top of page
Writer's pictureUK Hidden Gems

8 Best Hidden Gems around Cheshire

Updated: Mar 12

Your Ultimate Guide to exploring off-the-beaten hidden gems scattered around Cheshire.


Cheshire is famous for its countryside, as well as its rich industrial heritage. It's interesting towns surrounding it make Cheshire one of the favourite places for people to visit for a staycation as it's only an hour away from most people.


However, there are quite a few hidden gems near Cheshire which are perfect to venture a little further too just to escape the normal tourists crowds! So sit back, and add some of these Cheshire Hidden Gems to your bucket list!




1) Waulkmill Waterfall


Waulkmill Waterfall is a perfect hidden gem for all waterfall-lovers who want to escape the crowds. Despite it's recent attraction gains, it still remains very quiet and relatively unvisited. You can enjoy the amazing Bollington walk which leads you to this breath-taking waterfall.


FAQs/Things to know before visiting Waulkmill Waterfall


1) Where is Waulkmill Waterfall located?

Waulkmill Waterfall is nestled in the scenic countryside of Cheshire, near the village of Waulkmill. It offers a tranquil escape for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike.


2) Is Waulkmill Waterfall accessible to the public?

Yes, Waulkmill Waterfall is accessible to the public, and visitors can enjoy its natural beauty throughout the year. However, it's essential to follow any local guidelines or restrictions in place to preserve the area's ecological balance.


3) What should I expect when visiting Waulkmill Waterfall?

When visiting Waulkmill Waterfall, visitors can expect to encounter a stunning cascade of water surrounded by lush greenery and picturesque landscapes. It's an ideal spot for hiking, picnicking, or simply unwinding amidst nature's splendor.


Image of Waulkmill Waterfall in Cheshire


2) Millennium Walkway


If you're visited New Mills, we would definitely add this walkway to the top of your list. The Millennium Walkway is a unique structure which offers stunning views of places which to a normal eye, would be pretty hard to see! The area around the walkway is pretty nice too; with cascading waters and cool paths.


FAQs/Things to know before visiting Millennium Walkway


1) Where is the Millennium Walkway located?

The Millennium Walkway is situated in the picturesque county of Cheshire, offering visitors a delightful stroll amidst serene natural surroundings. It's a tranquil spot perfect for leisurely walks and enjoying the beauty of the countryside.


2) Is the Millennium Walkway suitable for all ages and fitness levels?

Yes, the Millennium Walkway is accessible to people of all ages and fitness levels. Its gentle terrain and well-maintained paths make it an excellent choice for families, individuals, and even those with limited mobility seeking a peaceful outdoor experience.


3) What amenities are available along the Millennium Walkway?

Along the Millennium Walkway, visitors can find various amenities to enhance their experience, including benches for resting, informative signposts highlighting local flora and fauna, and designated areas for birdwatching or wildlife spotting. Additionally, nearby parking facilities and restrooms may be available for added convenience.


Image of Millennium Walkway in Cheshire

3) Solomon’s Temple


A must-visit hidden gem to those who are visiting Buxton. It's quite an interesting and unique place, and even though exploring the tower can be completed within a few minutes, it's worth to see it for those views at the top of the tower. Since parking is hard to find, we recommend parking at Poole Cavern (£2 - £3 depending on how long you stay for).


FAQs/Things to know before visiting Solomon’s Temple


1) Where is Solomon’s Temple located?

Solomon’s Temple, also known as Grinlow Tower, is located atop Grinlow Hill in Buxton, Cheshire. It offers panoramic views of the surrounding Peak District National Park and is a popular destination for hikers and sightseers.


2) Is Solomon’s Temple open to the public?

Yes, Solomon’s Temple is open to the public year-round. Visitors can access the site via well-marked trails and staircases leading to the tower's summit. It's a great spot for outdoor enthusiasts and photographers looking to capture stunning vistas of the Cheshire landscape.


3) What amenities are available at Solomon’s Temple?

While Solomon’s Temple itself is a historic landmark offering breathtaking views, there are limited amenities at the site. Visitors should come prepared with suitable footwear for walking trails and climbing stairs. Additionally, nearby Buxton town offers various facilities such as parking, cafes, and restroom facilities for visitors' convenience.


Image of Solomon's Temple in Cheshire



An amazing walk and a perfect trail for families! It offers stunning views and you'll also see some animals such as cows, sheep and even horses. However the best feature of Three Shires Head in our eyes are the waterfalls! You can also go wild swimming in the falls if you wish which we would definitely recommend.


FAQs/Things to know before visiting Three Shires Head


1) Where is Three Shires Head located?

Three Shires Head is located at the meeting point of three counties: Cheshire, Derbyshire, and Staffordshire, in the Peak District National Park, England.


2) What makes Three Shires Head a hidden gem?

Three Shires Head is considered a hidden gem due to its remote location, stunning natural beauty, and the unique geological feature of three counties converging at one spot. The area offers visitors picturesque scenery, cascading waterfalls, and peaceful surroundings away from more heavily trafficked tourist destinations.


3) How do I get to Three Shires Head?

Visitors can access Three Shires Head by foot from various nearby villages, including Flash in Staffordshire and Wildboarclough in Cheshire. There are footpaths and trails leading to the site, offering scenic views of the surrounding countryside.


Image of Three Shires Head in Cheshire


This little gem can be tricky to find, so we recommend keeping an eye on the signposted paths. Located in a very hilly forest, Lud's Church is known for its similarity to a jungle ravine! There are a few different combinations to the walk, and can also be a little mysterious, especially for the little ones!


FAQs/Things to know before visiting Lud's Church


1) Where is Luds Church located in England?

Luds Church is situated in Gradbach, near the village of Rushton Spencer, in the Peak District National Park, Staffordshire, England.


2) What makes Luds Church a hidden gem?

Luds Church is often considered a hidden gem due to its secluded location within a moss-covered chasm, its unique geological features, and its association with local folklore and history.


3) How do I get to Luds Church?

Visitors can access Luds Church by foot, following designated footpaths from Gradbach or nearby parking areas. The site is located within the woodland of Black Brook, and signs along the trails provide directions.


Image of Lud's Church in Cheshire


6) Hanging Stone


The Hanging Stone offers lovely stunning views of The Roaches, in which a path can also be taken to take you to Lud's Church. It's a very simple but interesting location, more known for it's great Instagram photography opportunity when standing on the Hanging Stone.


FAQs/Things to know before visiting Hanging Stone


1) Where is the Hanging Stone located?

The Hanging Stone is located in the Peak District National Park, near the village of Macclesfield Forest in Cheshire, England. It sits atop a hill and offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.


2) How do I get to the Hanging Stone?

Access to the Hanging Stone is via hiking trails and footpaths that lead from Macclesfield Forest. While some routes may be more challenging than others, the journey to the Hanging Stone is rewarded with stunning vistas and natural beauty along the way.


3) Is the Hanging Stone safe to visit?

While visiting the Hanging Stone can be a rewarding experience, it's important to be cautious, especially in adverse weather conditions or when traversing steep terrain. Visitors should wear appropriate footwear and be mindful of their surroundings while enjoying the scenic views offered by the Hanging Stone.


Image of Hanging Stone in Cheshire

7) The Roaches


A great location to view some breath-taking views over the lands, as well as hearing nature and the birds. However please be aware of the sudden drops which are located between the rocks; they're very dangerous so please keep a hold of your children if you do visit with them.


FAQs/Things to know before visiting The Roaches


1) What are The Roaches?

The Roaches are a prominent rocky ridge located in the Peak District National Park, near Leek in Staffordshire, England. It is renowned for its stunning rock formations, dramatic cliffs, and panoramic views over the surrounding countryside.


2) How do I get to The Roaches?

Access to The Roaches is primarily via footpaths and trails from nearby parking areas. Popular starting points include the Roach End car park and the nearby village of Upper Hulme. From there, visitors can explore various routes that lead to different parts of The Roaches.


3) What activities can I do at The Roaches?

The Roaches offer a range of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy, including hiking, rock climbing, bouldering, and birdwatching. There are numerous walking trails of varying lengths and difficulties, making it suitable for both casual strolls and more challenging hikes.


Additionally, the area is home to diverse wildlife and plant species, providing opportunities for nature enthusiasts to observe and appreciate the natural surroundings.


Image of The Roaches in Cheshire


8) Blake Mere Mermaid Pool


It's not the best wild swimming spot, however it is one of the closest to Cheshire. It's a beautiful place to swim however as you can overlook The Roaches. The signs do say do not swim (we've seen reports of scrap metal being seen in the water) so please make your own judgement.


FAQs/Things to know before visiting Blake Mere Mermaid Pool


1) What is Blake Mere Mermaid Pool?

Blake Mere Mermaid Pool is a picturesque natural pool located in the Peak District National Park, near the village of Macclesfield Forest in Cheshire, England. It is known for its tranquil atmosphere and the legend of the mermaid said to inhabit its waters.


2) How do I get to Blake Mere Mermaid Pool?

Access to Blake Mere Mermaid Pool is via footpaths and trails from the nearby Macclesfield Forest Visitors Centre or Trentabank Reservoir. From there, visitors can follow signposted routes leading to the pool, which is nestled amidst scenic woodland.


3) Can I swim in Blake Mere Mermaid Pool?

While swimming is technically possible in Blake Mere Mermaid Pool, it's essential to be cautious due to the pool's natural conditions, including depth and temperature. Visitors should also respect the area's natural habitat and follow any signage or guidance provided to ensure their safety and preserve the environment.


Image of Black Mere Mermaid Pool in Cheshire

We hoped you enjoyed discovering the local finds and less known places which are scattered around Cheshire. We are confident that visiting some of these hidden gems will make your adventure around Cheshire even more memorable!


Download the official APP!


Gain access to over 1,600 hidden gems and their co-ordinates all over the UK when you download our app. Add gems to your bucket-list and tick them off as you go along, as well as earn rewards/badges when you visit a certain amount.




7,086 views0 comments

Recent Posts

See All

Comments


bottom of page