Opening the way into the rolling Pennine hills, Ramsbottom is the perfect destination for a day out, some retail therapy, or a spot of lunch.
Stretching away from the grips of Manchester’s city centre and touching the tips of the Pennines, Ramsbottom is a quaint escape from urban life, with quirky independents, great places to visit, and a constantly shifting bar and restaurant scene always offering something new.
Rugged yet elegant, the town’s fine selection of Victorian stone townhouses and old weavers’ cottages keep the Lancashire spirit alive, making it well-sought after by young professionals looking to start a family. Although high in demand, properties are still affordable, with real estate agent Rightmove recording an average house price of £272,000 in 2021, while secluded farmhouses out of town often start at around £425,000.
As a popular stopover on the East Lancashire Railway line, visitors will have a lovely time relishing the golden age of travel as they pull into town on board a vintage steam train from Bury station. A range of themed experiences takes place on the rails all year round, including a chance for the kids to meet Thomas the Tank Engine himself as the famous blue steamer chugs along to Ramsbottom on 6th and 7th August.
A stroll up to the peak of Holcombe Hill is also recommended for first time visitors to take in the stunning views over the West Pennines and North Wales, while paying tribute to Bury-born former Prime Minister, Sir John Peel, at the impressive Peel Tower.
Nestled at the foot of the hill, the central green pasture of Nuttall Park is sandwiched between the quaint River Irwell and inspirational Irwell Sculpture Park, with some of the region’s most acclaimed art on display. As a close hub for Ramsbottom’s community, the park is also well looked after by dedicated volunteers hosting a regular roster of gardening activities, forest restoration projects, and charity fundraisers.
Preparations for Ramsbottom’s seasonal annual events are also well under way, including the quirky jigsaw festival lining the cobbles of Bridge Street on 7th September followed by the boisterous Head For The Hills festival, combining eclectic music with great Lancashire hospitality at the town’s cricket ground from the 18th to 20th September.
From traditional boozers to craft brewery tap rooms, Ramsbottom’s thriving bar scene is another big talking point of this lively town, with plenty of cosy drinking spots to choose from.
Visitors of The Eagle and Child Inn can bask out in the pub’s renovated beer garden this summer and tuck into the pub’s hearty menu sourced from home-grown produce and freshly laid eggs.
Irwell Works Brewery is also an easy find in the centre of Ramsbottom, where new visitors can quickly get acquainted with the town’s friendly local faces during afternoon brewery tours and evenings of live music entertainment.
Prestwich readers will also be familiar with Grape to Grain, which offers its wine and beer expertise to Ramsbottom locals with private tasting sessions ready to be booked in the upstairs cocktail bar.
Catering for the Ramsbottom’s new demographic, the town’s latest businesses are also throwing in some contemporary chic alongside the traditional eateries. Casual dining and local produce are at the forefront, with plenty of choice for classic British fresh meat and fish picked up from Bury market alongside some expert-selected wine.
Visitors after some cuisine from further afield will find Asian fusion with colourful platters of sushi, gyoza, and bao buns, while Korean food can also be found offering a taste of Busan outside of Bury.
Independents are a delight to see, and you’ll find something unique to wear or buy for the home from an array of interesting shops around the village.
Within its spectacular scenery and authentic Lancashire feel, there’s plenty of reasons to make a break for Ramsbottom this summer. With so much on offer in Ramsbottom, take a closer look at a couple of the town’s vibrant businesses.
Caravaggio Bespoke Interiors
Visit Caravaggio Interiors of Ramsbottom, where friendly staff work closely with your needs to create an interior which you will be happy with for a lifetime and will turn your house into a dream home.
With a complete library of wallpaper and fabric books to suit all tastes, ranging from traditional up to today’s latest contemporary styles, the interior designer also supplies a bespoke curtain-making service including roman blinds, bed throws, and scatter cushions.
If you are extremely busy and unable to visit the showroom, a browse on the company’s fantastic website and a quick call to arrange a home visit is always a safe solution to inspire you with ideas.
Caravaggiointeriors.co.uk
East Lancashire Railway
Ramsbottom is the perfect midpoint stop on the East Lancashire Railway line, letting families leave the car behind and pull into town on board an incredible heritage steam train.
There’s always carriage loads of fun on the diesel steam engines and plenty to please the train buffs, with themed events and experiences for all ages celebrating the golden age of travel.
Children can meet Thomas the Tank Engine himself before climbing on board the famous blue steamer for a fun-filled journey on 6th and 7th August, while regular Dining with Distinction experiences transport passengers back in time for a sophisticated first-class meal as they ride the rails through the Irwell Valley.
Eastlancsrailway.org.uk
PHOTO: Lawrence Purcell