Alderley Edge, Cheshire

Flower Delivery to Alderley Edge with Clare Florist

Manchester is a city made famous by football. It’s a dream destination for players who want to become part of the famous English club that’s based here. Some of those who’ve made it big have chosen to build their mansions in a village that lies 15 miles (24 kilometres) to the south. Today, Alderley Edge is a playground of the rich. Designer boutiques and Michelin starred restaurants have become prominent fixtures.

Luxury and modernity may have disrupted the landscape. However, it’s good to know that traces of its charming and mystical past are still apparent. Herein lays the real allure of this tourist spot.

ETYMOLOGY AND LOCATION

Alderley Edge takes its name from the dramatic red sandstone escarpment where it’s located. The steep and thickly wooded ridge overlooks the Cheshire Plain.

MINING HISTORY

Copper mining has had a long history in the village. The ridge itself is filled with old mine workings. The metal has been extracted here starting from the Bronze Age, well into the 19th century. In 1995, a hoard of 564 Roman coins, dating from AD 317 to AD 336, was discovered by members of the Derbyshire Caving Club.

Due to its unique geology, the ridge has now been designated as a Sight of Special Scientific Interest.

During the Middle Ages, Chorleigh or Chorley (Alderley Edge’s former name) was made up of an estate with a number of owners. Most of the property here has belonged to the De Trafford baronets since the 15th century. Agriculture was the primary source of income for people ever since the market charter of 1253.  Until now, farmers have been selling a wide variety of produce. There are also shops dedicated to selling homemade goodies and fresh flowers in Alderley Edge.

THE TWO ALANS

Two of the village’s most famous residents were named Alan. The first, Alan Mathison Turing, was a mathematician known for this work in World War II. He devised techniques that enabled the British to break German ciphers.

Alan Garner is an English novelist whose work is inspired by his native county of Cheshire. Two of his most popular novels, The Weirdstone of Brisingamen and The Moon of Gomrath were set on the Edge. Those who have read the fantastic journey of Colin and Susan into Fundindelve will be delighted to find a rock carved with a face of a bearded man. These instructions are engraved on it: ‘Drink of this and take thy fill, for the water falls by the wizards will.’ Other notable locations like Castle Rock, Saddle Bole, Goldenstone and the Beacon are all there too. Even Fosters Fish and Chips remains a landmark in the area, serving up delicious fare to both locals and tourists.

And a little way down from Stormy Point, one will stumble upon the rock face concealing the Iron Gates. On a snowy day, a visit through these familiar spots will feel as if you’re being transported to a world of wizard’s magic, brave knights and stout dwarves.

If you’ve had your fill of mysticism and the cold weather, slip inside one of the local pubs for a pint. As for accommodation, the Harrop Fold Farm has exquisite breakfasts and 20 acres you can explore.

Longing to visit an old aunt living in Nether Alderley? Send flowers to Alderley Edge along with a note asking if you could visit. Fresh blooms are available all year round through online florists.

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