White Nancy Circular Walk

While the White Nancy Circular Walk is a fairly easy trail overall, there are a few steep sections along the route that could limit mobility for some walkers. The steep northern slope of Kerridge Hill has been made less hazardous by means of a series of steps up the hillside; however, these will still restrict access for those walkers that have difficulty traversing stairs. Additionally, walkers should remember to keep their dogs on a lead, as there are livestock in the area.

If you are looking for a bit of historical interest along your walk, then look no further than this exciting trail. Not only does the route provide some excellent views that sweep across the rolling green hills of the Cheshire countryside, but it also features White Nancy, a memorial site atop Kerridge Hill that was built in 1817 to commemorate the victory of coalition forces at the Battle of Waterloo. Whether you are on the trail for the views or the history, you will be sure to find something that everyone will love on this pleasant walk.

Setting out from the starting point, head west along Lord Street for 0.1mi and turn left onto Cow Lane. Cross over the street and look to your right for a trail heading to the south along a line of trees. Follow this for 500ft and pass through the gate, making a right turn at the junction followed by an immediate left to pass through another gate. Continue along the trail for 325ft, passing through a gate to arrive at the foot of the Kerridge Steps that will lead you up the hillside.

Make your way up the rustic series of steps and enjoy the views behind you overlooking the town of Bollington before you arrive at the memorial site known as White Nancy. Explore the top of the hill around the white, conical structure that was built by John Gaskell to commemorate the defeat of Napoleon’s forces at Waterloo in 1815 and take in the amazing views of the surrounding Cheshire landscape.

After taking in the views, continue walking south along the ridge for 0.6mi, where you will pass through two kissing gates and arrive at a stile. Make your way over the stile and turn left at the junction, keeping right at the next fork to continue on for 0.1mi through a semi-wooded field. After reaching another fork, take the path to the left and proceed straight through the following intersection.

Continue walking along the edge of the wood, and in 380ft, you will cross over a stile and enter the tree cover. Keep straight on the trail for 0.3mi and enjoy the serene forest setting before meeting up with the road. Turn left and follow the road for 0.3mi, turning left again just after Rainbow Primary School to get onto a quieter road. Keep on along the road and turn left onto Sugar Lane, following it for 0.2mi, before picking the trail up on your right.

Follow this path for the next 0.6mi and keep left at the fork to continue along the fence and eventually arrive at a bridge crossing over the River Dean. Here, you will be able to spot the cascading Waulkmill Waterfall before continuing north along the lane. Keep straight along Ingersley Vale for 0.5mi, as it takes you back into the town and past The Crown on your right. From here, you can either pop into the pub for some refreshments or turn left along the road to return to the starting point, having completed the White Nancy Circular Walk.

Other amazing walks in Peak District National Park

Check out our guides to Kinder Scout, Mam Tor, Stanage Edge, Dovedale, and Padley Gorge. Or see all of our Peak District walks on 10Adventures.