(S/E) Take Holmeswood Road west away from Rufford centre.
(1) Turn southwest (left) down Cousins Lane.
(2) Take track west (right) into sports ground and follow it into reserve.
(3) Upon entering Mere Sands nature reserve, turn north (right) along the path. Follow the path as it bends west around the perimeter. Refreshments and guides to Mere Sands Reserve are available here. Cross car park in front of the visitor centre to take path heading northwest. Hides are available around the lake. Turn south (left) to follow the perimeter path. Turn east (left) on the substantial path, more hides off the main path on this section. Cross the footbridge and follow the path briefly south (right). Turn east (left) taking the path along the reserve boundary and exit reserve via sports ground.
::2: Cross Cousins Lane to pick up footpath opposite behind hedge and follow it east behind houses beside dyke. Cross Brick Kiln Lane to continue southeast on the footpath beside dyke.
(4) Turn south (right) on the pavement beside Liverpool Road. Carefully cross Liverpool Road to take the path east (left) over the swing bridge.
(5) Take canal towpath north (left). Refreshments are available at Rufford Marina on the west side of the canal (left), otherwise, follow the towpath under the bridge.
(6) Pass under the bridge to take steps up to Croston Road and turn briefly west (right) before crossing the road to take Spark Lane south. Carefully cross A59 to take Croston Road west.
(7) Turn south (left) on a substantial track. Upon reaching Holmeswood Road, turn southwest (left) along the pavement.(S/E)
