Heritage Loop
Grade: Long distance
Distance: 28 km / 16 miles
Time: 4 to 6 hours
Map: OS Explorer 268
Terrain: Country lanes, bridleways and tracks, some major road crossings
Barriers: Various bridle gates
Toilets: For patrons of pubs en route
Part of Laureen's Ride, the Heritage Loop circular horse ride runs through the old centre of Mobberley, one of the oldest parishes in England and mentioned in the Domesday book, before passing right next to Manchester International Airport where Concorde is now housed. It returns past the National Trust’s Quarry Bank Mill (please keep to the waymarked route here, as elsewhere) and along a prehistoric track on Lindow Moss where the remains of Iron Age ‘Lindow Pete’ were found.
The Heritage Loop, together with the Cheshire Cheese Loop, are the two circular routes which together form Laureen’s Ride, a 53 km / 33 mile ride in the green heart of Cheshire East, ideal for horse riders with friends or family on bicycles. The route can be ridden as two separate loops, or as a long distance ride over two or three days using local accommodation for horse and rider. There are few hills to climb and lush scenery to enjoy. Signposting, plus maps and route guides mean you don’t have to worry about losing your way. Of course walkers will love the route too.
Here are some comments from riders who have ridden the route:
“Lovely country lanes and plenty of canter opportunities”
Terry Hobin
“Very enjoyable, easy to follow ride, through pretty countryside over a variety of terrain providing interest for both horse and rider”
Emma Davies
Laureen's Ride was developed by North Cheshire Riders in partnership with Cheshire East Council, with funding from the British Equestrian Federation, British Horse Society and local riding groups.
Safety
Please ride safely; tell someone where you are going and take a mobile phone. Leave gates as you find them and respect livestock and other path users. Please follow the Countryside Code. Note that the route crosses a number of major roads and includes some road riding. It is recommended that before undertaking any part of this route, both horse and rider should be adequately insured against public liability. Membership of The British Horse Society can provide this (terms and conditions apply). Please call 024768 40506 or visit http://www.bhs.org.uk/ to become a member.