From the Salt Line car park near Hassall Green we cross the road and follow the Salt Line (disused railway line) south-eastwards, cross the B5078, and follow the trail through woodland until it opens into fields. Turning left, we cross Sandbach Road and the field opposite and then turn right onto Cherry Lane, which we follow for 500m. We turn left onto a footpath leading to the Trent and Mersey Canal where there is a good drink spot with benches and tables, on the canal side almost opposite the Broughton Arms. We continue along the canal towpath north-westwards to Hassall Green, then turn left onto the road for 150m before turning left just before St. Philip's Church (which is pink!) onto a path onto the Salt Line, which we follow back to the cars.
There are no stiles or livestock on this reasonably flat route. There is a 200m section across fields near Lawton Heath, which were dry for the recce but may be muddy if it has rained recently. We cross five roads. There is about 650m of walking on fairly quiet minor roads.
The Salt Line has a number of interesting information boards about history, wildlife, and the various tree species lining the route. There are also representations of the Sun and the eight major planets.