Quarry Bank Mill: A Living Legacy of the Industrial Revolution
Step back into the Industrial Revolution at Quarry Bank Mill, where history, nature, and heritage intertwine along the scenic River Bollin.
Quarry Bank Mill, nestled in Styal near Wilmslow, is one of Britain's most complete and evocative Industrial Revolution sites. This National Trust heritage building offers visitors a vivid glimpse into 18th-century cotton manufacturing, the lives of mill workers, and the Greg family estate. Explore the working mill, apprentice house, gardens, and a vast 400-acre woodland estate, all set along the scenic River Bollin.
A brief summary to National Trust - Quarry Bank
- Styal Rd, Wilmslow, Styal, SK9 4HP, GB
- +441625527468
- Visit website
- Duration: 3 to 5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10:30 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10:30 am-5 pm
- 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
- Book your tour slots for the Apprentice House and Workers’ Cottage early at Visitor Reception to ensure availability.
- Wear comfortable shoes to explore the extensive woodland trails and valley gardens.
- Visit early in the day to experience the full range of tours and activities before they conclude mid-afternoon.
- Try local treats and refreshments at the Garden Café or Weaving Shed Restaurant, both offering scenic views.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Train and Bus
From Manchester Piccadilly, take a train to Wilmslow (approx. 25 minutes). From Wilmslow station, catch the 88 or 130 bus towards Styal (approx. 15 minutes). The bus stops near Quarry Bank Mill. Services run hourly; check schedules in advance. Total journey time around 50-60 minutes. Tickets cost approximately £7-£10 one way.
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Car
Drive from Manchester city center via the M60 and A555, then follow local roads to Styal. The journey typically takes 30-40 minutes depending on traffic. Quarry Bank Mill has on-site parking with a moderate fee of about £5 per day. Note that parking can fill on busy weekends.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from Wilmslow station or Manchester city center offers a direct and flexible option. From Wilmslow, expect a 10-15 minute ride costing around £10-£15; from Manchester city center, approximately 30-40 minutes and £30-£40 depending on traffic.
National Trust - Quarry Bank 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 - Quarry Bank
Industrial Heritage Preserved in Time
Quarry Bank Mill stands as a remarkable testament to Britain’s industrial past. Founded in 1784 by Samuel Greg, it rapidly grew into one of the largest cotton mills of its era. The mill complex, now cared for by the National Trust, preserves original machinery still in working order, allowing visitors to witness the intricate processes of cotton spinning and weaving that powered the Industrial Revolution. The mill’s water wheel, visible from the viewing gallery, remains a captivating centerpiece demonstrating early industrial engineering.Life of the Workers and Apprentices
The site includes the Apprentice House and Workers’ Cottage, offering an intimate look at the lives of those who labored here. The Apprentice House housed child workers, often orphans, who lived and worked under strict conditions. Guided tours reveal the social history and hardships faced by these young apprentices, contrasting sharply with the comfortable Quarry Bank House, home to the Greg family. This juxtaposition highlights the social inequalities of the time and enriches understanding of the mill community.Gardens and Picturesque Woodland Estate
Beyond the industrial buildings, Quarry Bank features beautifully maintained gardens and a vast 400-acre estate. The dramatic valley garden, with its river views and seasonal blooms, invites tranquil strolls. The woodland estate extends along the River Bollin, showcasing historic bridges, heritage trees including towering giant redwoods, and abundant wildlife such as kingfishers and otters. Walking trails like Arthur’s Wood Loop offer immersive nature experiences amid steep gorges and ornamental bridges.Visitor Experience and Amenities
Visitors can enjoy a variety of amenities including a riverside restaurant, garden café, and several shops selling locally made products and National Trust homewares. The site is family-friendly, with a playground and seasonal activities such as the Enchanted Winter Walk and an indoor soft play area. Accessibility is thoughtfully addressed with accessible toilets, braille guides, and induction loops. Tours of the Apprentice House and Workers’ Cottage are available by booking on arrival, enhancing the educational experience.Preserving History with Modern Care
The National Trust’s stewardship ensures Quarry Bank remains a living museum, balancing preservation with visitor engagement. Ongoing conservation efforts protect the historic buildings, machinery, and natural environment. The site’s commitment to accessibility and sustainability invites a wide audience to connect with Britain’s industrial heritage in an inspiring setting.A Destination for History and Nature Enthusiasts
Quarry Bank Mill offers a unique blend of industrial history, social narrative, and natural beauty. Whether exploring the mechanical marvels of the mill, walking through serene woodlands, or learning about the lives of workers and owners, visitors encounter a rich tapestry of stories that shaped modern Britain. This heritage site stands as a compelling destination for those seeking cultural insight and outdoor enjoyment.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Knutsford Obelisk
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An 18th-century memorial obelisk honoring the Legh family, standing as a historic symbol amidst Knutsford’s rich heritage.
St Clement's Parish Church
10.9 km
Victorian Gothic masterpiece with five centuries of spiritual heritage in Chorlton-cum-Hardy.
Stretford Weir
11.0 km
Historic riverside weir on the Mersey offering scenic walks, flood management insight, and a peaceful nature escape near Manchester.
White Nancy
11.9 km
Historic hilltop folly offering sweeping Cheshire Plain views and a symbol of Bollington’s heritage and community spirit.
LS Lowry birthplace
12.9 km
Discover the humble origins of LS Lowry, the iconic painter of industrial Manchester, at his birthplace in Old Trafford.
5 Sir Matt Busby Way
13.3 km
Old Trafford, the legendary Theatre of Dreams, is Manchester United’s iconic home since 1910, blending rich football history with modern innovation.
The Old Quadrangle
13.4 km
Victorian Gothic grandeur where academic tradition meets architectural magnificence in Manchester's heart.
The Queen's Arch
13.4 km
The Queen's Arch: Manchester’s iconic Gothic gateway to a rich academic and architectural heritage on Oxford Road.
Sky Hook Statue 1
13.5 km
Towering steel sculptures marking Trafford Park’s industrial heritage with humor and monumental design.
Manchester Histories
13.6 km
Uncover the vibrant history of Manchester at Manchester Histories, where stories of the past come alive through engaging exhibitions and community events.
John Dalton Statue
14.1 km
Honoring John Dalton, father of atomic theory and pioneer of colour blindness research, with a distinguished statue in Manchester.
Hotspur House
14.3 km
Historic Hotspur House blends Manchester’s industrial past with bold modern redevelopment, preserving heritage amid vibrant urban renewal.
Friedrich Engels Statue
14.3 km
A bold Soviet-era statue honoring Friedrich Engels stands proudly in Manchester, bridging industrial history with modern radical spirit.
Castlefield historical zone
14.4 km
Explore Castlefield, Manchester’s vibrant urban heritage park where Roman ruins meet industrial canals and lively cultural scenes converge.
Quayside MediaCityUK
14.4 km
Manchester’s only outlet mall on the scenic Salford waterfront, blending designer shopping, dining, and entertainment in a vibrant media hub.
Unmissable attractions to see
National Trust - Alderley Edge and Cheshire Countryside
5.9 km
Explore enchanting woodlands, legendary sites, and panoramic Cheshire views at Alderley Edge and Cheshire Countryside.
Bramall Hall
6.2 km
Explore Bramall Hall, a captivating Tudor manor set in expansive parkland, where centuries of history and architecture come alive in Stockport.
National Trust - Nether Alderley Mill
7.0 km
Step back in time at Nether Alderley Mill, a fully restored 16th-century watermill where history flows with every turn of the wheel.
Fletcher Moss Botanical Gardens
7.2 km
Historic botanical gardens and wildlife haven in Manchester, blending rich conservation heritage with serene landscapes and community charm.
National Trust - Hare Hill
7.6 km
Discover Hare Hill’s enchanting walled garden and peaceful woodlands nestled in Cheshire’s scenic parkland.
Marie Louise Gardens
8.1 km
A Victorian memorial garden where rare heritage trees and urban wildlife create Manchester's most peaceful green sanctuary.
Chorlton Water Park
8.8 km
A peaceful 170-acre nature reserve in Manchester featuring a central lake, woodlands, playground, and accessible trails for family-friendly outdoor enjoyment.
Tatton Park Country Park
8.9 km
Explore 1,000 acres of stunning parkland, historic mansion, formal gardens, and a working farm in the heart of Cheshire’s Tatton Park.
Hat Works
9.0 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
9.2 km
Explore the beautiful St Peter's Square in Stockport, a perfect blend of history and nature in the heart of the town.
Tatton Hall
9.2 km
Explore the grandeur of Tatton Hall and the natural beauty of its 1,000-acre historic estate in Cheshire.
National Trust - Tatton Park
9.4 km
Explore Tatton Park’s historic mansion, stunning gardens, working farm, and vast deer park in the heart of Cheshire’s countryside.
Staircase House
9.5 km
Step back through centuries in Stockport’s oldest townhouse, home to a rare Jacobean staircase and immersive historical journey.
Knutsford Heritage Centre
9.5 km
Discover Knutsford’s rich heritage through exquisite tapestries, local traditions, and literary history in a welcoming community museum.
Gauntlet Birds of Prey – Eagle & Vulture Park, Knutsford
10.2 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
No 4 Dine & Wine
8.1 km
Intimate modern European dining in Didsbury with seasonal menus, expert service, and genuine warmth.
Dun Cow
8.8 km
A charming family-run gastropub near Knutsford offering hearty British classics and quality ales in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Bacchus Restaurant & Champagne Bar
8.9 km
Prestbury’s refined modern British dining with French flair, known for quality Sunday lunches and attentive service in a chic village setting.
Golden Hind
10.1 km
A classic Stockport pub serving hearty British fare with friendly service in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
The Lime Tree Restaurant and Wine Bar
11.4 km
Refined British dining with seasonal menus and expertly paired wines in the charming heart of Bollington.
Bells of Peover
13.0 km
Historic Cheshire gastropub blending rustic charm with fresh, seasonal dining in a picturesque countryside setting near Knutsford.
The Banyan Tree
14.2 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.
Turtle Bay Salford Quays
14.3 km
Escape to Caribbean flavors and reggae beats at Salford Quays' vibrant jerk pit and cocktail haven, moments from MediaCityUK.
WOOD Manchester by Simon Wood
14.3 km
Experience Simon Wood’s innovative fine dining and artisan pairings in a stylish yet relaxed Manchester setting.
Quay House Beefeater
14.3 km
Classic British steakhouse and family-friendly pub offering scenic waterside dining with a cosy, modern atmosphere in Salford Quays.
Bella Italia - Salford Quays
14.3 km
Casual Italian dining with diverse menu options in Manchester’s vibrant Salford Quays waterfront setting.
Harvester Quayside Mediacityuk
14.3 km
Flame-grilled favorites and endless fresh salads on Salford Quays, where family dining meets MediaCityUK's creative buzz.
Unagi
14.3 km
Experience the North West’s largest sushi bar with vibrant pan-Asian street food, crafted cocktails, and a lively atmosphere at MediaCityUK’s Unagi.
Lime
14.4 km
Savor grilled delights and Asian fusion by Salford Quays' waterfront, where relaxed lunches flow into lively nights in a spacious, vibrant venue.
Dukes 92
14.4 km
A vibrant Manchester hotspot blending generous dining, lively music, and versatile event spaces in a stylish city centre setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Quirky Cute Boutique
8.3 km
Discover vintage charm and handmade fashion treasures at Altrincham’s creative hotspot, The Quirky Cute Boutique.
Dress Cheshire
8.9 km
Prestbury’s trusted boutique for authenticated pre-loved designer fashion, blending luxury, sustainability, and community charm.
Cocaranti I Premium Womenswear Cheshire
9.5 km
Discover unique, premium womenswear in Knutsford’s charming independent boutique blending style, sustainability, and personalized service.
A Curious Collection
10.1 km
Discover Withington’s charming boutique gift shop offering unique, locally crafted treasures that celebrate Manchester’s creative spirit.
The Vintage Emporium Stockport
10.7 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.
The University of Manchester Gift Shop
13.5 km
Official University of Manchester merchandise and unique gifts in a welcoming campus shop on Oxford Road.
Utility Gift Store
13.7 km
Discover quirky, trendy, and unique gifts at Utility Gift Store, Manchester’s independent boutique for stylish presents and creative designs.
SPAR Salford Quays
14.0 km
Small, practical 24-hour convenience store on Trafford Road serving Salford Quays visitors, residents and shift workers.
SHMYLS - Thoughtfully Made
14.0 km
Discover thoughtfully crafted jewelry and homewares at SHMYLS, a unique gift shop nestled in Manchester’s vibrant Hatch complex.
Cute Things By Aggie
14.1 km
Discover unique handmade gifts and charming homewares crafted with natural elements in Manchester’s cozy boutique, Cute Things By Aggie.
INFINITE RUNNING
14.1 km
Elevate your run with Infinite Running's premium gear: sleek half tights, breathable singlets, and weather-ready layers for Manchester's relentless athletes.
ItsFetch
14.1 km
Unleash your fashion potential at ItsFetch, a stylish accessories shop in Manchester, featuring unique pieces for every trendsetter.
Deansgate Square General Store
14.1 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
14.1 km
Empowering plus-size style in Manchester's beating heart: Curvilicious Clothing celebrates curves with trendy, authentic fashion on Owen Street.
Branded Like A Boss
14.1 km
Discover Manchester's spirited souvenirs and artisan crafts at this vibrant Owen Street gift shop, blending trendy flair with local soul.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Botanist Alderley Edge
4.8 km
A lush botanical bar and grill in Alderley Edge blending seasonal cuisine, craft cocktails, and live music in a vibrant garden-inspired setting.
Cheshire Tap
8.3 km
Discover Cheshire Tap, Altrincham’s cozy craft beer bar with top local ales, a lively atmosphere, and a spacious garden retreat.
Lost & Found Knutsford
9.7 km
A stylish bar and pub in historic Knutsford blending vibrant atmosphere with contemporary dining and drinks.
Matchstick Man
14.1 km
Waterside, budget-friendly pub serving hearty classics and live sport in a modern, family-friendly setting at Salford Quays.
11 Central
14.2 km
Riverside bar in MediaCityUK serving craft brews and bites amid Salford's creative quayside energy—ideal for relaxed evenings with canal views.
Bar Eight
14.3 km
Lively Irish pub on Manchester's Castle Quay, blending sports screens, hearty grub, and canalside cheer for unforgettable nights out.
The Wharf
14.3 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.
Gorilla
14.3 km
Manchester's ultimate hybrid haunt: brunch by day, beats by night in a funky bar-club fusion with live gigs and roasts.
Craftbrew
14.4 km
Salford Quays' craft beer haven: artisan brews, tapas, and coffee in industrial-chic style, from dawn brunch to midnight pours.
Atlas Bar
14.4 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
14.4 km
Historic charm meets inventive cocktails in Manchester’s vibrant Lock 91, a versatile bar and events venue beneath the city’s Metrolink station.
Barça - Canal-side Bar, Castlefield - Manchester
14.4 km
Canal terraces, stylish drinks, and Castlefield vibes—Manchester's waterside bar for every occasion.
The Britons Protection
14.4 km
Historic Manchester pub famed for its vast whisky selection, traditional charm, lively atmosphere, and welcoming community spirit.
The Deansgate
14.4 km
Historic Deansgate pub revived with cask ales, hearty eats, rooftop terraces, and Manchester buzz—perfect pit stop since the 18th century.
Cloud 23
14.5 km
Experience Manchester’s skyline from the stylish 23rd-floor cocktail bar with innovative drinks and panoramic city views.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Kable
14.3 km
A compact, late‑night basement club on New Wakefield Street, favoured for punchy electronic nights and close‑up DJ sessions.
Viva Manchester
14.3 km
Compact stage-driven nightclub on Whitworth Street West — theatrical themed nights, DJ sets and group-friendly table service.
Popworld Manchester
14.4 km
Dance to cheesy pop anthems amid neon lights and poptail cocktails in Manchester's ultimate throwback nightclub.
Ark Manchester
14.4 km
Multi-room beats and canal-side cocktails fuel Manchester's electric Deansgate Locks nightlife at Ark—dance, drink, repeat till dawn.
Bliss Club Manchester
14.4 km
Experience Manchester’s authentic late-night vibe at Bliss Club, where music and local energy blend into a spirited urban nightlife hub.
Club Tropicana
14.7 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.
Royal Vida Night Club
14.7 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.
Satans Hollow
14.7 km
Manchester's infernal punk-rock abyss: demonic decor, dirt-cheap drinks, and mosh-pit mayhem for metalheads and rebels.
The Cockatoo Club
14.7 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at The Cockatoo Club in Manchester, where vibrant cabaret performances meet an unforgettable atmosphere.
History Nightclub
14.8 km
Experience Manchester’s lively hip hop and house beats at History Nightclub, a large, energetic venue open late into the night.
42's
14.8 km
Manchester’s iconic indie nightclub blending rich musical heritage with a lively, inclusive nightlife experience.
Venue Nightclub
14.9 km
Manchester's underground indie haven: cheap drinks, packed dance floors, and anthems till dawn in Deansgate's electric night scene.
Club Liv Manchester
15.1 km
Experience Manchester’s vibrant nightlife with exclusive VIP vibes, world-class Pan-Asian dining, and a stylish rooftop terrace at Club Liv.
Twenty Twenty Two
15.2 km
Manchester's gritty basement haven where ping pong battles rage under DJ beats and craft brews flow freely in the Northern Quarter's creative underbelly.
Aatma
15.3 km
Manchester's underground heartbeat: live beats, pizza slices, and all-night vibes in the Northern Quarter's hidden gem.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Cultural Heritage
- Relaxing
- Family Friendly
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Family Friendly
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
