Try not to be fooled by Tarporley. One glance at High Street could have those in the dark about the village’s charms thinking it was all tea rooms, twin sets and a slower pace of life. But for those enlightened ones – we count ourselves on that list – it’s a place that packs a punch. Its High Street may date back to Roman times – it’s thought part of a Roman road once went through there – but look beyond the pretty cobbled streets and you’ll find it’s a place that perfectly melds history, tradition and the promise of a contemporary lifestyle.
There are few places that manage it as expertly - some of the country's most respected fashion boutiques and chic places to dine mix with traditional barbers, a chocolate shop that has been a mainstay of the village for more than 25 years and a fresh fish van delivery that residents flock to each week. It's part of what makes it so special.
It's surrounded by some of the loveliest of Cheshire's countryside, too. Spend long enough in the village and you'll see it's a popular pit stop for cyclists navigating the area's country lanes. There are also walks at nearby Beeston Crag, which promises spectacular views, as well as opportunities to explore Peckforton Mere and the Peckforton Hills.
BOUTIQUE SPOT
Fashion is king in Tarporley. Boutiques selling clothing from every fashion house you could think of line the High Street. One of its longest established - and queen of them all - is the renowned Si Belle, owned by husband and wife team Sibel and Gill Rutherford. Brands you'll only find elsewhere in Harrods are on the rails here. It is one of the many reasons people from across the country make the regular pilgrimage to Tarporley. Set to open any day now is new boutique Tabernam, meaning shop in Latin. Run by two fashion-obsessed friends, Alicia Peacock and Jacqui Baker, they have been scouring the country to bring the best labels to the village. And if you're in need of fabulous footwear Hoity Toity is the place.
There is also fabulous floristry - there wll be few who can resist the delicate scents drifting out of The Little Potting Shed's door - as well as handmade chocolates to buy at The Old Fire Station.
A DINING DESTINATION
You won't struggle for a social life living in Tarporley with places to eat and drink galore. Tea and cake is a must at Ginger & Pickles - or one of their filled oatcakes if you're in need of serious sustenance. Contemporary restaurant, Piste, founded by James Hughes nine years ago, serves up Alpine chic and a sophisticated menu. Relative new kid on the block is 32 by The Hollies - who were highly commended in this year's Cheshire Life Food & Drink Awards. Run by the family behind hugely successful food emporium The Hollies Farm Shop, nearby, you can grab coffee, lunch or an excellent evening meal.
And should you be lacking the spare room to put up visiting guests they can stay over in one of their beautiful rooms - a recent guest was beauty and wellbeing guru Liz Earle. You also mustn't miss Little Tap, a brilliant little bar and small plates venue founded by young entrepreneur Myles Carr. Specialising in craft ales and gins, it would be rude not to.
BAG A PROPERTY
The rich tapestry of homes available in Tarporley make the village a much coveted and desired property hotspot. Pretty terraced homes, with window boxes bursting with colourful blooms, line the High Street alongside larger, period properties as you move away from the main shopping street. Around every corner you will find barn conversions, Victorian grandeur, converted farmhouses and - while it may take more convincing for some - new-build modern marvels that all make Tarporley a much-coveted postcode.
'It's a place with so much to offer,' says Ben Hinchliffe, director of Hinchliffe Holmes on the High Street. 'There are wonderful eating establishments, friendly and inviting hostelries and a traditional, thriving high street with boutiques, florists and art galleries. A walk down the High Street makes you appreciate its quaint and pretty appeal. 'I've lived in and around Tarporley for the last 20 years, often socialising in the village which has much community spirit. There are events, charity occasions and gatherings. We have two golf courses, a hotel leisure complex and outstanding primary and secondary schools, too. Who wouldn't want to live here?'
WHY I MOVED HERE
Emma Reilly
We've just moved here from Saudi Arabia - my husband Ben and children Connie, 10 and Ted, nine. We love that we can walk out of our front door to the lovely high street. There are wonderful shops, fantastic schools and friendly people. We have fallen in love with the village.
WHY I'VE STAYED HERE
Sally Ellis
I've been coming to Tarporley since I was little. When I moved here nine years ago, it was a dream. It's a perfect place for a single mum with a 15-month-old. There are lots of places to go with mummy friends, shops I can get anything I need and great places to for an evening out.
