This former engine house of the Industrial Revolution was once one of Britain's wealthiest towns and an important trading post for the country's wool merchants. It boasts one of the finest town halls in the country and is the place where the worldwide Co-operative movement was born.
Steeped in history and heritage, and surrounded by majestic countryside and wild open spaces, Rochdale is one of the biggest and most important towns in the UK.
History of Rochdale
Rochdale's history can be traced right back to the Doomsday Book in 1086, named as 'Recedam Manor', changing to 'Rachedale' and then eventually 'Rochdale'. In 1251 Rochdale was granted the Royal Charter.
In the heart of the borough, with a proud history as the birthplace of the Co-operative Movement, Rochdale town centre has a rich heritage. The beautiful 19th century Town Hall remains the jewel in Rochdale's crown and the town's fascinating history can be explored at Touchstones Rochdale museum, art gallery and cafe.
Great days out in Rochdale
- Rochdale Town Hall tours - Rochdale's fabulous Grade-I Victorian Gothic town hall, designed by William Henry Crossland, is world renowned for its unique and detailed architecture. You can take an expertly guided tour of the Great Hall, Mayor's Parlour, former Magistrate's retiring room and police cells, marvelling at the wonderful craftsmanship and immerse yourself in the building's rich history. See when Rochdale Town Hall tours are happening and how to book (external link)
- Healey Dell Nature Reserve and Tea Rooms - a beauty spot, nature reserve and wildlife sanctuary rich in industrial archaeology just 2 miles from Rochdale town centre. The River Spodden has carved its way through the woodlands down thousands of years, creating delightful scenery and spectacular waterfalls which once powered ancient corn, wool and cotton mills. This disused 1800s railway line is now a nature trail with magnificent views from a 100 foot high viaduct. The Healey Dell Heritage Centre offers a unique experience with its Victorian themed tea rooms with English cream teas served in vintage bone-china. The centre offers a permanent exhibition featuring a pictorial history of the dell. There is also a Fairy Grotto where children can meet the Healey Dell Fairy Godmother and so much more. Find out how to get to Healey Dell Nature Reserve and Tea Rooms, opening times and more
- Touchstones Rochdale museum, art gallery and cafe - this free-to-enter building in the heart of the town includes changing displays of Rochdale's impressive museum collections, activities and events for all ages, expert help to research your family history and the highest quality contemporary art programmes. Whether you're popping in for a brew and slice of cake, or to learn more about Rochdale borough's rich heritage, Touchstones Rochdale offers something for everyone. Find out how to get to Touchstones Rochdale museum, art gallery and cafe, opening times and more (external link)
- Rochdale Pioneers Museum - the birthplace of the modern co-operative movement, where, on 21 December 1844 the Rochdale Equitable Pioneer Society opened their store selling pure food at fair prices and honest weights and measures. The business revolution that started right here in Rochdale, now involves a billion co-operators as members of 1.4 million co-operative societies across the world. The fascinating museum, quality assured by Visit Britain, features the original store and tells the story of the ideals and principles of the co-operative movement. Find out how to get to the Rochdale Pioneers Museum, opening times and more
- Broadfield Park - Rochdale's town centre park, the oldest in the borough, is of great historic interest and contains the statue of John Bright MP. Find out more about Broadfield Park's facilities and how to get there
- Marland Golf Club - situated within Springfield Park, this is an enjoyable yet challenging 18-hole course set in 80 acres of pleasant parkland. No membership necessary and no booking is required. Find out how to get to Marland Golf Club
- Sport - Rochdale is also home to Rochdale AFC for you to take in some football league action, or if you prefer Rugby League you can watch the Rochdale Hornets.
- Blue and Purple Plaque trails - discover Rochdale's fascinating history on foot and discover fantastic local stories. Find a list of blue and purple plaques throughout the borough (external link)
- River Roch - the river passes straight through the town centre. It provides a serene setting in the middle of the town centre following our Revealing the Roch regeneration project. See more about Revealing the Roch (external link)
More things to do in Rochdale
There are lots of activites and places to visit in Rochdale. Use the search function above to find things to do in the area, such as what's on, shopping and more.
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