Enjoy the outdoors at Lyme

Runners in the grounds of Lyme Park, House and Garden, Cheshire with a tower in the background. Lyme Park sits in 1400 acres of parkland and has views across Manchester and the Cheshire Plain. — Runners in the grounds of Lyme Park, Cheshire | © National Trust Images/Arnhel de Serra

Lyme is a haven for anyone who loves the outdoors, whether on horseback or with your dog. With 1,400 acres to explore, enjoy breath-taking walks, challenging runs, and exciting bike rides.

Walking

Whether you are looking for a relaxing stroll or a soft hike, breathe in the fresh air, admire the scenery, and feel the history of Lyme. There are several waymarked trails to choose from, depending on your fitness level and preference. Take a relaxing walk around reflection lake and admire the garden, or venture into the woodland and moorland for scenic views of Manchester and the Cheshire Plain or just pick up a map and lose yourself in the estate.

Length: 0.3 Miles

Difficulty: Easy

This enjoyable linear walk to East Lodge will reward you with memorable views of The Cage, deer sanctuary and surrounding area whatever the weather. This step free route is designed for people wanting a flat, gentle walk or travelling with a prams. This route is also suitable for cyclists (N.B the path after East Lodge outside of Lyme's estate is a footpath by Cheshire East, not designated for cycling).

Step free deer and cage walk | Cheshire | National Trust
Length: 35 miles

Difficulty: Challenging

Stride out along the Gritstone Trail and sample some of the finest walking in Cheshire. This hiking route begins at Lyme and is called the Gritstone Trail because of the local rock type which is millstone grit. This 35 miles route is a challenging walk stretching from Disley to Kidsgrove, and can be completed in one go, or there are options to break it up into smaller sections.

Visit the Cheshire East website for the trail map

A visitor in a light jacket explores the garden in an electric mobility vehicle at Lyme, Cheshire — Visitors exploring the garden by tramper at Lyme, Cheshire | © National Trust Images/James Beck

Tramper Hire

If you find walking difficult you can still enjoy Lyme, thanks to the Tramper, all-terrain mobility scooter that's available to pre-book for free. Available from the Ticket Office at the house, those with reduced mobility can explore the garden along a designated Tramper route.

Find out more

Running

Reward your next run with a view to remember. Lyme is a beautiful place to go for a run, whether you are looking for a gentle jog or a challenging trail. Follow the waymarked walking routes, or find a path to see where it takes you. Why not join a running event at Lyme?

Running events at Lyme

Dog walking

Lyme has always been a place where dogs can enjoy themselves. Dogs lived alongside the Legh family who left Lyme to the National Trust. Discover fantastic walks with your four-legged friend at Lyme. There’s ancient parkland, moorland and natural woodland in which to stretch your legs. Find out where your dog can go and the facilities available.

Plan your walkies

Cycling

Bring your bike and take a trip through sheltered woodland or through the deer park as you follow a network of cycle paths around the estate with scenic views of the Cheshire Plain. Visitors can enter Lyme by bike from the main gate on the A6.

Download the map to see the cycle paths here

Cycle Parking

Lock up your cycle with racks in the main car park or Timber Yard to stop off for a coffee or a journey around the house and gardens. No lock? No problem - you can also borrow a lock from the kiosk or Timber Yard shop on request.

Mountain Bike Trail

Mountain Bike Trail in Hase Bank Wood is designed for competent riders. This short, challenging cross-country trail is narrow with short steep sections (climbs and descents) and some trail features to negotiate.

Please note due to the nature of the trail surface we advise not riding after periods of heavy rain due to damage to trail surfaces that may occur.

National Cycle Network

The National Route 55 passes close to Lyme on the Middlewood Way. Route 55 connects Ironbridge to Preston through some of the lively and interesting towns and cities in the region. The section between Marple and Stoke-on-Trent provides access to the Middlewood Way and Biddulph Way, both traffic-free former railway lines.

See route 55 on the sustrans website

Green wheels discount

As a thank you for arriving car-free, enjoy 10% off in our cafés when you show a bus or train ticket with the day’s date on it, or a bike helmet. Find out more about exploring car-free .

Horse riding

Lyme can be explored by horse with a pre-arranged permit. There are a limited number of permits each year and there can be a waiting list.

All horse riders are asked to be aware of other visitors on the paths, including children on bicycles, dog walkers and livestock. Please note horse boxes are not permitted at Lyme.

To apply for a permit please email a member of the team for more information at Lyme@NationalTrust.org.uk

Be Peak District Proud

Help us look after the places you love to visit by taking all litter home with you. Dogs must be kept on leads to keep wildlife and livestock safe, unless in designated off-lead areas, keep an eye out for the signs on each gate at Lyme to guide you. Be fire aware and please don’t bring barbecues or cooking equipment, and note that camping and campfires are not permitted.

Help keep the Peak District countryside a safe and thriving haven for wildlife and for people – protect, respect and enjoy - and be #peakdistrictproud