Discover Malpas | A Visitor's Introduction to Malpas

Why is Malpas Worth a Visit?

Malpas is worth visiting for its rare combination of quiet countryside charm and deep historical roots. The name “Malpas” comes from the Old French for “bad passage,” a reference to its hilly terrain in medieval times — but today the only difficult thing is leaving. With timber-framed houses, narrow lanes, and one of the best-preserved Norman churches in Cheshire, Malpas feels like a place out of time.

Despite its small size, Malpas has a surprising number of things to see and do, from heritage walks and local produce to nearby castles and wildlife reserves. Its location near the border means you're within easy reach of both Cheshire’s leafy lanes and the hills of North Wales. If you’re looking for a relaxing countryside base with character and warm hospitality, Malpas ticks all the boxes.

Malpas Highlights: Things to See and Do in Malpas

St Oswald’s Church

At the heart of the village stands St Oswald’s Church, a Grade I-listed building with origins in the 14th century. Its lofty tower is a local landmark, and inside you'll find stunning woodwork, medieval carvings, and a peaceful churchyard with centuries of local history etched into its gravestones. It's a real gem for anyone interested in ecclesiastical architecture or Cheshire’s medieval past.

The High Street and Village Centre

Malpas has a delightfully traditional high street, lined with half-timbered houses, stone cottages, and friendly local shops. You’ll find a butcher, bakery, and independent deli offering regional produce, as well as tearooms and country pubs. It’s the kind of place where locals still greet each other by name, and the pace of life invites visitors to slow down and savour the details.

Bishop Bennet Way

The Bishop Bennet Way is a 34-mile trail for walkers, horse riders, and cyclists, passing through Malpas as it winds from Beeston Castle to the Welsh hills. It follows old Roman roads and quiet country lanes, offering scenic views of farms, woodland, and open fields. The section around Malpas is particularly beautiful, and it’s a great way to explore the surrounding countryside.

Cholmondeley Castle Gardens

Just 15 minutes’ drive from Malpas, Cholmondeley Castle offers gorgeous gardens and parkland set around a private gothic-style castle. While the castle itself isn’t open to the public, the gardens are a joy to explore, featuring formal terraces, a rose garden, woodland walks, and a tranquil lake. It’s especially lovely in spring and summer, and there’s a café and plant shop on site too.

Bickerton Hill and Sandstone Trail

Another nearby outdoor highlight is Bickerton Hill, part of the Sandstone Trail – one of Cheshire’s most popular long-distance walking routes. From the summit, you’ll enjoy sweeping views across Cheshire and into Wales. It’s about a 20-minute drive from Malpas, and well worth the journey for a breath of fresh air and some of the best rural scenery in the area.

Hampton Post Box Walk and Local Trails

Malpas has a number of waymarked footpaths and circular walks, including the popular Hampton Circular Walk, which passes through peaceful hamlets, woodland, and farmland. There’s even a quirky walk themed around post boxes – highlighting some of the rare Victorian and Edwardian boxes still in use.

Local Pubs and Dining

Malpas may be small, but it’s not short on good food. The Lion at Malpas is a beautifully restored 16th-century coaching inn serving modern British cuisine with an emphasis on local produce – think venison, Cheshire cheese, and seasonal greens. It’s also a boutique hotel, should you wish to stay overnight. For a more casual bite, try The Red Lion in the nearby village of Dodleston, or The Cholmondeley Arms, a former schoolhouse turned gin palace with over 300 varieties of gin.

Nearby Castles and Historic Houses

In addition to Cholmondeley Castle, the broader area is rich in heritage attractions. Beeston Castle, perched on a rocky crag, offers dramatic views and fascinating ruins. Peckforton Castle, now a hotel and event venue, is another nearby sight with storybook looks and woodland trails. If you fancy a drive into Wales, Chirk Castle, run by the National Trust, is only 35 minutes away and has spectacular interiors and gardens.

Nature Reserves and Wildlife

Close to Malpas is Brown Moss Nature Reserve, a Site of Special Scientific Interest known for its rare wetlands, dragonflies, and birdlife. It’s a peaceful place to walk, especially in spring and early summer when wildflowers are in bloom. For something different, visit The Ice Cream Farm in Tattenhall — popular with families, it offers play areas, farm animals, and an extraordinary selection of ice cream flavours.

Practical Advice for Visitors

Getting There

Malpas is best accessed by car. It’s about 20 minutes from Whitchurch, 30 minutes from Chester, and around 1 hour from Manchester. There is no railway station in Malpas itself, but the nearest stations are in Wrenbury or Whitchurch, with taxi or bus connections. Buses serve the village but are infrequent, so driving gives the most flexibility.

Parking

Free parking is available around the village, particularly near the High Street and church. As a small village, spaces are usually easy to find, though it’s best to avoid peak school drop-off times during the week.

Dining

For a village of its size, Malpas offers excellent dining options. The Lion is the standout spot for lunch or dinner, offering quality menus in a welcoming setting. The Old Fire Station Chocolate Shop and Café is another favourite – a quirky spot serving cakes, hot drinks, and handmade chocolates. For takeaways, you’ll find a fish and chip shop and local Chinese and Indian options.

Shopping

Malpas isn’t a shopping destination, but it does have a few charming shops and essentials. The Malpas Farm Shop offers fresh produce, meats, and local treats, while the high street has a pharmacy, gift shops, and an independent deli. For larger shopping trips, head to Whitchurch, Nantwich, or Chester.

When to Visit

Malpas is pleasant year-round, but it shines in spring and summer when the countryside is in full bloom and local events get underway. Autumn is ideal for crisp walks and cosier pub meals, while winter brings a festive charm with Christmas lights and church carol services. May and June are particularly beautiful for garden visits, including Cholmondeley Castle.

Local Events

• Malpas Village Fair – A traditional summer celebration with stalls, entertainment, and a real community feel.

• St Oswald’s Church Events – Including music concerts, craft fairs, and historical talks.

• Christmas Light Switch-On and Market – Held in late November, featuring local food, handmade gifts, and carol singing.

Exploring Beyond Malpas

Malpas is a great base for exploring the Cheshire/Shropshire border region. Visit Whitchurch, a handsome market town with independent shops and a strong food scene. Explore the canals and countryside around Wrenbury and Tattenhall, or head west into North Wales to enjoy the castles and gardens of the Welsh Marches. The Roman city of Chester is just 30 minutes away, perfect for a day of history, shopping, and riverside strolls.