Middlewich

Middlewich was founded by the Roman Empire who used the large salt deposits underground. It has since then become a market town residing in the heart of the cheshire countryside, boasting unspoilt countryside, scenic waterways and summer festivals. Unlike cities and most big towns, it is not over-run by large store chains which gives small independent businesses a chance to flourish.

Middlewich is a small and compact town so most attractions and amenities are within walking distance.

The big church in the center of town is considered the main attraction. There are miles of watersways to walk along, The Trent And Mersey canal, as well as several rivers. The town is surrounded by countryside offering bird watchers lots of opportunities, particularly along the Croxton flashes.

• 🌍 St Michael and All Angels. Church dating from the 12th century, although most of the building work was done between 1480 and 1520. (updated Jan 2021)
• 🌍 Wardle Canal. The shortest canal in the UK, 154 ft (47 m) long, linking the Trent and Mersey Canal to the Middlewich Branch of the Shropshire Union Canal. (updated Jan 2021)

Visit during the Folk and Boat weekend, usually the third weekend in June. The whole town explodes with people, events and music. Small fields in the center of town have stalls on them, offering locally brewed beers and scrumpies, as well as the main music tent. The pubs along the side of the canal are usually packed and offer live music too. The Middlewich Folk and Boat festival is now firmly established on the folk circuit and it is estimated that 30,000 people visit the town during the festival weekend, along with 400 boats.

It is also worth a visit to the "Temptations" shop along the high street, a very unique shop which is deceptively large once you enter the building.

• Folk and Boat Festival, ☏ +44 709 239 0501. Annually in June. (updated Feb 2024)

• Temptations, 66 Wheelock St, ☏ +44 1606 832472. 

Like many towns in northern England, there are many Indian and Chinese takeaways as well as a few Turkish kebab houses.

There are many places to drink in the center of town. The Kings Arms and The Vaults are located centrally in town although it is advised to be wary drinking during Friday and Saturday night, particularly in the Vaults, as some locals can be rude to people out of town. The Boar's Head and Newton Brewery, just outside of the center of town, are more suited for a friendlier atmosphere, whilst the Salt Cellar at the top end of town is a family pub.

• Thai Tapas, 33 Wheelock St, ☏ +44 1606 837358. 

Some of the higher end pubs offer places you can stay. On the outskirts near the industrial estate, there is a Travelodge.

Like many of the towns with canals running through them, you can rent and stay in a canal barge. This also gives you the opportunity to visit other towns through this different way of transport.

• Andersen Boats, ☏ +44 1606 833668. Canal holidays are for anyone who just wants to get away from it all and experience something completely different from the everyday world. 
• 🌍 The Boars Head, Kinderton St, ☏ +44 1606 833191. Well-maintained draught ales, home-cooked food. The Cheshire hotel began life as a coaching inn and has been used for hospitality for over 200 years. Current proprietors Pat and Liz have been continuing the tradition and welcoming punters for almost 12 years. 

Middlewich and its approach roads have 4G from all UK carriers. As of Oct 2022, 5G has not reached town.

• Crewe
• Nantwich
• Manchester