Living in Malpas

Malpas boasts a close-knit community where local events and village traditions play an important role in daily life. Regular activities such as the Malpas Farmers’ Market, village fairs, and charity fundraisers create a lively calendar that encourages participation from residents of all ages. The centrally located village hall acts as a hub for classes, meetings, and social groups.

An abundance of local clubs and societies cater for a variety of interests, from gardening and bellringing to cricket and art. The area’s network of footpaths, bridleways, and country lanes makes it ideal for walkers, cyclists, and outdoor enthusiasts. Green spaces such as the recreation ground and the Millennium Green provide areas for families and children to enjoy, while annual events like the Malpas Fair showcase the best of rural Cheshire’s spirit.

The village’s location near the Cheshire–Shropshire border means residents make the most of both counties’ attractions, from canal walks to farm shops and countryside pubs. Newcomers find it easy to integrate, thanks to open local groups and supportive neighbours.

Malpas enjoys a reputation for being a safe and peaceful rural village, and crime rates in this part of Cheshire are typically lower than in more urban areas. The area’s tight-knit community, visible local policing presence, and well-kept environment all contribute to the overall sense of security among residents.

Reported crimes are generally limited to minor incidents such as petty theft or anti-social behaviour, and serious offences are rare. Residents are proactive about neighbourhood watch schemes, and there is ongoing collaboration between the parish council and Cheshire Police to maintain low crime levels. Initiatives like local community forums and events also help foster a watchful and connected population.

Compared to nearby towns and larger cities, Malpas provides an environment where many families and retirees feel comfortable walking the streets at all hours. Safety remains one of the area’s key attractions for those considering a move to rural Cheshire.

Parking in Malpas is generally straightforward due to the village's rural character and low population density. On-street parking is available on most residential roads and around the high street, with minimal restrictions outside of peak school pick-up times. Several public car parks support local shops and services, and most homes have off-road or driveway parking.

Road access is excellent for a village, with both the A41 and A49 providing convenient north-south and east-west travel options. The roads are generally un-congested, although there can be minor delays during school drop-off and pick-up times or during local events. Resident parking permits are not typically required, but drivers should be mindful of the village’s narrow historic streets in the centre.

Nearby larger towns and cities are easily accessible by car:

• Chester – approx. 30 minutes via A41 (15 miles)
• Wrexham – approx. 25 minutes via A525 (14 miles)
• Whitchurch – approx. 15 minutes via A41 (8 miles)
• Nantwich – approx. 30 minutes via A49/A534 (20 miles)

The absence of significant traffic makes Malpas a pleasant base for those who travel by road for work or leisure.

Malpas offers a selection of traditional pubs and restaurants that reflect its countryside character. The village high street is home to historic pubs such as The Lion and The Crown, both popular for locally sourced food, real ales, and a warm welcome for regulars and visitors alike. There are also a number of inviting cafés and tearooms, ideal for morning coffees or afternoon treats.

Food options in Malpas lean towards British and rustic, with menus featuring Cheshire produce alongside daily specials. Several nearby gastropubs in surrounding villages are destinations in their own right. In terms of takeaways, the options are more limited than in larger towns, but local chip shops and nearby Indian and Chinese restaurants cater for a range of tastes.

Nightlife in Malpas is more about relaxed social gatherings than a hectic bar scene. Quiz nights, live music, and community events in local venues bring residents together. For a wider variety of bars, clubs, and entertainment, Chester and Whitchurch are both within easy reach by car or taxi.

School Quality – Malpas is highly regarded among families for its exceptional schools, especially Bishop Heber High School and Malpas Alport Primary, known for their supportive environments and strong results.

Parks and Green Space – The village offers well-maintained parks, playgrounds, and easy access to the countryside, ensuring plenty of opportunities for children to explore safely outdoors.

Childcare – Several local nurseries and childminding services cater to younger children, and after-school clubs operate within the village’s schools and community spaces.

Safety – With low crime rates and an active neighbourhood watch, Malpas affords peace of mind for parents and families.

Family Activities – Families can participate in village events, sports clubs, and community classes, while nearby attractions such as Chester Zoo and Beeston Castle keep weekends exciting throughout the year.

Malpas is an excellent choice for pet lovers, especially those who appreciate country walks and outdoor living. The surrounding Cheshire countryside provides miles of footpaths, bridleways, and quiet country lanes, perfect for dog walking. Green spaces such as the village recreation ground and Millennium Green ensure there are spots close to home suitable for pet exercise.

There are several local veterinary practices in Malpas and nearby Whitchurch, along with pet supply shops and dog groomers. Many pubs and cafés welcome well-behaved dogs, allowing pet owners to enjoy a sociable atmosphere with their four-legged friends in tow.

Attitudes towards animals are positive, with most landlords happy to accept pets in rental properties with appropriate agreements. The rural context of Malpas makes it ideal for both dog and horse owners, with stabling and equestrian facilities in the surrounding area.

Despite its rural location, Malpas benefits from access to major road networks and public transport options that connect the village with surrounding towns and cities. The A41 passes nearby, providing convenient north-south routes, while the A49 is also within easy reach for journeys across Cheshire and into Shropshire.

Malpas does not have its own railway station, but Whitchurch (Shropshire) is only a 15-minute drive away and offers direct links to Shrewsbury and Crewe. Chester train station, approximately 30 minutes by car, provides regular services to Manchester, Liverpool, London and beyond. Bus services also connect Malpas to Whitchurch, Chester, and Wrexham for those preferring public transport.

For longer journeys, Liverpool John Lennon Airport and Manchester Airport are both accessible within an hour’s drive, ideal for domestic and international travel. The proximity to key routes makes Malpas a feasible base for those commuting to:

• Chester – 30 minutes by car
• Wrexham – 25 minutes by car
• Manchester – around 1 hour 10 minutes by car
• Liverpool – around 1 hour by car
• Whitchurch – 20 minutes by car

The area's accessibility makes it attractive for commuters and families looking for tranquillity without sacrificing convenience.

Primary Schools in Malpas

Malpas Alport Endowed Primary School is highly regarded in the village, serving local children with a focus on academic achievement and supportive pastoral care. The school was rated "Good" by Ofsted in its last inspection (2022). Nearby, Bickerton Holy Trinity CE Primary School (also rated "Good" by Ofsted in 2022) offers another popular choice for families seeking a Church of England primary education in a rural setting.

Secondary Schools in Malpas

Bishop Heber High School is the principal secondary school in Malpas, celebrated for its academic standards, wide-ranging extracurricular activities, and community links. It achieved an "Outstanding" rating from Ofsted in 2011, and remains a draw for families relocating to the area. Some families also look to schools in Whitchurch and Chester for additional secondary options.

Sixth Forms and Colleges

Bishop Heber High School offers a sixth form provision, supporting students through A-Levels and preparation for university or professional pathways. For broader vocational and academic courses, students may travel to Sir John Talbot’s Sixth Form in Whitchurch, or to further education colleges in Chester such as Cheshire College – South & West.

Universities

Although Malpas is a village, higher education opportunities are readily accessible in the region. University of Chester is the closest, providing a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs. Further afield, Glyndŵr University in Wrexham and Liverpool's universities can be reached via public transport or road links.