Old Higher Poynton Railway Station Picnic Area
Old Higher Poynton Railway Station Picnic Area
Highlight • Cykelsti
Old Higher Poynton Railway Station Picnic Area
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5.0
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The Old Higher Poynton Railway Station Picnic Area is a unique historical site nestled in Higher Poynton, Cheshire East, England. Once a bustling railway station, it has been thoughtfully transformed into a tranquil picnic area and convenient car park, serving as a key access point along the popular Middlewood Way. Situated at an elevation of approximately 151 metres, this spot offers a blend of heritage and recreational opportunities within the picturesque Cheshire countryside.
Visitors consistently praise this location for its peaceful atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for a relaxing break. Cyclists particularly enjoy the serene environment for leisure rides, finding the routes gentle and accessible. The blend of historical interest with the natural surroundings creates a distinctive charm that draws people to this part of the Middlewood Way.
Before visiting, it's helpful to know that the picnic area is directly on the Middlewood Way, a shared-use path suitable for walkers, cyclists, and horse riders. Parking is available at the site, making it easy to start your adventure. While the former railway line is in a cutting, some access points to the Middlewood Way feature steps, though the Poynton Coppice car park offers level access. The terrain along the Middlewood Way is generally flat and well-maintained, making it an easy cycle route suitable for various fitness levels.
This location is perfect for a range of outdoor activities, especially cycling and walking. The Middlewood Way, a 10-mile path stretching between Macclesfield and Rose Hill, Marple, offers numerous routes for exploration. It's a family-friendly destination, and the easy cycle routes make it enjoyable for all ages. The area is pleasant to visit year-round, with each season offering its own charm to the Cheshire landscape.
The Old Higher Poynton Railway Station Picnic Area itself is a highlight along the Middlewood Way. The original station platforms are still extant, allowing you to cycle or walk through a piece of history. Information boards detail the past of the Macclesfield, Bollington and Marple Railway line, and you can even spot traces of the original white paint on the platform edges. Nearby, you'll find a cafe and a pub, providing convenient refreshments for your outing.
Many visitors appreciate the blend of history and nature found here. It's a place where you can easily imagine the trains of yesteryear while enjoying a picnic or a leisurely cycle. The preserved platforms offer a tangible link to the past, creating a unique backdrop for outdoor activities. The gentle terrain and accessible nature of the Middlewood Way make it a welcoming spot for those seeking an easy cycle route or a peaceful walk.
Whether you're looking for family-friendly cycle routes, a historical walk, or simply a tranquil spot for a picnic, the Old Higher Poynton Railway Station Picnic Area offers a variety of experiences. Explore the many trails and routes available on komoot to plan your visit, discovering the rich history and natural beauty of this part of Cheshire East. The Middlewood Way provides excellent opportunities for cycling, walking, and even horse riding, connecting you to the wider National Cycle Network Route 55.
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Højdemeter 150 m
Vejr
Drevet af Foreca
søndag 26. juli
21°C
13°C
31 %
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Maks. vindhastighed: 21,0 km/h
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What is the total length of the Middlewood Way accessible from Old Higher Poynton Railway Station Picnic Area?
The Old Higher Poynton Railway Station Picnic Area is located directly on the Middlewood Way, which is a 10-mile (16 km) shared-use path. This path stretches between Macclesfield and Rose Hill, Marple, offering a continuous route for cyclists, walkers, and horse riders in either direction from the picnic area.
Are there any specific viewpoints or historical landmarks to look out for along the Middlewood Way near the picnic area?
Yes, the picnic area itself is a significant historical landmark, featuring the original platforms of the former railway station. You can cycle or walk through these preserved platforms. Along the Middlewood Way, especially as it approaches Higher Poynton, the trail splits under a bridge, with each side leading up over a former platform. Information boards detailing the history of the Macclesfield, Bollington and Marple Railway line are also present at the station site.
Is the Middlewood Way suitable for all types of bicycles, including road bikes, or is it better for mountain bikes?
The Middlewood Way is generally flat and well-maintained, making it suitable for a variety of bicycles. While it's an excellent route for leisure cycling on hybrid or mountain bikes, its smooth, compacted surface also makes it accessible for road bikes, though some sections might be unpaved. It's considered an easy cycle route, enjoyable for all ages and fitness levels.
Where can I find parking at the Old Higher Poynton Railway Station Picnic Area, and is it free?
A car park is available directly at the Old Higher Poynton Railway Station Picnic Area, making it a convenient starting point for your visit. While the intro mentions parking is available, community tips suggest that parking can fill up quickly, especially during peak times. It's advisable to arrive earlier in the day to secure a spot. Information regarding parking fees is not specified, so it's generally assumed to be free.
How crowded does the Middlewood Way typically get, especially on weekends or during peak seasons?
The Middlewood Way is a popular shared-use path, and as such, it can experience higher visitor numbers on weekends, bank holidays, and during pleasant weather in spring and summer. While it offers a serene environment, especially for leisure rides, expect more cyclists, walkers, and horse riders during these peak times. Arriving earlier in the day can help avoid the busiest periods.
Is the Old Higher Poynton Railway Station Picnic Area and the Middlewood Way dog-friendly?
Yes, the Middlewood Way is a dog-friendly path. Many visitors enjoy walking their dogs along the trail. However, as it's a shared-use path, it's important to keep dogs under control, ideally on a lead, to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all users, including cyclists and horse riders.
Are there any cafes or pubs located very close to the Old Higher Poynton Railway Station Picnic Area for refreshments?
Yes, there are amenities conveniently located nearby. A cafe and a pub can be found alongside the road above the former station, providing options for refreshments before or after your ride or walk along the Middlewood Way.
What are the winter conditions like on the Middlewood Way, and is it still suitable for cycling?
The Middlewood Way is generally well-maintained and can be visited year-round. In winter, the path may be subject to colder temperatures, potential frost, or occasional light snow. While it remains accessible, cyclists should exercise caution, especially on shaded sections where ice might form. Appropriate winter cycling gear and slightly wider tires are recommended for comfort and safety during these months.
Are there any circular cycling routes that incorporate the Old Higher Poynton Railway Station Picnic Area and the Middlewood Way?
While the Middlewood Way itself is a linear path, many cyclists use it as a segment within longer circular routes. You can combine sections of the Middlewood Way with local country lanes and other trails in the surrounding Cheshire countryside to create varied circular rides. Exploring komoot for routes starting from the picnic area can help you discover pre-planned circular options.
Is the Old Higher Poynton Railway Station Picnic Area and the Middlewood Way wheelchair accessible?
The Middlewood Way is a shared-use path with a generally flat and well-maintained surface, making it accessible for many users, including those with wheelchairs. While the former railway line is in a cutting, the Poynton Coppice car park offers level access to the Middlewood Way. However, some other access points to the Middlewood Way may feature steps, so it's best to check specific entry points if full wheelchair accessibility is a primary concern.
What is the historical significance of the Old Higher Poynton Railway Station?
The station, originally opened in 1869 as 'Poynton', was a vital part of the Macclesfield, Bollington and Marple Railway (MB&MR) line. It played a significant role in transporting coal from the nearby Poynton coalfields. Renamed 'Higher Poynton' in 1930, passenger services ceased in 1970, and the line was converted into the Middlewood Way, opening in 1985. The preserved platforms and information boards at the picnic area offer a tangible link to this rich railway and industrial heritage.