AI Generated Illustration
If you live in Macclesfield, you’ve probably seen that white "sugar loaf" structure gleaming on the horizon towards Bollington. It’s White Nancy, the crowning glory of Kerridge Hill. But there’s a whole lot more to this corner of the world than just a single monument. Locals have long referred to the area surrounding Bollington and the steep, dramatic slopes leading up to Tegg’s Nose as ‘Little Switzerland.’ It’s a nickname that makes sense the moment you’re standing on the ridge, looking down into the deep valleys below.
As we move into early April, the air is crisp, the gorse is starting to bloom, and the trails are calling. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just looking for a solid family walk to tire out the kids (and the dog), the route between Tegg’s Nose and Kerridge Hill is arguably one of the best in the North West.
Hidden Gems: Exploring 'Little Switzerland' at Tegg's Nose and Kerridge Hill
The beauty of this area lies in its variety. You get industrial history, rugged gritstone edges, and some of the most expansive views in Cheshire, all within a few miles of Macclesfield town centre. It’s a place where you can feel miles away from civilisation while still being close enough to a decent flat white or a pint of local ale.
Starting at the Top: Tegg’s Nose Country Park
Most people choose to start their adventure at Tegg’s Nose Country Park. Sitting at 380 metres above sea level, it offers a dramatic vantage point before you’ve even broken a sweat. The park is managed by Cheshire East Council and is a masterclass in how to repurpose industrial land. From the 1500s until 1955, this was a hive of activity, with men quarrying the hard-wearing millstone grit that built much of the surrounding towns.
AI Generated Illustration
When you walk around the summit today, you can still see the remnants of this history. There are old pulleys, crane bases, and stone-crushing machinery left in situ, looking like ancient ruins against the backdrop of the Peak District. On a clear day, the view to the west is staggering. You can see right across the Cheshire Plain to the Jodrell Bank dish, the skyscrapers of Manchester, and even the mountains of North Wales and the towers of Liverpool on the horizon.
For families, Tegg’s Nose is a winner because the paths around the top are relatively flat and well-surfaced. There’s a visitor centre (check the opening times for the cafe!) and plenty of benches for a picnic. If you’re visiting during the Easter 2026 holidays, it’s a great way to escape the town centre crowds for a few hours.
Why 'Little Switzerland'?
The nickname ‘Little Switzerland’ isn’t just marketing fluff; it’s a tribute to the landscape of the Bollington valley. As you descend from Tegg’s Nose towards the Bottoms Reservoir or look across from Kerridge Hill, the steep-sided valley and the way the houses of Bollington cling to the slopes genuinely do evoke an Alpine feel.
The area is part of the Gritstone Trail, a 35-mile long-distance path that follows the edge of the Peak District. The section between Tegg’s Nose and Kerridge is the "best of" reel for this trail. You get the ruggedness of the high moorland mixed with the lush green of the valleys.
AI Generated Illustration
The Walk to Kerridge Hill and White Nancy
If you’re feeling energetic, the walk from Tegg’s Nose over to Kerridge Hill is the classic route. You’ll drop down through the woods, cross the road near the Bottoms Reservoir, and then begin the steady climb up towards the white beacon.
Kerridge Hill is a long, thin ridge that separates the Bollington valley from the fields leading towards Rainow. It’s a site of Biological Importance, mostly because it hasn’t been "improved" by modern farming. This means the wildflowers and grasses are exactly as they should be, providing a haven for birds and butterflies.
The star of the show here is, of course, White Nancy.
The History of White Nancy
It’s impossible to talk about this walk without mentioning the white domed monument. Built in 1817, White Nancy was commissioned by John Gaskell of the Gaskell family (who lived at nearby North End Farm) to commemorate the victory at the Battle of Waterloo.
Originally, it was built as a summer house, and it even had a table and stone benches inside. However, after years of being used for less-than-gentle purposes, the entrance was eventually walled up. Now, it stands as a solid, iconic landmark. It gets a fresh coat of white paint every few years: and occasionally a festive makeover (it’s been a Christmas pudding and a poppy in the past).
Standing at the base of White Nancy, you get a 360-degree view that is hard to beat. To one side, you have the industrial chimneys and stone mills of Bollington; to the other, the wild, rolling hills of the Peak District.
AI Generated Illustration
Making it a Family Outing
This walk is a staple for Macclesfield families for a reason. It’s challenging enough to feel like an achievement but accessible enough for children with a bit of energy. Here are a few tips to make the most of it:
- Parking: Tegg’s Nose has a pay-and-display car park. If you prefer to start in Bollington, there is parking near the recreation ground, but be prepared for a very steep initial climb up to White Nancy!
- Footwear: Even in April, the paths can be muddy in the dips. Sturdy trainers are fine for the Tegg's Nose loop, but if you’re doing the full walk to Kerridge, you’ll want proper walking boots.
- The Wind Factor: It can be significantly colder and windier on the ridge than it is in town. Always pack an extra layer.
Refuelling After the Walk
No "Hidden Gem" walk is complete without a mention of where to get a decent brew or a bite to eat. If you finish your walk near Tegg’s Nose, you’re only a stone’s throw from Leathers Smithy. It’s a classic stone-built pub that sits right on the edge of Macclesfield Forest and Tegg’s Nose.
AI Generated Illustration
If you head down into Bollington, you’re spoiled for choice. Bollington is famous for its independent cafe culture and great pubs. For those who take their caffeine seriously, you might want to check out our guide to the best coffee in East Cheshire, as several of the featured roasteries are just a short drive away.
AI Generated Illustration
A Community Asset
What makes Tegg’s Nose and Kerridge Hill special isn't just the geology or the history; it’s the way the community uses it. On any given Saturday, you’ll see fell runners training for their next race, families teaching their kids about local history, and photographers trying to catch that perfect "golden hour" light hitting White Nancy.
Macclesfield Town Council also backs the preservation and promotion of local green spaces as part of its wider push to encourage tourism and help more people enjoy the countryside on our doorstep. Through its Green Macclesfield work and walking trail promotion, the council highlights places such as Tegg’s Nose as part of the area’s outdoor offer, while also supporting the upkeep of trails and nearby green spaces that make these walks accessible and enjoyable.
It’s a reminder of why Macclesfield is such a great place to live. We have this incredible "Little Switzerland" right on our doorstep, offering a bit of perspective and fresh air whenever we need it.
So, next time the sun breaks through the April clouds, lace up your boots and head for the hills. Whether you’re there for the Waterloo history or just the "gram-worthy" views from the ridge, you won't be disappointed.
Sources:
- Cheshire East Council: Tegg’s Nose Country Park Management Plan.
- Macclesfield Town Council: Green Macclesfield.
- Macclesfield Town Council: Macclesfield Walking Trails.
- Bollington Town Council: The History of White Nancy.
- The Gritstone Trail Official Guide.
- Personal local knowledge from the Maxonian team.
