Article from our newsletter "The Wittering Witch"

The Middlewood Way offers a 10-mile (16km) traffic-free route for walkers, cyclists and horse riders. It follows the line of the former Macclesfield, Bollington and Marple Railway through picturesque Cheshire countryside and between historic mill towns. For much of its length the Middlewood Way runs close to the Macclesfield Canal and there are many options for easy circular walks. In 1863 the towns of Marple, Bollington and Macclesfield were facing economic depression. Local dignitaries, in particular the cotton mill owners of Bollington, hoped that a new railway would improve their fortunes and presented a scheme to Parliament. The Macclesfield, Bollington and Marple Railway opened in 1869. The line carried cotton, silk, coal and passengers, but always struggled to make a profit. It was closed in 1970 and redeveloped for recreation as the Middlewood Way in 1985.
Cyclists are asked to respect the rights of other users. Be aware that pedestrians may not hear you: use your bell and approach slowly. Where the Way is separated into two paths, we recommend using the wider path, which is shared with horse riders. Please give way to horses, to avoid startling them.