Wildboarclough Circular Walk: Bagging Shutlingsloe, the ‘Cheshire Matterhorn’

Looking for a proper mini-adventure in the Peak District’s quieter corners? The Wildboarclough circular delivers a pointed summit experience on Shutlingsloe—affectionately known as the “Matterhorn of Cheshire.” This varied loop takes in woodland, open moor, and dramatic hill country, making it perfect for confident walkers, families with older kids, and dogs.

‍

Walk Snapshot

• Location: Wildboarclough, eastern Peak District (Cheshire)
  
  
• Distance: 7–8 km
  
  
• Time: 2.5–3.5 hours
  
  
• Elevation Gain: Approx. 300–400 metres
  
  
• Difficulty: Moderate – short, steep sections but no scrambling
  
  
• Trail Type: Circular
  
  
• Start/Finish Point: Clough House car park or Wildboarclough village
  
  
• Dog Friendly: Yes – leads may be needed near livestock
  
  
• Highlights: Shutlingsloe summit, forest trails, moorland views
  
  

Route Description

Start – Clough House

Begin from a layby near Clough House and follow the permissive path into Macclesfield Forest. The woodland is calm, shaded, and a great introduction to the route—ideal for birdlife spotting and easing into the climb.

‍

Midway – Ascent to Shutlingsloe

Break out onto moorland, where the conical shape of Shutlingsloe dominates the skyline. A stepped path takes you up to the summit in a short but sharp push. The reward? Wide views across the Cheshire Plain, Peak District edges, and even Manchester on a clear day.

‍

Return Loop

Descend the opposite side of Shutlingsloe and loop back through a mix of farm tracks, grassy paths, and quiet lanes via Wildboarclough village. Rejoin the forest path for a short walk back to the start.

‍

Highlights

• Iconic Summit: Shutlingsloe may not be the tallest, but it certainly feels dramatic
  
  
• Woodland & Moor Combo: A walk of contrasts—from shady trees to exposed ridge
  
  
• Wildlife: Keep an eye out for deer, buzzards, and ground-nesting birds in season
  
  
• Quiet Trails: Often overlooked compared to central Peaks—expect fewer crowds
  
  

Facilities & Nearby Stops

• Parking: Layby at Clough House or nearby roadside options
  
  
• Toilets: Nearest at the Macclesfield Forest visitor area
  
  
• Refreshments: Crag Inn (if open) or options in Macclesfield
  
  
• Alternative Routes: Trentabank Reservoir loop or longer forest circuits
  
  

Tips for the Walk

• Waterproof boots are a good shout—sections of the moor can be boggy
  
  
• Navigation is mostly straightforward but bring a map or GPX if unsure
  
  
• Shutlingsloe’s summit can be windy—bring an extra layer even on warm days
  
  
• Take your time on the descent—it can be steep and loose underfoot
  
  

Final Thoughts

This circular loop is a brilliant introduction to Peak District peak bagging. Shutlingsloe provides a real sense of achievement, the forest adds a tranquil stretch, and the views feel far bigger than the effort involved.

‍

Photo by Polly Sadler on Unsplash