Lindow Common is situated on the outskirts of Wilmslow, in East Cheshire. This is a hidden gem and a perfect for a walk in the fresh air.
Lindow Common
The common was an area of heath land in centuries past where villagers could graze their cattle, but over the last centuries trees have overrun the area making it a Site of Specific Scientific Interest. It also has a designated local nature reserve.
On approaching the common there are so many paths to explore – the kids didn’t know which way to run! We decided to take the path straight ahead of us as we wanted to see the lake first.
Black Lake in the centre of Lindow Common
In the middle of the common lies Black Lake. This is a relatively large lake which is home to lots of ducks and wildlife. There is a path all the way around the lake which is clear and good for children, pushchairs, bikes and dog walkers. We decided to take this path and follow it round – stopping at a few points to climb trees or jump in the mud! The views from around the lake were beautiful especially on a sunny day!
Stopping Points around Lindow Common
We stopped at several benches dotted around for snack breaks…yes our children love their snacks to keep them going! You could probably take a picnic too but as we visited in February the grass was pretty boggy and wet in parts, but in the summer months I imagine it’s a lovely place for a picnic!
We spent about an hour and half walking around the lake then afterwards we decided to keep walking to Newgate Nature Reserve and another lake called Rossmere.
Newgate Nature Reserve and Rossmere
Enter this walking route off Racecourse Road down a road called Newgate. Follow the road all the way to the end and you will come to Newgate Nature Reserve. There are several bridal tracks off this road, but we stayed on the main road towards Rossmere. As you come down to see the Rossmere lake – beware of all the barbed wire! This is a fishing lake, and you need a fishing license to fish – there’s lots of signs directing you away from the private land! Just make sure you follow the public footpath signs.
The view across Rossmere is beautiful and we followed the footpath looping around the lake. The kids loved climbing over the different sized stiles and we even came into a field with lots of ponies – which the kids enjoyed. Eventually the footpath brings you back around to where you started, and you end up back on Newgate road.
Other things to see near Lindow Common
In the winter months, near Christmas pay a visit to Ivy Tree Farm on Racecourse Road – this is a Christmas tree farm, and we buy our Christmas tree from here every year. It also has a beautiful shop selling home ware and Christmas decorations. In the summer months it’s also home to the famous Raptor Safari . There’s a great take away hot drinks cart too that also serves ice creams, and snacks!
Visit Wilmslow Town Centre
Wilmslow town centre is worth a visit too – many celebrities have been spotted here such as Coronation Street stars, footballers, comedians, and my friend once pulled up next to Sir Alex Ferguson… as he lives in Wilmslow! Home to lots of lovely coffee shops, restaurants, home ware and fashion stores. Well worth a visit window shopping or grabbing a coffee after a long walk!
Getting to Lindow Common, Wilmslow
Situated off Racecourse Road, Wilmslow, SK9 5NQ there’s a small car park and plenty of space to park on surrounding local roads. It’s also 10 minutes’ walk from Wilmslow town centre. There are several entrances off Racecourse Road, simply follow all the paths which lead you onto the Common.
