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Middlewood Way – Middlewood Way loop from Bollington

Routes

Running trails & routes

Middlewood Way – Middlewood Way loop from Bollington

Hard

216

runners

Middlewood Way – Middlewood Way loop from Bollington

01:42

16.4km

80m

Running

Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.

Last updated: May 26, 2026

Waypoints

Start point

Parking

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2.38 km

View of the Middlewood Way from the Bridge

Highlight • Trail

The Middlewood Way is an 11-mile (16 km)[1] shared use path in north-west England, between Macclesfield (53.2601°N 2.1229°W) and Rose Hill, Marple (53.3950°N 2.0774°W); it was opened on 30 May 1985 by Dr David Bellamy.[2] It serves the needs of walkers, dog walkers, cyclists, joggers and horse riders and plays host to a wide range of flora and fauna

Tip by

5.38 km

Middlewood Way

Highlight • Trail

Middlewood Way is an 11-mile (16-km) traffic-free greenway linking Macclesfield and Marple.

This mostly flat route winds through fields and small towns like Bollington. While not as scenic as trails like Tissington, it’s still a charming ride. Shared with walkers and horse riders, some sections require caution and slower speeds due to limited space.

In wet weather expect muddy conditions, with a slick surface that can leave you messy. In dry weather, the hardpack path offers a smooth and enjoyable ride.

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5.94 km

Higher Poynton Station (disused) and the Middlewood Way

Highlight • Settlement

The station closed in January 1970, when the line between Macclesfield and Marple closed; the buildings were demolished and the track lifted by the end of spring 1971. The station site now forms a car park and picnic site on the Middlewood Way

Tip by

6.00 km

The Boar's Head

Highlight • Rest Area

The Boars Head is a stunning, country pub located in the quaint village of Higher Poynton – the gateway into one of the National Trust’s crown jewels; Lyme Park.

Situated on Shrigley Road North, a dog-friendly pub is a popular spot for families, walkers and cyclists.

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7.67 km

Middlewood Way

Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway

Sensitively reclaimed from a former railway line to provide a natural attraction for walkers, cyclists, horse riders and nature lovers. An 11 mile (16km), traffic-free greenway from Macclesfield to Marple on the Peak Park fringe with car parking, toilets and information points, with fine views over the Cheshire Plain to the west.

The Middlewood Way follows the line of the former Macclesfield, Bollington and Marple Railway through picturesque Cheshire countryside and between historic mill towns. For much of its length, the Middlewood Way runs close to the Macclesfield Canal, and there are many options for easy circular walks. For the more adventurous, the extensive public footpath network reaches into the Peak District Foothills to the east and the Cheshire Plain to the west.

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10.4 km