About Us
Learn about Higher Capstone Farm’s past and its location.
Learn a bit about the Higher Capstone Farm's past and some more information on the beautiful area.
Higher Capstone Farm
Our Past
We are Michael and Ita Tittershill. Michael is a retired Business Director and Ita is a semi-retired Primary school teacher. We have three adult children and 3 grandchildren as well as various animals.
We bought Higher Capstone Farm in the Summer of 2020 and moved into the original farmhouse in October 2020. With the help of architects and an excellent local building company, M Build, over the course of 2.5 years we transformed what was a very run-down house and boarding kennels into the home and holiday cottages that you see today.
The original part of the house was built in 1617 - so around the time that James I (son of Mary Queen of Scots) was on the English throne - with an attached shippon (cattle shed), as was the trend at the time. It is believed that the farm and land were once part of the (now National Trust) Lyme Park Estate. The farm is nestled within an area of both outstanding natural beauty and historical interest. The highest point in Stockport sits behind the property, with a Trig Point on Mellor Moor of 328m (1076 ft). Beside the Trig Point is a funerary cairn built around 4000 years ago within which are more than a dozen cremation burials, some with stone cists. These are believed to be consistent with those built in the late Neolithic/Early Bronze Age, as in and around the site there have been discoveries of countless flints, a knife and ceramic food vessels. Further along Cobden Edge and across to the site of Mellor Church, there is evidence of an Iron Age roundhouse and settlement that was discovered in 2003. Within St. Thomas' Church itself, there is a wonderful stone carved font dated C11th Century and a carved oak pulpit from the 14th Century.
The area is surrounded by footpaths and bridleways that lead to both Cheshire and Derbyshire, as the farm is situated very close to the border at a height above sea level of 302m (991ft). The 180 degree, South-facing views span the Peak District, Macclesfield, Cheshire, Greater Manchester, North Wales and Merseyside.
The Surrounding Area
Nestled in the heart of the captivating Mellor countryside, Higher Capstone Cottages offer a delightful retreat that embodies the rich history and modern charm of its surroundings. Mellor, an historic village dating back centuries is known for its tranquil beauty against the backdrop of its industrial past, which can still be seen in the form of quaint cottages and historic landmarks.
The nearby village of Marple Bridge and town of Marple, both picturesque with their winding rivers, canals and lush green spaces, provide a blend of natural serenity and vibrant community in which to shop, socialise and eat out. As you explore in the other direction into the Peak District, you'll encounter other charming villages: New Mills, Whaley Bridge, Hayfield and the larger towns of Buxton, Bakewell and Ashbourne, to name but a few, though each with its own unique character and attractions.
New Mills, a quaint town nestled in the Goyt Valley, offers a blend of industrial heritage and bucolic natural beauty. Explore the Torrs Riverside Park with its dramatic mill architecture and picturesque riverside walks or saunter along the disused railway line of the Sett Valley Trail into Hayfield where there are various cafe’s, pubs and restaurants to enjoy. Just a short drive away is Buxton, renowned for its spa heritage and stunning Georgian architecture. Discover the healing waters of the Buxton Crescent, explore the striking Pavilion Gardens, and take in the breathtaking vistas of the Peak District.
In the village of Hayfield, surrounded by the rolling hills of the High Peak, you can embark on scenic hikes along the Pennine Way where you have access to the Edale and Castleton; both abuzz with outdoor activities and jaw-dropping scenery left after the last Ice Age. It is here where one can fully appreciate the awe-inspiring Peak District National Park, with its rugged landscapes, dramatic peaks, and meandering trails, offering outdoor adventures for hikers, cyclists, and nature enthusiasts.
For those seeking more cultural experiences, the nearby town of Stockport boasts a vibrant arts scene and historical landmarks like the Stockport Viaduct, one of the largest brick structures in Europe, but the bustling city of Manchester with its world-class dining, shopping, and entertainment options, is just a short train ride away and has a plethora of art galleries, museums and theatres amongst its fabulous architecture.
Higher Capstone Holiday Cottages offer, not only a tranquil escape, but also a gateway to the rich tapestry of history, nature, and modern convenience that defines this remarkable region. Whether you're captivated by the allure of the past, the serenity of nature, or the vibrant culture of the city, this idyllic setting provides a perfect base for your explorations.
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