Macclesfield is one of those towns which people have heard of but often have no idea where it is or what it is famous for. Well, quickly we can tell you it’s in Cheshire famous for silk and its Georgian town hall It also has a football club that has been through the wringer but is back in business.
Macclesfield is one of those place names that’s just fun to say. Besides that, there are a bunch of interesting things to see and do in and around town, all of which make it a pretty awesome place to spend a few days.
So if you are looking for a city break or a staycation, look no further. Macclesfield might be everything you have been dreaming about and more.
Image: ClimbWhenReady/Shutterstock.com
Macclesfield’s Origin Story
Macclesfield is thought to be a Saxon town, although not much more than that is known about the origins. Nevertheless (and in true Five Minutes Spare style) we have decided to try and track down some of that early history, to piece together a history of Macclesfield for our local tours.
Otherwise known as “Silktown”, Macclesfield is thought to have been named by the Saxons. The Saxons were those that were in Britain after the Romans and the Vikings left town, but before the Norman’s showed up in 1066. Its placement is near where three Roman roads met, which might have made it a stopping place, stable for refreshing horses, or even baths.
Macclesfield was the land of Edwin of Mercia before the Normans invaded. Archaeologists have found Christian crosses in the area that date from this period. When England first united, it was an exceptionally holy country. Before Henry VIII separated the UK from the main body of the church, things were very different for us. Religion would have dominated most of our lives.
Norman Macclesfield
In any case, the region was devastated after the Norman’s invaded. In the north of England, there was a lot of unrest during the period immediately after the invasion. The farther away from London and the south (where they landed) that you got, the less control the Normans had over the country. In many of the northern territories, they would instill forts, castles, and other means of monitoring the population. Not so with Macclesfield, however, which they left to its own destitution.
Although the town had been thriving enough to have a church of its own (or more than one) before the Normans arrived, after they got here, it was a different story altogether. The land lost both tenants and value, although it was never completely abandoned. We tracked it down in the online Domesday resource so we could see how big it was in 1086.
In short, Macclesfield was doing terribly in the 11th century. It was losing money, people, and buildings. They had resources aplenty, but nobody was using the land. There were 6 x 4 leagues of woodland, a mill, 10 lots of ploughlands, and only one plough team, and 4 slaves were forced to work there. That’s right – we kept slaves. Let’s never forget that part.
Anyway, Macclesfield is listed as one of the smallest 20% of settlements in the Domesday Survey. Not only was it tiny, it was also losing a lot of money to its owner, the Earl of Chester. In 1066 it was worth 8 pounds in total. In 1086, it was only worth a single pound per annum. Let’s pause in the Macclesfield origin story for a moment before we rush into the middle ages. We need some comic relief.
Here at Five Minutes Spare, we love to track down fun facts about the places we review. So if you are thinking of visiting Macclesfield and need something clever to say over dinner, try some of the following on for size… we do so love our trivia!
Fun Facts About Macclesfield
- There is a thirty-ton boulder made of granite in West Park, Macclesfield. It was presented to the people in 1857 when they opened their new park. It reportedly took 8 horses to move it to where it now lies. It was carried south by a glacier receding at some point in one of the ice ages. It’s a geological marvel that it made it that far. They call it the Erratic boulder in the Latin sense of the word: where ‘erratic’ means ‘wanderer’.
- There is a local tale about a farmer on his way to the market to trade his white horse. A wizard approached and asked to buy his horse, the farmer declined but later accepted on the return journey. The man paid for the horse at Stormy Point, where a giant hole in the rock opened and an army of wizards with white horses slept. They were waiting to defend England when it was next in peril… We’d say you couldn’t make it up, but someone did.
- Macclesfield was once a huge forest, ploughed in the 13th century so that the population was free to grow.
- At the height of the Industrial Revolution, there were 71 working silk mills in Macclesfield… something we always assume was done abroad.
- Local legend says that those who complete the 108 steps between Water’s Green and St Michael and All Angels Church without taking a second breath – will have a wish granted.
- Charles Stuart stopped here on his way to cause riots in London. He was hosted by the Mayor in one of the silk baron’s homes.
- The town has gates but never had any walls. The Chestergate, Back Wallgate, and Jordangate areas, all refer to the roads towards these places.
When you think about it, Macclesfield has brushed shoulders with royalty, created millions in wealth, housed generations of weavers, and started its life as a forest. We wonder how many more memories it will hold before it becomes a forest again. Is that too philosophical this early in the day? Perhaps.
Let’s go back to the history.
Medieval Macclesfield
Macclesfield entered the Medieval era with a slow start. The population grew slowly, with documentation from 1183 finally naming it Makeslefield. It is thought this name might have meant “Michael’s Field” in those days. However, the ‘maccles’ were cleared areas of land similar to fields back then, too.
In 1261, the town was given a charter by the man who would become Edward I. Eleanor (his wife) founded the Church of St. Michael in 1278 – and that’s the same one still used today. The place was later given its first official royal charter by the same couple, a few decades later. The charter would have allowed them to hold markets, pave, clean, and even light the streets. Subsequent charters allowed them to have two fairs per year and a weekly indoor market. In 1332 and 1362, Macclesfield was chosen to hold ecclesiastical fairs of the church – a testament to its importance at that time.
The Church of All Saints was erected in 1278, and a steeple was added later. A town hall was built and a small market remained the main income source for the town, all the way up until the 15th century. In the 14th century, the Earl of Chester’s hall would have been extended. It was massive, with the end of the estate touching on nearby Disley. It had a deer park, stables and stud farm where the best British horses were bred, and a forest which exists to this day, after being preserved by the Earls of Chester.
Macclesfield Gets A Castle
Macclesfield castle began construction in 1398, with the aim of it becoming a fortified townhouse. Sadly the castle fell into ruins before the 1500s were out and in 1932 the last remaining vestige of it was demolished. By 1502, the town was evolved enough to have developed its own Grammar school. In 1595, the town had its own council and the main manufacturing industries included leatherworking, glove and harness making, ribbon creation, and buttons, which were all made here at that time. Bonnie Prince Charlie passed through on his way south to challenge the throne, only to pass back through on his way north again. He had an army with him both times, although no skirmishes were reported.
Before the industrial era, Macclesfield would have had a population of around 2,600 people. A huge amount of growth from those early days. In the early 1700s, it had grown to encompass some 935 households. By 1801, that population sat at 8,743. Roughly 10% of the population were Quakers, and the civil war had seen the town occupied on behalf of the royalist army. By 1841, the population had skyrocketed to the 24 thousand mark… and that was just before the railway came to town.
Let’s pause a moment to find out about the famous faces from Macclesfield.
Famous People from Macclesfield
Macclesfield is old enough to have had a fair few famous people to have come out of it. We trawled the internet for some of our favourites, then put them here for you to enjoy. Some of the famous people out of Macclesfield include:
- Sally Burton, an internationally acclaimed fashion designer who used to work with Alexander McQueen, is from Macclesfield.
- Mr Scruff, one of the most misunderstood DJ/bands of the early 2000s, are from here.
- Ethics writer Peter Stanford comes from here.
- The conservative journalist Nick Robinson is from this city.
There are a lot of famous faces that you might recognise from in and around town. Who knows who you might run into at the supermarket?
The Industrial Era in Macclesfield
As with most English towns, it was the Industrial Revolution that made the population boom. It began with a small copper smelting factory set up in the 1750s, just outside of town. By the 1800s, there was a booming silk trade, which survived many years. Hovis, the bread maker, was set up in the Industrial era, with the Canal being added in the middle of the century. A train line finally connected the town to the rest of the world. While the loaf soared in popularity, sheep and cattle became one of the main exports of the area. The cattle market stayed in operation until the 1980s.
Macclesfield was an important centre of operations for mill working. Up until the last half a century, grain was turned here daily. It is said that this was the only town that wasn’t bombed by the Germans in WWII, despite being a centre of industry. Throughout the wartime era, they continued to make the bread that fed the people. Since then, the industry in town has focused mainly on the pharmaceutical industry, which injected some much-needed life into the town.
Silk No More
Silk remained important to the area right up until the 60s when cheaper Chinese goods became readily available. Since then, the death of the English silk industry has seen economic issues throughout England. The last few years have seen most additions to the town’s industry in the form of retail establishments and hospitality.
Despite losing many young men to both wars, living through several governmental changes, and not having its own MP in parliament until the 1830s, Macclesfield has done alright for itself. Although having been accused of being uncultured in recent years, the town has its priorities in order. It’s a good place to live and a nice place to raise your kids. Locals have a love/hate relationship with it, but visitors seem happy enough.
Let’s turn our attention to the modern world of Macclesfield and find out all about the things you can see and do there, should you wish to stay awhile.
Things to see and do in Macclesfield
So, should you be looking for the ideal English holiday destination, how does Macclesfield measure up? We reviewed some of the best places in town to go and see if you are spending time here, so you can make the most of your Macclesfield vacation.
Historic Sights and Landmarks
Image: Sarah Weldon/Shutterstock.com
There are loads of beautiful old buildings out in the Cheshire countryside. Check out Capesthorne Hall as a firm favourite. It is stunning, absolutely beautiful, and is set within acres of its own gardens – inclusive of a boating pond. It is family-owned, set in 100 acres, and makes a great place to get married in. Visit seasonally for the best results… their Christmas decorations are amazing.
Adlington Hall is a beautiful building, too. Another fine place to visit, this one is of the black and white, exposed rafter style that we all know and love. It comes with 2000 acres of its own countryside, allowing for a number of popular walks through the grounds. It’s a gorgeous way to spend any day of the week, and perfect for those with pets.
The old ruins of the Nether Alderley Mill are still worth visiting. Parts of it are being restored, but it still makes for a great visit. Learn about how the mills worked, explore some of the outbuildings, and take pictures of some ruins… Instagram will love it. Weirdly, this is a cotton mill. Even though this was a silk producing town.
Galleries and Museums
One of the most popular attractions in town is the Silk Museum and the Paradise Mill. All one attraction, this single destination lets you learn all about the historic silk trade in the town. It also lets you see how the silk was made and woven, which can be quite an experience. Cheaper eastern imports might have replaced the expense of making our own silk here in the UK… but you never know. There’s always Brexit.
The Jodrell Bank Discovery Centre is a real treat for the little ones. If you are looking for something unique and interesting to do with kids in Macclesfield, definitely set time aside to go visit. This is akin to the science museums for kids that spring up everywhere and contains a huge telescope that amazes everyone who sees it. There are numerous things to do inside so expect to spend the whole afternoon here. There’s even a cafe for the adults.
The West Park Museum is another favoured attraction that details the history of the town. It has plenty of records, so you will be able to track down past family members and ancestry if you have to. As a double bonus, it’s a huge old building that will be beautiful in your holiday snaps.
Sports and Recreation
It would be fair to say that Macclesfield is not a hot bead of sport, however, the town is home to both Football & Rugby Union teams. The former has been through the wringer so to speak thanks to the slightly draconian actions of the National League in 2020. Thankfully they are back in business for 2021-22. The RUFC side has been around since 1874! Anyway, no guide would be complete without at least informing you about them so here goes starting with – you guessed it…
Football
The Towns football team is Macclesfield FC or the “Silkmen” as they are nicknamed. They were originally formed way back in 1874 but fell into administration and were wound up in 2020. Thankfully though a local businessman bought the assets and they are reformed for the 2021-22 season where according to their website they will be playing in the North West Counties Premier Division (tier 9 of the pyramid).
They were Football League members as recently as 2019-20 and they have a few bits of silverware in their trophy cabinet. They even reached the heady heights of division two (the third tier in 1998-99 and were National League Champions in 2017-18. They could do with a bit of support while they climb back up the rankings so if you are a lower league football fan try and take in a game if in town. Check out the Five Minutes Spare Macclesfield FC Guide Here.
Rugby Union
Macclesfield RUFC plays in the National League 2 North and you can take in a game at Priory Park during the season. They have won a few promotions over the years and as recently as 2012-13 they gained promotion to the National One, which is the third tier! Their home ground only has a 1250 capacity, however, that is usually enough as crowds are not large at this level. However if you want a seat it would be wise to turn up early.
Sports Centres
There’s an out-of-the-box type of recreation facility in town, known as the Substation. It is a climbing centre, with rock walls that entertain many a teenager and child. It has bouldering, a cafe, and they also teach yoga. Adults and teens enjoy this place, although kids like the challenge. It’s a fun way to stay fit while you are on holiday.
Outdoor Attractions
Tegg’s Nose Country Park is a real favourite attraction for everyone from hikers to dog walkers. It is an open expanse of hilly countryside, filled with rich purple heathers akin to Scotland. It has a river and pond, as well as great views over the town and plenty of wildlife to experience. Take your binoculars if you want to enjoy your day even more.
Another favoured attraction is the Ice Cream Farm out on the edge of the Peak District. The Blaze Farm is a firm favourite of adults and kids alike. Go along and enjoy the play areas, as well as sampling the ice creams. Kids love to learn about how it’s made and you have the reassurance of seeing the whole process.
Macclesfield Forest is missing a few trees, but there are some regions of it that the Earls of Cheshire has managed to conserve. Now an important area for environmental and nature work, this forest would have once covered the whole area. Much of it was been cleared for housing over the years however it remains a lovely place to take a romantic walk or to experience nature with the kiddies.
Shopping and Retail
The Forest Distillery is a great place for adults to take a tour, relax, and start the day off right. Sample their fine gin with some tonic and learn how it is brewed. The best shops can be had at the Grosvenor Shopping Centre in the middle of town. Otherwise, go outside to the suburbs and check out Thornton Square Shopping Centre.
Other Notable Attractions in Macclesfield
We couldn’t possibly fit everything that there is to do in Macclesfield into one article, but we did try our best. For all the things we couldn’t fit in, we have this section, where we put the “extra” stuff. Here are some of the things that didn’t quite make the cut, but that you should add to your itinerary if you are in town:
- Hare Hill Park and Gardens are stunning in high summer. They even have some nice winter plants. Take your granny or auntie for a Saturday stroll to make the most of this one.
- Visit some of the fine churches in town. St. Michael and All Angels is one of the oldest buildings and makes for great photographs. There’s also St. Alban’s RC Church.
- MADS little theatre may have a show or two on. Check out their itinerary while you are in town.
There’s something to see and do for any age level, on any holiday, in this town. Don’t let them tell you there’s nothing to do here… it’s only sour grapes.
How to get there?
We have almost brought you entirely up to speed with what’s what in Macclesfield. We just haven’t told you how to get there yet. Follow our loose direction or consider entering the postcode into your sat-nav.
By Road
Follow the M6 either north or south, depending on which direction you hit it from.
By Rail
Macclesfield station is on the Northern Line.
By Air
Manchester airport is the closest to you.
By Sea
Alas, there is no sea access, however, there is a canal if you are ingenious and really intend on arriving by boat.
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