Astbury

by Alec and Val Scaresbrook

Astbury village is set around a green - a rare sight in Cheshire and especially attractive in spring when carpeted in daffodils.

Another attraction for cyclists is the Egerton Arms, a popular pub serving food. This is also the point to detour along a country lane (although note that it's a rush hour ratrun) that passes a garden centre cafe en route to Congleton railway station.

St Mary's church is unusual with its tower and spire set to the side, plus two-storied south porch and three-storied west porch. Made from millstone grit, the oldest part of the church dates from the late 13th century, with the tower dating from the 14th century, although the recessed spire was rebuilt in the mid 1800s.

In the church grounds there's an ancient yew, known to be at least 1000 years old, and inside, there's a carved wooden eagle lectern dating from 1500 - unique in Cheshire.

See the map below