7 Reasons Why Littleborough Is the Perfect Pennine Escape
Visit Littleborough, which is nestled in the foothills of the South Pennines. it is a charming town with a lot to offer. It’s the perfect blend of history, natural beauty, and outdoor adventure. But don’t just take our word for it! Here are seven reasons why you should consider Littleborough for your next getaway.
1. Picture-Perfect Scenery
The Pennine hills provide a stunning backdrop to Littleborough. Imagine rolling hills, wild moorland, and tranquil waterways. It’s the ideal place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and reconnect with nature. Whether you fancy a leisurely stroll along the Rochdale Canal or a challenging hike across the moors, Littleborough has something for everyone.
2. An Outdoor Enthusiast’s Dream
If you love being active, Littleborough won’t disappoint. There are miles of walking and cycling trails to explore. Why not try horse riding or even watersports on Hollingworth Lake? The lake is a popular spot for sailing, kayaking, and windsurfing. With so much to do, you’ll never be bored in Littleborough.
3. A Journey Through Time
Littleborough has a rich and fascinating history. Evidence suggests people have lived in the area since the Neolithic period! That’s over 4,000 years ago. Since then, Celts, Romans, Saxons, and Danes have all left their mark. You can even see some of the ancient artefacts discovered in the area, like flint tools and a Roman statue fragment.
4. A Textile Town
Littleborough has a strong connection to the textile industry. It began with handloom cloth workshops in people’s homes. These later grew into large, mechanised mills during the Industrial Revolution. This heritage is still visible today in the town’s architecture. Many of the old mill buildings have been repurposed and now house shops, restaurants, and apartments.
5. Visit Littleborough and its Charming Stone Buildings
Littleborough and the neighbouring village of Milnrow are known for their beautiful stone buildings. These historic structures give the area a unique character and charm. Littleborough town centre is a designated Conservation Area. This means special care is taken to preserve its historic appearance.
6. Visit Littleborough for its Community Spirit and Traditions
The Pennine villages have a strong sense of community. They each have their own unique traditions and events. One of the most popular is Littleborough’s annual rushbearing weekend. This traditional festival attracts visitors from far and wide. It involves decorating the town with rushes and holding a procession through the streets.
7. The Rochdale Canal and Hollingworth Lake
The Rochdale Canal is a major landmark in Littleborough. It was built in the early 19th century to transport goods between Manchester and Yorkshire. Today, it’s a popular spot for leisure activities. You can enjoy a leisurely boat trip, go fishing, or simply relax by the water’s edge. The canal is fed by Hollingworth Lake, a reservoir built in 1844. The lake is now the centrepiece of Hollingworth Lake Country Park. It offers a range of activities for all ages, including a playground, a visitor centre, and a miniature railway.
Littleborough truly has it all: beautiful scenery, exciting activities, and a fascinating history. So why not come and explore this hidden gem for yourself? You won’t be disappointed.
