Former Emmerdale star Kelvin Fletcher moved to the Peak District village of Wincle in 2021 and it has since become a walker’s paradise with an influx of visitors
Former Emmerdale actor Kelvin Fletcher has made his home in a charming Cheshire village that feels like “going back in time”. Arriving in Wincle, situated just over an hour from Manchester, the eye is immediately drawn to the distinctive red telephone box and the rushing waters of the River Dane.
Nestled within the Peak District, the village boasts sweeping countryside and spectacular vistas. Despite its rural character, it sits conveniently close to larger towns such as Macclesfield and Congleton, providing residents with peaceful village living whilst maintaining easy access to urban amenities.
Kelvin, familiar to audiences as Andy Sugden from Emmerdale, relocated to the area alongside his wife Liz and their children in 2021. The move marked his transformation from soap actor to farmer, documented in the docuseries Kelvin’s Farming Adventure and subsequently Fletcher’s Family Farm on ITV One. He currently lets out a cottage on his farm through Airbnb – generating up to £78,000 annually.
Travelling along the winding country lanes towards Wincle reveals glimpses of Cheshire’s notable landmarks, including the towering BT structure in Sutton and the impressive Macclesfield Forest, both a stone’s throw from the village. Macclesfield town centre lies merely 15 minutes away, reports the Manchester Evening News.
Upon arrival, I squeezed my vehicle into a row of parked cars, observing several ramblers either fastening their walking boots or knocking dried mud from their footwear as I made my way towards the river. Given its abundance of countryside trails, two words perfectly encapsulate the locale – walker’s paradise.
The small village boasts a rich historical heritage. The Ship Inn, presently shut “until further notice”, has stood in Wincle since 1739, whilst St Michael’s Church first opened its doors in 1647.
Following restoration work in 2018, the church occupies the site of a neolithic burial ground.
Away from the main thoroughfares, the ancient Cleulow cross, a gritstone pillar believed to originate from the dark ages, overlooks the Peak District hills and serves as a favoured destination for ramblers. After completing their walk, visitors can call in at the Wincle Brewery, positioned alongside the River Dane.
The area’s appeal extends beyond tourists. Chris Gardener relocated to Wincle more than a decade ago, captivated by the breathtaking landscape and countryside living.
He commented: “I live here and I love it. It’s just the beauty of it. It’s a very lovely place and it feels like going back in time. I’ve lived here for around 10 years now and it’s all about the community, the people are lovely.”
Following its appearance in Andy Sugden star Kelvin’s documentary, the village has reportedly experienced a surge in visitors eager to spot him. Though according to Giles Meadows, local business owner who operates Wincle Brewery, Kelvin frequently lends a hand within the community.
He explained: “There has definitely been an influx of people into the village since Kelvin moved in. People walk around looking out for Kelvin himself and he has really integrated into the community. He likes to help out at the village fete and at local events.”
Giles highlighted that numerous visitors are drawn to the small village due to its stunning landscape. He added: “It’s a very beautiful part of the country, it’s got the beauty of the Peak District but it’s still relatively close to civilisation.
“A lot of the people here are extremely friendly and welcoming. People come here because it is a naturally beautiful place with some fantastic walks.”
