Bill Oddie, Colin Baker, Julie Goodyear, and even Sajid Javid. Rochdale has provided us with many famous people that have had a huge influence on the UK and further afield. It’s not just the Rochdalians that make Rochdale worth visiting, there are a number of beautiful nature walks, amazing architecture, and fun activities for families.
Rochdale is also the home to Marsh Finance Head Quarters on Crawford Street. In 2017 we renovated Crossfield Mill and made it our home. So, we might be a little biased when we say Rochdale has so much to offer and is worth the visit.
If you’re looking for something to do while you’re visiting, here’s a list of some of our favourite things to do in Rochdale:
Hollingworth Lake and Visitor Centre
Located on Rakewood Road, Hollingworth Lake is located in Littleborough. Around the lake, there is a café and a Water Activity Centre, with onsite parking too. Whether you fancy a lovely walk around the scenic lake or want to get stuck into outdoor activities like rock climbing, kayaking, or powerboating, we can’t recommend Hollingworth Lake enough. Fun for people of any age has plenty to keep you busy and active.
Rochdale Town Hall
Rochdale’s prestigious grade-1 Victorian Gothic town hall is renowned for its unique and timeless architecture. Opening in 1871, it is steeped in Rochdalian history and has been admired by many people over its 150-year history. Tours of the hall are available, However, the Hall is under renovation until January 2023, so you’ll have to wait a little longer until you can see it for yourself.
Touchstones Museum
Touchstones Rochdale is the area’s Arts and Heritage centre with a ‘hands-on’ approach to its museum. It also includes an art gallery, study centre, education services, and a shop and café. The exhibition space is available to local people to showcase their hobbies and talents, giving people the audience their work deserves. Surrounded by beautiful gardens, this is a great place to visit when you’re feeling creative.
Fireground
A museum of firefighting is located at the restored 1933 fire station building. Including vintage equipment, uniforms, medals and old fire engines. Interactive displays for children, as well as a play area and library. Perfect for families looking for a rainy day activity to keep the kids busy and happy. It’s a great day out for anyone interested in the history of Rochdale and the fire service.
Healey Dell Nature Reserve
Known as the Rochdale Beauty Spot, Healey Dell Nature Reserve is a picturesque wildlife sanctuary located 2 miles from Rochdale town centre. The River Spodden carves through the woodland through the disused railway line to create beautiful waterfalls surrounded by magnificent views from its 100-foot high viaduct. Rochdale parks have incredible views, but Healey Dell Nature Reserve takes the cake.
Blackstone Edge
Similarly to Healey Dell, Blackstone Edge comprises picturesque views of the Pennine Hills. Surrounded by moorland on the boundary between Greater Manchester and West Yorkshire. It offers a great walk for both beginner and experienced hikers and rewards anyone who makes it to the top with an incredible view and a while monument. It also offers itself to traditional rock climbers with its optional rocky assent.
Gracie Fields Theatre
Gracie Fields Theatre is Rochdale’s performance hub, catering to all types of music, drama and dance performances. Hosting incredible talent from groups such as Rochdale Amateur Operatic Society and their wide variety of productions, including plays, concerts and musicals. Situated close to the town centre, Gracie Fields Theatre is a wonderful space to see new and emerging talent from the local area. Making it a great place for all ages to enjoy.
Hare Hill House
Once a private home of the Newall family, then made into Council Offices. Hare Hill House has seen many changes in ownership through the years. Now the House is being restored by a dedicated team who welcomes newcomers all the time to come and visit. The house was gifted to the people of Littleborough by The Newall family and was restored to its former glory by a group of wonderful historians. The House regularly plays host to the various events that are held in the Village and offers something for all the family, with most activities being free. Armed Forces Day is a must. It’s a fun day for all, and The Christmas Fair has the best Elf and Father Christmas around.
The Trade Centre
Now, it wouldn’t be fair to leave one of Rochdale’s biggest businesses out of this list. If you’re looking to buy a used car, The Trade Centre in Sandbrook Park is definitely to place to start. An award-winning and independent car dealership that is meticulous on its safety checks, so you can drive away happy and assured. We work closely with the trade centre, and if you want to find out more about how we work, you can visit us at www.marshfinance.com
Marsh Finance ltd
If you’re looking for car finance for your used car and want to use a local business. Might we suggest Marsh Finance? We’ve been in the business for nearly 50 years and have always worked from Rochdale. Keeping it local was important to us as many of our staff are Rochdalians themselves. As a family-run business, we want to stay true to our roots.