Tegg’s Nose, Langley And The Gritstone Trail

Introduction

At last it’s warming up!

And with that, comes rain. So, I decided not to venture too far today. This proved to be wise, as an early start meant an early finish before the heavier rain arrived at lunchtime.

It’s a 35 minute drive from Cheadle Hulme to Langley, near Macclesfield.

The walk is 5.8 miles with 1150feet of ascent. It can be done as two shorter circuit walks from the village of Langley for those with limited time…. or energy!

It took just under 3 hours with no stops.

The walk isn’t ideal for dog walking as there’s a longish road section, lots of sheep pasture, and some tricky stiles.

I walked in a clockwise direction.

The walk is on OS Explorer Map OL24.

I parked in the small car park at Teggsnose Reservoir, postcode SK11 0NB (take a left turn into Holehouse Lane just after St Dunstans Inn), What 3 Words ///blurts.ridiculed.always

Tegg’s Nose

The first 15 minutes of this route are a real challenge as the Gritstone Trail leads straight and steep uphill from the tranquil reservoir.

Frequent rests are rewarded with stunning views, firstly of the scree strewn hillside above.

Then, on reaching the viewpoint at the top are views down to the reservoirs (with Sutton mast just visible in the distance), and across to the expanse of Macclesfield Forest.

Out to the west, over Macclesfield, and across the Cheshire Plain, Jodrell Bank remains prominent, despite the murky weather.

Langley

I was not out to explore Tegg’s Nose Country Park today, so after a short traverse, I turned back downhill to join Coalpit Lane.

It is a steep, narrow lane, but was indeed “quiet”

At the bottom, the lane crosses a stream, which is in fact the headwater of the River Bollin. Looking over the bridge, I was surprised and delighted to see a dipper feeding from the rocks. Not the best picture, but it’s there somewhere!

I walked on through the village centre, where I had driven through an hour or so earlier.

On the other side of the village is a pretty fishing pond.

To Rossen Dale And The Gritstone Trail

The second section of the walk is over undulating farmland with views of the surrounding hills.

After passing Ridge Hall Farm, the path heads down towards Foxbank Farm, from where my walk to Sutton Mast on 5th December 2024 started. Indeed, the two walks could be combined for the hardy long distance walker!

Rossen Brook runs along the roadside, but is still very attractive.

Joining the Gritstone Trail, I passed just below the Ryles Arms, but resisted the temptations therein!

From here the trail rises and then bends around the hillside towards Higher Sutton.

As I headed down the valley side towards Ridgegate Reservoir, I was impressed by this farmhouse extension with its magnificent views to Tegg’s Nose and Macclesfield Forest.

My route passed several lovely houses and cottages, all enjoying this beautiful scenery, as was I, despite the rain that was now falling.

Soon enough, I was back at Bottoms Reservoir, and the car.

This was a lovely walk, starting with a challenging climb, and lots of gorgeous views throughout!

And Finally….

This is from the new Franz Ferdinand album, “The Human Fear”, and this track is “Black Eyelashes”.