The town has a rich industrial heritage and you can find evidence of it all over the place. There are also some interesting museums, like the Museum of Steam Engines.
Bolton Market is a must-visit for foodies with over 300 stalls spread across an indoor and outdoor location. There is also a Homeware and Lifestyle Hall and plenty of restaurants including Nando’s and Prezzo.
1. Visit the Museum of Steam Engines
Bolton was once a booming cotton centre and much of its industrial history has been preserved in the town’s historic buildings and cobbled streets. It’s no surprise that TV and film productions have chosen to shoot here recently, including Peaky Blinders, It’s A Sin and the Warburton’s advert starring Sylvester Stallone!
The Museum of Steam Engines houses an amazing collection of old stationary mill engines. The collection has been rescued from cotton mills across Manchester, Lancashire and Yorkshire.
Explore Greater Manchester’s only public aquarium whilst you’re here too and see all of the specifies fish they have on display. Afterwards, head over to the infamous Nelson Square and visit Northern Monkey bar for craft ales and stone-baked pizza. The perfect spot to grab a drink with your friends!
2. Take a walk in the woods
Embrace nature with a walk around the region’s woodland habitats and hills. Breathe in the earthy autumn smells and spot late-season wildlife with special places to explore within a short distance of Bolton.
A great place to get some fresh air and explore a few trails is the Entwistle Reservoir, easily accessible from the town centre with a car park on Entwistle Hall Lane near Entwistle railway station. The reservoir is a popular waterside spot for walking with the still waters and attractive conifer trees a beautiful backdrop.
With so much history in the borough, it’s no surprise that Bolton is a hotbed for interesting attractions. From a tour of the whopping mill steam engines at Bolton Steam Museum to exquisite late-Medieval manors like Smithills Hall and Hall i’ th’ Wood, you’ll find plenty to see and do here.
3. Visit Jumbles Market
Whether you want to pick your own apples, or spend the afternoon learning about exotic animals there are many options for days out with the family. Moss Bank Park is a huge green space that has something for everyone and hosts a variety of fun fairs and outdoor productions throughout the year.
Bolton Market is a Victorian iron and glass building that is the largest indoor market in the UK. It has a huge range of restaurants and bars to choose from and is a great place to visit with friends.
From quaint cafes to well known restaurant chains there are plenty of dining options within Bolton. For something a little different check out Northern Monkey Bar on Nelson Square, they specialise in craft beers and stone-baked pizza.
4. Hike up Rivington Pike
There is a lot to do in Bolton, from apple picking and visiting historic buildings to learning about exotic animals. You can even take a boat ride on Lake George!
The hike to Rivington Pike is a popular family option. You will be able to see the dovecote at Pigeon Tower, and if you are lucky enough to go on a clear day you might be able to see as far as Cheshire and the Isle of Man.
Another fun activity to do in Bolton is shopping at the local market. Bolton Market has a lot to offer with over 300 stalls spread across a huge indoor location. The stalls include everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to deli’s and breads. It also features a patisserie, coffee roaster, real ale bar and tropical florist.
5. Visit Ye Olde Pastie Shoppe
There are plenty of things to do in the hamlet of Bolton Landing. Boating on Lake George is a must, as well as hiking up Pinnacle Mountain and taking a hot air balloon ride. There’s also a great corn maze here that’s usually open in September and October.
Shopping is a must here too, with the town’s unique shops and boutiques. You’ll find everything from surf apparel to books and antiques. You can also pick up some local Lake George and Adirondack souvenirs.
A must stop is Ye Olde Pastie Shoppe, a traditional establishment with a menu that includes pasties, pies and cakes. This place made the national news when they were reviewed on Rate My Takeaway. You can check out their video here!
