Explore ancient woodland rich in wildlife through scenic walking paths and birdwatching opportunities in this free, family-friendly nature reserve.

Poynton Coppice Local Nature Reserve is an attractive ancient woodland that has been continuously wooded for thousands of years, shaped by both natural processes and historical human activities. The 8-hectare Council-managed section features a diverse habitat supporting a great variety of flora and fauna, making it an ideal destination for families interested in wildlife and nature. Visitors can enjoy multiple walking options, including a public footpath through the woodland and a scenic 400-meter circular walk that descends into the heart of the coppice. The site offers excellent opportunities for birdwatching and general wildlife watching, with an interpretive display to enhance the learning experience. A free car park provides convenient access via the Middlewood Way. The reserve demonstrates innovative woodland management through the reintroduction of traditional coppicing practices, which research shows can increase wildlife diversity over time. While the circular walk includes steps and narrow footbridges, making it unsuitable for pushchairs and wheelchair users, the main public footpath offers accessibility for most visitors. Open access at all times and completely free to visit, Poynton Coppice provides families with an excellent opportunity to connect with nature and discover the ecological importance of ancient woodlands.

Venue Details

What this place offers

Toilets

Public transport nearby

Accessible toilets

Free WiFi

Baby changing facilities

Food available

On-site parking

🐕Dog-friendly

Parking nearby

Pushchair friendly

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A Gibbs

a year ago

Great walk with an easy flat terrain so excellent for a cyclist. Not much in the way of views or things to do but peaceful and flat surface so good for biking or walking Wasn't bad but wasn't amazing either

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Andrew Seaford

2 years ago

Beautiful short walk through the forest. Python Coppice is just off the Middle Wood way. There a small car park where you can park for free. The path is not suitable for pushchairs or wheelchairs because there are lots of steps and footbridges.

C

Colin Evans

3 years ago

Beautiful little place to take a breath . Hazel and willow coppice (still practised here) with birch, alders, blackthorn adjoining the pathways . The other night (mid April) was countless drifts of wood anenome and bluebells, an absolute delight to see.

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BOB CUNLIFFE

5 years ago

It's a Local Nature Reserve adjacent to the Middlewood Way, which follows the old railway from Marple to Macclesfield. It's a nice place for a pic-en-ic and a tiddle about.

J

John Oldfield

5 years ago

A enjoyable detour off the Middlewood way. It can be very muddy especially after heavy rain. You can do a circular walk and rejoin the Middlewood way.

Reviews last updated: 29 September 2026