WT001 - Macclesfield Forest
Campaign: JUST A WALK
Mission: WT001 | Walk & Talk
Location: Macclesfield Forest | Date: Sunday 26th October 2025
RV: Leathers Smithy, Clarke Lane, Macclesfield SK11 0NE England
Time: 10:00am
This Sunday 26th October 2025, we will be hosting our first Official Walk & Talk and lauching our new community campaign "JUST A WALK" at Macclesfield Forest in Cheshire. Its the first time that founder Jamie Lundy has bravely opened up about his ongoing battle with mental health, and this is a celebration of that bravery. Jamie also wants to continue these events and organise walks every 2-4 weeks, inviting likeminded people to join and enjoy the great outdoors, initially around Cheshire and Lancashire, then hopefully nationally. As the Winter approaches the days become shorter, and seasonal depression can set in. There is nothing more important than ensuring you get outdoors, raise your heart beat and refuel your serotonin tank.
This walk embodies the "walk and talk" ethos—perfect for mindful strolls, family outings, or solo reflection amid nature's calm. If you're into fitness or mental wellness, it's a gentle way to build stamina while soaking in the therapeutic forest air.
WHAT IS MACCLESFIELD FOREST?
Macclesfield Forest is a picturesque woodland area on the western edge of the Peak District National Park in Cheshire, England, just east of the town of Macclesfield. It's not a dense, ancient woodland like some forests but a mix of conifer plantations, open moorland, and serene reservoirs, originally established as a royal hunting ground by the Normans in the 11th century. Today, it's a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) for its biological diversity, home to the largest heronry (heron nesting colony) in the Peak District, as well as birds, mammals, and wildflowers. The area is ideal for low-impact outdoor activities, offering a peaceful escape with a sense of remoteness—think tall pine trees evoking the Swiss Alps or the Pacific Northwest, complete with misty reservoirs and rolling hills.
Photo Credit: Jamie Lundy
A TYPICAL WALK: THE MACCLESFIELD FOREST CIRCULAR (VIA FOREST BRIDLEWAY)
One of the most popular and accessible walks in the area is the Macclesfield Forest Circular (Via Forest Bridleway), a moderate loop that's perfect for beginners, families, or anyone seeking a half-day adventure. It's about 8.5 km (5.3 miles) long, takes 2-3 hours at a leisurely pace, and involves gentle inclines rather than steep climbs (elevation gain around 200m). This route showcases the forest's highlights: shady woodland paths, reservoir views, and glimpses of the surrounding moors.
On Sunday this will be our route but there are plenty of others too.
ROUTE OVERVIEW
Starting Point: Forest Chapel car park (pay-and-display, postcode SK11 0NS) near Ridgegate Reservoir, easily accessible by car from Macclesfield (10-15 minute drive via A537). Public transport users can take a bus from Macclesfield Bus Station to Langley (about 20 minutes), then walk 1.4 miles (30 minutes) to the trailhead.
Photo Credit: Jamie Lundy
Trail Breakdown:
Reservoir Ramble (0-2 km): Begin at the car park and head north along the eastern shore of Ridgegate Reservoir. The calm water reflects the surrounding hills, with Tegg's Nose (a dramatic gritstone outcrop) looming in the background. This flat section is great for birdwatching—keep an eye out for grey herons or buzzards.
Into the Woods (2-4 km): Follow a forest bridleway uphill through dense conifer groves. The path winds between towering pines, creating a cathedral-like atmosphere with dappled sunlight filtering through. It's cool and shaded in summer, but can be muddy after rain—wear sturdy boots.
Moorland Meander (4-6 km): Emerge onto open grassland near Langley Bottoms, with views stretching across the Cheshire Plain to the Welsh hills on clear days. Pass old farmsteads and stone walls, dipping into pockets of oak woodland.
Loop Back (6-8.5 km): Descend gently back to the reservoirs via another bridleway, circling past three more bodies of water (Bottoms, Trentabank, and Ridgegate Reservoirs). End with a short uphill to the car park.
Difficulty: Easy to moderate. Paths are well-maintained gravel tracks and grass, suitable for all ages, but some sections can be uneven or slippery. Dogs are welcome (on leads near livestock).
Highlights:
Scenic Spots: Panoramic reservoir views and the "mini Matterhorn" rock formation (a jagged peak resembling the Swiss icon).
Wildlife: Deer, foxes, and rare plants; spring brings bluebells, while autumn offers golden foliage.
Extensions: For a longer hike (add 2-3 km), detour around the full Ridgegate Reservoir or link to Tegg's Nose for quarry views and a pub stop at Leather's Smithy (traditional ales and hearty meals).
PRACTICAL TIPS
Best Time: Year-round, but spring/summer for wildflowers and milder weather; avoid mid-winter due to short days and potential ice. Expect changeable Peak District weather—pack layers and rain gear.
Facilities: Toilets and picnic spots at the visitor center near Forest Chapel. The Leather's Smithy pub (0.5 km detour) serves food and drinks.
Accessibility: Mostly pushchair-friendly on main paths, but check for closures. Free maps are available at the visitor center or via apps like AllTrails or Komoot.
Environmental Note: Stick to paths to protect the fragile peat moorland; no wild camping, but nearby B&Bs in Langley abound.