Delamere Forest provides many gentle forest trails ideal for the walkers, runners and cyclists. During my visit I also saw many families with children walking around the pathways. There is also a cycle hire facility on site which is perfect if you do not own your own bike or a spontaneous trip brought you to Delamere without your own. There are two cycling routes marked out within the forest, both are classified as forest road routes.
At the heart of the forest lies a family run cafe which serves a wide range of hot and cold food and drinks. The cafe is positioned next to the car parking and the toilet facilities. It was quite busy during my visit which was on an early Sunday afternoon.
The pathways were all in a very good state there were signs of ongoing maintenance around the forest walkways which was great to see. I did feel there was a lack of bins at the entrance and exit of the routes that I had taken which had a small amount of litter along the route. There were however bins closer to the cafe which were on the far side of the parking.
In addition to the running and cycling there also appeared to be some horse riding facilities in the area. For the running around the forest I would recommend trail running shoes as these are that is slightly stronger (and heavier) than a running shoe but lighter than a hiking boot. This should give the extra support when running around trail.
Our quick notes on Delamere Forest
Walk considerations
Parking: Paid parking £8 all day. Shorter options available
Cash only parking: Cash or cards
Choice of routes: Choice of routes between 2 and 7 miles
Circular walks: Yes
Distance of routes: 2 to 7 miles. Routes can also be combined
Popularity: High
Quality of walkways: Excellent
Dog walking: Yes, no bins observed on route but a couple of bins at the car park
Toilets: Yes, at the car park
Pub/drinks: Cafe next to the car park
Hilly route: Hilly and flat routes available
Picnic area: Yes
Suitable for running: Yes
Suitable for cycling: Yes, cycle hire available on site