Sandbach in 1837 Sandbach, a market-town in the hundred of Nantwich and deanery of Middlewich, was formerly celebrated for its ale. It occupies a pleasant eminence near the river Wheelock, and commands several extensive and picturesque views of the Vale Royal, the Staffordshire and Derbyshire hills, and the distant mountains of Wales. The worsted trade and manufacture of shoes, which formerly prevailed, have been succeeded by the silk manufacture, by which the town has risen to greater importance. It has some brine springs in the vicinity. In the market-place are two ancient crosses, with sculptured images of the crucifixion. The living is a vicarage, of which the net annual income of £213. Market on Thursday. Population, 6,516.