SUMMER is disappearing and quickly fading into a distant memory as the seasons change and autumn shows signs it’s on its way.

As we wave goodbye to walks in the summer sunshine, we can look forward to crisp autumn strolls to blow away the cobwebs or simply enjoy some time outside with family and friends.

What better time to explore mid Cheshire than as the colours change in autumn?

Why not pull on your walking boots and take a stroll through the crisp leaves this weekend?

Here is a selection of some of the best local autumnal walks:

Marbury Country Park (Picture: Alison Hamlin-Hughes)

Marbury Country Park (Picture: Alison Hamlin-Hughes)

Marbury Park, Northwich

Marbury Country Park was voted one of the UK’s best-kept urban parks earlier this month.

It boasts views over the water to the church at Great Budworth.

You can explore the arboretum and community orchard and the network of paths through the park allow you to use the accessible routes.

Tatton Park (Picture credit: Kirstie Blake)

Tatton Park (Picture credit: Kirstie Blake)

Tatton Park, Knutsford

The historic estate with a neo-classical mansion, 50 acres of landscaped gardens and 2,000 acres of deer park, woodland and meres has endless walking options for people of all ages.

You’ll be able to see the rare-breed farm with cattle, horses and sheep as well as pigs, goats and donkeys before taking a leisurely stroll along the paths and walkways through the trees.

Delamere Forest (Picture credit: Patricia Dyson)

Delamere Forest (Picture credit: Patricia Dyson)

Delamere Forest, Delamere

Delamere Forest has gentle forest roads and trails ideal for all ages and abilities especially families with children.

There are dry sandstone paths lined with mature trees and Blakemere Moss is the perfect place for bird watchers.

Old Pale provides a stunning walk with spectacular views extending as far as Liverpool's skyline of cathedrals and harbour buildings.

Don’t forget to keep an eye for the Gruffalo in the deep, dark wood!

Arley Hall by (Picture credit: Gavin Singleton)

Arley Hall by (Picture credit: Gavin Singleton)

Arley Hall circular walk, Arley Hall and Gardens, Northwich

This 8.5km / 5.5 mile walk usually takes around four hours and starts in the free walkers’ carpark on Arley Road in the village.

You walk from Arley and onto Great Budworth and back again, taking in the scenic gardens and Jacobean hall.

The gardens are renowned for their variety and historical interest and have been celebrated by visitors.

Whitegate Way (Picture: Alan Bailey)

Whitegate Way (Picture: Alan Bailey)

Whitegate Way

This six-mile route stretches from the heart of Winsford to Cuddington and is a haven for wildlife along routes that offer easy walks.

The scenic trail is enjoyed by walkers and runners as well as cyclists and horse riders.

Northwich Guardian: Marshall's ArmMarshall's Arm (Image: Peter Clayton)

Marshalls Arm, Hartford

This local nature reserve, which was designated in 1998, is sandwiched between Hartford and Greenbank and the river Weaver.

The arm refers to the shape of the river and is a haven for wildlife and trees with paths following the meandering streams up from the river.

The Sandstone Trail runs through Delamere Forest (Picture: Imagewich)

The Sandstone Trail runs through Delamere Forest (Picture: Imagewich)

The Sandstone Trail – Frodsham in the north to Shropshire in the south

This is one of the most popular long-distance walks in the north west stretching for 34 miles (55km) along Cheshire’s Sandstone Ridge offering unbroken and elevated views of the area.

It runs in part through Delamere Forest – Linmere Trail.