Macclesfield Forest Walk (8 Miles)
Explore the best of Macclesfield Forest on this circular walk, a superb route that takes in the scenic trio of Ridgegate, Bottoms, and Teggsnose reservoirs. With breathtaking views from Nessit Hill and a convenient stop at the historic Leathers Smithy pub halfway round, this trail offers a perfect day out. Free parking is available on the eastern hilltop, so just pack your gear and enjoy the adventure.
⚠️ Please note: This route has been created and shared by an Outdoor Active community member. It has not been checked or verified by Let’s Go Peak District. Please read the full walk description carefully, check weather and ground conditions before setting out, and look to community reviews and comments on Outdoor Active for up-to-date feedback. Always follow the Countryside Code.
View Full Route on Outdoor Active ↗Macclesfield Forest
Macclesfield Forest is one of the last surviving remnants of the ancient Royal Forest of Macclesfield, a vast hunting ground once reserved for the Earls of Chester. Today, it stands as a cherished recreational haven on the eastern fringe of the Cheshire Peak District, covering approximately 1,200 acres of managed woodland, moorland, and farmland.
The forest is a working landscape, primarily managed by United Utilities for water catchment purposes, alongside the Forestry Commission, who oversee the timber production and public access. Visitors will find a rich mosaic of coniferous plantations, largely consisting of larch, pine, and spruce, interspersed with pockets of broadleaf woodland. This variety of habitats supports an impressive array of wildlife, including red deer, roe deer, and a vibrant population of woodland birds such as crossbills, siskins, and the unmistakable great spotted woodpecker.
For outdoor enthusiasts, the forest offers a well-maintained network of trails suitable for walking, trail running, and mountain biking. Its proximity to the Peak District National Park makes it a popular gateway for those seeking fresh air and dramatic views without venturing too far from urban centres like Macclesfield, Manchester, and Stockport.
The Reservoirs: Ridgegate, Bottoms, and Teggsnose
The three reservoirs are the defining geographical features of the forest floor and are integral to the region’s water supply and ecological health. They are all owned and managed by United Utilities.
Ridgegate Reservoir
Ridgegate is the largest and most prominent of the three bodies of water. Constructed in the mid-19th century, it was built to supply drinking water to the growing towns of East Cheshire. The reservoir is a striking sight, often reflecting the surrounding plantation pines on its still surface. Its western shore is particularly popular with anglers, as it is stocked with brown trout and rainbow trout, making it a designated fly-fishing location. A well-defined footpath runs along its eastern flank, providing level, accessible walking and connecting walkers to the higher forest trails.
Bottoms Reservoir
Situated downstream from Ridgegate, Bottoms Reservoir is the smallest of the trio but no less charming. It was also constructed during the Victorian era as part of the same water supply scheme. Its name, typical of local British topography, simply refers to its low-lying position within the valley floor. The reservoir is encircled by mature woodland, creating a more intimate and sheltered atmosphere. It serves as a vital habitat for waterfowl and amphibians, and its tranquil setting makes it a favourite spot for picnickers and those seeking a quieter corner of the forest.
Teggsnose Reservoir
Despite its unusual name, which is believed to derive from a local landowner or a historical topographical feature, Teggsnose Reservoir is a picturesque gem nestled on the western edge of the forest. It is the most accessible of the three, sitting close to the main car parks and the Leathers Smithy pub. The reservoir is often the first and last body of water that walkers encounter on the circular route. Its gently sloping banks and easy access make it ideal for families and casual strollers. In the summer months, the surrounding meadows burst with wildflowers, adding a splash of colour to the deep greens of the conifer backdrop.
Teggs Nose: The Hill and the Viewpoint
It is important to distinguish between Teggsnose Reservoir and the prominent hill known simply as Teggs Nose. The latter is a distinctive sandstone ridge that rises to an elevation of approximately 380 metres above sea level. This hill is a classic example of a gritstone escarpment, formed over millions of years by geological processes that left behind a rugged, craggy outcrop.
Teggs Nose is famous for its panoramic viewpoints. From the summit, walkers are rewarded with sweeping vistas that extend westwards across the Cheshire Plain, taking in the urban sprawl of Manchester, the distinct peak of Alderley Edge, and, on a particularly clear day, the distant hills of North Wales and the Welsh mountains. Looking east, the view stretches directly into the heart of the Peak District, offering a dramatic contrast between the rolling moorlands and the forested valley below.
The hill is a popular destination in its own right, with a dedicated car park near the top and a short, steep path leading to the summit. It also forms a key segment of the Gritstone Trail, a long-distance footpath that traverses the Cheshire Peak District. The exposed nature of the hill means weather conditions can change rapidly, so walkers are always advised to carry appropriate waterproofs and warm layers, even in the summer months. The combination of the reservoirs below and the sweeping views from Teggs Nose is what makes this corner of Cheshire such a magnet for day-trippers and serious hikers alike.
ℹ️ Tourist Information
- Buxton Visitor Centre 5.2 miles
🥾 Nearby Walks
- Shining Tor and Goyt Valley (7 miles) 1.5 miles
- Three Shires Head (3.8 miles) 3.5 miles
- Easy Trig Walk for Kids 3.5 miles
- Dragon's Back Walk (3.9 miles) 6.3 miles
☕ Cafes & Tearooms
- Poole’s Cavern 4.6 miles
- Noonology 5.1 miles
🏠 Places to Stay
- Gradbach Mill and Farmhouse 3.5 miles
- Orchard Cottage 4.6 miles
- The Park Apartments, Buxton 5 miles
- Best Western Plus Buxton Lee Wood Hotel 5 miles
🏛️ Attractions
- Poole’s Cavern 4.6 miles
- Go Ape! Treetop Adventure 4.6 miles
- Buxton Opera House & The Pavilion Arts Centre 5.1 miles
- The Buxton Crescent Experience 5.2 miles
🎪 Coming Up
Distances are straight-line and approximate. Actual travel distances may vary.
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