Hare Hill Gardens – Tranquil Woodland and Walled Garden in Cheshire
Discover Hare Hill’s enchanting walled garden and peaceful woodlands nestled in Cheshire’s scenic parkland.
Nestled near Macclesfield in Cheshire, Hare Hill Gardens is a serene National Trust site featuring a historic walled garden surrounded by lush woodland and parkland. Visitors can explore vibrant spring blooms, extensive rhododendrons and azaleas, and enjoy peaceful walks along accessible paths. The garden includes a natural play area for children and a welcoming visitor center offering refreshments and pre-loved books.
A brief summary to National Trust - Hare Hill
- Macclesfield, Cheshire, SK10 4PY, GB
- +441625829973
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Wednesday 10:30 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10:30 am-5 pm
- Friday 10:30 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10:30 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10:30 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit in spring to see spectacular displays of snowdrops, narcissi, rhododendrons, and azaleas in full bloom.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy in designated outdoor areas surrounded by tranquil garden scenery.
- Borrow a Nature Pack from the welcome building to engage children with wildlife spotting and garden exploration.
- Use the accessible routes and borrow mobility aids available on site if you need assistance navigating the garden.
- Check opening days and times in advance, as Hare Hill is closed on Mondays, Tuesdays, and during winter months.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Macclesfield to Hare Hill takes approximately 15 to 25 minutes via local roads. A good-sized car park is available on site. Parking is free for National Trust members; others pay a small fee. Note that narrow country lanes lead to the garden, so drive cautiously.
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Bus and Walking
Take a bus from Macclesfield town center to Over Alderley village, which takes around 30 to 40 minutes depending on the route. From Over Alderley, it is a 20 to 30-minute walk on rural paths to Hare Hill Gardens. Terrain includes some uneven surfaces; suitable footwear recommended.
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Cycling
Cycling to Hare Hill is a scenic option from Macclesfield, with routes taking approximately 45 minutes. The garden offers bike parking. Terrain includes gentle hills and country lanes, so moderate cycling ability is advised.
National Trust - Hare Hill 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 - Hare Hill
A Historic Garden Set in Picturesque Cheshire Parkland
Hare Hill Gardens lie within the beautiful Lyme Park estate near Macclesfield, Cheshire. This National Trust property is renowned for its historic walled garden, which forms the heart of the site. The garden was originally designed by Charles Brocklehurst and has been lovingly restored to reflect his vision, especially evident in the striking white perennial borders that bloom vibrantly in summer. The site’s Edwardian heritage is palpable, with charming features such as a pergola and unique wire horse sculptures decorating the rose beds.Woodland Gardens and Seasonal Floral Highlights
Surrounding the walled garden is approximately 10 acres of woodland gardens, rich with azaleas, rhododendrons, and magnolias that burst into color in spring. The garden’s ponds and natural areas are part of ongoing conservation efforts, including a pond dredging project to enhance wildlife habitats. Seasonal changes bring a variety of experiences: spring showcases snowdrops and narcissi, while autumn invites visitors to enjoy the vivid leaf colors and invigorating walks through the garden’s tranquil paths.Family-Friendly Features and Natural Play Spaces
Hare Hill caters well to families, offering a natural play area designed with dens made from wood, mud kitchens, and a hobby horse, encouraging imaginative outdoor play. The garden’s accessible layout includes level paths suitable for wheelchairs and manual or powered mobility vehicles available for loan. Seating areas are scattered throughout, inviting visitors to rest and soak in the peaceful atmosphere. Picnics are encouraged, with designated spots perfect for enjoying the fresh air amid the garden’s beauty.Visitor Facilities and Accessibility
The welcoming visitor building serves as a hub for refreshments, including takeaway tea, coffee, and ice cream, alongside a pre-loved bookshop. Accessibility is a priority at Hare Hill, with step-free routes, accessible toilets, and assistance available for visitors with mobility needs. Assistance dogs are permitted throughout the gardens, while other dogs are welcome on the permissive path leading to Alderley Edge. Informative maps and signage help visitors navigate the garden’s varied terrain, which includes some steps and uneven surfaces with alternative routes provided.Engaging with Nature and Conservation
Hare Hill is not only a place of beauty but also of active conservation. Visitors can participate as nature detectives by borrowing Nature Packs from the welcome building, encouraging exploration and learning about local wildlife. The garden’s ongoing projects aim to protect and enhance habitats for native species, making each visit a chance to connect with the natural environment and contribute to its preservation.Seasonal Opening and Admission Details
Open from Wednesday to Sunday during the main season, Hare Hill welcomes visitors from 10:30 am to 5 pm, with gates closing promptly at closing time. Admission fees apply, with National Trust members enjoying free entry. The garden is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays and during the winter months, reopening in February. Visitors are encouraged to check current opening times and ticket prices before planning their visit.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
White Nancy
6.4 km
Historic hilltop folly offering sweeping Cheshire Plain views and a symbol of Bollington’s heritage and community spirit.
Knutsford Obelisk
11.3 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
18.3 km
Victorian Gothic masterpiece with five centuries of spiritual heritage in Chorlton-cum-Hardy.
Stretford Weir
18.6 km
Historic riverside weir on the Mersey offering scenic walks, flood management insight, and a peaceful nature escape near Manchester.
LS Lowry birthplace
20.1 km
Discover the humble origins of LS Lowry, the iconic painter of industrial Manchester, at his birthplace in Old Trafford.
The Old Quadrangle
20.2 km
Victorian Gothic grandeur where academic tradition meets architectural magnificence in Manchester's heart.
The Queen's Arch
20.2 km
The Queen's Arch: Manchester’s iconic Gothic gateway to a rich academic and architectural heritage on Oxford Road.
Manchester Histories
20.3 km
Uncover the vibrant history of Manchester at Manchester Histories, where stories of the past come alive through engaging exhibitions and community events.
Lion Salt Works
20.5 km
Explore the rich history of salt production at Lion Salt Works, a captivating museum celebrating Northwich's industrial heritage.
The Quays Practice
20.5 km
Explore The Quays Practice in Salford, a vibrant cultural hub offering art, entertainment, and breathtaking waterfront views for an unforgettable experience.
Arley Hall & Gardens
20.5 km
Explore the exquisite beauty of Arley Hall & Gardens, where history meets nature in the heart of Cheshire, England.
5 Sir Matt Busby Way
20.6 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
20.9 km
Towering steel sculptures marking Trafford Park’s industrial heritage with humor and monumental design.
John Dalton Statue
20.9 km
Honoring John Dalton, father of atomic theory and pioneer of colour blindness research, with a distinguished statue in Manchester.
Gnome Island
21.1 km
Explore Gnome Island, a whimsical cultural landmark in Salford filled with enchanting gnome sculptures and artistic charm.
Unmissable attractions to see
National Trust - Alderley Edge and Cheshire Countryside
2.0 km
Explore enchanting woodlands, legendary sites, and panoramic Cheshire views at Alderley Edge and Cheshire Countryside.
National Trust - Nether Alderley Mill
3.2 km
Step back in time at Nether Alderley Mill, a fully restored 16th-century watermill where history flows with every turn of the wheel.
The Grosvenor Shopping Centre
5.0 km
A vibrant shopping destination in Macclesfield blending high street brands, local retailers, and a lively indoor market.
Silk Museum
5.4 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.
National Trust - Quarry Bank
7.6 km
Step back into the Industrial Revolution at Quarry Bank Mill, where history, nature, and heritage intertwine along the scenic River Bollin.
Tegg's Nose Country Park
8.2 km
Explore rugged hills, panoramic views, and peaceful trails at Tegg's Nose Country Park, a wild escape near Macclesfield.
Jodrell Bank Centre for Engagement
9.3 km
Explore the iconic Lovell Telescope and immersive science exhibitions at Jodrell Bank, a UNESCO World Heritage Site blending astronomy with nature.
Anson Engine Museum
9.6 km
Explore one of Europe’s largest engine museums in Poynton, where history, engineering, and live steam demonstrations bring industrial heritage to life.
Bramall Hall
9.9 km
Explore Bramall Hall, a captivating Tudor manor set in expansive parkland, where centuries of history and architecture come alive in Stockport.
National Trust - Lyme
10.6 km
Explore Lyme Park’s grand mansion, stunning gardens, and vast deer park nestled in the scenic Peak District of Cheshire.
Knutsford Heritage Centre
12.5 km
Discover Knutsford’s rich heritage through exquisite tapestries, local traditions, and literary history in a welcoming community museum.
Tatton Park Country Park
13.2 km
Explore 1,000 acres of stunning parkland, historic mansion, formal gardens, and a working farm in the heart of Cheshire’s Tatton Park.
Victoria Mill Antique & Collectors Centre
13.6 km
Explore three floors of antiques and collectibles in a charming historic mill setting at Victoria Mill Antique & Collectors Centre, Congleton.
Hat Works
13.7 km
Explore the UK's only hatting museum housed in a historic fireproof cotton mill with over 1,300 hats and immersive factory exhibits.
St Peter's Square
13.8 km
Explore the beautiful St Peter's Square in Stockport, a perfect blend of history and nature in the heart of the town.
Essential places to dine
Bacchus Restaurant & Champagne Bar
2.4 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
6.2 km
Refined British dining with seasonal menus and expertly paired wines in the charming heart of Bollington.
La Popote Restaurant
8.9 km
Michelin Guide-listed French restaurant offering casual fine dining in a charming converted barn with a secret garden in Cheshire’s countryside.
Dun Cow
10.0 km
A charming family-run gastropub near Knutsford offering hearty British classics and quality ales in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Yellow Broom Restaurant
12.2 km
Elegant countryside dining in Cheshire with superb cuisine, warm service, and a versatile venue for lunches, afternoon teas, and weddings.
Golden Hind
13.2 km
A classic Stockport pub serving hearty British fare with friendly service in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
Bells of Peover
13.5 km
Historic Cheshire gastropub blending rustic charm with fresh, seasonal dining in a picturesque countryside setting near Knutsford.
No 4 Dine & Wine
14.9 km
Intimate modern European dining in Didsbury with seasonal menus, expert service, and genuine warmth.
Pecks Restaurant
16.7 km
A refined British dining experience in Cheshire, blending seasonal flavors with a theatrical tasting menu and a welcoming countryside atmosphere.
The Hanging Gate
16.8 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
17.2 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
17.2 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
18.3 km
A welcoming country inn in Rowarth offering cozy rooms, hearty home-cooked meals, and scenic Peak District charm.
The Lamb Inn
19.0 km
Historic 18th-century pub in Chinley offering hearty British fare, real ales, and cozy en-suite rooms near Peak District attractions.
The Pack Horse Hayfield
19.2 km
A Michelin-recommended gastropub in Hayfield serving seasonal British cuisine and local ales in a warm, welcoming Peak District setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Dress Cheshire
2.6 km
Prestbury’s trusted boutique for authenticated pre-loved designer fashion, blending luxury, sustainability, and community charm.
Cocaranti I Premium Womenswear Cheshire
12.4 km
Discover unique, premium womenswear in Knutsford’s charming independent boutique blending style, sustainability, and personalized service.
Ivie & luxe
14.3 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 Vintage Emporium Stockport
14.7 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.
Quirky Cute Boutique
15.7 km
Discover vintage charm and handmade fashion treasures at Altrincham’s creative hotspot, The Quirky Cute Boutique.
A Curious Collection
16.8 km
Discover Withington’s charming boutique gift shop offering unique, locally crafted treasures that celebrate Manchester’s creative spirit.
Decor Boutique
18.5 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish homewares in Buxton’s charming Decor Boutique, nestled in the historic Cavendish Arcade.
AWAKEN - Crystal & Spiritual Shop
18.5 km
Discover exquisite crystals and handcrafted spiritual jewellery at AWAKEN, Buxton’s premier metaphysical supply shop blending artistry with energy.
Fiveways Country Store
18.5 km
Charming family-owned shop in Buxton’s Market Place offering unique gifts and local artisan products in the heart of the Peak District.
Atticusboo
18.5 km
Discover unique gifts and warm hospitality at Atticusboo, Buxton’s charming independent boutique in the historic Cavendish Arcade.
Jo Royle Outdoor
18.5 km
Discover quality outdoor gear and expert advice at Jo Royle Outdoor, Buxton’s beloved independent boutique for adventurers.
The Springs Shopping Centre
18.6 km
Buxton's central shopping hub with 450 parking spaces and popular high street chains.
Bluebird’s Nest UK
18.7 km
Handpicked gifts and treasures in the heart of the Peak District's historic market town.
The University of Manchester Gift Shop
20.3 km
Official University of Manchester merchandise and unique gifts in a welcoming campus shop on Oxford Road.
Utility Gift Store
20.5 km
Discover quirky, trendy, and unique gifts at Utility Gift Store, Manchester’s independent boutique for stylish presents and creative designs.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Botanist Alderley Edge
3.7 km
A lush botanical bar and grill in Alderley Edge blending seasonal cuisine, craft cocktails, and live music in a vibrant garden-inspired setting.
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.
Lost & Found Knutsford
12.5 km
A stylish bar and pub in historic Knutsford blending vibrant atmosphere with contemporary dining and drinks.
DV8 Bar & Lounge
13.8 km
A vibrant bar and lounge in Congleton offering excellent cocktails, hearty food, and a warm, lively atmosphere in a charming historic setting.
Cheshire Tap
15.5 km
Discover Cheshire Tap, Altrincham’s cozy craft beer bar with top local ales, a lively atmosphere, and a spacious garden retreat.
Buxton Brewery Tap House & Cellar Bar
18.4 km
Lively flagship brewery bar in Buxton’s historic heart, serving fresh local beers and seasonal dishes in a rustic, welcoming setting.
San Pedro (By Santiago)
18.4 km
A vibrant Spanish wine bar and cocktail lounge in Buxton offering authentic tapas, fine wines, and a lively atmosphere.
The Lazy Trout
19.5 km
Experience authentic English countryside charm with hearty meals and fine ales at The Lazy Trout in Meerbrook.
The Beer Emporium
19.6 km
Discover Sandbach’s craft beer gem with a vast selection of ales, a cozy atmosphere, and a welcoming community spirit.
Gorilla
21.2 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
21.3 km
Lively Irish pub on Manchester's Castle Quay, blending sports screens, hearty grub, and canalside cheer for unforgettable nights out.
The Wharf
21.3 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
21.3 km
Discover Manchester’s iconic gin bar with 570+ gins, award-winning service, and a year-round heated terrace in the heart of Deansgate.
The Britons Protection
21.4 km
Historic Manchester pub famed for its vast whisky selection, traditional charm, lively atmosphere, and welcoming community spirit.
Lock 91
21.4 km
Historic charm meets inventive cocktails in Manchester’s vibrant Lock 91, a versatile bar and events venue beneath the city’s Metrolink station.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
3D Congleton
13.8 km
A vibrant and affordable nightclub in Congleton’s town centre, perfect for late-night dancing and fun weekends.
The Club
13.9 km
A lively nightclub and sports bar at Congleton’s heart, blending live music, casual vibes, and affordable fun.
Level 2
18.5 km
Buxton’s vibrant two-floor nightclub with diverse music, lively bars, and themed nights, perfect for an energetic night out.
Great Rocks Social Club
21.1 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Great Rocks Social Club, a welcoming hub in Peak Dale perfect for socializing and entertainment.
Kable
21.1 km
A compact, late‑night basement club on New Wakefield Street, favoured for punchy electronic nights and close‑up DJ sessions.
FAC251 - Factory Manchester
21.1 km
Experience Manchester’s legendary Factory Records heritage with three floors of indie, rock, and electronic music at FAC251 - The Factory.
Viva Manchester
21.2 km
Compact stage-driven nightclub on Whitworth Street West — theatrical themed nights, DJ sets and group-friendly table service.
Bliss Club Manchester
21.3 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
21.3 km
Dance to cheesy pop anthems amid neon lights and poptail cocktails in Manchester's ultimate throwback nightclub.
Ark Manchester
21.3 km
Multi-room beats and canal-side cocktails fuel Manchester's electric Deansgate Locks nightlife at Ark—dance, drink, repeat till dawn.
Club Tropicana
21.5 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
21.5 km
Manchester's infernal punk-rock abyss: demonic decor, dirt-cheap drinks, and mosh-pit mayhem for metalheads and rebels.
The Cockatoo Club
21.5 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at The Cockatoo Club in Manchester, where vibrant cabaret performances meet an unforgettable atmosphere.
Royal Vida Night Club
21.6 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.
History Nightclub
21.7 km
Experience Manchester’s lively hip hop and house beats at History Nightclub, a large, energetic venue open late into the night.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Family Friendly
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Family Friendly
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
- Pet Friendly