Malpas

by Alec and Val Scaresbrook

This small country town is strangely isolated from the main road system, with only B roads leading to it. In a strong position on its 400 ft (122 m) hill, it was once an extremely important stronghold, but its castle has long disappeared. However the motte, which is thought to date from the 11th century, is visible on the far side ofthe churchyard fence, to the rear of the church. St Oswald's, which is mainly 14th century, boasts an iron-bound 13th century chest and Flemish stained glass from the 16th and 17th centuries. In common with some other Cheshire churches, St Oswald's has a two-storey porch (the upper storey was once home to a priest).

The main streets house the usual mix of household, ironmonger, saddlery and agricultural shops that you'd expect in a rural centre, but unusually, very few pubs. Early closing day is Wednesday here. See the map below