Discover Cheshire
Congleton
Congleton: History, Nature & More
Known locally as Beartown, the pretty market town of Congleton is located in south-east Cheshire, the town is about halfway between Manchester and Stoke, perfectly placed for a weekend getaway to Cheshire’s Peak District.
Congleton is well known for its festivals, flowers, ribbons, beers and bears!
Experience the beautiful Victorian park, opened to the public in 1871 and bordered by the River Dane and Park wood. The town boasts its own theatre showcasing several local theatre groups and films alike and a popular outdoor paddling pool.
Congleton is set in some of the most scenic countryside around so if walking is of interest, enjoy a gentle stroll along the Macclesfield Canal, a circular walk around Astbury Mere Country Park or enjoy the splendid views from Bosley Cloud.
Discover Congleton’s hidden history by visiting Congleton Museum then sit back and relax in one of Congleton’s many cafés and restaurants or try a beer in one of our 29 pubs selling real ale. Download a copy of the Ale Trail
For local information, walking maps and guides, call into Congleton Information Centre based inside Congleton Town Hall.
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Unmissable Events in Congleton
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Just So Festival
Dates: 21st Aug - 23rd Aug 2026
A family festival of wild freedom and glittering wonder; full of joyful play, vibrant music, breathtaking circus and captivating performances.
Snowdrop Walks
Dates: 1st Feb - 1st Mar 2026
Experience one of the UK’s most popular Snowdrop Walks at Rode Hall & Gardens in Cheshire to mark the start of spring.
Winter Chefs Table
Dates: 29th Nov - 29th Nov 2026
More than a meal: a Winter Chef’s Table experience to gather, savour and celebrate in style.
Autumn Chefs Table
Dates: 10th Sept - 10th Sept 2026
More than a meal: an Autumn Chef’s Table experience to gather, savour and celebrate in style.
Trails in Congleton
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1 Miles
Designated as a Local Nature Reserve, Brereton Heath was a quarry site for silica sand. The lake is surrounded by habitats restored to the original landscape of heather and silver birch trees.
2 Miles
The Biddulph Valley Way follows the route of a disused railway which carried coal between the Potteries and Congleton for over 100 years. Today, this is a tranquil route that allows visitors to enjoy the delightful Cheshire East countryside
1 Miles
Astbury Mere is a green oasis developed on the site of a former sand quarry, less than a mile from Congleton town centre. Enjoy a stroll through wildflower meadows and admire the views across the mere towards Congleton Edge and Mow Cop.
The Mow Cop Loop
3.75 Miles
An energetic short loop climbing onto the ridge leading to Mow Cop. The path leads through beautiful woodlands and there are fabulous views from the ridge. Interesting industrial history – coal mining and Primitive Methodism.
Businesses in Congleton
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Sandhole Oak Barn
Set within 400 acres of peaceful Cheshire countryside, Sandhole Oak Barn is an exclusive-use wedding and events venue offering rustic charm, lakeside views and elegant contemporary comfort.
Timbersbrook Picnic Area
Today Timbersbrook picnic area is a beautiful spot where families can picnic
Congleton Paddling Pool
The pool has been a firm favourite with young children since the 1930s!
Mow Cop
This prominent hill-top has been of spiritual and practical significance to man for thousands of years.
Brereton Heath Local Nature Reserve
The Local Nature Reserve has over 50 acres of mainly silver birch and oak woodland surrounding a 15 acre lake as well as areas of heathland, a wildflower meadow and wetland areas.
Astbury Golf Club
Facilities include bar, trolley hire, catering, clubhouse, changing rooms and pro shop.
Congleton Museum
Discover a fascinating display of life, culture, and industry dating from the pre-historic period to the present day.
Congleton Park
This magnificent Victorian park is now fully restored and open to the public.
Offers in Congleton
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Expiry Date: 31st Dec 2026
Every penny goes towards looking after nature, beauty and history – for everyone, for ever. Become a member today and receive free entry to over 500 places in our care, parking and much more.
Congleton Museum - Become a Friend of Congleton…
Expiry Date: 31st Dec 2026
Expiry Date: 31st Dec 2026
Donations come in all shapes and sizes. Why not become a Friend of Congleton Museum, and receive lots of member exclusive benefits such as regular newsletters and members only events.
