About Us Created from what was once largely derelict land, the Northwich Community Woodlands now provides a rich and green environment to the north of Northwich town centre. Northwich Community Woodlands is made up of nine countryside sites each with a different character and history. The Weaver Navigation and the Trent and Mersey canal flow through the heart of the Northwich Community Woodlands adding further variety to the landscape. Marbury Country Park A former residence of the Smith-Barry family, Marbury Country Park is now managed by Cheshire County Council as a country park. The walks and trails take visitors through the historical landscape which includes the magnificent Lime avenues, Arboretum and raised terraces which provide glimpses of Budworth mere. The ancient woodland, open parkland and streams provide a rich haven for a host of wildlife from Bats to Beetles. Visitors are able to enjoy the children's play area, orienteering course and a range of events throughout the year. Marbury Country Park also hosts the Cheshire County Council's, Countryside Management Service Rangers' Office. Parking Picnic area Access for all routes Multi-user routes (horse boxes can be parked in car park) Toilets and disabled toilets Anderton Nature Park and Anderton Boat Lift Anderton Nature Park was one of the first areas of the Northwich Community Woodlands to be reclaimed. It now is a haven for wildlife in particular wild flowers which can be discovered by following the Wildflower Trail (leaflets available, in season, from the Rangers' Office and the Boat Lift Operation Centre). Children and adults alike have fun discovering the art located around the site. The site is adjacent to the Anderton Boat Lift. Built in 1875 and restored to full working order in 2002, the Boat Lift provides visitors with a unique experience. Boat trips can be booked at the Operation Centre which also contains an interactive exhibition, a caf�, children's play area and shop. Parking caf� Picnic area Access for all routes Multi-user routes (horse boxes can be parked in car park) Toilets Witton Mill Meadow Witton Mill Meadow is a short walk from Northwich town centre and leads visitors into the heart of the Northwich Community Woodlands. From the car park, a path runs alongside the reed fringed Witton Brook where, in spring, birds such as reed warblers may be heard calling. This tranquil waterside location is an excellent introduction to further walks in the area. In spring, the bluebell studded woodlands provide a colourful backdrop; in summer, the meadow is awash with flowers; in autumn and winter the area is full of the colours of the season. Parking Access for all routes Dairy House Meadow Dairy House Meadows was once farm land but little remains to indicate this now apart from the name and some old hedgerows and boundaries. It now provides habitats for some of Britain's rarest amphibians such as the Great crested newt. A footpath winds around the meadows and at a high point there are lovely open views across Forge Pool and to Marston Meadows beyond. Access for all routes Ashton's and Neumann's Flashes The most recent area of land to be reclaimed and the final phase of the Strategic Programme of Reclamation, Ashton's and Neumann's Flashes are excellent areas for shorter walks or including in wider circular walks of the area. Its industrial history has left a legacy of unique site conditions that allow many unusual species to thrive; the presence of salt has allowed several seaside plants to establish, whilst the areas recent industrial use as lime beds allow other species such as the rare dingy skipper butterfly to thrive. A variety of bird species including waders and water fowl add further interest making this area an important location for all nature lovers. Visitors can view the wildlife from three new bird hides, (wheelchair accessible). There is a circular multi-user route ideal for family walking, cycling or gentle horse riding. All paths link in with routes in the wider Northwich Community Woodlands area. Parking (at Witton Mill Cark Park Vehicle height restrictions of 2.2m apply) Access for all routes Multi-user routes. Uplands Former agricultural land acquired by the Forestry Commission, Uplands has been recently planted with mixed woodland. Uplands form a pleasant link between Anderton and Marbury via a pretty clough and over Marbury Brook where kingfishers can often be seen. Picnic area Multi-user routes. Furey Wood A former landfill site Furey Wood is now a popular community woodland. For those that enjoy an energetic walk the site can be accessed from Northwich town centre near to Town Bridge via some steps. For those interested in a pleasant stroll there is a small car park off Beswick Street. Parking Picnic area Access for All routes (from Beswick Road only) Hopyards Close to a residential area Hopyards is ideal for informal recreation. The site is accessible and recently a grass maze has been established for those with a spirit of fun. A new link to Marbury Country Park is due to be established in spring in 2005. Parking caf� (at the Marina) Picnic area Access for all routes Multi-user Carey Park Close to the town centre, Carey Park forms the green link between the urban area and the rest of the Northwich Community Woodlands. Superb views of the surrounding area can be seen from the hill top view point. Carey Park also has a Site of Special Scientific Interest. Parking refreshments (in town center) Access for all routes Cycleway Waterways The industrial heritage of the area is linked closely with the Weaver Navigation and Trent and Mersey canal. The Trent and Mersey Canal takes a pleasant woodland course through the Northwich Community Woodlands linking two significant historic sites, the Anderton Boat Lift and the Lion Saltworks. This route can be enjoyed by walkers, cyclists and boaters. Boat trips can be arranged along both the Weaver Navigation and Trent and Mersey canal at the Boat Lift Operation Centre. Parking Caf� (at Boat lift) Picnic area Access for all routes Cycleway Toilets (at Boat lift)