Malpas is a charming Cheshire village steeped in history. Though small, there are plenty of things to do in the local area for every age. Whether you’re here for a short mid-week break or looking for weekend activities with the kids and your dog, there’s plenty to keep you occupied. Even better, there’s lots to do here without having to spend a penny, we’re fortunate to have so much history and green space on our doorstep that there’s plenty to do in the area for free. Here are the team’s recommendations on their top 9 things to do in Malpas and the surrounding area.
Things To Do In The Malpas Area
Local Dog Walking Trails
For those of you with four legged friends, there are many dog walks to explore in Malpas, from small village loops to larger countryside adventures you’re sure to find the perfect ramble. Check out our blog for our top recommended walks. The Malpas circular walk is particularly popular if you’re looking for something a little challenging. Or for shorter strolls, walks through the churchyard and around the village are equally as beautiful. The village is teaming with nature, and on a sunny day, there’s nowhere we’d rather be.
St. Oswald’s Church
Standing at the top of Malpas, visible from across the village, St Oswald’s is a superb 14th century church with a breath-taking bossed ceiling. You can expect to also find Flemish window panels, and a magnificent 13th century oak chest. The church contains an octagonal stone font that dates back to the 1600s and choir stalls with carved misericords. You can take a tour through the church itself before exploring the grounds, maybe even stopping for a picnic in the garden or catching an end of bowls on either of the greens adjacent to the churchyard. For a free experience in Malpas, this is definitely one to add to your staycation bucket list.
Bickerton Hill & Sandstone Trail
One of Cheshire’s most popular route with walkers, the Sandstone Trail reaches some pretty high elevations and is perfect for four legged friends with curious noses. Equally, it’s perfect for the keen adventurer in you and is often enjoyed by many of our guests who stay overnight in our rooms. When you reach the summit of the trail, you’re sure to be rewarded with some stunning views of the surrounding valleys. On clear days, it’s sometimes even possible to see as far as the Liver Building in Liverpool and Ellesmere Port.
Local Businesses in Malpas
Although our village may be small, you can find plenty shops to pop in and explore. Even better, many of the businesses on our high street are small independents, definitely worth supporting. Up Church Street, you will find a quaint little antiques store to browse and find some cute little hidden gems. On the Malpas high street, you might like to pop into Huxley’s, our locally renowned bakery that serves fresh bread, cakes, and pastries each day. There’s also a farm shop down in Hampton that sells amazing fresh produce sourced from the docks of Liverpool every morning. Did you know at The Lion we try to support as many local businesses as possible for our own supplies too? Though you’ll probably want to make a purchase or two in the stores (they sell such lovely things), walking down and taking in the high street is a free experience in Malpas that’s not to be missed when visiting us.
The Rec
Fun for all, the Rec is a great place to soak up some rays on a sunny day. Why not take a picnic and relax on the field whilst kids play on the park or shoot some hoops on the court? You can truly make a day of it, especially as we head into summer. Dogs are also allowed on the green so your pooch can come too. Did you know that we have several dog-friendly rooms at The Lion? At certain times of the year, you may even catch the fairs and rallies held on the Rec. Worth a visit!
Things To Do In The Wider Cheshire Area
Three Wrens Distillery and Gin Tours
Based in Cholmondeley, Three Wrens offers both gin tastings and tours as well as an amazing distilling experience where you can create your own bespoke gin to take home. Open every Saturday, this opportunity is not to be missed (if you are over 18 of course!) It’s located just a short ride from the village and The Lion. A relaxed & fun event, Three Wrens’ tours are perfect for small groups of friends and couples. We’re even named their top accommodation choice for staying over after your visit there.
BeWILDerwood
BeWILDerwood is a newly opened, award-winning forest of family fun and outdoor adventure located in Cheshire. Based on the magical and enchanting books by author and creator Tom Blofeld, days spent here mean endless hours playing together. Explore their wonky world of treehouses, whiz down slides, swing together on giant swings and zip along extra-long zip wires. Then join in with storytelling and creative crafts amongst other things. If you’re looking for fun things to do with the kids in Malpas and the Cheshire areas – add BeWILDerwood to your list for sure.
Beeston Castle
Crowning a rocky crag and boasting spectacular views, Beeston Castle is one of the most dramatic medieval castles in England. On a clear day, you can see all the way from the Pennines to the Welsh mountains. With a 4,000-year history, a replica Bronze Age roundhouse, and a 40-acre woodland park, Beeston Castle has something for everyone to enjoy. Check out more castle visits in Cheshire on our sister pub, The Swan’s, recent blog post.
Cheshire Workshops – The Candle Factory
Located in the scenic Cheshire countryside on the Sandstone Trail are the Cheshire Workshops. Formerly known as The Candle Factory, the company has been crafting for over 50 years and this experience is ideal for the whole family. Did we mention it’s very popular amongst our guests? With a whole host of craft activities to partake in from pottery painting to candlestick making, this is the place to get your creative juices flowing.
Eating in Malpas
After all that activity, a classic pub meal is in order we think. The team here at The Lion have created a seasonal menu. It features the very best British dishes with the occasional European twist, showcasing our relationships with local farms and producers. Great food means using the best ingredients. Stay and enjoy a three-course meal in our relaxed dining area, a casual bite in our cosy snug, or a glass of your favourite tipple at our well-stocked bar.
Staying Overnight in Malpas
If you’re looking to stay overnight in Malpas, then look no further than our pub. Whilst the Lion has been welcoming guests for centuries, recent renovations have transformed the experience of staying in the Cheshire countryside. We now boast 16 fabulous new rooms showcasing beautiful fabrics, reclaimed timbers and the finest furnishings. Complete with duck feather pillows, toiletries from the Bath House, Sedbergh and excellent complementary wifi, your stay at The Lion will be a welcome respite in the country. You can book a room via our website directly.
