11 Cool things to do in Macclesfield

There are just so many cool things to do in Macclesfield: from hidden walkways to a buzzing food and cultural scene, plus oodles of dramatic scenery – all waiting to be discovered. Often overshadowed by its larger neighbours, this former silk-manufacturing town or ‘Treacle Town’ as its more commonly known, is simple packed with great places to discover:

1. Picturedome
 

Standing on Chestergate, in what was Macclesfield’s oldest cinema, is a funky food hall created by the team behind the highly successful Altrincham Market and Manchester’s Mackie Mayor. Now one of the town’s most popular foodie hangouts, The Picturedome is a must for mix and match dining – welcoming the opportunity to sample dishes from some incredible independent eateries including Tender Cow. It is also child and dog friendly.

2. Forest Gin Distillery & Tours (Macc Forest/Cat & Fiddle)
 

The family-run Forest Gin Distillery originated in a 17^th century stone barn nestled in the Macclesfield Forest and has now grown to include the Cat & Fiddle Whiskey Distillery, and The Little Shop & Gin Garden in the Buxton Pavilion Gardens.  Gin and whiskey distillery tours can be booked, as well as tastings and events. The latest addition to the portfolio, in the famous Cat & Fiddle pub, is considered the highest whiskey distillery in Britain at 1689 feet.

3. Silk Museum & Paradise Mill
 

Visit the Silk Museum to learn about their collection of textiles and industrial machinery as well as discovering Ancient Egyptian displays and artefacts. Paradise Mill will reopen again soon.

Join an Up Close Tour of the Silk Museum where expert guides look at all aspects of Mill life and silk production, the inspiring Pattern Books and the beauty of the textiles to the global phenomenon of silk.

4. The Ian Curtis Mural
 

Paying tribute to one of Macclesfield’s finest musicians – the Ian Curtis mural on Mill Street pays homage to the lead singer of Joy Division. Recreated from an original photograph taken by Kevin Cummings in 1979, this eye-catching mural by street artist Akse is a fitting tribute to Curtis who passed away aged just 23 in 1980.

5. Treacle Market
 

Macclesfield is known as Treacle Town, due to a centuries old story of a wagon overturning onto cobbles in the town, spilling its cargo of treacle. Nowadays, the Treacle Market is one of the most popular things to do in Macclesfield - showcasing local artisans and producers on the last Sunday of every month. With stalls dotted along Mill Street, Churchside and Chestergate – the Macclesfield community comes together every month to celebrate incredible food, produce, and music.

6. 108 Steps
 

These cobbled steps, all 108 of them, are simply known by locals as ‘The Steps’. Located behind St. Michael’s Church, leading down to Macclesfield Train Station – these Instagrammable steps have become quite a tourist attraction. It is believed they date back to pre-1696 and these days provide a picture-postcard backdrop for those that have the stamina to climb up and down them.

7. Tegg’s Nose Country Park
 

Macclesfield is blessed with open, green spaces both within the town at Riverside Park and West Park, as well as on its fringes. Tegg’s Nose Country Park is just a five-minute drive from the centre of town and offers visitors endless walking, cycling, and hiking trails that stretch to the western edge of the Peak District National Park. Views from the summit of Tegg’s Nose, at 380m, include much of Macclesfield Forest and Shutlingsloe, Sutton Common, and the vast Cheshire Plain.

8. Blaze Farm
 

Situated in Wildboarclough, Blaze Farm is an award-winning ice cream farm and tea rooms set in rolling countryside on the edge of the Peak District. Visitors can enjoy access to child-friendly nature trails with spectacular views, together with the opportunity of seeing plenty of farm animals along the way, including lambs in the Spring. Hilly Billy ice cream draws in visitors from miles around with cones and takeaway tubs available plus delicious homemade food at the adjacent tearoom.

9. Macclesfield Forest
 

A few miles outside of town, Macclesfield Forest together with its four reservoirs including Trentabank and Ridgegate offer visitors a network of picturesque walks to enjoy. With the opportunity to spot the elusive Red Deer and countless water birds, including the largest heronry in the Peak District, the walking and cycling trails are a popular spot. Many of these routes can also be combined with walks into the Goyt Valley, Tegg’s Nose Country Park, and the Gritstone Trail to challenge seasoned walkers looking to explore deeper into the surrounding countryside.

10. Gawsworth Hall
 

Located in the pretty hamlet of Gawsworth, 10-minutes south of Macclesfield - Gawsworth Hall is a popular wedding and events venue with a full calendar of happenings throughout the year. This delightful half-timbered family home opens its doors to visitors from the 21st June - 3rd August for hall and garden tours.

11. Fade to Grey Tours
 

Experience the enigmatic world of Ian Curtis like never before with an exclusive private tour. Step into the life and legacy of the legendary frontman of Joy Division, as expert guide Trevor Stokes unravels the mysteries behind his haunting lyrics and captivating persona. Book your private Ian Curtis tour today and uncover the untold stories behind the legend. Tours start and finish at Macclesfield train station. Cost £45 plus £10 per extra person up to 6. To arrange and book your tour contact Trevor Stokes: trevor.stokes65@btinternet.com | 07446 771752