Best waterfalls around Macclesfield are found within a landscape featuring Macclesfield Forest and the Peak District foothills. This area is characterized by diverse natural features, including rivers, cloughs, and woodlands. The region offers various walking routes that lead to these natural attractions. Waterfalls here often combine natural beauty with historical elements, such as old mill structures.
Last updated: June 21, 2026
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This is a small but impressive waterfall on the River Dean. It is in a beautiful setting at the lower end of Clough Pool. It has a certain amount of man-made influence, as the top of it appears to be built on to a natural waterfall to create the mill pond above it. It was used by Ingersley Clough Mill back in the nineteenth century. This is simply a delightful scenic spot.
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Overgrown tracks - suggests walking boots and long trousers
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Very popular spot for hikers and wild swimmers. All routes away go up!
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Absolutely incredible waterfall outside Heaton, typically with few crowds as well.
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This is a beautiful hidden waterfall situated on the edge of Alderley Edge in Waterfall Wood. Water flows off the edge of a rock face into a pretty pool of water below creating the perfect forest vista as your passing through.
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This gets very busy, especially in the summer months with people wanting a dip. Get there early if you want the place to yourself!
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Quite a landmark, the Three Shire Heads is found at the point on Axe Edge Moor where Cheshire, Derbyshire and Staffordshire meet. The packhorse bridge and small waterfall make for a photogenic setting and very popular wild swimming (or at least, a wild dip!) spot.
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This iconic location marks the intersection of three counties: Staffordshire, Cheshire, and Derbyshire. It features a Grade II listed stone bridge and a series of clear plunge pools along the River Dane, making it a popular spot for wild swimming and picnics. You can find more details about this highlight here: Three Shires Head Stone Bridge and Waterfalls.
Yes, the Ingersley Vale Waterfall (Waulkmill Waterfall) on the River Dean has a degree of human influence. Its top appears to have been built upon a natural waterfall to create a mill pond, which historically served Ingersley Clough Mill in the 19th century.
For their full effect, Cumberland Clough Waterfall and Deep Clough Waterfall are particularly recommended after rainfall. The streams in these cloughs become lively, leading to more impressive cascades, whereas they can be reduced to a trickle during drier periods.
Yes, Three Shires Head Stone Bridge and Waterfalls is highly regarded as one of the best picnic spots in the region and is popular for wild swimming in its clear plunge pools.
The area offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, including easy hikes like the Tegg’s Nose Country Park Trail. For mountain biking, there are routes such as the Bollington Labyrinth loop. Road cycling options also exist, like the Macclesfield to Congleton loop. Explore more routes here: MTB Trails around Macclesfield, Easy hikes around Macclesfield, and Road Cycling Routes around Macclesfield.
Yes, Waterfall Wood Waterfall is a beautiful, hidden gem tucked away on the edge of Alderley Edge. It features water flowing off a rock face into a pretty pool, creating a quintessential forest vista.
The terrain varies. For instance, the paths leading to Three Shires Head Stone Bridge and Waterfalls are described as very rough and rocky. Access to Ingersley Vale Waterfall (Waulkmill Waterfall) involves walking from Bollington, as there is no direct parking. Generally, the area is characterized by diverse natural features, including cloughs and woodlands, often requiring walks on varied paths.
Visitors appreciate the natural beauty, serene settings, and opportunities for walking and picnicking. Highlights like Three Shires Head Stone Bridge and Waterfalls are loved for wild swimming and being excellent picnic spots. The area's combination of natural beauty and historical elements, such as old mill structures, also adds to its appeal.
While specific 'family-friendly' categories aren't listed for all, the general appeal of picnicking and walking in scenic areas like Three Shires Head Stone Bridge and Waterfalls makes them suitable for families. Always consider the specific trail difficulty and terrain when planning a visit with children.
While direct public transport to all waterfall locations might be limited, areas like Macclesfield Forest are accessible. For Ingersley Vale Waterfall (Waulkmill Waterfall), access involves walking from Bollington, which can be reached by public transport. For more information on public transport options to the wider Macclesfield Forest area, you might check local transport guides.
For additional information about Macclesfield Forest and its offerings, you can visit the official tourism website: Visit Cheshire - Macclesfield Forest.
Yes, for mountain biking, the run around Cut-Thorn Hill to Three Shires Head Stone Bridge and Waterfalls is described as an entertaining and fun experience. Be aware that paths can be rocky in places, and some climbs might be challenging. Always give way to walkers.


Happy to travel a little further afield? Then browse these guides for the best waterfalls around Macclesfield: