Share special moments amongst the beauty of Cheshire
Things to do near the Blue Cap, Sandiway
Whether you’re looking for a stroll through the scenic settings of Cheshire or a trip back to the Northwich of yesteryear, there’s something for everyone in and around Sandiway. With the villages of Sandiway and Cuddington home to a breadth of war time history, there is so much to uncover in a seemingly unassuming area. Step outside of the tree-lined streets surrounding the Blue Cap and Sandiway and explore all that the area has to offer.
Leave no stone unturned at Delamere Forest
Explore an engineering spectacle at Anderton Boat Lift
Marvel at one of the seven wonders of the waterways, Anderton Boat Lift. Colloquially known as the Cathedral of the Canals, the boat lift is a three-storey high edifice that lifts boats and barges 50ft in the air from the River Weaver Navigation to the Trent and Mersey Canal. Listen out for the sound of water sloshing over the edges of the lift, as two watertight tanks work as counterbalances to transport the boats up and down.
Originally, the lift was designed by Edwin Clark in 1875 and remained in operation for over 100 years, before it closed in 1983. After a 2001 renovation project, the system reopened in 2002 with some new offerings, including the chance to see behind-the-scenes action of the lift.
With a children’s play area that thoughtfully mimics the lift itself and a Heritage Cycle Trail linking the boat lift with Northwich, Anderton Boat Lift is an ideal stop for a day of exploring. While you’re there, take a moment to stop and look for wildlife — the area is known to be home to bats, bug hotels, swans, moorhens, rare orchids and, sometimes, the elusive white-tailed eagle. Just a 5-mile drive from the Blue Cap, so you can refuel with us after your big day out.
Experience our cherished countryside at Arley Hall & Gardens
A beloved family home since the 15th century, Arley Hall & Gardens is a stately home amongst 15 acres of gardens. Set within 2,000 acres of bumbling Cheshire countryside and owned by Lord and Lady Ashbrook, the house was built between 1832 and 1845 by Rowland Egerton-Warburton, to the designs of George Latham, a local architect. Some building materials for the mansion were even sourced from the original houses that sat on the land of Arley Hall & Gardens many years ago. The historic gardens are double-herbaceously bordered, first recorded on a map of the estate from 1744., and a small plant nursery is open from March until October each year. The nursery is full of hardy, blossoming perennials, with a small selection of shrubs, clematis and climbers, too. What will you spot on your trip around the grounds?
Arley Gardens are dog-friendly too, making a stop by the Blue Cap perfect for a hearty breakfast before your day out, or after to finish off a lovely time perusing the manor house with a delightful dinner. Our menu is filled with seasonal pub classics to end the day with special moments in a cosy, welcoming environment and our bar is well-stocked with traditional drinks to delight anyone and everyone.