MACCLESFIELD FOREST WALK
An enchanting woodland walk perfect for the colder months…
Start: Trentabank Visitor Centre, Macclesfield, SK11 0NS
Distance: 3.66 miles
Elevation: 600 feet
Duration: 1.5 hours
Navigation: follow step-by-step here
Macclesfield Forest
Now a working forest managed by United Utilities, Macclesfield Forest is the last remnant of the Royal Forest of Macclesfield. This forest isn’t just a bunch of trees; it’s a living history book. Keep an eye out for remnants of the old mining and quarrying days as you wander your way through this woodland wonderland.
The start of this walk takes you through Macclesfield Forest, which is home to the native broad-leaved tree, but mostly contains pine trees. Lately, work has been ongoing to fell sections of the forest to replant the broad-leaved tree, to retain its natural heritage.
Shuttingsloe
Nicknamed the ‘Matterhorn of Cheshire’ due to its uncannily similar shape of one of Switzerland’s most recognisable landmarks, this is a great starter trig if you have four-legged pals or little legs in tow. Thanks to its impressive 360-views, this is a short loop with big rewards — you can see as far as The Roaches, Shining Tor (the highest hill in Cheshire), Macclesfield, and even across to Wales on a clear day.
Good-to-knows
Parking: Pay and Pay and display parking at Trentabank Car Park. Charges are £4.75 all day at the car park and the machine ONLY takes coins. There is no card payment option and the authorities are very strict on issuing fines, so make sure you have coins with you. If you are visiting on a quiet day, there is FREE roadside parking just past the entrance to the car park. Please only park in designated parking spaces.
Walk Highlights: Incredible 360 degree views, Shutlingsloe Trig Point, Macclesfield Forest.
Facilities: There are toilets at Trentabank Car Park. Please note that these are locked at 6pm. On busy days, there is a refreshments van in the car park.
Public Transport: Manchester Piccadilly > Macclesfield, 20 mins. From here catch a bus or walk to the starting point.
Fancy giving this one a go? Follow along here
