Aughton
Aughton is one of those places known to many (because they have passed through it on the way to

There is limited parking in Long Lane which is on the left immediately after the church if travelling towards

Map by kind permission of the Blackpool Gazette
Summary: Distance: 12k 7 ½ m
Time: 3 - 4 hours
Terrain: Very easy along quiet lanes, towpath and farm tracks
Directions: Aughton to the Ship Inn, Haskayne: 6½k 4½ m. From the church cross the A59 by the pedestrian crossing and follow a utilities service road across to a utility facility marked by a prominent mast and tall grey railings.

Immediately before the site turn left over a stile and follow a footpath around the edge of the complex.

Through the railings look out for a triangulation column marking the summit of Gaw Hill, an impressive 81m above sea level. The path drops down to

On reaching it turn left and then right onto

This will place you on

On a more pronounced descent pass Shepherd's Farm and turn left at the next junction.

After passing Dicconson's Farm take a footpath on the right across fields.

This will put you on

When you reach


Soon after the next bridge the canal enters a cutting which is of huge significance in its history for it was here that the first workings were carried out making it the oldest part of the canal thereby justifying the Ship's claim. A small plaque denotes the spot.

Continue to the next bridge and then leave the towpath and cross the bridge to the far side. Bear left to follow a ditch across fields to

Keep ahead and then continue into

Now on wide open prairies follow the road around a right bend then 300m further on follow the lane as it bends left. After 250m take a footpath on the right.

In just under 400m the track makes a pronounced turn to the right just before a pond and then turns left to the right of a hedgerow. Continue a gentle climb up the hill with a drainage ditch on your left. Just beyond a plantation on the left the footpath enters a nature reserve.

Maintain the direction of travel and as you crest the hill keep ahead along a footpath which will bring you to the perimeter fencing utility facility encountered at the start of the walk.

Follow this around to the service road. Turn left for the A59.