Photo: Charlotte Vowden
Standing alone at the top of a hill, this storied travellers’ rest has weathered storms, welcomed notable visitors – as well as nameless nomads – and now distils its own whisky…
First came the road, and then came the Cat & Fiddle. Built in the early 1800s to provide respite for weary travellers, this former inn sits on an exposed spot at the summit of the A537 between Buxton and Macclesfield; a notorious 11.5 mile route to which it gives its name.
To reach its altitude of 1,689ft, the lay of the land is such that the climb comprises twists and turns in quick succession. If you get a clear run, it’s a sensational drive, but be wary of the steep drops; the A537 is oft hailed as the most dangerous road in the UK. Charles Rolls was a big fan. He used it to prove the mettle of the motors he pioneered with a certain Mr Royce. Picture their triumphant arrival at the Cat & Fiddle, eager for a spot of lunch.
In 2014, last orders were called on Christmas Eve. Longstanding, but down on its luck, the Peak District landmark stood empty for five melancholy years before it was rescued, renovated and reopened by a family of local distillers. Putting their single malt whisky to sleep in the cellar, once matured it now gets served in the bar. To try the full range, a whisky flight is the aficionados choice, while a tour includes multiple tastings, as well as a cocktail (the old fashioned, my fave) and a thorough grain to glass education. Chin, chin!
With views of the forest from which the family forages botanicals for their gin, the scenery on the Cat & Fiddle doorstep is spectacular, particularly at sunset, or on a clear night when when the moon makes the moorland below glow. Stay a while, relax, and let the knots in your back loosen.
On a cold day, a warm welcome is guaranteed. The staff and servers are joyfully enthusiastic; they’re a genuine and friendly sort. Plus, the log fire is bound to be crackling; there’s a cosy, comforting thought. I wasn’t the desi-driver when I visited, so I thoroughly enjoyed a soothing dram. Well, three. Maybe four.
As home to Britain’s highest distillery, the Cat & Fiddle has been saved from becoming a fabled ruin – for now. Being roadside doesn’t make certain that traffic will come. The impact of major roadworks during the summer of ’26 has been devastating, and during the winter, if the weather sets in, the stone-built building can get cut off.
It’d be a tragedy to see history repeat itself, especially with Christmas Eve on the approach. So, if you can, spend a few pounds in the distillery shop before you go. Stocked with takeaway tipples including pre-mixed cans of G&T and whisky ginger, (useful if you’re packing light), there’s branded merch as well. Orders can be made online, but stay true to the Detourist spirit and set a date to make a return visit, or first pit stop, at the Cat & Fiddle next year. After all, why should the courier delivering your goodies have all the fun?
Words Charlotte Vowden
Photography Charlotte Vowden Instagram & Forest Distillery
ROADBOOK
CLASS: PUB & DISTILLERY
NAME: Cat & fiddle
ROUTE: A537, Macclesfield, Cheshire East, England, SK11 0AR
COUNTRY: England
This storied travellers’ rest has weathered storms, welcomed notable visitors and now distils its own whisky.