Tegg’s Nose Country Park
Tom Grieve, Cinema Editor
Located on the western edge of the Peak District, just outside of Macclesfield, Tegg’s Nose Country Park is a popular destination for families, walkers and outdoor sports enthusiasts alike. Tegg’s Nose itself — a 380 metre high hill — is the obvious attraction here, offering views out over Macclesfield Forest and across the Cheshire plain. On a clear day, visitors can see as far as Liverpool and even the Welsh mountains in the distance.
The site has a history of quarrying that stretches back as far as the 1500s, and the landscape bears the scars to this day. Softened by time, the rocky terrain is characterised by steep sided cliffs and former quarry holes, with moorland and meadows at the higher points and woodland towards the bottom. An hour-long geology trail offers a novel way to explore and keep younger visitors busy along the way, while the park’s history as a quarry allows for more extreme exercise opportunities.
Tegg’s Nose itself — a 380 metre high hill — is the obvious attraction here, offering views out over Macclesfield Forest and across the Cheshire plain.
Climbing and abseiling facilities are available in the area of the quarry hole where there is a fixed belay rail. Limited space means that booking is required in advance, while adventurous types should note that climbing is not permitted outside of the designated area. For those looking for something a little less vertical, Tegg’s Nose also offers orienteering courses, fishing and a challenging mountain bike trail. There are trails for horses too, and in winter, the park is a favoured local sledging spot.
The park is managed by Cheshire County Council, and features a visitor centre with toilets at the main car park. Meanwhile, the dog-friendly Tegg’s Nose Tea Room caters for thirsty walkers and exhausted climbers, offering artisan coffee and loose-leaf teas alongside cakes and light lunch options.
