About Us

Kevin and Brian started the Trading Post in early 2000 and have created a first class establishment on the Macclesfield canal.

The Trading Post used to be a part of the local wharf administration buildings in the days when coal was shipped from here.

But now it supplies passing boats, bikers and walkers with sustenance and supplies.

More from Kevin

Local News

Winter has just presented us with the first storms, which have resulted in some local damage to buildings, and cars.

The local wild life just let it pass them by and got on with the job in hand - mating up for the Spring.

Many trees were lightly damaged but only a few have come down and none have blocked the canal or towpath.

As you would expect the towpath is very muddy and covered in puddles so make sure you are wearing good footwear when you come for a walk.

The Macclesfield Canal is part of the famous Cheshire Ring. The Cheshire Ring is composed of the Macclesfield Canal and parts of the Peak Forest, Ashton, Rochdale, Bridgewater and Trent & Mersey canals. Enjoy a relaxing walk along the tow path or visit one of the many excellent pubs along the canal side for lunch.

The Macclesfield Canal Society will be able to provide you with information on the history and route of the canal.

Anson Engine Museum This unusual and fascinating museum is one of the best kept secrets among Cheshire's many attractions. Situated in leafy countryside in Higher Poynton, the museum is on the site of the old Anson Colliery. It is the result of Les Cawley and Geoff Challinor's years of hard work collecting and restoring engines. Opened to the public in 1989, the museum is open every Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Bank Holiday from Easter Sunday until end October (other times and days by arrangement for group visits).

A unique collection of over 200 gas and oil engines, many maintained in running order. Ranging from early Crossley gas engines through to more modern diesels. The collection illustrates the development of the internal combustion engine from its early beginnings. Engine enthusiasts from all over the world come to visit this fascinating museum. The museum also has an excellent display of local history items such as photographs, maps, mementoes and keepsakes from the Vernon Estate and Anson Colliery.

The Boars Head at Shrigley Road North, is only a few minutes walk from the canal. This handsome redbrick public house dates back about 120 years and was used as a hostelry for workmen constructing the nearby railway. Gordon is the chef, and dishes from his printed menu and daily specials are available every lunchtime and evening.

The Nelson Pit Visitors Centre is just off Shrigley Road North between Middlewood Way and the canal at Higher Poynton. For those interested in Poynton history it is well worth a visit. There is a time line of Poynton events through the centuries.

Information and maps of the many local walks are available, as well as more information on the local area and its varied wildlife.

The Middlewood Way. Offers a 10-mile (16-km) traffic-free route for walkers, cyclists and horseriders. It follows the line of the former Macclesfield, Bollington and Marple Railway through picturesque Cheshire countryside and between historic mill towns. For much of its length, the Middlewood Way runs close to the Macclesfield Canal, and there are many options for easy circular walks. For the more adventurous, the extensive public footpath network reaches into the Peak District Foothills to the east and the Cheshire Plain to the west.