places to visit in marple

Things To Do

Marple Aqueduct: The ‘River in the Sky’ that makes for one of the North’s best walks

One of the easiest and most serene little strolls you'll find anywhere in Greater Manchester.

Marple is very much the epitome of where Greater Manchester meets the old-world vibes of the Cheshire countryside in what is, for our money, one of the most idyllic vistas anywhere in the region.

While many Mancs may have never ventured out to the reaches of this Stockport town and its adjacent villages before, Marple is not only home to roughly 13,000 locals but it’s also a regular haunt for walkers, canal enthusiasts and plenty of people just yearning for a little taste of the countryside.

One feature of the town that plays no small part in the influx of tourists and other residents from in and around Manchester is the famous Marple Aqueduct , sometimes known as ‘The Grand Aqueduct’ — and for good reason, as it’s the biggest canal aqueduct anywhere in England.

You might think you have seen many like it in various rural towns over the years but believe us, this is one of those things that you have to see in person to truly appreciate it.

Built all the way back in 1794, Marple Aqueduct measures 800 feet long, over 100 feet tall and its central-most point and contains approximately 8,000 cubic yards of red sandstone and white stone from Chapel Milton near Glossop .

It took seven years to build this incredible piece of masonry and functioning aqueduct — a life sadly lost for each year of construction — and it goes without saying that erecting a structure of this size in an era with much cruder tools and when health and safety weren’t exactly at the forefront of people’s minds.

The men that built that this thing literally put their lives on the line to try and ‘impress the engineering world’, put Marple on the map and carve their own little slice of history .

And they did just that.

One of those people was civil engineer Benjamin Outram, the man who was responsible for many of the North West’s famous waterways, including the Manchester, Bolton and Bury Canal, Ashton and Maccsefield canals and even as far as the Huddersfield Narrow .

In the instance of the Grand Aqueduct, he designed to carry the Peak Forest Canal above the River Goyt which runs for around 15 miles from Dukinfield Junction along the Ashton Canal to the canal’s terminus at Bugsworth Basin.

It had to undergo some repairs down the years, especially after the long winter of 1961 (the year before the so-called ‘Big Freeze’), with significant chunks of stonework falling into the Goyt which cost the local council and British Waterways £350,000 in today’s money to replace them.

Beyond taking in the marvel that is Marple Aqueduct itself, the reason this site is so popular when it comes to Greater Manchester walks, bike rides, picnics and so on is that you can walk the entire length of Marple Canal Flight , which consists of 16 locks and is one the steepest in the UK.

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With plenty of nearby parking, the train station literally a stone’s throw from locks seven and eight, not to mention Lock 16 literally on the doorstep of Marple town centre (the Grand Aqueduct sitting at the other end), you can hop on plenty of points along the canal depending on how long a walk you fancy.

Marple and Stockport at large might have been part of Greater Manchester for nearly half a century now, but for those of you who enjoy scenic walks or simply swant to immerse yourselves in the local heritage and old Cheshire roots, there aren’t many better places to start than this.

You can see our recent Short Stuff episode on Marple’s Grand Aqueduct down below:

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Featured Image — The Manc Group/ The Marple Wesbite

An exciting new Bluey play will be on stage in Greater Manchester this summer, and you can still grab yourself some tickets.

For the first time ever, smash-hit live theatre show  Bluey’s Big Play  has made its way over to the UK from Down Under, and opened to both critical and audience acclaim back in December of last year, before going on to scoop up a prestigious Olivier Award along the way.

Bluey’s Big Play  is a brand-new stage adaptation of the BAFTA and Emmy award-winning Australian TV series on CBeebies and Disney+ that’s loved by millions of children worldwide.

The family-friendly show features brilliantly-created puppets, live actors, and iconic sets to give audiences of all ages the chance to see title character Bluey, her younger sister Bingo, and their parents Bandit and Chilli “as they’ve never seen them before”.

With an original story by Bluey creator Joe Brumm, and new music by Bluey composer, Joff Bush,  Bluey’s Big Play is said to “remix” some fan-favourite moments into an all-new and exciting story featuring original voices from the TV show – including the instantly-recognisable voices of Dave McCormack and Melanie Zanetti as Bandit and Chilli Heeler.

And now, after entertaining families down in London, Bluey will be arriving in Greater Manchester towards the end of the month and taking over The Lowry’s stage.

Bluey’s Big Play will be at The Lowry from Wednesday 31 July until Sunday 11 August.

Tickets have already gone on sale and have been selling fast, so a handful of additional performances have been added to the show’s run to give more fans the chance to see the beloved character on stage, and you can still get your hands on these.

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• A family-friendly festival full of FREE interactive activities is happening in Manchester this summer

Find out more and grab tickets on The Lowry website here .

Featured Image – The Lowry

Coronation Street has revealed the lineup of cast members you’ll be able to meet if you go on one its famous ‘Stars Tours’ this summer.

Unfamiliar with what ITV ‘s ‘Stars Tours’ are all about?

Well, they’re basically everything you know and love about the original Coronation Street set tours, but only this time with a more famous flare, as the unique concept sees mystery cast members from the iconic show join selected afternoon visits every weekend.

The famous Corrie faces add an extra layer of star quality to the already-popular guided tours of the UK’s most recognisable TV set.

Thousands of visitors to Greater Manchester have already been on ‘Star Tours’ this year, and Corrie royalty like Maureen Lipman, Colson Smith, Andy Whyment, and Samia Longchambon have joined in on the fun, and have posed for photos, signed autographs, and even spent time chatting to loyal fans.

While it’s not to say that those famous faces won’t be reappearing on an upcoming tour over the next couple of weeks, so keep your fingers crossed if you’re a big Kirk or Maria fan, but the Coronation Street Experience has now revealed that absolute Corrie legend Sue Cleaver will definitely be among the mystery guests to appear this summer.

Fans will get to take a guided 90-minute journey around iconic Coronation Street locations on these exciting star-studded tours.

The Rovers Return, The Kabin, and Roy’s Rolls are just some of the locations you’ll get to see the outside of with your own eyes, while you can actually go inside interior sets like Prima Doner too, and even walk along the entire length of Coronation Street, as well as adjacent streets that are featured in the show.

“We know our guests want to get as close to the show as possible, and our Star Tours are the ultimate way to do just that,” explained Kristian Johnson, who is the General Manager of the Coronation Street Experience.

“Coronation Street has incredibly loyal fans, and we are so fortunate that the stars of the show want to repay their loyalty.

“They love spending time with our guests to fulfil their bucket list wishes and give them a day to remember. Seeing their excitement when they come face-to-face with their favourite cast members like Sue, Maureen, or Colson is undoubtedly one of the best parts of my job.”

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Find out more about the Coronation Street Experience, and book your place on one of the popular ‘Stars Tours’ here .

Featured Image – Continuum Attractions (via ITV)

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Kids & Family

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Manchester’s Italian bottomless brunch with endless Aperol spritz and a tower of treats

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The charity making life better by water

Making life better by water

Marple Locks

This 16-lock flight at Marple is a spectacular sight, and one of the steepest flights in Britain. Visit beautiful countryside and nearby Marple Aqueduct for a family day out.

It's an absolutely fascinating part of our industrial heritage. Not only does Marple boast Benjamin Outram's splendid stone Marple Aqueduct, together with its slightly higher railway viaduct neighbour running parallel. But you're sure to bump into Oldknow - the man who made Marple.

Visit our welcome station for more information, located at the top of Marple's famous lock flight, near to the junction with the Macclesfield Canal .

More information about what you can enjoy at Marple Locks

Things to see and do

Planning your visit.

Marple Locks, Church St, Marple, Stockport, Cheshire, SK6 6BN

The towpath is always open.

Once you're parked up, it won't cost you a thing.

There are public toilets in the town centre.

Samuel Oldknow (1756 – 1828) transformed rural Marple and Mellor into a hub of industry

Getting here

Parking is available in the town centre

Marple Station is a 5-minute walk to the towpath itself, and 15 minutes to the bottom lock.

Under Marple Aqueduct (Getty Images)

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Five Things to Do in Marple

Five attractions in and around the centre of marple.

Marple is a lovely corner of North East Cheshire. It is in a semi-rural setting which is handy for Stockport, Manchester, and the Peak District. Our cottages are on the banks of the River Goyt which is a good starting point for exploring the town centre and walks.

1. Chadkirk Trail

Our farm and cottages are a short distance from the Chadkirk Trail. This is a circular walk which takes in the rivers Goyt and Etherow , the Peak Forest Canal, and the most part of Marple. Chadkirk Chapel is a Grade II Listed Building with records going back to 1374. It is of notable interest due to its timber frame and stonework. Along the Chadkirk trail is the…

2. Marple Locks

No trip to Marple is complete without seeing the Marple Locks . All sixteen of them from the junction with the Macclesfield Canal to the aqueduct were restored in 1974 and add character to the town. Along the course of the Peak Forest Canal is Brabyns Park and Roman Lakes.

3. Brabyns Park

One of the joys of Marple is the amount of parks and open spaces, which make the town an attractive place for dog owners. Brabyns Park follows part of the River Goyt and the first eight of Marple’s locks on the Peak Forest Canal. Its expanse of green fields makes for a good picnicking spot. The site of Brabyns Hall, demolished in 1952, is now a car park.

4. Roman Lakes

Towards the southern end of the Peak Forest Canal is Roman Lakes. It provided water for Samuel Oldknow’s mill until 1892, the year it was destroyed by fire. Immediately after, it became a tourist attraction with tearooms and an amusement arcade. Today, there are tearooms, and the lakes are a popular spot with anglers.

5. Regent Cinema

After all that walking, you might wish to take in a film. The Regent Cinema is one of Greater Manchester’s last surviving independent cinemas, and has a good local following. Converted from a place of worship, it became a cinema in 1932. It prides itself on charging realistic prices for cinema tickets and refreshments, a contrast to the multiplex chains a short drive away.

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This is the place: Marple is the jewel of the Cheshire Alps

• Written by Chris Greenhalgh
• Last updated 11 months ago
• Cheshire , Community , Cornerstone , Property & Planning , Stockport

For many of its residents, Marple is the centre of the universe, and somewhere you don’t need to leave – which is just as well as there’s only one road in and one road out.

That’s a massive part of the charm of the great escape that is Marple.

Marple is a rural town within the metropolitan borough of Stockport , Greater Manchester, which historically adjoins the Cheshire boundary and includes the villages of Marple, Mellor, Hawk Green, High Lane, Marple Bridge, Moor End, Strines and the hamlet of Mill Brow, all of which have some excellent views of Manchester.

Much like the Worsley and Boothstown districts of Salford, the Marple district of Stockport is a part of Greater Manchester, which has prospered thanks to the once-booming cotton industry.

Local knowledge

1918 was a big year for Greater Manchester and Marple. It was the end of the First World War and the year in which (some) British women were allowed to vote for the first time.

In Marple, women took action. Women’s lives changed, and women changed Marple.

According to Friends of Marple Station , in the years before the war, women in the town organised themselves, formed networks, campaigned for the vote and worked alongside the radical women of Manchester.

Marple inspired the most famous Agatha Christie character, Miss Marple, and her range of ‘who-done-it novels. Young Agatha would often travel north by train on her own to stay with her family in Cheshire.

You’ll find nods to Miss Marple and the cover art at Marple train station, along with a blue plaque that her grandson unveiled.

According to The Marple Website , the name of Marple is derived from either “ maere hop hyll”, an ancient term meaning “the hill at the boundary valley”, or “ maere pill”, meaning “the stream at the boundary”.

Which makes sense because Marple is well known for its canals and waterways, including the one-and-a-half-mile stretch of the Peak Forest Canal and its famous flight of locks.

Even more ludicrous is the sheer number of hair salons in Marple – over 25 hair and beauty venues for a population of just under 25k people.

As well as salons, Marple is also home to many independent boutique shops, cosy cafes, delis, restaurants and proper traditional pubs.

Community spirit

For residents of Marple, the great outdoors is a mere stroll away.

With miles of canal towpaths, wooded valleys and moorlands providing a mixture of superb scenery and fascinating features, many friendly walking groups can join and tour guides to follow, such as the Marple District Rambling Club over 350 members.

The Mellor March is a family and friends charity pub walk taking place every year on the Sunday of the first Bank Holiday weekend in Ma, running since 1994. This community walk starts at The Devonshire Arms on the border of Mellor village and visits eight pubs, with food and entertainment at Little Mill Inn along the way. You can donate [here] and every penny raised is donated directly to a cancer-related charity.

Marple Carnival is an annual event featuring food stalls and a colourful parade which raises funds for the local community including schools and charities.

Littlewoods Butchers is a little bit of an institution in Marple. All of their meat and poultry is guaranteed 100% British, and at Christmas time you’ll see happy queues of people being handed shorts of sherry while waiting to collect their meat for the festivities.

Best places to eat and drink

There are at least 22 pubs in Marple, and they’re all at the beginning (or the end) of a picturesque walk.

The Crown Hawk Green is a family-run Robinson’s pub with a partitioned dining space. Lynne and her team serve up scrumptious grub sourced from local producers and suppliers including award-winning homemade pies.

Try the cheese, onion and wholegrain mustard pie (£13). It might just change your waistline and your life.

The Midland in Marple Bridge is a Mitchells & Butlers pub boasting its own courtyard overlooking the beautiful River Goyt – perfect for enjoying a spot of alfresco drinking during the summer months. The food is admittedly pretty average pub grub, but the big car park next door makes The Midland a good meeting place or a place to start for pre-drinks before heading round the corner for dinner.

Traders is an independent neighbourhood micropub on Stockport Road serving craft beer, wine and cocktails. Flexing its fabric in the community, the venue regularly invites local foodie traders to collaborate with a pop-up on the patio.

Fold in Marple Bridge is a new but already much-loved neighbourhood independent bistro and bottle shop, serving ‘internationally influenced sharing plates’. Their ‘Chip Shop Croquettes’ filled with monkfish, Champagne curry sauce, smashed peas and malt vinegar ‘dust’ are the signature must-try snack and the ‘Lobster Hotpot’ with ‘hand-rolled’ handkerchief-shaped egg yolk fazzoletti and sourdough crumb will render you speechless.

All Things Nice is a continental cafe and bakery on Marple precinct, serving up freshly brewed coffee, freshly baked bread and banging breakfasts – including probably the best full English breakfast this side of the Pennines – of a morning; small plates and sandwiches of an afternoon; and an all day deli counter selling European charcuterie and artisan cheese.

Libby’s Bread and Wine is a relaxed independent eatery which has made quite a name for itself in just five years since opening in Marple Bridge. This atmospheric place is evocative of a bustling Barcelona cafe bar and has its very own bakery serving freshly baked bread, pastries and cakes from 7am and cooked breakfast from 8am, before it opens up as a buzzing bar restaurant from 5:30pm serving small plates and pizza.

Order three or four small plates per person – and remember that sharing is caring. After sampling one of their pizzas or fresh cheese and tomato garlic bread, try the bravas potatoes, hot and sticky pork belly, spiced breast of lamb, and the chilli and garlic prawns washed down with one of their recommended seasonal wines and/or an espresso martini. Did someone say choc and pecan cheesecake?

You could count the number of Cambodian restaurants in the UK on one hand – but you’ll find one in Marple: Angkor Soul on Stockport Road, which opened in 2017. And, according to The Observer ’s restaurant critic Jay Rayner , it’s “a little diamond,” serving “vivid, extremely fresh Cambodian home cooking.”

You’ll find Thai, Vietnamese and French influences in the food itself, with plenty of vegan dishes as well as the kind of “spiced broths you could get lost in”. Popular dishes include slow-cooked fragrant curries, street food noodle dishes and Cambodia’s national dish of fish curry cooked in a banana leaf with coconut milk, lemongrass and kaffir lime leaves. Food critic Jay put it perfectly: “It lives up to its name. It has soul”.

Dutsons Delicatessen and Kitchen in Marple Bridge is a family-owned deli shop. The shelves are lined with lots of different artisan products from local, national and international suppliers, including a fantastic selection of wine. You can also create your own special hamper full of unusual produce, which makes a great gift.

Hare & Hounds Mill Brow is cosy dog-friendly Robinson’s pub off the beaten track at the highest point of Mill Brow. This hidden gem is the perfect watering hole to stumble into after a countryside walk. Try a pint of Robinson’s Unicorn bitter or Cascade Golden IPA in front of the open fire while you explore the food menu. Every Wednesday and Thursday evening and Friday lunchtime, the pub offers a brilliant value set menu including an appetiser. Don’t miss sticky toffee pudding or Cheshire Farm ice cream in any weather.

La Dolce Vita has been Marple’s staple Italian restaurant for about 30 years and is the outstanding restaurant in an overstocked area. Serving very decent Italian food and open seven days a week, this place has hosted countless birthdays, anniversaries and family celebrations over the years.

The Fisherman’s Table is the first fish and seafood restaurant to open in Marple. Each day, along with their sister company Marple Fisaround the precinct corner, owner fishmonger Jamie Barrett sources the most sustainable fish and seafood from Fleetwood.

Try the Whitby crab risotto, and you won’t be disappointed. Take your own bottle of wine on Mondays – why not support another local and buy it from Dutson’s wine shop.

Parks and leisure

Marple various leisure facilities, including many marvellous parks, a library, a theatre, an old cinema, a swimming pool, and a fitness centre.

Brabyns Park is a former private 90-acre estate formerly owned by a woman named Fanny Marion Hudson who died at age 90 – which is now the largest park in Marple. You can walk past the Goyt River and maybe see a kingfisher, or through the fields where you can see swallows flying around.

Etherow Country Park was one of Britain’s first country parks, including a lovely park, dam, woods and a boating lake. In the summer you can watch boating, fishing and see the model boat race on the water.

Marple Library is situated in Memorial Park and was constructed in 1974. It may not be the best-looking building in the world but the library is accessible to all and makes a difference in the community by inviting locals to volunteer and join one of many reading groups. You can find a dedicated range of book titles which help boost your mood and resources promoting self-help and wellbeing.

Marple Memorial Park was built on land donated by the Carver Barlow families in memory of the men of Marple who fell in World War One. The park was formally opened in the summer of 1922 with a dedication ceremony and pageant attended by thousands.

The Middlewood Way is an 11-mile reclaimed former railway line between Macclesfield and Marple offering a variety of eco-friendly recreational opportunities, including walking, cycling, horse riding, birdwatching and picnicking, with fine views over Cheshire.

The Carver Theatre, founded in 1906 as the Marple Drama Society, is small but perfectly formed, including a licensed bar. Performances are well-chosen and performed by enthusiastic and talented amateur actors, some of whom could give up their day jobs.

Marple has its very own miniature railway. Dragon Miniature Railway is a small volunteer-based organisation running a 7.25″ gauge miniature railway on the grounds of Marple Garden Centre. Roy Cropper’s dream, the railway includes steep gradients, sharp curves, a tunnel and a bridge. Their fleet of hard-working locomotives will haul your train past these and other features around the line.

Marple is one of the very few small towns to have its own independent cinema still. Early in 1932, a plan was approved for the conversion of the Union Rooms on Stockport Road, and three adjoining houses into a cinema. Regent Cinema was last renovated in the late sixties and the slightly faulty screens are all part of the charm.

Transport links

The location and provision of excellent road and rail networks is another reason people choose to live in Marple.

Marple is about 10 miles from Manchester city centre and is served by two railway stations, Marple Station and Rose Hill Station. With Manchester just a stone’s throw away and London about a two hour train journey, the appeal is great for many.

Marple isn’t just a convenient home for commuters. It’s a family-friendly town and has many good fee-paying and state schools to choose from, many of which are highly rated by Ofsted, including Ludworth Primary and Marple Hall, a mixed-gender high school whose students are expected to show the Marple Hall Spirit – determination, honesty, readiness, respect, and spark.

Marple is a great place to call home and perfectly positioned between the city and country, Marple is an attractive option for those who fancy the small-town life. The ideal place for nature lovers, it’s home to eight villages and parks, but you’re also right on the dot for the commuter life.

According to Rightmove , properties in Marple had an overall average price of £388,457 over the last year.

The majority of sales in Marple during the last year were detached properties, selling for an average price of £539,735. Terraced properties sold for an average of £270,972, with semi-detached properties fetching £369,715.

You can bag a three-bedroom semi-detached house for between £300-350k in Marple, which is comparable with house prices in Chorlton and Didsbury but cheaper than most areas of neighbouring Cheshire.

This is the Place   is the name of a poem by  Tony Walsh  commissioned by   Forever Manchester , our beneficiary principle charity supporting community activity across Greater Manchester. And they can’t do it without our help. Donate  what you can because investing in your local community to help it thrive can be a hugely rewarding experience. There’s a unique sense of satisfaction in knowing that you are making a real difference in the lives of others, especially those close to home.

• This article was first published on 19 July 2020 and is subject to be updated from time to time. Please refresh or return to see the latest version.
• Last updated 11 months ago.

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• Things To do
• Restaurants
• United Kingdom

What to do and see in Marple, England: The Best Free Things to do

Top Things to do in Marple

Top restaurants in marple.

• 1. Maple Tree
• 2. Mr Chong
• 3. M&J's Chinese Restaurant
• 4. Oriental Hut
• United States

Discover the best top things to do in Marple, United Kingdom including Marple Locks, Memorial Park, Brabyns Park, Marple Aqueduct, The Garden House Marple, The Royal Scot, Roman Lakes, The Hatters Arms. Restaurants in Marple

1. Marple Locks

Overall ratings.

4.5 based on 311 reviews

This spectacular flight of sixteen working locks - surrounded by some beautiful wooded countryside and scenic walks - raises the canal 209 feet to reach a height of 518 feet above sea level at Marple.

Reviewed By bazonian2015 - Stockport, United Kingdom

We walked from Romiley by the canal seeing all kinds of nature. Fish, baby fish, ducks and ducklings, geese and goslings. Lovely to see the aqueduct stunning views, great to see the locks. Stunning views. A lovely walk.

2. Memorial Park

4.5 based on 57 reviews

This is a great local park that connects to Brabyns Park and off from the canal path. Lots of wide open spaces, to walk along. Has a boules playing area along with a, crown green bowling green. Also children's play areas. A place to enjoy all year round for all ages.

3. Brabyns Park

4.5 based on 55 reviews

This is a lovely local park. With wide open tree lined spaces. Walks by the river goyt.a Victorian iron bridge to see, children's play areas and loads more besides.

4. Marple Aqueduct

4.5 based on 22 reviews

Reviewed By ajgater - Stockport, United Kingdom

The section of the canal including the aquaduct is lovely with fantastic views over the surrounding countryside and further up to the viaduct, well worth a trip just keep your children close!!!!

5. The Garden House Marple

4.5 based on 79 reviews

The Garden House Farm is one of the few visitor attractions in Marple, a highlight for the general public, local schools and nurseries. Attractions include: animals, a café with a 5 star hygiene rating, an OFSTED inspected nursery, playgrounds, countryside trails and an orchard. The Farm offers significant economic, social and environmental benefits to the local community and relies solely on donations made by visitors. The main attractions are free to all. The Garden House welcomes, encourages and supports children and adults of all abilities.

Reviewed By lousyw

Very helpful and extra friendly staff, thy opened the pig pens just for us, It’s a thrilling place to see so many farm animals so up close. They are all so nice and well kept. The play ground is so well equipped, it’s just so perfect for so many to enjoy, Thank you. I do hope the poor farmer that got stuck in the mud was able to get freed up. Looked like he was a really stuck in the mud lol Glad it’s open and so hope to return one day,

6. The Royal Scot

4.0 based on 12 reviews

Reviewed By w0nnieb

After a recent refurbishment, this is now a place to visit. The décor is really tasteful, while the pub has been opened up, it still retains the feel of its separate rooms. It’s very stylish with great wallpapers and matching soft furnishings. Good attention to detail giving it a modern feel while retaining the country pub atmosphere, not easy to pull off! The young Landlord really has his finger on the pulse, he keeps an eye on everything and tidies up quickly and efficiently when a table is vacated. He is interested in your opinion as to how the refurbishment works, great people skills. The competition in Marple Bridge is pretty stiff but I’m certain that this place will add a valuable extra layer to the village. Highly recommended.

7. Roman Lakes

4.0 based on 99 reviews

Reviewed By sharmanw2016 - Stockport, United Kingdom

Worth a visit in the warmer months. Lots of wTer so beware if taking fast toddlers ,!, nice cafe and simple walks.

8. The Hatters Arms

3.5 based on 11 reviews

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Five of the best canal-side walks for when the sun is shining

T here's no denying that the weather this summer has left a lot to be desired. July was Greater Manchester's wettest on record with thunderstorms, flooded roads and downpours certainly putting a dampener on the start of the school holidays.

However, things look like they're improving - at least for the next couple of days. The Met Office is forecasting highs of 22C in the coming days for the region, so if you've been itching to get outside, now is the time.

On a sunny spring day, Greater Manchester’s canals really are some of the best places to visit. With water glistening in the sun, and fully blossomed flora and fauna to admire at along the footpaths, you really can't beat it.

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Below, we've put together a quick guide to some of the region's best - and don't worry, there are no challenging inclines or complicated routes to worry about either, making it a day out for all ages and abilities. From urban expeditions allowing you to soak up the industrial past, to idyllic moorland stretches, there’s a variety of waterside walks where you can soak up the sun and the scenery.

Marple Locks, Stockport

Only a short train ride from Manchester city centre, you'll find the picturesque villages of Marple and Marple Bridge - home to a raft of independent shops, beautiful parks, and a network of fully operating locks. The scenic walk taking in all 16 locks, stretches over the course of one mile and includes highlights like Marple Aqueduct, the highest canal aqueduct in England, with beautiful stone archways. Standing next to a railway bridge it’s a great spot to get some dramatic photos of the two bridges, while below you can take a breather on one of the benches and take in this truly impressive example of engineering.

Manchester Ship Canal, Trafford and Salford Quays

As one of the most significant industrial landmarks in the area's history, a visit to Manchester Ship Canal offers the chance to soak up our rich past and heritage. And while the canal is 36 miles long, this walk will take you along five miles of waterway. Starting in Warburton, the route first takes you along the Bollin Valley Way, before heading northeast until it joins the canal with Glazebrook, leading towards Carrington. Notable landmarks and features include a 19th century viaduct, Paddington Meadows Nature Reserve, and Salford Quays.

The Wharf, Castlefield

If you're already in the city centre and seeking out a leisurely stroll with a good chance of a pub or bar at the end of it, then look no further. Starting off at The Wharf pub and looping back around, this Castlefield canal walk is the perfect trail and takes in the waterways of the Bridgewater Canal, as you navigate a series of waterside and inner-city paths. Sights along the way include the Beetham Tower, and Castlefield Basin and you can easily venture further towards Salford and watch as the skyline opens up - or just turn back and enjoy a drink at the Wharf instead.

Uppermill to Diggle, Oldham

Uppermill, a village once famous for its wool and cotton mills, is a great spot to head to on a sunny day. Sitting on the Huddersfield Narrow Canal and surrounded by the stunning Saddleworth Moor on the edge of the Pennines, many families head here for the canal and riverside walks with friends and family. A stunning stretch of canal to explore is the path between Uppermill to Diggle, which is crossed by pretty bridges and incredible views of Saddleworth Moor. Reward yourself with a scoop - or two - at Grandpa Greene’s Luxury Ice Cream beside the canal at the end.

Worsley, Salford

Whether you just fancy a stroll around the village of Worsley, or want to challenge yourself with the 7.5 mile route from Trafford to Worsley you'll definitely reap the rewards when you reach your destination. Starting at the United Trinity statue by Old Trafford, along this path you can expect to take in Manchester’s heavy industrial landscape and history with landmarks including the Kellogg’s factory and Trafford Park, before reaching Worsley on the Bridgewater Canal, an idyllic village with beautiful mock Tudor buildings, pretty greens and areas of woodland.

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8 Reasons to Visit Marple

Just a short train journey from Manchester Piccadilly, Marple is a beautiful place to visit with so much on offer. We've narrowed it down to 8 reasons to visit Marple.

1. Marple Beer Run 

This one is not to be missed!  As an annual event, it is definitely one to get in the diaries early as there isn’t a day like it.  The premise is simple but the day is spectacular.  You have a 4Km charity run with three craft beer stops along the way and a finish-line pint to cap it all off.  The beer stops are of course optional, if you just want to join in the fun to raise money for charity then you are more than welcome.  There is however a gin & tonic alternative available at each stop (although if you want to prove yourself as the best around then you’ve got to tackle the beer)!

Check out the details and the current record by clicking here!

2. Chaat Cart 

With small plates becoming more popular in the restaurant industry you sometimes question whether you are getting value for money.  Not at Chaat Cart.  This South Indian Street Food venue offers small plates packed with big flavour and you will in fact love the opportunity to try numerous items from the menu rather than restricting yourself to a main course. 

Using seasonal British produce but staying true to the South Indian influence, it is such a unique offering.  If you are a group who loves a social meal then this place is perfect as the dishes are designed to be enjoyed together, each sharing the experience, meaning if you’re like us you will spend the whole night talking about the delicious food. For the Vegans out there, Chaat Cart offer a wide range of dishes that are packed full of just as much flavour so you won’t feel left out.  If that’s not enough, the restaurant also have an extensive array of gins to either accompany your food or to let you sit back, sip and indulge. 

View the menu and book your table by clicking here.

3. Libby’s Bread & Wine 

Having already talked about small plates earlier in the piece, Libby’s is another example of how you get it right, as well as offering a separate breakfast and lunch menu with involves their delicious home baked goods.  If you love a freshly baked loaf, a barnstormer of a fry-up or a beautifully crafted cake then pop in during the morning. 

Back to tapas offering.  With high competition for tapas around the Manchester area, Libby’s is not out of place with the best.  Don’t believe us?  Get yourselves to Marple and try it!  We have had some exquisite dishes ranging from your classic pan-fried chorizo in honey to roast monkfish fillet with Nduja pangrattato.  There isn’t a bad dish on the menu.  In fact there isn’t even an okay dish on the menu, we’ve made our way through the lot and have found each one to be spot on. 

Check out the current menu and book a table here.

4. Marple Canals & Aqueduct 

The canal network and locks around Marple are some of the most stunning and steepest up and down the country and that’s even before you reach the aqueduct, which is breathtaking.  The flight of 16 locks make a great walk and it is only 20 minutes by foot to the aqueduct, or if you’re more of a cyclist you can cover it all even quicker.  Whether you want a route to walk, run or cycle on your own or a family day out, it’s a view worth making time for. 

5. Angkor Soul 

Those of you who have spent time in Altrincham recently may recognise the name with their second site opening there in June 2018.  This Cambodian restaurant has quite the reputation and more importantly, it lives up to it.  To the best of their knowledge, they are the only Cambodian in the North West and the Marple restaurant was the second in the country.  The dishes are full of flavour with powerful herbs and spices as well as some other typical flavours like coconut and citrus.  It might be one of the lesser known cuisines in this country but that is just another reason to try it, we are sure you will love it. 

For all of the details and to book a table, click over here!

6. Sushi Haus 

Quite simply, the best sushi we have ever had.  Bold statement we know but we genuinely mean it.  This tiny little restaurant which probably can seat 8 to 10 at most, who of course also offer takeaways, smash it out of the park.  Everything about it is perfect, from the cleverly named specials incorporating names from Marple itself to the expert presentation of dishes like Dragon Maki (actually presenting the sushi looking like a dragon!). 

It may be a cliché or overused word when talking about food but the sushi just tastes FRESH.  There is also something endearing to being able to watch the chef make your meal just a couple of metres from your seat.  If sushi is your thing, what are you waiting for.

Head over to their Facebook for more details here.

7. Beer Traders

An incredibly friendly bar and bottle shop that has an ever-changing selection of beers with their five keg lines and four cask hand pumps. We have enjoyed everything from flavoursome wheat beer to local brand Cloudwater's incedible craft beer. The atmosphere is always buzzing and has become a key part of the community since opening, made even better with their small outdoor space to enjoy the Summer sun with a drink in hand!

For more information and about their beers click here.

Now the clue is in the name with Foragin, with artisan gins and a range of exceptional craft beers on offer, you won't be short of something delicious to either drink in or take away. Their range is constantly changing, meaning you will always find something new to enjoy, especially with their regular gin tasting evenings hosted with a variety of unique brands. The venue is welcoming and also has a small outdoor space to sip on your perfect serve gins. It is the ideal spot to visit before or after dinner or even for an evening of drinks.

Learn more about the venue here.

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The Garden House

Charity and Community farm

The Garden House Marple Social Farm and Community Garden

Welcome to The Garden House

‘Enhancing the wellbeing and empowerment of individuals and the wider community through heritage and the natural environment’

The Garden House is a registered charity and community farm in Marple, Stockport providing a calm place of wellbeing for families, individuals, groups and organisations.

We’re home to a variety of animals including; Pigs, Alpacas, Rabbits, Goats, Shetland Ponies, Donkeys and Guinea Pigs. Our sensory garden and riverside walk offer a tranquil space to enjoy nature.

Public entry is by a recommended minimum donation of £5 per person. You can make a donation on entry by cash or on your phone. Under 3s go free.  Booking is required for any visiting group of 6 or more. Please enquire here

We’re open 10-4 Tuesday to Sunday and CLOSED every Monday, including Bank Holiday Mondays, for essential maintenance.

The day to day running of the farm and the  Riverside Cafe and Icy Bar is led by a dedicated team of volunteers. 

We welcome organisations and groups who support children and young adults with a range of physical and mental health challenges and we can provide opportunity for a low cost one-off group visit or regular placements.

We promote sustainability, active lives through nature, and raise awareness of mental health and animal welfare.

The Garden House (Marple) Charity is a  registered charity in England and Wales (1182133)

Company number: 1137746, copyright © 2020 the garden house - all rights reserved..

Telephone- 0161 427 8712

Email- [email protected]

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