Route 56 takes you from historic Chester to lively Liverpool. You’ll enjoy trails along former railways and through Wirral Country Park. The route ends in Liverpool, where you can visit the vibrant Royal Albert Docks, which have been transformed into a hub of restaurants, museums and galleries.

Route 56 is open and signed from Chester to Wallasey and via the Mersey ferry to Liverpool where you can connect with Route 62, also known as the Trans Pennine Trail.

Route 56 runs between Chester Town Hall and Liverpool Town Hall. Starting in the historic city of Chester the route takes you past the Northgate Arena Leisure Centre and onto an old disused railway, which is known as the Millennium Cycle Way.

It then rejoins roads through Newton and Upton, travelling past Chester Zoo. The route uses The Wirral Way, taking you through Wirral Country Park and on to Parkgate just outside Neston. Continuing to Liverpool, the route travels through The Wirral on a mixture of quiet roads and traffic-free paths, taking you past Birkenhead, Wallasey and New Brighton.

If you catch the Seacombe Ferry you can cross the Mersey where a riverside path takes you past the Royal Albert Docks and onto Sefton Park. The Royal Albert Docks are the vibrant heart of Liverpool's historic waterfront. They have the largest collection of Grade I listed buildings in the whole country and have been transformed into a fantastic place to spend time thanks to their impressive collection of restaurants, bars, museums and galleries.

Please note

We have taken all responsible steps to ensure that these routes are safe and achievable by people with a reasonable level of fitness.

However, all outdoor activities involve a degree of risk. To the extent permitted by law, Sustrans accepts no responsibility for any accidents or injury resulting from following these routes.

Walking and cycling routes change over time. Weather conditions may also affect path surfaces.

Please use your own judgement when using the routes based upon the weather and the ability, experience and confidence levels of those in your group.

Please help us protect this route

Route 56 is part of the National Cycle Network, cared for by Sustrans. Your donation today will help keep the Network safe and open for everyone to enjoy.

Share this page