Knickerbrook Grandstand

The grandstand at Knickerbrook is one of those Victorian structures that stops you mid-walk and makes you wonder what on earth used to happen here. This Cheshire landmark sits near Tarporley, and it's a proper piece of sporting heritage that most people drive past without a second glance.

It's an iron and timber construction that dates back to the horse-racing days when Knickerbrook was a working racecourse. Standing in front of it now, you can almost imagine the crowds, the betting slips, the thunder of hooves. The structure itself is the real attraction - intricate Victorian engineering that's held up remarkably well given the decades of weather it's weathered.

Historically minded visitors will get the most from this one. It's not a destination that'll keep the kids entertained for hours, but as a quick stop on a circular walk around the Cheshire countryside, it works well. The surrounding area is proper nice for rambling, and it photographs better than you'd expect.

If you're staying at one of the caravan parks dotted around - Holmston Hall is closest at just 1.8 miles away, or New Farm Cheshire Holidays at 2.9 miles - Knickerbrook makes an easy morning detour. Park up near Tarporley, take a 20-minute walk, and you've got a genuine bit of local history without the tourist crowds. Worth the visit if you're in the area, though don't go out of your way specially.