Cheadle

The small market town of Cheadle lies just south of the beautiful Churnet Valley, midway between Leek and Uttoxeter. Its market dates from 1250, while many of the High Street's buildings date from Tudor times. The local newspaper is one of the oldest in the country and is known locally as "The Stunner", allegedly for stunning people by publishing news stories well after they were common knowledge! The town has two churches, one Anglican and one Roman Catholic; unusually, both are dedicated to St.Giles. The latter building is world-renowned as the finest creation of Augustus Welby Northmore Pugin, designer of much of the interior of the Houses of Parliament, along with the Palace of Westminster. Do not fail to view the interior during your visit - it is astonishing. The church is open until 3.00pm on weekdays, and later on a Saturday. Obviously, you should not visit if a service is taking place. The old coal mining industry has now gone, along with brass and copper foundries and the tape mills. The silk tape industry brought William Morris to the town, and his influence can be seen in several places. Nearby quarries provided the stone for Coventry Cathedral and the Thames Barrier - its warm colour can be seen in many buildings. In decline for some years, Cheadle is now undergoing a regeneration that praises its heritage and takes pride in its buildings. You may be surprised at what there is to discover in this very down-to-earth town.

This Trail around the town takes in busy streets, quiet backways and not a few surprises. Pavements can be narrow and uneven, while traffic can be heavy, especially early in the day when visitors pass through en route to Alton Towers. Nonetheless, the Trail is suitable for all with a little care and forethought. The one flight of steps can be easily circumvented, so wheelchairs and pushchairs can both be accommodated. Always make sure you allow enough time on your parking ticket - include time to explore on your own after the Trail, or for a well-earned cup of tea!