National Trust - Alderley Edge and Cheshire Countryside
Explore enchanting woodlands, legendary sites, and panoramic Cheshire views at Alderley Edge and Cheshire Countryside.
Alderley Edge and Cheshire Countryside, managed by the National Trust, offers a captivating blend of natural beauty, rich history, and diverse wildlife. Explore scenic woodland walks, ancient mining remains, and legendary sites like the Armada Beacon and Druids' Circle. Visitors enjoy panoramic views over the Cheshire Plain, peaceful trails, and the charming Wizard Tea Room, making it an ideal destination for families, nature lovers, and history enthusiasts alike.
A brief summary to National Trust - Alderley Edge and Cheshire Countryside
- Macclesfield Rd, Macclesfield, Nether Alderley, SK10 4UB, GB
- +441625584412
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3.5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit the Wizard Tea Room for refreshments and enjoy outdoor seating with views after your walk.
- Bring your National Trust membership card to park for free; otherwise, parking fees apply.
- Wear sturdy shoes to navigate some uneven and moderately sloped sections of the trails.
- Dogs are welcome but must be kept on leads during lambing and nesting seasons.
- Download the National Trust app to experience augmented reality features and learn about local legends.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car
Driving to Alderley Edge from Macclesfield takes about 15-20 minutes via the A34. Parking is pay and display for non-members (£5 up to 4 hours, £8 all day), with free parking for National Trust members who must show their membership card.
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Train
Take a train to Alderley Edge station from Manchester or Crewe; the station is about 2 km from the National Trust car park. A taxi or a 25-30 minute walk along footpaths and local roads will get you to the site.
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Bus
Local buses connect Macclesfield and Alderley Edge village with stops near the National Trust site. Bus journeys typically take 20-30 minutes, but service frequency varies, so check schedules in advance.
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Walking
From Alderley Edge village, a scenic 20-30 minute walk uphill leads to the National Trust car park and woodland trails. The path includes some slopes and uneven terrain, suitable for most walkers but may be challenging for wheelchair users.
National Trust - Alderley Edge and Cheshire Countryside location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about National Trust - Alderley Edge and Cheshire Countryside
Enchanting Woodland Trails and Scenic Vistas
Alderley Edge is renowned for its extensive woodland walks that weave through mature pine and beech forests, revealing stunning views over the Cheshire Plain and towards the Peak District. The well-marked trails vary from gentle, pushchair-friendly paths to more undulating terrain, catering to all levels of walkers. Highlights include the bare rock of Stormy Point and the atmospheric Canyon Mine, where open-cast mining has left a rugged landscape of pits and rock shelters. The woodland play area adds family-friendly charm, while the nearby Wizard Tea Room offers a welcoming spot to rest and enjoy refreshments amidst tranquil surroundings.Historical Layers and Legendary Tales
Alderley Edge is steeped in history, from its Bronze Age burial mound now crowned by the Armada Beacon—a Tudor-era signal point used to warn of the Spanish Armada—to the 18th-century Druids' Circle folly created by the Stanley family to enhance the landscape. The area’s mining heritage is visible through old mine shafts and relics, including finds from the Napoleonic Wars era. The popular legend of the wizard who sleeps beneath the Edge adds a mystical allure, brought to life through augmented reality experiences and soundscapes that immerse visitors in local folklore.Rich Wildlife and Natural Heritage
The Cheshire countryside surrounding Alderley Edge is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. The diverse habitats support a variety of bird species on nearby marshes and a vibrant butterfly population, including peacocks, small tortoiseshells, and painted ladies. The mineral-rich soils along the fault line create unique plant communities, while the open pastures and woodlands provide peaceful nature escapes. Conservation efforts ensure the protection of this special biological area, maintaining its ecological importance within the region.Visitor Experience and Facilities
Visitors can enjoy free parking with National Trust membership or pay modest fees for non-members. The site is open year-round from dawn to dusk, with public toilets available near the car park. The well-maintained trails are surfaced and mostly accessible, though some slopes and uneven terrain require care. Dogs are welcome but must be kept on leads during sensitive seasons. The Wizard Tea Room, with outdoor seating, complements the visit with refreshments and seasonal events, including festive markets and live music.Exploring Beyond Alderley Edge
The wider Cheshire Countryside managed by the National Trust offers additional attractions such as Bickerton Hill with its Iron Age ruins, Mow Cop’s folly tower with panoramic views, and the Cloud’s regionally important geological sites. These areas provide further opportunities for hiking, wildlife watching, and cultural exploration, enriching the visitor's connection to Cheshire’s natural and historical landscape.Engaging with Local Culture and Conservation
The National Trust actively involves visitors through interactive apps that reveal the legend of Alderley Edge and encourage sharing of stories, contributing to a crowd-curated history. Partnerships with local groups, such as the Congleton Mountain Biking Club, balance recreational use with environmental protection. This stewardship ensures that Alderley Edge and the Cheshire Countryside remain treasured destinations that celebrate both heritage and nature.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
White Nancy
8.0 km
Historic hilltop folly offering sweeping Cheshire Plain views and a symbol of Bollington’s heritage and community spirit.
Knutsford Obelisk
9.6 km
An 18th-century memorial obelisk honoring the Legh family, standing as a historic symbol amidst Knutsford’s rich heritage.
St Clement's Parish Church
16.7 km
Victorian Gothic masterpiece with five centuries of spiritual heritage in Chorlton-cum-Hardy.
Stretford Weir
16.9 km
Historic riverside weir on the Mersey offering scenic walks, flood management insight, and a peaceful nature escape near Manchester.
LS Lowry birthplace
18.6 km
Discover the humble origins of LS Lowry, the iconic painter of industrial Manchester, at his birthplace in Old Trafford.
The Old Quadrangle
18.9 km
Victorian Gothic grandeur where academic tradition meets architectural magnificence in Manchester's heart.
The Queen's Arch
18.9 km
The Queen's Arch: Manchester’s iconic Gothic gateway to a rich academic and architectural heritage on Oxford Road.
Manchester Histories
19.0 km
Uncover the vibrant history of Manchester at Manchester Histories, where stories of the past come alive through engaging exhibitions and community events.
5 Sir Matt Busby Way
19.1 km
Old Trafford, the legendary Theatre of Dreams, is Manchester United’s iconic home since 1910, blending rich football history with modern innovation.
Sky Hook Statue 1
19.3 km
Towering steel sculptures marking Trafford Park’s industrial heritage with humor and monumental design.
John Dalton Statue
19.6 km
Honoring John Dalton, father of atomic theory and pioneer of colour blindness research, with a distinguished statue in Manchester.
Hotspur House
19.8 km
Historic Hotspur House blends Manchester’s industrial past with bold modern redevelopment, preserving heritage amid vibrant urban renewal.
Friedrich Engels Statue
19.8 km
A bold Soviet-era statue honoring Friedrich Engels stands proudly in Manchester, bridging industrial history with modern radical spirit.
Castlefield Gallery
19.9 km
Explore Castlefield Gallery, a contemporary art hub in Manchester showcasing innovative exhibitions and supporting emerging artists in a unique atmosphere.
The Vimto Park
20.0 km
Experience the serenity of The Vimto Park, a charming urban oasis in Manchester, perfect for relaxation and family outings amid beautiful landscapes.
Unmissable attractions to see
National Trust - Hare Hill
2.0 km
Discover Hare Hill’s enchanting walled garden and peaceful woodlands nestled in Cheshire’s scenic parkland.
National Trust - Nether Alderley Mill
2.2 km
Step back in time at Nether Alderley Mill, a fully restored 16th-century watermill where history flows with every turn of the wheel.
National Trust - Quarry Bank
5.9 km
Step back into the Industrial Revolution at Quarry Bank Mill, where history, nature, and heritage intertwine along the scenic River Bollin.
The Grosvenor Shopping Centre
7.0 km
A vibrant shopping destination in Macclesfield blending high street brands, local retailers, and a lively indoor market.
Silk Museum
7.4 km
Explore Macclesfield’s historic silk heritage with live Jacquard looms, rich textile collections, and immersive guided tours at the Silk Museum and Paradise Mill.
Jodrell Bank Centre for Engagement
8.7 km
Explore the iconic Lovell Telescope and immersive science exhibitions at Jodrell Bank, a UNESCO World Heritage Site blending astronomy with nature.
Bramall Hall
9.1 km
Explore Bramall Hall, a captivating Tudor manor set in expansive parkland, where centuries of history and architecture come alive in Stockport.
Anson Engine Museum
10.0 km
Explore one of Europe’s largest engine museums in Poynton, where history, engineering, and live steam demonstrations bring industrial heritage to life.
Tegg's Nose Country Park
10.1 km
Explore rugged hills, panoramic views, and peaceful trails at Tegg's Nose Country Park, a wild escape near Macclesfield.
Knutsford Heritage Centre
10.8 km
Discover Knutsford’s rich heritage through exquisite tapestries, local traditions, and literary history in a welcoming community museum.
Tatton Park Country Park
11.3 km
Explore 1,000 acres of stunning parkland, historic mansion, formal gardens, and a working farm in the heart of Cheshire’s Tatton Park.
National Trust - Lyme
11.4 km
Explore Lyme Park’s grand mansion, stunning gardens, and vast deer park nestled in the scenic Peak District of Cheshire.
Tatton Hall
12.0 km
Explore the grandeur of Tatton Hall and the natural beauty of its 1,000-acre historic estate in Cheshire.
National Trust - Tatton Park
12.2 km
Explore Tatton Park’s historic mansion, stunning gardens, working farm, and vast deer park in the heart of Cheshire’s countryside.
Gauntlet Birds of Prey – Eagle & Vulture Park, Knutsford
12.5 km
Discover the Northwest’s largest birds of prey sanctuary with thrilling flying displays, interactive talks, and family-friendly wildlife encounters in Knutsford.
Essential places to dine
Bacchus Restaurant & Champagne Bar
4.1 km
Prestbury’s refined modern British dining with French flair, known for quality Sunday lunches and attentive service in a chic village setting.
The Lime Tree Restaurant and Wine Bar
7.7 km
Refined British dining with seasonal menus and expertly paired wines in the charming heart of Bollington.
Dun Cow
8.5 km
A charming family-run gastropub near Knutsford offering hearty British classics and quality ales in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
La Popote Restaurant
9.8 km
Michelin Guide-listed French restaurant offering casual fine dining in a charming converted barn with a secret garden in Cheshire’s countryside.
The Yellow Broom Restaurant
11.9 km
Elegant countryside dining in Cheshire with superb cuisine, warm service, and a versatile venue for lunches, afternoon teas, and weddings.
Bells of Peover
12.2 km
Historic Cheshire gastropub blending rustic charm with fresh, seasonal dining in a picturesque countryside setting near Knutsford.
Golden Hind
12.7 km
A classic Stockport pub serving hearty British fare with friendly service in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
No 4 Dine & Wine
13.5 km
Intimate modern European dining in Didsbury with seasonal menus, expert service, and genuine warmth.
Pecks Restaurant
17.5 km
A refined British dining experience in Cheshire, blending seasonal flavors with a theatrical tasting menu and a welcoming countryside atmosphere.
The Hanging Gate
18.2 km
Family-run pub and restaurant in the scenic High Peak offering hearty meals, event hosting, and outside catering in Chapel-en-le-Frith.
Old Hall Inn
18.4 km
A charming Georgian inn in the Peak District offering refined pub dining, cozy rooms, and a warm welcome amid stunning countryside.
The Paper Mill Inn
18.4 km
Charming historic country pub and inn in Whitehough, Peak District, renowned for real ales, seasonal food, and warm local hospitality.
The Little Mill @ Rowarth
18.8 km
A welcoming country inn in Rowarth offering cozy rooms, hearty home-cooked meals, and scenic Peak District charm.
La Boheme
19.0 km
A long-standing French bistro in Lymm serving rich, traditional dishes in a relaxed, unpretentious setting.
The Banyan Tree
19.8 km
Bohemian bistro in Castlefield serving fusion bites, brunch, cocktails, and live events amid murals and canal vibes—Manchester's go-to for eclectic dining.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Dress Cheshire
4.2 km
Prestbury’s trusted boutique for authenticated pre-loved designer fashion, blending luxury, sustainability, and community charm.
Cocaranti I Premium Womenswear Cheshire
10.7 km
Discover unique, premium womenswear in Knutsford’s charming independent boutique blending style, sustainability, and personalized service.
Quirky Cute Boutique
13.8 km
Discover vintage charm and handmade fashion treasures at Altrincham’s creative hotspot, The Quirky Cute Boutique.
The Vintage Emporium Stockport
14.1 km
Explore a vast treasure trove of vintage fashion, antiques, and homeware in a historic Edwardian cotton mill with a cozy tearoom and free parking.
A Curious Collection
15.5 km
Discover Withington’s charming boutique gift shop offering unique, locally crafted treasures that celebrate Manchester’s creative spirit.
Ivie & luxe
15.6 km
A stylish boutique in Whaley Bridge offering unique clothing, gifts, and homewares with a local touch – perfect for thoughtful souvenirs and personal treats.
The University of Manchester Gift Shop
19.0 km
Official University of Manchester merchandise and unique gifts in a welcoming campus shop on Oxford Road.
Utility Gift Store
19.1 km
Discover quirky, trendy, and unique gifts at Utility Gift Store, Manchester’s independent boutique for stylish presents and creative designs.
Cute Things By Aggie
19.5 km
Discover unique handmade gifts and charming homewares crafted with natural elements in Manchester’s cozy boutique, Cute Things By Aggie.
SHMYLS - Thoughtfully Made
19.5 km
Discover thoughtfully crafted jewelry and homewares at SHMYLS, a unique gift shop nestled in Manchester’s vibrant Hatch complex.
INFINITE RUNNING
19.7 km
Elevate your run with Infinite Running's premium gear: sleek half tights, breathable singlets, and weather-ready layers for Manchester's relentless athletes.
SPAR Salford Quays
19.7 km
Small, practical 24-hour convenience store on Trafford Road serving Salford Quays visitors, residents and shift workers.
ItsFetch
19.7 km
Unleash your fashion potential at ItsFetch, a stylish accessories shop in Manchester, featuring unique pieces for every trendsetter.
Deansgate Square General Store
19.7 km
Futuristic cornershop at Deansgate Square's base: craft coffee, local brews, zero-waste refills, and artisanal bites amid Manchester's iconic towers.
Curvilicious Clothing
19.7 km
Empowering plus-size style in Manchester's beating heart: Curvilicious Clothing celebrates curves with trendy, authentic fashion on Owen Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Botanist Alderley Edge
1.7 km
A lush botanical bar and grill in Alderley Edge blending seasonal cuisine, craft cocktails, and live music in a vibrant garden-inspired setting.
Lost & Found Knutsford
10.8 km
A stylish bar and pub in historic Knutsford blending vibrant atmosphere with contemporary dining and drinks.
The Swettenham Arms
12.1 km
Traditional Cheshire country pub with scenic gardens, classic British fare, and a charming wedding venue in the heart of Swettenham village.
Cheshire Tap
13.5 km
Discover Cheshire Tap, Altrincham’s cozy craft beer bar with top local ales, a lively atmosphere, and a spacious garden retreat.
DV8 Bar & Lounge
14.8 km
A vibrant bar and lounge in Congleton offering excellent cocktails, hearty food, and a warm, lively atmosphere in a charming historic setting.
The Beer Emporium
19.7 km
Discover Sandbach’s craft beer gem with a vast selection of ales, a cozy atmosphere, and a welcoming community spirit.
Matchstick Man
19.9 km
Waterside, budget-friendly pub serving hearty classics and live sport in a modern, family-friendly setting at Salford Quays.
Gorilla
19.9 km
Manchester's ultimate hybrid haunt: brunch by day, beats by night in a funky bar-club fusion with live gigs and roasts.
Bar Eight
19.9 km
Lively Irish pub on Manchester's Castle Quay, blending sports screens, hearty grub, and canalside cheer for unforgettable nights out.
The Wharf
19.9 km
Cosy canalside pub in Manchester's Castlefield, where real fires, craft ales, hearty roasts, and patio views create an unmissable waterside retreat for all.
Atlas Bar
19.9 km
Discover Manchester’s iconic gin bar with 570+ gins, award-winning service, and a year-round heated terrace in the heart of Deansgate.
Lock 91
20.0 km
Historic charm meets inventive cocktails in Manchester’s vibrant Lock 91, a versatile bar and events venue beneath the city’s Metrolink station.
The Britons Protection
20.0 km
Historic Manchester pub famed for its vast whisky selection, traditional charm, lively atmosphere, and welcoming community spirit.
The Deansgate
20.0 km
Historic Deansgate pub revived with cask ales, hearty eats, rooftop terraces, and Manchester buzz—perfect pit stop since the 18th century.
Barça - Canal-side Bar, Castlefield - Manchester
20.0 km
Canal terraces, stylish drinks, and Castlefield vibes—Manchester's waterside bar for every occasion.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
3D Congleton
14.9 km
A vibrant and affordable nightclub in Congleton’s town centre, perfect for late-night dancing and fun weekends.
The Club
14.9 km
A lively nightclub and sports bar at Congleton’s heart, blending live music, casual vibes, and affordable fun.
Kable
19.8 km
A compact, late‑night basement club on New Wakefield Street, favoured for punchy electronic nights and close‑up DJ sessions.
FAC251 - Factory Manchester
19.8 km
Experience Manchester’s legendary Factory Records heritage with three floors of indie, rock, and electronic music at FAC251 - The Factory.
Viva Manchester
19.9 km
Compact stage-driven nightclub on Whitworth Street West — theatrical themed nights, DJ sets and group-friendly table service.
Bliss Club Manchester
20.0 km
Experience Manchester’s authentic late-night vibe at Bliss Club, where music and local energy blend into a spirited urban nightlife hub.
Popworld Manchester
20.0 km
Dance to cheesy pop anthems amid neon lights and poptail cocktails in Manchester's ultimate throwback nightclub.
Ark Manchester
20.0 km
Multi-room beats and canal-side cocktails fuel Manchester's electric Deansgate Locks nightlife at Ark—dance, drink, repeat till dawn.
Club Tropicana
20.1 km
Dive into 1980s glamour at Manchester's premier gay nightclub, where drag, DJs, cocktails, and retro beats fuel the Gay Village's electric nightlife.
Satans Hollow
20.2 km
Manchester's infernal punk-rock abyss: demonic decor, dirt-cheap drinks, and mosh-pit mayhem for metalheads and rebels.
The Cockatoo Club
20.2 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at The Cockatoo Club in Manchester, where vibrant cabaret performances meet an unforgettable atmosphere.
Royal Vida Night Club
20.3 km
Dive into Manchester's underground pulse at Royal Vida, where Castlefield's industrial shadows host thumping beats and endless nights from 11pm to 4am.
Level 2
20.3 km
Buxton’s vibrant two-floor nightclub with diverse music, lively bars, and themed nights, perfect for an energetic night out.
History Nightclub
20.3 km
Experience Manchester’s lively hip hop and house beats at History Nightclub, a large, energetic venue open late into the night.
42's
20.4 km
Manchester’s iconic indie nightclub blending rich musical heritage with a lively, inclusive nightlife experience.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Photowalk
- Myth & Legends
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Dog Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly