Rochdale is a borough in the north of Greater Manchester, comprising of Heywood, Middleton, Milnrow and Newhey, Littleborough, and Wardle. Running alongside the Pennines, Rochdale has some of the most beautiful countryside in the region, and is home to a number of well-known landmarks.
In the mid-19th Century, a group from the area formed the Rochdale Equitable Pioneers Society and opened a store, initiating the first Co-operative Movement that still exists today. Sitting in the original premises, the Rochdale Pioneers Museum is open to visitors and tells the story of the Rochdale Pioneers. Also in the town centre, Rochdale Town Hall is regarded as one of the finest town halls in Europe. In the village of Newhey, Ellenroad Engine House contains the largest surviving, spinning-mill steam engine, and is open to the public to view.
Celebrating the best of the countryside in Rochdale, Hollingworth Lake is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike. There are a number of walks and cycle routes incorporating the lake, which is also a base for a sailing and rowing club, along with a variety of other watersports. As well as this, the Pennine Bridleway runs through Rochdale, offering the opportunity to explore over 200 miles of the Pennines’ routes, roads and bridleways.
Rochdale also has a number of popular food and drink offerings, including celebrity chef Andrew Nutter’s restaurant, set in the wonderful countryside on the outskirts of Norden. Situated next to the Rochdale Pioneers Museum is award-winning The Baum, serving food, cask ale and cider, and over 30 continental beers seven days per-week. Other notable restaurants in the area include La Mancha, The Waterside, The Italian Room and The Rake Tapas. The town is also home to The Flying Horse Hotel – Greater Manchester Pub of the Year 2019.