Still wondering what to do in Macclesfield? Opodo has the top must-see plans so you won't miss a thing. Find everything you need to know before picking your stay in Macclesfield and book your hotel today!
Nestled on the edge of the Peak District, Macclesfield offers a glimpse into England's industrial heritage, particularly its historic silk production. Visitors can explore the preserved mills and the Silk Museum, which chronicles the town's significant role in the textile industry. The town centre retains a traditional market town feel, with independent shops and eateries alongside its historic architecture, including the impressive Grade I listed St Michael and All Angels Church, standing prominently atop its hill.
Beyond its industrial past, Macclesfield is a gateway to the Cheshire countryside, making it a suitable base for exploring the surrounding natural landscape. The Macclesfield Canal provides scenic towpath walks, while nearby Macclesfield Forest offers trails and open spaces. For those interested in local history and nature, the town presents an authentic Northern English experience without the usual tourist fanfare.
Most visitors looking for a place to stay in Macclesfield often consider the town centre due to its convenience for exploring local amenities.
The town centre itself offers a good mix of accommodation, primarily independent hotels and guest houses. Here, you’re close to destinations such as the Macclesfield Silk Museum, which delves into the town’s industrial past, and the contemporary art space, The Old Sunday School. For dining, there are various establishments from traditional pubs like The Puss In Boots to more modern eateries. The main shopping streets, Chestergate and Mill Street, are also easily accessible.
Moving slightly west from the central area, towards Upton Priory, you'll find more modern hotel chains and some serviced apartments, often catering to business travellers or those seeking a quieter residential feel. This area provides convenient access to the larger retail parks and has good road links, while still being a short drive from the town centre’s attractions.
North of the centre, closer to the Weston area, accommodation options tend to shift towards smaller, often family-run bed and breakfasts, which offer a more personal touch. This district is known for its proximity to Macclesfield Forest and the Peak District National Park, making it a good base for those interested in walking and outdoor activities.
When considering where to book, remember that Macclesfield benefits from its own railway station, Macclesfield Station, situated centrally, offering direct links to Manchester and London. For air travel, Manchester Airport is the closest major hub, approximately a 20-minute drive or a short train journey away, making hotel locations with good road access particularly useful if you’re arriving by air.
To save a bit on hotel stays in Macclesfield, consider planning your visit outside the busiest periods. Prices tend to rise during local events and the summer months when people often explore the Peak District. Generally, you'll find better deals from November to February, excluding the Christmas and New Year period, as this is typically the low season.
Macclesfield's Silk Festival, held biennially, also attracts more visitors, causing accommodation costs to increase. Checking the festival's schedule in advance can help you avoid these peak times if you're looking for a more budget-friendly trip. Conversely, the high season often runs from June to August, so booking well in advance or looking for midweek stays during these months might offer some savings.