Marple has been rated 9th best place to live where you can escape to the country in today's (24.03.13) Sunday Times.
Article reads:"First the canals, then the railways, brought hundreds of Victorian visitors to Marple on bank holidays and Sundays, all "seeking fresh air and the beauty of Marple's Roman Lakes". Today, at first glance, this town near Stockport is viewed as a comfortable south Manchester commuter haven, albeit one on the edge of the Peak District National Park and the Goyt Valley. It is a walkers' delight, but there's plenty on offer for cyclists, too. Nearby, the Etherow Country Park covers 240 acres - perfect for bird-watching and nature study - and is home to the Etherow Country Park Sailing Club
WOULD SUIT: Professional types who hanker for fresh air ( and have strong legs for steep hills)."