White Nancy: Bollington’s Iconic Hilltop Folly
Historic hilltop folly offering sweeping Cheshire Plain views and a symbol of Bollington’s heritage and community spirit.
White Nancy is a distinctive white-painted, cone-shaped folly perched atop Kerridge Hill near Bollington, Cheshire. Built in 1817 by John Gaskell junior to commemorate the Battle of Waterloo, this Grade II listed landmark offers panoramic views across the Cheshire Plain and beyond. Its unique silhouette is a symbol of Bollington, visible for miles and surrounded by scenic walking trails.
A brief summary to White Nancy
- Macclesfield, Bollington, SK10 5AX, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Wear sturdy footwear for the moderately steep walk up Kerridge Hill to White Nancy.
- Bring water and snacks to enjoy a picnic while taking in panoramic views.
- Visit during clear weather for the best visibility of distant landscapes and towns.
- Look for the compass rose at the base to identify surrounding landmarks.
- Check for special decorations on White Nancy that reflect local events or commemorations.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Bus
Take the bus from Macclesfield to Bollington, which takes approximately 20-30 minutes. From Bollington, the walk to White Nancy up Kerridge Hill is about 1.5 km and moderately steep. Bus services run regularly but check schedules for weekend frequency. No direct bus to the summit.
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Car
Driving from Macclesfield to a nearby parking area in Bollington takes around 10 minutes. From the parking, expect a 20-30 minute uphill walk to White Nancy. Parking is limited near the hill base, so arriving early is recommended. No parking at the summit.
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Walking
For active travelers, a 4-5 km hike from Bollington town center to White Nancy follows well-marked trails including the Gritstone Trail. The terrain is hilly and requires good footwear and moderate fitness. The walk offers scenic views en route.
White Nancy location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about White Nancy
Origins and Historical Significance
White Nancy was constructed in 1817 by John Gaskell junior of the local Gaskell family, who lived nearby at Ingersley Hall. The structure was built to celebrate the British victory at the Battle of Waterloo, a pivotal moment in European history. Originally serving as a summer house or folly, it featured a single room with stone benches and a large round stone table carved from a single piece of stone. The entrance, once accessible, is now blocked, but the interior seating remains a testament to its original function. Over the years, White Nancy has been maintained and regularly painted white to ensure its visibility from the surrounding landscape.Architectural Features and Design
Standing approximately 18 feet tall, White Nancy is a cone-shaped structure made from sandstone rubble, rendered and painted white with a striking black finial on top. Its simple yet bold design contrasts with the natural surroundings, making it a prominent landmark. The monument’s shape and color have made it an enduring symbol for the town of Bollington, even inspiring the town’s logo, which includes a small rectangle representing the original door. The structure’s name is believed to have several origins, including a local tale that it was named after the lead horse that transported building materials up the steep hill.Scenic Location and Views
Perched on Kerridge Hill at an elevation of about 280 meters (920 feet), White Nancy offers expansive views across the Cheshire Plain. From this vantage point, visitors can see the hills of Shropshire to the south, the Pennines to the north and east, and the mountains of North Wales to the west. Nearby towns such as Bollington, Rainow, Macclesfield, Stockport, and even Manchester are visible on clear days. A paved compass rose around the base helps visitors identify these distant landmarks, enhancing the experience of the panoramic landscape.Community and Cultural Role
White Nancy holds a special place in the local community. It has been decorated on various occasions to reflect public sentiment and commemorate events, such as the 200th anniversary of the Battle of Waterloo in 2015, when it was adorned with silhouettes of soldiers in period uniform. In 2017, a bee symbol was painted on the monument as a tribute to Manchester following the tragic bombing at the Manchester Arena. The site is a focal point for local celebrations and gatherings, including picnics and commemorative events.Walking and Outdoor Experience
The monument is a popular destination for walkers and outdoor enthusiasts. It sits along the Gritstone Trail and the Peak District Boundary Walk, making it a rewarding stop for hikers exploring the region. The climb up Kerridge Hill to White Nancy is moderately challenging, requiring good footwear and some physical effort. The surrounding area offers tranquil natural beauty, making it an ideal spot for picnics and enjoying the fresh air. The combination of historical interest and scenic views makes White Nancy a memorable highlight of the Cheshire countryside.Preservation and Legacy
White Nancy is a Grade II listed building, recognized for its architectural and historical importance. It has undergone repairs and restoration over the years, including re-plastering and repainting to preserve its iconic appearance. The Gaskell family historically contributed to its maintenance, and local efforts continue to ensure it remains a cherished landmark. Its unique presence on Kerridge Hill not only commemorates a significant historical event but also enriches the cultural and natural heritage of Bollington and the wider Cheshire region.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
White Nancy
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Historic hilltop folly offering sweeping Cheshire Plain views and a symbol of Bollington’s heritage and community spirit.
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Silk Museum
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National Trust - Lyme
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National Trust - Hare Hill
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Anson Engine Museum
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National Trust - Alderley Edge and Cheshire Countryside
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National Trust - Nether Alderley Mill
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Naze View Farm Alpaca Experience
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Eccles Pike
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Bramall Hall
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Corbar Cross
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Pavilion Gardens, Buxton
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Essential places to dine
The Lime Tree Restaurant and Wine Bar
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Bacchus Restaurant & Champagne Bar
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The Hanging Gate
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Old Hall Inn
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The Paper Mill Inn
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Golden Hind
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La Popote Restaurant
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Michelin Guide-listed French restaurant offering casual fine dining in a charming converted barn with a secret garden in Cheshire’s countryside.
The Lamb Inn
13.1 km
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The Little Mill @ Rowarth
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The Pack Horse Hayfield
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Dun Cow
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No 4 Dine & Wine
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The Yellow Broom Restaurant
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Pecks Restaurant
19.7 km
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Bells of Peover
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Dress Cheshire
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Ivie & luxe
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Bluebird’s Nest UK
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Decor Boutique
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Atticusboo
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Fiveways Country Store
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AWAKEN - Crystal & Spiritual Shop
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Jo Royle Outdoor
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The Springs Shopping Centre
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Buxton's central shopping hub with 450 parking spaces and popular high street chains.
The Vintage Emporium Stockport
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High Peak Bookstore and Cafe
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A Curious Collection
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Quirky Cute Boutique
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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The Lazy Trout
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The Rambler Inn
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Cheshire Tap
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The Old Nags Head
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Anglers Rest
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Star Inn
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The George Inn
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The Royal Oak | Peak District
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The George
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Minimalist Designs
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Viewpoints
- 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
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
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
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly