Littleborough
Littleborough has several notable features, including its stone-built town centre, which has been designated as a Conservation Area due to its exceptional architectural qualities.
Walking through the streets, one can’t help but appreciate the town’s heritage and the efforts taken to maintain its distinct character. The blend of old and new creates a captivating ambiance that appeals to residents and visitors alike.
Notable folk from Littleborough
Agyness Deyn
Agyness was born in Littleborough. Born Laura Michelle Hollins; 16 February 1983) she is best known for her successful modelling career in the 2000s, and has been called one of the decade’s top models. Since her retirement from modelling in the 2010s, she has pursued acting and design, among other ventures.
Elizabeth Marguerita Mary Kershaw
Liz Kershaw (born 30 July 1958) is an English radio broadcaster. She is one of the longest serving female national radio DJ’s in the UK, celebrating 30 years on national BBC Radio in 2017
Andrew J. G. Kershaw
Andy Kershaw (born 9 November 1959) is a broadcaster and disc jockey, predominantly on radio, and known for his interest in world music. Kershaw’s shows feature a mix of country blues, reggae folk music, African music, spoken word performances and a wide variety of other music from around the world.
Keith Parry
Keith Parr (died 2005) was a local author with several published works such as Trans-Pennine Heritage and a broadcaster with Greater Manchester Radio. He also played a vital role in the successful battle to re-open Rochdale Canal and was instrumental in the formation of the Littleborough Civic Trust.
Listed buildings of note in Littleborough
The town, its suburbs of Calderbrook and Smithy Bridge, and the surrounding countryside contain 79 listed buildings that are recorded in the National Heritage List for England. For a much more detailed list, see Wikipedia.
Shore Hall
Built in 1605, Shore Hall has a T-shaped plan with a main range and a cross-wing on the right side. Constructed in stone on a projecting plinth, it features quoins and moulded eaves brackets.
With two storeys and five bays, the house includes an outshut at the rear of the cross-wing. Its stone-slate roof and left gable, adorned with a ball finial, add to its charm.
The doorway is accentuated by a chamfered surround and a Tudor arched lintel, while the windows are mullioned with hood moulds. This property is classified as Grade II*. Location: 53.65148°N 2.11813°W
Dearnley Old Hall
Thought to have been constructed in the early to mid-17th century, Dearnley Old Hall is rendered in stone on a projecting plinth.
Its stone-slate roof features coped gables. Offering two storeys, three bays, and a parallel range at the rear, this house boasts paired doors with chamfered surrounds and flat-arched lintels.
The windows are mullioned with hood moulds, and inside, there is a timber-framed partition. This property is classified as Grade II×. Location: 53.63882°N 2.11923°W
Higher Windy Bank Farmhouse and Barn
Dating back to the late 17th century, the farmhouse was modified in the 18th century, with the barn added to the right in the 19th century.
The house is situated on a projecting plinth, showcasing quoins and a stone-slate roof. With two storeys, two bays, and a right outshut, the house features a central porch, a moulded doorway with an obtuse-angled lintel, and a coped parapet.
The windows are mullioned. Inside the barn, you’ll find a round-headed cart entry, a segmental-headed shippon door, as well as other doors and windows. Classified as Grade II. Location: 53.64544°N 2.0430°W
The drowned village of Watergrove
The drowned village of Watergrove once lay in Wardle, Lancashire. It was nestled beneath a horseshoe ridge of hills. Watergrove was largely a Victorian creation, surrounded by farms from the 1700s. It was a wild and charming spot. The area was adorned with sheep-grazed heather and whinberry moorlands. Local farms and houses were built with stone from nearby hills.
Coal mining was also an important industry in the area. In the 1930s, Watergrove’s fate took a drastic turn. A decision was made to create a large reservoir for Rochdale’s drinking water. The village was destined to disappear beneath the new lake. Thirty surrounding farms above the waterline were also marked for demolition.
Blog
Is Littleborough A Fantastic Place To Live? – Exploring The Tranquil Charms Of Littleborough
Explore the Tranquil Charm of Littleborough: From Lakeside Serenity to Sustainable Living. Discover the best of Littleborough’s picturesque landscapes, sustainable initiatives, and more in our informative blog. Uncover the heart of Greater Manchester’s hidden gem!
The Enchanting Beauty of Littleborough and its Pennine Villages
With its sweeping moorland hills and wealth of captivating routes, Littleborough is a haven for hikers seeking scenic outdoor adventures. By properly preparing for your hike, taking safety precautions, and refueling at local eateries after, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable walking experience. The breathtaking hills around Littleborough await – it’s time to lace up those boots!
Drowned Village of Watergrove
However, in the 1930s, the fate of Watergrove took a drastic turn. The decision was made to create a large reservoir to supply drinking water to Rochdale.