On the border with Wales lies beautiful Cheshire, a county with distinctive red-stone architecture, part of the Peak District National Park, and open countryside. From farmland and castles to cities and market towns, Cheshire offers many attractions, including the Roman walls and amphitheatre of Chester and the county’s canal network. Cheshire is well-connected by rail to all of the UK, with direct services to London, Manchester, Birmingham, Liverpool, and major towns in Wales. Cheshire’s schools are generally excellent, as are local amenities like retail, dining and leisure. Much of the county is horse country, and country walks, cycling, and jogging opportunities are abundant. the 2013 Sunday Times Best Places to Live survey put four places in Cheshire in the top ten places to live in the North West.
Alderley Edge is a picturesque village situated in the heart of Cheshire, approximately 15 miles south of Manchester. Known for its exclusive atmosphere and scenic beauty, the area sits at the edge of rolling countryside and is dominated by the striking sandstone escarpment known as ‘The Edge,’ offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Its character blends rural tranquillity with a cosmopolitan feel, thanks to a vibrant high street and proximity to affluent neighbours such as Wilmslow and Prestbury.
Chester is a historic city in Cheshire, close to the North Wales border, known for its Roman walls, Tudor-style timber buildings, medieval churches, and elegant Georgian architecture. Its rich heritage is visible throughout the city centre, giving Chester a unique and visually striking character.
Congleton is an historic market town in Cheshire, located on the banks of the River Dane and nestled amid beautiful countryside between the Peak District and the Cheshire Plain. Known for its charming mix of heritage architecture and green spaces, Congleton boasts a rich history, with roots dating back to the Saxon era. Visitors and residents often admire its black-and-white timber-framed buildings, lively high street, and independent shops.
Crewe is a bustling railway town located in the heart of Cheshire, famed for its industrial heritage and strategic transport links. The town developed rapidly in the 19th century following the establishment of the Crewe railway works, which turned it into one of the UK’s key junctions for rail travel and locomotive manufacturing. Today, Crewe remains synonymous with its rich railway history, while also representing a diverse community that draws families, commuters, and students alike.
Ellesmere Port is a prominent industrial town situated on the south bank of the Wirral Peninsula in Cheshire, close to the junction of the Manchester Ship Canal and the River Mersey. The town's origins date back to the late 18th century, when it was established as a vital port for the Ellesmere Canal. Over the years, Ellesmere Port has grown into a thriving community known for its strong connections to the manufacturing and shipping industries, most notably home to the Vauxhall Motors car plant and Stanlow Oil Refinery. The town has evolved to incorporate a broad mix of residential, commercial, and green spaces, creating a diverse and well-rounded environment.
Frodsham is a historic market town located in Cheshire, nestled at the foot of the Helsby Hill and on the banks of the River Weaver. Famed for its attractive main street, periodic markets, and distinctive sandstone architecture, Frodsham combines traditional market town charm with the convenience of modern amenities. Its elevated position in areas such as Overton Hill affords sweeping views across the Mersey Estuary and towards North Wales.
Knutsford, located in Cheshire, is a picturesque market town known for its leafy streets, period architecture, and vibrant independent shops. The town is steeped in history, with links to the Victorian era reflected in its elegant buildings and renowned landmarks such as Tatton Park and the iconic Knutsford Heath. Its attractive high street offers a blend of boutique stores, coffee shops, and traditional pubs, making everyday life both convenient and characterful.
Lymm is a picturesque village nestled in the heart of Cheshire. Renowned for its historic charm and idyllic setting, Lymm is set between Warrington and Altrincham, benefitting from proximity to the cities of Manchester and Liverpool while retaining its own distinct rural character. The area is famous for its scenic Lymm Dam, beautiful canal walks, and winding, cobbled high street packed with independent shops, cafes, and period architecture.
Macclesfield is a market town nestled on the edge of the Peak District in Cheshire, known historically as the 'Silk Town' due to its prominent silk industry during the Industrial Revolution. Today, Macclesfield blends its industrial heritage with vibrant modern living, offering a picturesque setting surrounded by rolling Cheshire countryside and characterful stone buildings. The town sits along the River Bollin, adding to its scenic appeal and offering river walks right from the centre.
Malpas is a picturesque village in Cheshire, nestled in the south-western corner of the county near the borders with Shropshire and Wales. Renowned for its charming conservation area, stunning countryside surroundings, and strong sense of heritage, Malpas offers a rural lifestyle just 15 miles from the historic city of Chester. This attractive village boasts medieval origins, visible in its half-timbered buildings, winding lanes, and the prominent St. Oswald’s Church which stands at its heart.
Middlewich, situated in the heart of Cheshire, offers a blend of rich heritage, semi-rural character, and convenient modern living. Well known for its historic salt mining industry, Middlewich is a market town that has evolved while steadfastly retaining its sense of community and traditional charm. Its location near the confluence of the Trent and Mersey, Wardle and Shropshire Union canals also shapes its unique identity, making it a draw for canal enthusiasts and those seeking a setting defined by waterways.
Nantwich is a historic market town set in the heart of Cheshire, along the banks of the River Weaver. Renowned for its stunning Tudor and Georgian architecture, Nantwich is celebrated for its well-preserved medieval buildings, cobbled market square, and timber-framed streets. The town's charm is enhanced by its scenic waterways, green open spaces, and proximity to the Cheshire Plain, making it appealing for those seeking a picturesque yet practical lifestyle.
Neston is a historic market town nestled on the western edge of the Wirral Peninsula in Cheshire, with a character defined by a blend of rural landscapes and small-town amenities. Renowned for its attractive Georgian and Victorian architecture, open countryside and close proximity to the Dee Estuary, Neston offers a relaxed lifestyle and is often sought after by those who value access to nature alongside traditional market town charm. The local community is diverse, catering to families, retirees, and professionals commuting to larger cities such as Chester and Liverpool.
Northwich sits on the confluence of the River Weaver and River Dane in West Cheshire, placing it close to the heart of Cheshire's salt mining heritage. Renowned historically for its salt works and Victorian industrial innovation, Northwich today balances market town charm with modern conveniences. The area has a rich legacy, reflected in its unique timber-framed buildings, heritage sites, and proximity to scenic Cheshire countryside.
Runcorn is a historic industrial town situated in the borough of Halton, in Cheshire, on the southern bank of the River Mersey. The area is synonymous with the iconic Silver Jubilee Bridge and its close association with the Mersey Gateway, which connects the town conveniently to both Liverpool and Widnes. Runcorn has roots stretching back to the medieval period, developed significantly in the industrial revolution, and is today shaped by a mix of canal-side heritage and large post-war housing estates.
Sandbach is a historic market town in Cheshire East, situated in North West England. Nestled between Crewe and Congleton, Sandbach has developed a reputation for its attractive mix of rural charm and practical amenities. The town is perhaps most notable for its iconic Saxon Crosses in the cobbled Market Square, which serve as a reminder of Sandbach’s long and storied past. The character of Sandbach is largely defined by its well-preserved architecture, bustling weekly markets and a welcoming community atmosphere.
Tarporley is a historic village and civil parish situated in the heart of Cheshire, approximately 11 miles southeast of Chester. Renowned for its attractive High Street lined with independent boutiques, cafes, and traditional pubs, Tarporley offers a classic rural Cheshire lifestyle with easy access to larger cities. The area boasts a strong sense of community while maintaining a distinct local character that appeals to a variety of residents, from families and commuters to retirees seeking tranquility.
Warrington is a large town in Cheshire, strategically located between Liverpool and Manchester, making it one of the North West’s key commuter hubs. The town sits on the banks of the River Mersey, and its history dates back to Roman times, with records of its significance as a crossing point.
Widnes is a prominent industrial town situated on the northern bank of the River Mersey in Cheshire. Historically, it rose to significance in the 19th century as a centre for the chemical industry and became known for its innovation and working-class roots. Today, Widnes blends its industrial heritage with ongoing regeneration and is sought after by commuters, families, and those who appreciate its riverside location and accessible amenities.
Wilmslow is a well-known town situated in the heart of Cheshire, just south of Manchester. Renowned for its leafy streets, affluent character, and proximity to the picturesque Cheshire countryside, Wilmslow attracts a diverse range of residents, from professionals and families to retirees. The area is part of the Golden Triangle, a term often used to describe the most sought-after locations in Cheshire, including Alderley Edge and Prestbury.
Winsford is a Cheshire town situated on the banks of the River Weaver, in the heart of the county. Renowned for its legacy as a salt mining centre, Winsford developed as an industrial town but has flourished into a thriving residential community with a mix of rural and urban influences. Its location between the larger towns of Northwich and Crewe makes it popular with families, professionals, and retirees seeking a balance between employment access and a quieter lifestyle.