Bollington, a Cheshire town nicknamed the 'happy valley', is just over an hour's drive from Liverpool city centre. Nestled in the foothills of the Pennine range, the town is surrounded by countryside, making it a destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with walks, boating and horse riding nearby.
Scenic walks and canal routes
The town offers several scenic walks, including the Middlewood Way and the Macclesfield Canal, which provide autumnal routes through the landscape.
The 18ft White Nancy folly
One of the town's most famous landmarks lies a short distance away on the Saddle of Kerridge. The Grade II listed White Nancy, an 18ft tall white cone-shaped folly, was built as a summer house by John Gaskell around 1815. Traditionally, it was believed the structure commemorated the British victory at the Battle of Waterloo. Inside, there is a seat around the walls and a large circular table cut from a single piece of stone.
The structure was restored in 1999, with its base working as a compass with N, E, W and S inscribed. Volunteers at the Kerridge Ridge and Ingersley Vale Countryside and Heritage Project created a path and steps up to Kerridge Hill to make it more accessible to visitors and locals.
Pubs and independent venues
The town also has a number of cosy pubs and independent venues offering a relaxing atmosphere, locally sourced beers and homecooked meals. Meals at the Cock and Pheasant pub on Bollington Road are "built around nostalgia," according to its menu, offering classic dishes with their own twist using locally sourced ingredients. The Holly Bush pub on Palmerston Street offers a traditional feel with original features, wooden panelling and open fires.
Café Waterside is located next to the canal, with outdoor seating overlooking the peaceful surroundings. From hot spiced apple to beef stew, the café offers a selection of winter warmers to enjoy after an autumn walk. Further information can be found on the Happy Valley and Visit Cheshire websites.
