A bustling market town with a population of roughly 50,000 people, Macclesfield was once the centre of the English silk weaving industry. Today the town is home to a range of independent cafes, bars and shops, drawing visitors from far and wide.
Found lying below the Western edges of the Peak District, this small but highly popular town offers a varied lifestyle for homebuyers, with locals able to take advantage of a range of urban and rural amenities on their doorsteps.
It’s no surprise therefore, that Macclesfield has made its way onto Rightmove’s annual ‘Happy at Home Index’, a survey of over 21, 000 people in the UK (2022), which asked for residents’ opinions on where they live.
With a strong sense of community, characterful architecture and a recent influx of indie bars and brunch spots, Macclesfield is a brilliant location for both first-time buyers and relocators alike!
Place and Community
On a stroll round Macclesfield, the sense of industrial history remains prominent in its streets and architecture. The heritage of silk manufacture is still evident today in the remains of disused textile mills, like Paradise Mill; a lasting relic of a thriving industry which declined in 1825 when the demand for home produced silk dwindled.
Commonly referred to as ‘The Silk Town’, textile heritage is laced into the urban fabric of this popular Cheshire community. A Saturday stroll down the quaint cobbles of Church street and up into Market Place will take you back to the mid 1700’s, when the silk industry took off and the town was a hive of activity. Today you’ll likely find leisurely shoppers or people sipping lattes in one of the towns many cafes or brunch spots.
A tangible spirit of community has endured amongst the people living here, despite the decline of traditional industry and the growth of digitalisation and homeworking. Many of the shops and bars are independently owned, with only a few large retailers having penetrated the mix. Macclesfield has retained a uniquely intimate and friendly atmosphere, which you’ll struggle to find elsewhere!
Read More: The History of Macclesfield Silk
Foodies Paradise
The cobblestone streets and old mills in Macclesfield provide a wonderful setting for a flourishing food and drinks scene. The Treacle market is a large event that draws visitors and residents to experience a range of artisan foods, from 160 local sellers, on the final Sunday of each month.
A stroll down Buxton Road will reveal plenty of modern food joints.
Those with a sweet tooth can peruse artisan bakeries like ‘Early Bird Bakes’. Alternatively, savoury-lovers can grab pizza and cocktail at ‘Tommy’s Bar and Pizza’.
Stuck for lunch on a weekday lunchtime? A trip to the Picturedrome will give you plenty of tasty options from nine varied food outlets, perfect for larger groups. Housed in Macclesfield’s first ever cinema, The Picturedrome is a regenerated food hall, launched by the people behind the popular Altrincham Market and Mackie Mayor in Manchester.
Whatever your preference, Macclesfield is likely to have something to cater to your tastes.
The Best of Both Worlds: A Varied Lifestyle
Just 20 minutes from Manchester and 1hr 45 minutes from London, Macclesfield is a popular choice for commuters. Workers have easy access to major cities whilst enjoying a slightly slower pace of life in the suburbs.
Additionally, Macclesfield acts as a gateway to The Peak District National park; one of the key treasures of the North of England and highly popular amongst adventurists and nature lovers.
The Peaks span 555 square miles of hiking and outdoor opportunities and is accessible in just 20 minutes by car from Macclesfield.
Key nearby attractions, found on the Western side of the Peaks, include Lyme Park, Macclesfield forest and Teggs nose. Each boasting particularly stunning countryside views.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Macclesfield is a brilliant location for homebuyers and relocators alike. The town offers a varied lifestyle with a range of urban and rural amenities to suit every kind of buyer, in every sort of mood!
Its rich industrial history, warm community spirit, and proximity to the Peak District make it a very attractive location for those looking for a change of pace.
Interested in moving here? Take a look at our luxury townhouse properties, found just 10 mintues walk from Macclesfield town centre at Thistledowns. Enjoy rural serenity without giving up the convenience and buzz of inner city life.