The Sandstone Trail (Frodsham to Woodhouses)

At a Glance

Distance

8.8 km (5.5 miles)

Difficulty

Moderate

Duration

3 hr

Walk Type

Peak, Woodland

Route Type

Circular

Off Lead Potential

Low

Livestock Risk

Moderate

Facilities

Pubs at either end

Parking

Frodsham Hill car park on Chester Road

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is The Sandstone Trail (Frodsham to Woodhouses) dog friendly?

  Yes, this section of the Sandstone Trail is a solid choice for dogs and earns a rating of 8 out of 10 for dog friendliness. The 8.9 km circular route offers a rewarding mix of woodland paths and open ridge walking, with varied terrain , leaf litter, compacted sand, and field crossings , that keeps dogs genuinely engaged throughout. There are pubs at either end if you and your dog need a rest after the walk.

• Can dogs be off lead at The Sandstone Trail (Frodsham to Woodhouses)?

  Off-lead opportunities are available but limited in places, as the trail passes through farmland with moderate livestock presence, so leads are required through fields and at stiles. The woodland stretches are your best bet for letting dogs roam more freely, where the path is enclosed and sightlines are clear. It's worth keeping a lead handy throughout, as the route alternates between these different environments.

• What should I know before visiting The Sandstone Trail (Frodsham to Woodhouses) with my dog?

  The route involves 274 metres of climbing across several ascents, so it's a genuinely good workout for dogs who need more than a flat stroll but aren't ready for mountain terrain. After rain, the field crossings can get muddy, so paw cleaning kit is worth having in the car. Parking is available at Frodsham Hill car park on Chester Road, and the exposed ridgeline can be breezy in westerly winds, though the woodland sections offer good shelter when needed.

Frodsham Hill Car Park, Frodsham, WA6 6HH

53.2945, -2.7278