Campsites with swimming in Macclesfield Forest

Mere miles from bustling Macclesfield town yet with a surprising level of wild serenity, Macclesfield Forest is a small area of conifer forest in an enviable location on the Peak District National Park’s western edge. It constitutes part of the loneliest tract of land in Cheshire, including the county’s highest points, Shining Tor and Shutlingsloe, the latter being walkable from the forest. Meanwhile, the 190-mile Peak District Boundary Walk, bisecting the forest, is the area’s big hike, and there’s great nearby cycling too. Camp west in the gateway village of Sutton Lane Ends or south of Shutlingsloe at Wildboarclough.

79% (115)

Top-rated campgrounds

Mere miles from bustling Macclesfield town yet with a surprising level of wild serenity, Macclesfield Forest is a small area of conifer forest in an enviable location on the Peak District National Park’s western edge. It constitutes part of the loneliest tract of land in Cheshire, including the county’s highest points, Shining Tor and Shutlingsloe, the latter being walkable from the forest. Meanwhile, the 190-mile Peak District Boundary Walk, bisecting the forest, is the area’s big hike, and there’s great nearby cycling too. Camp west in the gateway village of Sutton Lane Ends or south of Shutlingsloe at Wildboarclough.

79% (115)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. The White Lodge

90%

(55)

5 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Cannock Chase, Staffordshire, West Midlands

A traditional campsite close to Staffordshire’s canals, river, and stately homes.

2. RHC & Glamping

100%

(7)

6 units · Glamping · Lancashire, North West England

Hi Hipcampers, We are a 15 acre site of hillsides and woodlands, with woodland paths a few beautiful ponds and a small river! We have fabulous views to of the hills to be enjoyed. Theres lots of wildlife here from deer to Canadian geese. We have some stone fire pits for our guests to use foc! We have a games room and lots of children swings and activities.

3. White House Farm Campsite, Wardlow

91%

(93)

61 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Wardlow, England

What a little Derbyshire gem: back to basics Whitehouse Farm Campsite is a simple site in a most scenic setting five minutes’ drive from the pretty village of Tideswell. The site’s central location in the Peak District National Park means it’s a top spot for those who want to ramble or ride bikes – several circular trails leave from Tideswell and the traffic-free Monsal Trail is a five-minute drive away. And there’s plenty more activity if you require it too, as activity centres nearby can sort you out days of horse riding, abseiling, climbing and caving. All this activity isn’t mandatory, of course – this is an equally fine location for days pottering off to local pubs, pigging out on pudding in Bakewell or taking a leisurely stroll around the Chatsworth Estate, 20 minutes away. And if even that’s too much, you’d be welcome to spend some time loafing about on site: there’s heaps of space here, and as facilities have been kept quite minimal (just showers and toilets) there should be a good serving of peace and quiet to go with it all. Guests are welcome to light up a barbecue or campfire for cookouts and keeping warm; Tideswell’s the place for supermarket supplies, and it’s also handily got a fish and chip shop and a couple of pubs for days when your firelighting skills aren't up to much.

4. Shirleywich farm holidays camping

26 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Uttoxeter, Staffordshire, West Midlands

7 acre private field for hire, great access from main road, ideal for campers, Motorhome or caravans, set in an additional 17acres, with stream, and access to the Trent and Mersey canal towe path walks with fishing access. Parking on site, private hire or shared separate plots, Maximum 3 caravans or Motorhomes at one time, with additional tents. Prices start from £19 per day, for Upto 1 structures 4 guests max or Motorhomes, pop up camping or Motorhome, toilet hire included, lots of local amenities. Minimum 1 day stay. Extra car £5 Extra pup tent pet £5 Extra awning £5 Wood bags £10 Free fire pit Rachael 07837654508 We are pleased to offer our pop up camping Motorhome and caravan field set in the beautiful fields of 7.5 acres with access and parking from the main road, set in our 17.5 acre private site, Bring your own tent! Or Motorhome - pop up / no frills camping optional barn hire at Shirleywich holidays fully- booked until September! We are pleased to offer for rental our 7 acre pop up camping field adjacent to our restored barn Complex, Dating back to 1604 set in 17 acres with canal and country field views. our beautiful complex is nested in a conservation area and consists of a Georgian farm house, 5 beautiful barn conversions, set in 17.5 acres land which runs to the canal and with ample, riding, our spot has many attractions, and offers a beautiful setting for private camping or teepees, caravans and motorhomes. we welcome any type of structures, and offer field only Private rental tents, Motorhome Or caravans towed. We offer a special rate for weekly or fortnightly as well as for monthly longer stays. We offer a low key private no frills site, with the option to have On site chemical toilet No shower or water facilities Bottled water provided Pit fires provided Optional wood purchase available Parking gates fenced over looking horse fields with canal access for fishing, canoe launch or kayak. Pets welcome On site fire pit, Attraction pack, gardening boxes, hamper can be included. In high demand new for 2024 Large groups welcome for private hire Locally sourced hamper Free fishing at canal access and pets at £5 per pet Please pick up any dog mess Please take your rubbish with you if the waste bins are full. Green and blue bins provided There's certainly ample space for family stays at Shirleywich Farm Holidays, where seven out of the site's 17 acres have been turned over to folks looking to pitch up – that's about 41% of the total, or just over five football pitches if sporting analogies speak to you more than figures do. Whichever way you run the numbers, this easily accessed site equals one stonkingly good spot for varied Staffordshire stints. Shirleywich Farm Holidays is a secure site, accessed via a lockable gate, and is just off the A51. These grounds are kept in tiptop shape by the site crew, who ensure the hedgerows are neat and the field in good condition. Also around are five old barns and a handsome farmhouse dating back to the 1600s. Pets large (horses) and less large (dogs) are welcome here, with lots of bridleways and pup-friendly paths on hand in the nearby Cannock Chase Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The facilities here are on the low-key end of the spectrum: there's a gravel amenities area with a portable toilet, toiletry supplies and a chemical disposal point. Bring bikes, canoes and fishing rods along to Shirleywich Farm Holidays – the adjacent Trent and Mersey canal towpath and the river Trent, a few metres further away, should sort you out with bags of opportunities to put all three to use. Heading south along the water's edge, you'll soon reach Great Haywood, a village a couple of miles downstream where there's an independent café and small supermarket (five minutes' drive). Please see below more information on our site and barns, we currently have 5 star reviews and are super host status. We have the Stables sleeps 6-8 please see other listing and below THE SMITHY, Dating back to 1604 , history buffs can research the property and see the local sign at the rear of the site by the canal, which tells of the life of shirleywich farm over its many decades, our beautiful complex is nested in a conservation area and consists of a large double fronted Georgian farm house, 5 beautiful barn conversions, set in 17.5 acres of our own private land which runs to the Trent and mersey canal at the rear, and with ample, epic safe riding and hacking galore, our spot has many attractions, for anyone who wants to bring a horse or 2, with grazing and stabling available, pets are welcome as we are a farm with horses and dogs of our own. you are welcome to bring fishing, bikes, canoes etc,,, to take advantage of the spot and the canal at the rear, or a short trip to the river Trent down the wonderful private Trent drive which leads to ingestre and one of the worlds top riding stables, a short walk further brings you to the ingestre golf club, and then off onto the delights of shugborough hall, and Cannock chase, national heritage forest. Ideal for walkers, bikers, riders, or anyone who wants a break away in the beautiful English countryside, we are surrounded with fields, and countryside so you will not be disserpointed, excellent road connections to many neighbouring towns and heres just a few of the local attractions listed below, so if you are wanting a break away to relax or an adrenaline fun filled adventure holiday theres plenty to fill your boots with, from fine dining and spas, to zip wires and hardcore mountain bike trails, horse riding to hot air balloons, narrowboat trips to family days out, you will not be board unless you decide to, and appreciate the calm tranquility of our unique complex.

5. Chilled Out Adult Only Glamping

100%

(32)

8 units · Glamping · Cheshire, North West England

Lakeside glamping on the edge of Delemere Forest and a 10-minute train ride from Chester

6. The Hut at Hafod Las

100%

(3)

1 unit · Glamping · Llangollen, Wales

A shepherd’s hut on a smallholding on the edge of the Clwydian Range

Stories from the community

K

Keith

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to The White Lodge

Really good staff, and pleasant location. Only stayed a couple of nights, but was really pleased with the conditions.

F

Filip

August 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to White House Farm Campsite, Wardlow

Really nice camping site. Very tidy toilets and showers. Highly recommended.

N

Natalie

August 2025

Weekend Trip to The Hut at Hafod Las

Our stay at the hut was lovely, so relaxing and quite, the breakfast that Helen provided for us gor when we arrived was delicious, the hut had everything we needed and the wood burner was so cosy for when it got a bit chilly, thanks Helen for a lovely weekend in the hut we will definitely be returning soon xx

E

Emily

August 2025

3 m travel trailer

2 nights at The White Lodge

It was our first time camping with our new teardrop camper and we definitely chose the right place! David was so lovely and helped me to reverse it onto the pitch. Due to bad reviews I expected the facilities to be dirty but they were far from it! Very clean and plenty of toilet roll! As for the location, it’s amazing for people who love walking, we had a few hours walk down the canal and I definitely recommend walking across the road to the Riverside cafe for some lunch. Other than that there’s not much to do unless you want to drive into Stafford Centre but perfect for a quiet chilled couple of nights!

K

Kathryn

August 2025

2 nights at Chilled Out Adult Only Glamping

Had an incredible few days at lloyds meadow, my husband did some fishing while I relaxed and crocheted, the campsite was clean and quiet, we even caught the meteor shower on Tuesday evening along with the northern lights. Sarah was an incredible host, always checking we had everything we needed, and very friendly.

T

Trudi

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The White Lodge

Clean washrooms and toilet amenities. On site bar and entertainment was excellent. Short walk to town, shops and pubs. Highly recommend.

N

Nidal

August 2025

Weekend Trip to RHC & Glamping

We stayed in the Cygnet pod, it was clean, warm and well stocked with cups and coffee/tea. We enjoyed the onsite sauna and complimentary alkaline water then had dinner from the cafe. The pizzas were delicious. Excellent customer service and a lovely bit of the north west to enjoy. 10/10

T

Tom

August 2025

6 m Class A

Weekend Trip to White House Farm Campsite, Wardlow

Facilities were clean, showers had hot water. Amazing views

M

Miley

July 2025

2 nights at RHC & Glamping

I love Glamping’s in Rachel’s land there is a great view and loved how there’s horses just up from the cabins and a walk to get to the top of the mountain would definitely go again but no shops near by but got an uber witch was quite cheap

R

Rachel

July 2025

1 night at RHC & Glamping

The site was easy to find and in a beautiful and peaceful setting. Gaining access to the pod was easy and even though not on site when I arrived, the owner left her number and answered my calls straight away. The pod had good amenities and was very cosy, the shower block and toilet area were extremely clean. It was a relaxing and stress free stay

L

Luke

July 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to White House Farm Campsite, Wardlow

Great open clean space, lots of camping areas to choose from. Only criticism is that the shower floors don't drain so ends up collecting in the drying area

B

BARRY

June 2025

Tent

3 nights at White House Farm Campsite, Wardlow

Lovely site. Clean facilities. Good location. Friendly

A

Amanda

June 2025

5 m car

1 night at The White Lodge

Lovely clean, spacious camping site, Friendly hosts and in a great location. River Trent next door, lovely walk along the canal & lovely garden centre opposite. In fact we liked it so much we stayed an extra night 😊

D

Declan

June 2025

Weekend Trip to Chilled Out Adult Only Glamping

Lloyds meadow what a beautiful place! As soon as we got here Sarah made us feel very welcomed showing us around and explaining everything that we needed, the bell tents were so clean and cozy. I can now see why the bed is award winning as I had the best sleep ever it was so comfortable! Little touches as ringing the bell for any help and bringing us fire wood whenever we needed it made us feel at home and welcomed. Lloyds meadow is the perfect get away and I would definitely highly recommend to anyone, it’s close to Chester town and has lovely bars and cafes nearby! Cannot fault in any way! Thankyou for having us, will definitely be coming back again! P.S we also made friends with the neighbours they were very welcoming also!!! ( the ducks & goats) xxx Beth and Dec

J

Jane

June 2025

2 nights at Chilled Out Adult Only Glamping

The comfiest bed in this beautiful secluded site. The hostess Sarah takes the extra step to make sure your holiday runs smoothly. Ideal for couples or the solo traveller seeking a bit of luxury

S

Sarah

June 2025

6 m pop-up camper

With pets

3 nights at The White Lodge

Views and location was amazing, we had such a lovely time just enjoy the scenery and the peace and quiet. Camp site has everything you need. Just gutted we had only booked the 3 nights, which we would of booked longer. Thank you!

L

Laurence

June 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to White House Farm Campsite, Wardlow

Clean facilities and great views with plenty of room.

e

emma

May 2025

5 m car

With pets

3 nights at White House Farm Campsite, Wardlow

Basic, quiet campsite with good, clean basic facilities. Easy to locate & beautiful views in every direction. I really enjoyed a couple of days here. My dog enjoyed it too!

Beth

May 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to White House Farm Campsite, Wardlow

The views here are absolutely beautiful, Clean toilets and hot showers, Would definitely recommend Kids and dog friendly Lots to do nearby Fab holiday Thank you

The famous goats! Be sure to take them for a walk.

J

Joseph

May 2025

Weekend Trip to Chilled Out Adult Only Glamping

Cannot fault our stay with Lloyds Meadow. 1st time we have glamped after years of camping and I don’t think I could go back to normal camping after such a wonderful experience here. Sarah was the best host we’ve ever had. Attentive, knowledgeable and nothing was too much to ask to ensure our stay was the best. We added the fire pit package and breakfast hamper which did not disappoint. Sitting out by the fire into the night, secluded and surrounded by nature & all of the wonderful sounds made for an unforgettable and addicting experience. (We will be back 100%)! We had a fishing peg on the stunning small lake just outside the tent entrance which also didn’t disappoint. Packed with Roach, Bream and some specimen Carp. All really good fun on light tackle. Let’s not forget the goats, who you can let out of the pen if you wish and they follow you around! What a great additional experience. There is also a pub which serves excellent food within a very short walking distance. The showers and toilets onsite were very clean & the best I’ve found on any site. Hats off to Sarah and Dan, who have created the perfect combination of real connection to nature, combined with the luxuries camping lacks sometimes. The beds in the tents are extremely comfy too. Thank you both & see you again soon. Emily and Joe.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Campsites with swimming in Macclesfield Forest guide

Where to go

Sutton Lane Ends & Langley

These two villages comprise the main gateway to the forest to the west, and fall under the same overarching parish. Only a few miles from Macclesfield, a balmy, bucolic vibe pervades. There are several atmospheric pubs and the only organised camping site close to the forest. Continuing east from Langley up Clarke Lane, you’ll quickly reach the Macclesfield Forest’s edge.

Trentabank Reservoir

This reservoir is the heart of Macclesfield Forest, home to the Peak District’s largest heronry, a nature reserve, and visitor centre. Birdwatch or spot other creatures including badgers, weasels, and red deer, get refreshments at the Leather’s Smithy pub, or take to the forest walking and cycling trails. A great walk runs through the forest and up to Shutlingsloe summit.

Tegg’s Nose Country Park

On Macclesfield Forest’s north side is this irresistibly pretty country park, occupying the site of a former quarry and the surrounding steep-sided moors. Climbing and abseiling are big here, and the one-hour Rock’s Trail highlights the area’s geology with a visit to Tegg’s Nose summit. There is also the challenging ‘Grit and Gears II’ mountain bike route, a tearoom, and a visitor centre.

Shutlingsloe

Cheshire’s second-highest hill, Shutlingsloe is linked by footpath across the moor near Macclesfield Forest. Views from the 1,670-foot top are superb—over the Peak District and across most of Cheshire—and the summit is also the highest point on the 190-mile Peak District Boundary Walk. England’s last wild boar was supposedly killed nearby—which is one theory behind the etymology of Wildboarclough, the village below the hill where you’ll find camping and a pub.

South West Peak

The South West Peak region of the Peak District National Park rolls away east of Macclesfield Forest, typically the national park’s least-visited region. It’s a zone loosely bounded by Macclesfield, Buxton, Kettleshulme, and Ilam, mixing barren plateau with fetching lower-lying pasture, while deeply scored cloughs divide the two. Long-distance hikes passing through include the Dane Valley Way and Churnet Way. Wildboarclough and the Manifold Valley make beautiful, quiet camping bases.