Bacup

Surrounded by stunning moorlands, right in the Pennine hills, Bacup is home to beautiful, historic architecture, fantastic views across the valley and varied activities for all ages.

Described by English Heritage as the best-preserved cotton mill town in England. You’ll find nods to this mill town’s part in the Industrial Revolution, including traditional features and preserved venues.

Bacup is one of the oldest settlements in Rossendale Valley, with origins tracing back as far as 1200.

Due to its historical buildings and rural beauty, Bacup has been a popular location for TV and film settings. You may have spotted it in top TV shows such as ‘Peaky Blinders’ and comedy drama ‘Brassic’, and ‘The League of Gentlement’, not to mention the 1961 film ‘Whistle Down the Wind’ and many more!
 

Things to do

Shopping

At the heart of Bacup is a beautiful and historic town centre. Boasting a wide range of local independent stores, housed within stunning historic buildings.

You’ll also find all your high street favourites, ample car parking, and plenty of cafes, and coffee shops, perfect for a day out shopping.

Mountain Biking

Active visitors can test their skills at Lee and Cragg Quarry mountain bike tracks. Harking back to Rossendale’s stone roots, these quarries are now perfect for adrenaline junkies and keen mountain bikers.

Described as an oversized playground for mountain bikes, Lee Quarry is sure to challenge your existing skills. Combined with Cragg Quarry, you’ll get a cross country route of around 17km.

Other routes including the Mary Towneley Loop and the network of bridleways across Rossendale can also be easily accessed from the quarry.

 

Walking

Bacup is surrounded by beautiful walking countryside, which you can see from every angle of this quaint town.

The beautiful Irwell Sculpture Trail winds its way from Bacup all the way to Salford Quays in Manchester. The full route features over 70 artworks and is the largest in the UK. You’ll find 15 sculptures around Rossendale, the perfect way to explore the area.

Another option is the Green Flag awarded Stubbylee Park, perfect for a gentle stroll and a spot if lunch. You’ll find rose and sunken gardens, water features, play areas and recreational activities such as tennis, bowling and an outdoor gym.

 

Petting Farm

A great day out for all the family is Animal Quackers, a petting farm with an array of wonderful animals to meet.

Children can pet many of the animals, feed the goats, watch a bird of prey show and play in the play area. You’ll see family favourites like rabbits, lambs and llamas and more unusual spots including wallabies, snakes, and meerkats!

 

Culture

Spend a day soaking up the culture in Bacup with a trip to a museum or theatre show.

Bacup Natural History Museum was founded in 1878 and is home to some wonderful collections from dinosaurs to weapons and ancient tools, as well as a recent history collection showcasing Bacup’s interesting and rich past.

The historic Bacup Royal Court Theatre has been presenting shows since 1893.  Their regular programmes offer something for everyone, from dance, singers, variety shows and plays all in a beautiful, authentic Victorian venue.