With autumn well upon us, there’s nothing better than a wander in the crisp countryside air. If you’re hunting for your next adventure, we have the perfect walking route for those who enjoy learning about local history and urban myths.
The Wizards Wander at Alderley Edge Park, a National Trust site, is an easy-access circular walk in the heart of the Cheshire countryside. The route explores mining remains and provides information about a local legend dating back to the 1750s.
Read on for information about the local legend and points of interest on the route.
Thieves Hollow
According to the legend, a farmer, on his way to sell a white mare at market, bumps into a wizard at Thieves Hollow who offers to buy the horse. The farmer refuses and continues his journey, believing he can get a better price elsewhere.
Seven Firs
Unfortunately for the farmer, he is unable to sell the horse and turns around to begin the journey home. On his way back, he meets the wizard again and agrees to sell the horse. The wizard asks the farmer to follow him for payment and they walk past Seven Firs.
Golden Stone
The wizard and farmer pass the Golden Stone next.
Stormy Point
The wizard and the farmer continue along the old Carriage Drive to Stormy Point and then down to Saddle Bole.
The wizard leads the farmer into a magical cave, revealing an army of sleeping knights and white horses. The wizard tells the farmer that the sleeping knights are waiting to fight the last battle of the world, and that he will wake them when that moment comes, but there is one horse missing.
The wizard takes the farmer’s white mare and lays it down in enchanted sleep. He then shows the farmer into another cavern, which is filled with gold and silver and precious stones. He tells the farmer to take as much of the treasure as he can carry, in payment.
The wizard leads the farmer back up the passage to the iron gates. The farmer steps outside and when he turns around the wizard and the gates are gone.
So, who are the sleeping knights in this legend? According to local tradition, they are none other than King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table!
TOP TIP! When you've finished exploring, The Wizard Tearoom is well worth a visit.