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the Silk Museum tells the story of silk and its association with Macclesfield. There are also displays of art and other objects that were previously in the former West Park museum. Paradise Mill: contains 26 original Jacquard looms, some of which are still usable, and other machinery used for silk working. Entrance to the mill is by tour only, booking is advised. There are some limitations for visitors with mobility restrictions. There is a tea room and museum shop.
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Macclesfield Amateur Dramatic Society
A small but well-attended theatre offering several shows each year. Also home to the Macclesfield Majestic (musical) Theatre Group.
Macclesfield’s answer to the lack of a “proper” cinema. Housed on the second floor of the Old Sunday School, it’s essentially a converted hall with a single screen, 230 cinema seats and digital projection equipment, to allow the latest films and live events (e.g. from the National Theatre, Royal Opera House, ballet) to be shown. Access is by stairs or lift, and a hearing loop is available. Refreshments may be purchased, including tea, coffee, prosecco, wine, beer and spirits, and may be taken into the auditorium. Ticket prices are very reasonable. The nearest alternative cinemas are 8 miles (12 km) away in Wilmslow & 12 miles (18 km) away in Stockport.
An alternative place to see a film for free if it's a Thursday or Sunday. (But it is a courtesy to buy, at least, a drink). Interesting mix of independent, world cinema, eclectic mix of lo-fi cinema and cult classics. Cinevangelist on alternate Sundays has the twist that they don't tell you the film title but they do supply the title of a comparable film. Horror film on one Saturday a month. Check website for listings. The cinema is upstairs but downstairs is a great pub.
Stairs between Waters Green and the town centre that are a beloved local landmark.
Its dark stone tower visible from much of the town, and looming over the rail station car park, St Michael's is the building most identified with Macclesfield. A grade II* listed building, the current edifice was built in Victorian Gothic style between 1898 and 1901, replacing the Georgian-style 1740s church (which was built on the site of a 13th-century church) but retaining two late mediaeval chapels. Some gravestones from the 1700s remain but have been relocated, and there are great views to the east from Churchside, the road that runs around the church, and neighbouring Sparrow Park.
The grounds are pretty; the ornate stone gates, lodge and chapel are all listed, and there are many veterans of World Wars I and II buried or interred here, including Victoria Cross recipient George Harold Eardley. But the main attraction for visitors is the grave of Joy Division lead singer Ian Curtis, on the walkway next to the trees a short distance from the crematorium and car park. It's very simple, marked with his name, date of death and "Love Will Tear Us Apart", the single that became a hit after his suicide. There's often memorabilia left there, but not so much that it detracts from the experience of contemplating his final resting place whilst listening to 'The Eternal' or another of Joy Division's darker songs.