Rainow: A Pretty Cheshire Village on the Edge of the Peak District
The small but pretty village of Rainow lies on the eastern side of the Peak District border between Cheshire and Derbyshire, in the valley of the River Dean. It is surrounded by stunning countryside, with rolling hills to the east and the expansive Cheshire Plain to the west. On a clear day there are views to the distant Welsh hills.
Planning a visit? Our comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know, from top attractions and walking routes to practical tips for making the most of your trip to this beautiful Cheshire village.
History
Rainow’s name derives from the Old English Hraefn Hoe, meaning Ravens’ Hill. The first records of the village date back to the late 13th Century, and in early Medieval times the area was part of the royal hunting forest of Macclesfield. Rainow was an important staging post on one of the packhorse routes for salt transport from the mines of Cheshire. The routes were later used by cattle drovers and sheep dealers.
Rainow Today
The village today has a lively community, with an annual fete, tug o’ war and fell race. It boasts an architecturally interesting chapel, the Jenkin Chapel, built in 1733. This Grade II listed building has external steps that lead to a gallery, to the side of a small tower. There is also a pretty Anglican church built in 1846.
Walking and the Gritstone Trail
Rainow is a perfect base for walking in this part of the Peak District, particularly along Kerridge Ridge, which makes up Rainow’s western boundary. The Gritstone Trail, a 35 mile long path from Disley Station to Kidsgrove Station, passes close to the village. The trail goes through Cheshire and Staffordshire and is a challenging route along the most westerly hills of the Peak District, taking in almost 6,000 feet of ascent. Shining Tor, the highest point in Cheshire, is only a few miles out of the village, as are Windgather Rocks.
Lamaload Reservoir
To the east of the village lies Lamaload Reservoir, an awe-inspiring feat of engineering built between 1958 and 1964. It was the first concrete reservoir constructed in England and at 308 metres above sea level, it is also the highest in the country. It is surrounded by beautiful wooded moorland and is popular with anglers and birdwatchers, as well as walkers.
Where to Stay in Rainow
Rainow offers a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. From charming guest houses to self-catering cottages, there is something for every visitor.
Accommodation Options
- Charming guest houses and B&Bs
- Self-catering cottages in the surrounding countryside
- Camping and caravan sites nearby
Top Tips for Your Rainow Visit
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and summer offer the best weather for exploring the countryside. On a clear day, you can see the distant Welsh hills.
- Getting There: Rainow is accessible by car via the B5470, located between Macclesfield and Chapel-en-le-Frith.
- Parking: There is parking available in the village, including near the church and chapel.
- Don’t Miss: The Jenkin Chapel with its external gallery steps, and the views from Kerridge Ridge.
- Explore: The Gritstone Trail, Shining Tor, and the impressive Lamaload Reservoir.
Frequently Asked Questions About Rainow
Is Rainow worth visiting?
Absolutely! Rainow is a pretty village with stunning views, fascinating history, and excellent walking opportunities on the edge of the Peak District.
What is Rainow famous for?
Rainow is famous for its Jenkin Chapel, its position on the Gritstone Trail, its proximity to Shining Tor (the highest point in Cheshire), and the impressive Lamaload Reservoir.
Where does the name Rainow come from?
Rainow’s name derives from the Old English Hraefn Hoe, meaning Ravens’ Hill.
What is the Gritstone Trail?
The Gritstone Trail is a 35 mile long path from Disley Station to Kidsgrove Station, passing close to Rainow. It is a challenging route through the most westerly hills of the Peak District.
What is special about Lamaload Reservoir?
Lamaload Reservoir was the first concrete reservoir constructed in England and at 308 metres above sea level, it is the highest in the country. It was built between 1958 and 1964.
What is Shining Tor?
Shining Tor is the highest point in Cheshire, located just a few miles from Rainow. It is a popular walking destination with spectacular views.
For more information about visiting the area, explore the official Peak District National Park visiting guide and plan your adventure in this remarkable part of Cheshire.
🥾 Explore Near Rainow
Discover walks, attractions, pubs, and more within the local area
- Buxton Visitor Centre 6.8 miles
- Easy Trig Walk for Kids 2.7 miles
- Macclesfield Forest Walk (8 Miles) ✨ NEW 3.3 miles
- Shining Tor and Goyt Valley (7 miles) 3.9 miles
- Wildboarclough Circular via Shuttlingsloe (7 miles) ✨ NEW 5 miles
- The Duke at Burbage ✨ NEW 6.1 miles
- Poole’s Cavern 6.5 miles
- Noonology 6.8 miles
- Orchard Cottage 1.4 miles
- The Breckland 2 miles
- Shrigley Hall Hotel and Spa 2.4 miles
- Fox Bank Cottage, Adlington 3 miles
- Poole’s Cavern 6.5 miles
- Go Ape! Treetop Adventure 6.5 miles
- Buxton Opera House & The Pavilion Arts Centre 6.7 miles
- The Buxton Crescent Experience 6.8 miles
🎪 Coming Up
Distances are straight-line and approximate. Actual travel distances may vary.
