Gather the family together and head out on this autumn walk which takes in beautiful seasonal foliage
Stunning autumn colours in Macclesfield Forest (Image: Peter McDermott / geograph.org.uk)
With October half term underway many parents will be looking for things to do with the kids. Luckily there’s no shortage of activities taking place across Greater Manchester.
But sometimes it’s nice to plan a family day out, and at this time of the year you can’t beat getting outside into nature and experiencing the colourful displays of autumn foliage.
While the weather has been temperamental recently, the Met Office predicts a reasonably dry day on Wednesday with sunny intervals – the ideal conditions for an autumn walk.
Just over the border in Cheshire, Macclesfield Forest is one of the best places nearby for a gorgeous autumn walk.
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Around three miles south of the market town of Macclesfield, the forest straddles the edge of the Peak District National Park and as you’d expect it offers incredible views.
There are dozens of trails to follow through the forest (Image: MEN Staff)
Historically the forest was an ancient hunting reserve, and today it’s packed full of towering pines and broadleaf trees.
The forest is also home to a small herd of Red Deer, which you may spot during your visit.
Depending on how long you want your walk to be there are several routes to choose from, varying from a short half mile trail to a more challenging 5.6 mile route.
If incredible views are what you’re after, make sure you climb up Nessit Hill. From the top you can admire the surrounding landscape and even see as far as Manchester on a clear day.
There are two reservoirs in Macclesfield Forest (Image: Philip Halling / geograph.org.uk)
Within the forest are two reservoirs, Trentabank and Ridgegate, which provide picture perfect spots as they reflect the breathtaking autumn colours.
It takes around an hour to drive from Greater Manchester to Macclesfield Forest. There is a small pay and display car park at the visitor centre near Trentabank Reservoir (SK11 0NS) and another small car park at Standing Stone (SK11 0AR). In addition there are small parking areas in lay-bys in the forest.
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