Cheshire is arguably one of the UK’s most underrated counties. Bordering two bustling cities - the northern powerhouse that is Manchester and the cultural melting pot that is Liverpool - and flanked by both Wales and Peak District National Park, Cheshire is in a prime geographical position. Aside from its county town, the cathedral city of Chester, Cheshire is full of picturesque villages, historic towns and miles of lush, verdant countryside. If you’re thinking of relocating to Cheshire, here are some excellent places to consider.
Nestled amidst serene landscapes, Alderley Edge is a quaint and picturesque village featuring cobbled streets and historical buildings. Renowned for being the oldest known metal-mining site in England, Alderley Edge has been home to mining activity for over 4,000 years. Although it is one of the most expensive and sought-after places to live in the UK outside London, the residents of Alderley Edge can attest to its exceptional living standards with a lively restaurant and bar scene and healthy retail therapy opportunities.
Macclesfield is a charming market town in the east of Cheshire, on the River Bollin, a tributary of the River Mersey. Macclesfield is blessed with breathtaking natural beauty, surrounded by picturesque countryside. Whether you enjoy hiking, mountain biking, geocaching or camping, Macclesfield Forest is the perfect place to lose yourself in nature. In terms of the town itself, tourists can visit the Silk Museum, showcasing Macclesfield’s historic association with the silk industry.
Situated on the banks of the Manchester Ship Canal and the River Mersey lies Ellesmere Port, a historically significant town founded at the outlet of the never-completed Ellesmere Canal. Ellesmere Port has a rich industrial history, particularly in shipbuilding, oil refining, and manufacturing. This fascinating history can be explored at The National Waterways Museum, which offers insight into the area’s maritime heritage. Additionally, Ellesmere Port has a close-knit community, and cultural events and festivals are organised throughout the year to celebrate its rich past.
Northwich lies nestled in the heart of Cheshire, where the River Dane joins the Weaver. A quirky and charming town, Northwich has a long history of salt mining, dating back over 2,000 years ago when the salt towns of Cheshire were first established by the Romans. Its close ties with the salt mining industry helped to put Northwich on the map, shaping the local economy and culture. This market town also benefits from good transportation links, both by road and rail, making it convenient for commuters to travel to nearby cities like Manchester, Liverpool, or Chester.
Sandbach, a small market town approximately 17 miles east of Chester, is mentioned in the Domesday Book and is built around an ancient yet spacious cobbled square. Sandbach derives its name from the Anglo-Saxon sand bæce, meaning sand stream or sand valley, and indeed, evidence of Sanbach’s Anglo-Saxon history can be seen in the form of two sandstone crosses situated in the market square. Sandbach is a highly desirable place to live, with an excellent selection of schools and an impressive range of shops, boutiques, and local businesses. Contact a mortgage broker in Sandbach today to find out more.
Of course, it wouldn’t be a list of excellent places to live in Cheshire without mentioning Chester. Chester's colourful history dates back to AD 79, when it was founded by the Romans as a fort known as Deva. Chester’s well-preserved Roman walls, mediaeval buildings, and Victorian architecture create a picturesque and timeless atmosphere, popular with tourists and residents alike. Chester also boasts a vibrant cultural scene, with numerous theatres, art galleries, and music venues, such as the Grosvenor Park Open Air Theatre and The Live Rooms.
Wilmslow, a charming town located eleven miles south of Manchester, offers a delightful blend of modern amenities and historical charm. With a thriving high street bustling with activity, Wilmslow provides unique shopping and dining experiences for both residents and visitors, with a wealth of independent businesses. Golf enthusiasts rejoice as this quaint market town is home to the renowned Wilmslow Golf Club, established in 1889, making it one of the oldest golf clubs in the UK. Wilmslow also features well-regarded schools and plenty of lush greenery, contributing to the excellent quality of life enjoyed by its residents.