Macclesfield Forest Circular Walk

If you are looking for a walking route with breathtaking views from a scenic hilltop, then the Macclesfield Forest Circular Walk is probably not going to be on your radar. What this easy-going track does well is provide a family-friendly pathway that allows you to stroll through a beautiful stretch of forest and reconnect with nature, while taking in some nice views across the water of Ridgegate Reservoir and a few surrounding hills. The wide paths are well-maintained and easy to navigate, creating a great experience for all, and the picnic area offers a great space to sit and relax in the peaceful forest atmosphere.

Setting out from the picnic area next to the carpark, head west along the trail for 0.2mi and cross over the road to arrive at a junction in the trail. Take the path to the left and follow it along the edge of the wood, where it will bend to the right and enter into the thick cover of the trees on a route towards the reservoir. Enjoy the peaceful quiet of the forest and reconnect with nature as you meander amongst the moss-covered trees and vibrant green colour of the forest floor.

After 0.3mi, you will break out of the tree cover and arrive at another junction with some nice views looking out across the calm water to the rugged summit of Tegg’s Nose in the northwest. Taking the optional path to the right will lead you around the reservoir and provide the opportunity for some refreshments at the nearby pub, Leather’s Smithy. For the sake of this walking guide, make a sharp left turn along the path and follow it south through the wood for 0.1mi, where it will bend to the left and skirt along the edge of the trees until you meet up with the road.

Cross over the road and follow it for about 240ft, turning right to pass through a gate onto the bridleway. Make an immediate left turn to enter into the shady cover of the forest and head through the beautiful woodland atmosphere for 0.2mi before arriving at a series of junctions. Keep straight through the first, and head right at the second to continue through the peaceful forest for another 0.2mi.

Turn left here on a course that will take you north towards the picnic area where you began your walk. Reaching a fork in the path, head left and continue onto the next intersection, also taking it left to wrap up your journey along the Macclesfield Forest Circular Walk.

Trail Highlights

Macclesfield Forest

Located 3 miles south of the town of Macclesfield in Cheshire, the Macclesfield Forest is the last remaining portion of what was once the Royal Forest of Macclesfield, an ancient hunting ground that spread throughout the area. These days the forest is part of a nature reserve and is primarily made up of conifer trees, featuring a small population of red deer and a heronry.

Other amazing walks in Peak District National Park

Check out our guides to Kinder Scout, Mam Tor, Stanage Edge, Dovedale, and Padley Gorge. Or see all of our Peak District walks on 10Adventures.