheshire Circuit, and the Sandstone Trail, among others. This offers opportunities to extend or vary your hike if you wish.

Is this a loop trail?

Yes, the Whitemoor Trail is designed as a circular route, allowing you to start and finish at the same point without retracing your steps. This makes for a convenient and varied hiking experience.

Is the Whitemoor Trail suitable for beginners or families?

While komoot rates this trail as 'moderate', it is generally considered to be of easy to low difficulty, making it suitable for a wide range of hikers, including families and beginners. The well-maintained forestry tracks contribute to its accessibility, though some sections might offer a slightly greater challenge.

What should I bring for a hike on this trail?

For a comfortable hike, bring appropriate footwear, as some sections can be muddy, especially after rain. Water and snacks are recommended, along with waterproofs, as the weather can change. A map or GPS device is also useful for navigation, though the trail is generally well-marked.

Are there cafes or facilities near the trail?

Delamere Forest has visitor facilities, including cafes and toilets, primarily located near the main visitor centres. These are usually accessible from the car parks that serve as starting points for the Whitemoor Trail, offering refreshments before or after your hike.

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