Former Emmerdale actor Kelvin Fletcher calls home a charming Cheshire village that locals describe as like "going back in time". Arriving at Wincle, just over an hour's drive from Manchester, one is immediately struck by its distinctive red telephone box and the thundering sound of the River Dane.

Nestled within the Peak District, the village is enveloped by rolling hills and stunning vistas, yet remains within easy reach of nearby towns such as Macclesfield and Congleton, striking the perfect balance between rural tranquillity and urban convenience. Kelvin, widely recognised as Andy Sugden from Emmerdale, relocated to the area with his wife Liz and their children in 2021, swapping soap stardom for a life on the land. He documented this dramatic lifestyle change in the docuseries Kelvin's Farming Adventure and, subsequently, Fletcher's Family Farm on ITV One. He now lets a cottage on the farm through Airbnb, generating up to £78,000 annually.

Winding through the country lanes towards Wincle, visitors are treated to glimpses of notable Cheshire landmarks, including the imposing BT Tower at Sutton and the magnificent Macclesfield Forest, both just a short distance away. Macclesfield town centre itself is a mere 15 minutes from the village.

On arrival, walkers were already busy preparing for their countryside excursions, lacing up boots and scraping mud from their soles near the riverbank. With its wealth of scenic walking routes, this area is quite simply a rambler's dream.

The diminutive hamlet boasts rich historical heritage. The Ship Inn, presently shuttered "until further notice", has occupied its Wincle location since 1739, whilst St Michael's Church first welcomed worshippers in 1647.

The church, which underwent restoration in 2018, stands upon what was once a neolithic burial site.

Away from main thoroughfares, the ancient Cleulow cross, a gritstone monument believed to originate from the dark ages, overlooks the Peak District landscape, drawing numerous ramblers. Following their countryside walks, they can visit Wincle Brewery, positioned alongside the River Dane.

Visitors aren't the only ones captivated by the locals. Chris Gardener relocated to Wincle more than 10 years ago, enchanted by the breathtaking landscape and countryside living.

He said: "I live here and I love it. It's just the beauty of it. It's a very lovely place and it feels like going back in time. I've lived here for around 10 years now and it's all about the community, the people are lovely."

Following its appearance in Andy Sugden star Kelvin's documentary, the region has reportedly experienced increased visitor numbers, with many hoping to spot him. However, local entrepreneur Giles Meadows, proprietor of Wincle Brewery, notes Kelvin frequently contributes to community activities.

He said: "There has definitely been an influx of people into the village since Kelvin moved in. People walk around looking out for Kelvin himself and he has really integrated into the community. He likes to help out at the village fete and at local events."

Giles noted that many visitors are drawn to the quaint village by its stunning natural surroundings. He continued: "It's a very beautiful part of the country, it's got the beauty of the Peak District but it's still relatively close to civilisation.

"A lot of the people here are extremely friendly and welcoming. People come here because it is a naturally beautiful place with some fantastic walks."