City break in Bolton. Active leisure ideas for Bolton - attractions, recreation and nightlife

All fans of shopping have one primary location in Bolton – the Bolton Market Hall. One of the oldest markets in the country, it was established in 1855. At that time, it was also the “largest covered market in the kingdom”. As the town was developing, the market hall was rebuilt as well, until it was reopened under another name, Market Place Shopping Centre by Queen Elizabeth II, in 1988. A few years ago, the center opened after a multi-million-pound refurbishment. The shopping center still has its original Victorian Vaults, but got more retail space, new restaurants and cafes, and a modern cinema theater. The shopping center has many stores that offer clothes, jewelry, perfumes, children goods, accessories, and much more. Moreover, there is a special playground for children, so it is a family-friendly destination.

For many travelers, Bolton is a stop on their way to exploring breathtaking West Pennine Moors. All fans of outdoor recreation are recommended to spend a day outside the town, enjoying gritstone crags and low hills, the spectacular Pennine range, and the Irwell River. Fans of hiking usually take a bus to Horwich – there is a number of amazing hiking routes that start from there.

Horwich itself is also worth exploring. It is a charming small town, which primary occupation was milling. Despite its small size, the town is home to Bolton Wanderers football club and the magnificent USN Bolton Arena that often hosts interesting competitions of the national level. Families with children may also like the Middlebook Retail and Leisure Park – it is easy to spend half a day there. Horwich Heritage Center is the right place for everyone interested in the history of this area. The exhibition is dedicated to the town’s development in different years and the locomotive history it had in the past. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Bolton is a true gem for all fans of outdoor activities. A short drive will take tourists to incredibly beautiful places, such as Rivington Country Park where spectacular hilltop views, woodland paths, and moors await for new guests. The park overlooks Rivington village in Lancashire. Even though the village is already a part of Lancashire, the distance to Bolton is short and a bus ride will take a bit longer than half an hour. Rivington Pike, one of the most famous parts of the park, is located at a height of 363 meters on the western high point of Winter Hill. It’s a fantastic area for hiking and observing the picturesque surroundings. From the pike, it is possible to see Blackpool Tower, the West Lancashire Plain, the mountains of the Lake District, and even the mountains of Wales.

Continue exploration of the park by visiting Rivington Reservoir and the Rivington Hall estate. On a nearby hill, visitors will see Rivington Castle, which is a replica of the famous Liverpool Castle. Many old buildings in this part of the park have become covered by water when the reservoir was filled, but when the water level is low, it is still possible to see them. Other landmarks of the park include the Pigeon Tower, Leverhulme’s Terraced Gardens, and the Bungalow Grounds also known as the Chinese Gardens.

Tourists, who do not want to leave Bolton, will still find many fun activities to do. Bolton Albert Halls and the Octagon Theatre regularly offer interesting shows and stage performances. As the repertoire is wide, everyone will easily find something to fit their taste. The schedule of upcoming shows and ticket booking are available on official websites of the venues. The town’s libraries and museums also regularly offer entertaining activities, many of which are family oriented and absolutely free to enter. Interesting master classes, storytelling sessions, crafts, and object handling, fish feeding, as well as many other exciting activities wait for guests of these events.