Bollington Cheshire

Bollington, Cheshire

A short drive from Macclesfield and its silk museums is the former mill town of Bollington in Cheshire.

It is situated on the eastern edge of the Cheshire Plain, at the foothills of the Pennine hills. The town is part of the borough of Cheshire East and lies approximately 11 miles south of Manchester.

Bollington was a centre of cotton production with the Swindells family building the Clarence and Adelphi mills in the town. The original Clarence Mill complex consisted of the five-storey spinning mill, a two-storey weaving shed and also an engine house and detached chimney.

Stone Railway Viaduct

History

The Macclesfield, Bollington, and Marple Railway was opened in 1869 as an alternative route from Manchester to Macclesfield until its closure in 1970. The former track is now a linear park – The Middlewood Way – popular with hikers, walkers, joggers, and cyclists. An impressive 23-arch stone viaduct over the River Dean was saved from demolition by a local campaign and forms part of the Middlewood Way of Route 55 of the National Cycle Network.

Clarence Mill

As the textile industry declined in the 20th century, the town shifted towards a more residential and commuter-oriented character. Nowadays, the town has a population of just under 8,000 inhabitants.

Cheshire Fire & Resucue Service, Bollington, United Kingdom.

Cheshire Fire & Resucue Service, Bollington, Cheshire

Attractions

Known for its picturesque setting, Bollington is surrounded by beautiful countryside. The nearby hills, including Kerridge Hill and White Nancy, offer stunning views of the Cheshire Plain. The town itself is characterized by its stone-built houses, many of which were originally built for mill workers.

The Discovery Centre on the canal side at Clarence mill provides information about the town’s industrial past and also offers guided walks. White Nancy, a distinctive white stone structure on top of Kerridge Hill, is a notable landmark and popular destination for walkers.

A recommended pub is the Spinners Arms (Tel: 01625 576677) on Palmerston Street. It is dog friendly and also offers a pleasant beer garden.

The town also has a strong community spirit, with various events and festivals taking place throughout the year.

Cricket field surrounded by trees

Access – Getting There

The Macclesfield Canal connects Bollington and Macclesfield running over the impressive Bollington Aqueduct and past the Clarence and Adelphi mills.

Bollington is east of the A523 and Prestbury and also close to the villages of Pott Shrigley and Rainow. The A523 runs south from Hazel Grove and the A6 in Stockport through Poynton.

Middlewood Station near High Lane on the Piccadilly to Buxton Line gives access to the Middlewood Way.

The Church House Inn is a popular Bed & Breakfast in the village.