Ramsbottom offers both day-trippers and locals alike a welcome break from the usual hectic grind.
Stretching north of Manchester city centre, Ramsbottom is a bustling market town with a host of independent boutiques, breweries, and events that draw in visitors from all over the region, as well as delighting locals. The area has also been lauded as one of the best places to live in England by the Sunday Times.
While the town properly came into its own as a milling town during the industrial revolution, this history dated back to the Anglo Saxon era, and in fact, the name Ramsbottom comes from the Old English word meaning ‘valley of the ram’.
While it might have a long history, today the town’s attractions are very modern, including some brand new businesses which recently popped up on the high street. Heart for Homes, a charming home and gift shop selling gifts and homeware now has a café: Heart for Homes – Coffee + Chill, the perfect stop for a mid-morning bite or sweet treat. Or for libations later in the day, the soon to open Venezia will act as a coffee shop by day, bar by night.
However, this isn’t the only spot to partake in town, and two local breweries are well worth checking out. Irwell Works serves locally produced, award-winning ales such as the Bonny Black Hare stout and Costa del Salford ale. The Northern Whisper tap room sits in the heart of Ramsbottom in a Grade II listed building and is the brewery’s third tap room location.
As a market town, it’s unsurprising that a new attraction which opened in April to great popularity is the Ramsbottom Makers Market, taking place on the last Sunday of every month. Head over to purchase fresh produce including fruit and vegetables, pies, cakes, and cheese or sample some of the freshly prepared baked goods on offer. Budding collectors will also find a range of locally crafted wares and art pieces, as well as second-hand vinyl stalls.
Of course, it’s impossible to talk about Ramsbottom without mentioning its connection with East Lancashire Railway. As one of the seven stops along the gorgeous 12-mile route, Ramsbottom draws train enthusiasts, both casual and hardcore. If you’re looking for a family day out this summer, spend A Day with Thomas the Tank Engine and take a ride on the famous blue engine himself. You’ll meet Sir Topham Hatt at the station, say hello to Thomas on the platform, and then climb aboard for a fun-filled journey right to Ramsbottom station.