We were expecting heavy rain by 11am, so we abandoned our planned walk in favour of a walk around Macclesfield, in which we would take in all the parks.

We set off through Riverside Park

Crossing the river Bollin at the first bridge

The path led us to the gates of Macclesfield cemetery. A place where many old friends no doubt reside.

Accompanied by beautiful blossom

we followed the path flanked by those that had gone before

This led us into West Park

which was quiet for a bank holiday Monday. Most people being deterred by the impending rain

passing the almost deserted skate board park and kiddies playground

and the museum.

Before we crossed into East Cheshire hospital

passing the expensive car park (beware of the small print and vigilant clampers, no doubt a warning sign for NHS privatisation!)

before turning up by the little lake

Then down Fairfield Road and across Chester Road and along the path

and up behind All Hallows School.

Then down Brooklands Road and along Oxford Road before taking the pedestrian and cycle path across the road from the Flower Pot pub.

We took a left in front of the little pool

Which brought us out onto an estate where we headed across Wester Drive with its interesting looking bungalows

We then took a left into South Park

With the rain still threatening, but not yet arrived. It was here we took our break on tree stumps and benches.

Afterwards we followed the path down bearing right just by the park lake, heading past the mill.

and onto the main road in front of the Mill Lane Chippy. A place I can recommend without hesitation!

We went up back streets, I’d not been before, and found this hidden pool.

Knights Pool was new to me.

We headed into Victoria Park

Passing in front of Kings Girls School, what was more famously known as Macclesfield Girls Grammar School and then briefly Macc High School (where Lee Dixon used to go). I believe it will soon be turned into apartments.

We passed the band stand

and a kids football pitch, with a view of St. Michael’s Church in the background.

We crossed the main road by Tesco’s

and finally taking the path back towards Riverside Park. We had covered 5 miles and just beat the start of the pouring rain. A nice walk for a change.