With limited availability in many traditional tourist hotspots, Rochdale Borough offers a compelling mix of scenery, history and entertainment
The Greater Manchester borough of Rochdale is preparing to welcome an influx of visitors this summer, as more UK holidaymakers look for a safe, diverse and inspiring staycation.
With traditional tourist hotspots like Cornwall and the Lake District hinting at limited summer seasons, and Brits wanting to make the most of the summer after months in lockdown, locations that offer a compelling alternative are likely to attract increasing numbers of visitors.
Rochdale Development Agency chairman Paul Ormerod said: “We know Rochdale is
not up on most people’s lists of obvious tourist destinations. But we have magnificent scenery, easy access to the centre of Manchester, and a rich historical heritage. Everybody who spends a few days on staycation here will be most welcome.”
Rochdale is considered a “best kept secret” by travellers in the know. The historic town is surrounded on three sides by dramatic Pennine scenery, is home to the world-wide co-operative movement, and boasts architecture of national importance.
With the country emerging from lockdown, visitors will also be able to enjoy the town’s recently reinvigorated town centre, home to a thriving bar and restaurant scene and a brand new retail and leisure complex, as well as easy access to the urban attractions of Manchester – just 15 minutes away by train.
Attractions include:
– The Pennine Way, which winds its way through the Borough, and many miles of marked walking and mountain bike trails.
– The urban attractions of Central Manchester – just 15 minutes away.
– The magnificent Grade1 Gothic Town Hall, whose chimes were used by the BBC to fill
in for Big Ben.
– A fascinating history, as the birthplace of the world-wide co-operative movement and one of the places that sparked the Industrial Revolution.
– Excellent bars and restaurants, including a winner of the Campaign for Real Ale’s National Pub of the Year.
– Dippy the dinosaur. The Natural History Museum’s superb diplodocus skeleton currently resides at the town’s central library and information hub, Number One Riverside.
Councillor John Blundell, an RDA board member and Rochdale Council cabinet member for Regeneration, said: “Rochdale Borough is delighted to welcome visitors this summer. We really do offer something for everyone, from scenic walking routes to fascinating history to some excellent bars and restaurants. And we are superbly connected to the rest of Greater Manchester.”
ENDS