National Trust - Quarry Bank
National Trust - Quarry Bank things to do, attractions, restaurants, events info and trip planning
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Manchester was one of the leading cotton manufacturing towns throughout industrial revolution. During this time, a mass of working Mills were erected in all number of locations through the area. Quarry bank is one of these, and a National Trust gem not to be missed. Located in one of the more 'Idilic' of these locations. The Mill, along with it's other utility buildings, seems to blend well with the backdrop of green scenery. There's plenty of cravesses to explore along with well maintained gardens. Within close proximity you may find the usual facilities, restaurant cafe etc. Ofcourse the main attraction is the mill itself. The Mill building separated by numourous floors, each floor containing a unique identity. Each levels contains working machinery, and staff who are happy to supply a hands on demonstration. Even as an adult I found this somewhat exciting, becoming enthralled at the mechanics of steam power. I would highly recommend the power level where the water works are situated. The actual site is a stones throw away from Manchester Airport, yet the airport traffic is hardly noticeable. It seems a great place for a family day out. Noticing the children around the grounds, they seemed to relish in the adventure. Adult tickets are a slightly pricey, but carparking is free which balances the cost. You could ofcourse become a National Trust member and gain entrance for free.
Gareth EvansGareth Evans
00
Oh, Quarry Bank Mill, you truly are a treasure trove of history and heartache, wrapped in the stunning embrace of the National Trust! 🏭 💔Walking through those time-worn halls and gazing at the clattering machinery, I couldn't help but feel a profound connection to the past. This old textile mill, with its still-working parts, stands as a poignant reminder of a time when the industrial revolution cast its long shadows over the lives of countless children, some as young as 10. 😢 The stories of these young souls, toiling away for 12-hour shifts, six days a week, for meager rewards, are etched into the very walls of Quarry Bank Mill. It's a somber testament to the sacrifices made in the name of progress and profit. But amidst the sobering history, there's an undeniable beauty in the resilience and spirit of those who endured those hardships. Quarry Bank Mill allows us to step back in time and appreciate the struggles and triumphs of those who came before us. It's a poignant reminder that we must cherish and protect the rights and well-being of workers today. So, if you're a history enthusiast or simply a seeker of powerful stories etched in the fabric of our past, Quarry Bank Mill is a place that will leave you both enlightened and moved. It's an extraordinary piece of history that reminds us to never forget the lessons of the past. 🕰️🏞️
StevenSteven
00
Today we were lucky enough to be the very first visitors inside the mill at quarry in over 6 months. We were welcomed and congratulated on being the first visitors, and asked to wear masks and sanitise our hands upon entry. We then watched a short video explaing how the changes in the mill, relating to current situations of the covid 19 and how it would effect our visit. I am pleased to say, there is a one way system in place, and although its a shame 2 of the floors are currently closed there is still plenty to see. Staff as polite as usual and happy to talk you through the machinery. Yes there are less staff, but it still feels like enough. We didn't need to social distance, but there is enough space to do so should you need too. The mill is cleaned a minimum of 3 times a day, and hand sanitising points are on all floors. It was nice to still be able to see the steam and water machines operating, a favourite of my children. You will need to book in advance, 24 hrs plus to avoid disappointment and potentially being turned away. The mill shop, grounds and cafe are open. You have to wear a mask to enter those too, unless exempt. I hope you enjoy as much as we did. As happy national Trust members, thank you quarry bank.
Madeleine FrancescaMadeleine Francesca
00
Went out with a good friend for a walk and cake. However it was a very sunny day and we stayed for over 6 hours, visiting the Mansion House, the Mill, the gardens, pre-loved bookshop, gift shop and had a lovely afternoon cream tea. There were butterflies, bees, wasps and large black dragonflies. The House was fairly modest but very interesting with information about the family throughout and framed moving silhouettes of Samuel Gregg's children. The curved doors were magnificent. We worked our way through the mill covering all four floors, watched demonstrations of the working machines, chatted with the knowledgeable and friendly staff/volunteers, the exhibition on the 4th floor was a fascinating insight to the history of the mill, employment of children/families, harshness of the work and 12hr days but not Sunday. The introduction of a 'health' service and the changing and updating of the conditions. We went round the back of the mill to check out the massive, impressive waterwheel which was working. A fabulous day with a fabulous friend. Great for all members of a family. The facilities were very clean. Don't forget to take your NT membership card with you!
MARINA WILSONMARINA WILSON
00
We visited on a Tuesday afternoon in term time and it was very un-busy. There are lots of separate parts to Quarry Bank, but as it was raining we spent most of the time in the indoor sections. Apprentice House: an excellent tour with a well informed tour guide gave us an overview of how the whole mill complex and life around it worked. ♿️Apprentice house not fully accessible due to it being an old building with narrow and curving stairs. Not even easy for elderly people. After a coffee break in the cafe (where they stop serving anything warm or meal-like at 2:30) we spent a long time in the actual Mill. ♿️Lift access to all floors. Here there were live machinery demonstrations on each floor, with curators giving an explanation of the history and processes. There were also some static exhibitions about health on the mill in the 1800s. We didn’t leave enough time to do anything else - but there is so much left to do, so we will be back. Excellent free parking. Friendly staff ♿️Grounds are easily accessible (although a bit hilly). And there is free vehicle transport back up the hill for those who may prefer it.
Peter WilliamsPeter Williams
00
I am so torn about how to review this. We went on a trip to Quarry bank whilst staying in Staffordshire and returning our brother in law to Manchester. It's a NT property and I am not sure about their prices (as we are members) Vs previous prices as most of the site inside is closed. However we took my brother in law and paid £10 for him - seemed a bit steep for a mainly closed site. It was a very warm day and it was terribly hot. The gardens are beautiful at the top with a cafe (which does food unlike it suggests online) and some toilets. The walk down the hill is one way due to the pathway being narrow. When you reach the bottom there is a bridge to walk across to some lawn (nice for a picnic?). We were desperate for the kids to be able to dip their toes in the water down near the bridge but there is no where for this. It's really sad as it would be wonderful to have that. The mill was all closed - only the ice cream stand open so can't comment on that. Really it was a nice stop for us but I wouldn't bother going until it reopens fully to see it all unless all you want is an outside walk and an ice cream.
Kate S-WKate S-W
00
Nearby Restaurants Of National Trust - Quarry Bank
The Ship Styal
The Clink Restaurant Styal
Earlam's Community Store And Cafe
El Bosc
The Ship Styal
4.4
(871)Click for details
The Clink Restaurant Styal
4.8
(236)$$
Click for details
Earlam's Community Store And Cafe
4.6
(164)Click for details
El Bosc
4.7
(75)Click for details
Learn more insights from Wanderboat AIBasic Info
Address
Styal Rd, Styal, Wilmslow SK9 4HP, United Kingdom
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Phone
+44 1625 527468
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Website
nationaltrust.org.uk
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Overview
4.7
(3.1K reviews)$$
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cultural
outdoor
family friendly
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Description
Quarry Bank Mill in Styal, Cheshire, England, is one of the best preserved textile factories of the Industrial Revolution. Built in 1784, the cotton mill is recorded in the National Heritage List for England as a designated Grade II* listed building.
attractions: , restaurants: The Ship Styal, The Clink Restaurant Styal, Earlam's Community Store And Cafe, El Bosc
