The Cat & Fiddle: A Brief History of a Peak District Icon

If you’ve driven the winding road between Macclesfield and Buxton, you’ve likely passed (or pulled over at) the Cat & Fiddle. Perched high on the moors, it's one of the UK’s most recognisable rural locations - and also the home of The Forest Distillery.

When Was the Cat & Fiddle Built?

The Cat & Fiddle was originally built in 1813 as a coaching inn. At the time, horse-drawn carriages were the main way people got across the hills, and this remote pub gave travellers a place to rest, eat, and warm up - especially in bad weather, which is pretty common up here.

The Forest Distillery at The Cat and Fiddle Inn in Macclesfield

Why Is It Called the Cat & Fiddle?

There’s no single confirmed reason behind the name. Some say it comes from the old French phrase “le chat fidèle”, meaning the faithful cat. Others think it’s linked to old nursery rhymes or just typical British pub humour. Like most historic pub names, there’s a bit of mystery to it, and that’s part of the charm.

At 1,689 feet above sea level, the Cat & Fiddle was the second-highest pub in England. Although that sounds fun, but it hasn’t always been easy - especially in winter. Heavy snow, fog, and road closures have made it a tough place to run a business. The pub closed in 2015 after struggling with trade and upkeep.

How the Forest Distillery Got Involved

In 2020, we took over the site and started renovating the building. Our goal wasn’t just to reopen an amazing location - it was to bring life back to an important part of local history and create a proper home for our distillery.

We now distil English single malt whisky, award-winning Forest Gin, and Forest Rum right here at the Cat & Fiddle. The location is remote, but it’s a perfect fit for what we do - surrounded by clean air, soft water, and wild moorland.

What It Is Today

We’ve kept the original building and layout, but updated the inside with our distillery equipment, tasting spaces, a stylish bar area, and a cosy shop. We now offer: