Rochdale offers several distinct ways to explore its history and surroundings: its cooperative heritage, public and religious buildings, and landscapes and walking routes. Its attractions range from the early cooperative movement to a nature trail and the Rochdale Canal. You can tailor your stay to the subjects that interest you most.
Industrial History and Rochdale’s Beginnings
Rochdale Town Hall dates from 1866 to 1871; its tower was added in 1883. The building’s history reveals several stages: the tower was added only after the original construction period. The building therefore represents a later chapter in local history than the beginnings of the cooperative movement.
On 21 December 1844, the Rochdale Equitable Pioneers Society opened its first shop on Toad Lane. It sold unadulterated food at fair prices and ensured that weights and measures were accurate. The Rochdale Pioneers Museum is regarded as the birthplace of the worldwide cooperative movement. The combination of a specific shop opening and the sales principles of the time offers a vivid way to explore Rochdale’s cooperative history.
Museums, Art and Religious Architecture
In Rochdale town centre, Touchstones Rochdale is a museum, gallery and arts centre in a Grade II listed building. The building houses a permanent museum intended to provide an overview of the town’s history. This interpretation may change as part of a redevelopment. If you are planning a visit, it is best to check the latest opening and exhibition information.
Rochdale Parish Church, St Chads, stands on a hill overlooking the town centre. A church has stood there for well over 1,000 years; parts of the present church tower date from the Saxon period. The tower also contains a stained-glass window by Burne-Jones, with glasswork by William Morris. The church thus brings together a long local history and named examples of religious art and architecture.
Healey Dell and Canal Paths
Healey Dell is a nature reserve with significant industrial archaeological remains, woodland and waterfalls. A disused 19th-century railway line now serves as a nature trail. The approximately 30-metre-high viaduct offers views. Along this route, landscape and evidence of industrial history come together.
The Rochdale Canal opened in 1804 and was the first canal to cross the Pennines. Its towpath is suitable for an easy walk. The routes offer different experiences: Healey Dell features a former railway line, views from a viaduct, woodland and waterfalls; the canal focuses on the history of the waterway and a walk along the towpath.
Gardens and Practical Information
Rochdale Memorial Gardens were established in 1948 as gardens of remembrance. They include a cenotaph designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens, as well as a play area and sensory gardens. The gardens therefore combine remembrance with other amenities on site. If particular facilities are important for your visit, check their current status in advance.
For travel by public transport, Rochdale Interchange is a useful landmark: it is 450 yards from Rochdale Town Hall. Rochdale Town Centre tram stop is right beside the interchange and is the terminus of the Metrolink line. Check the current timetable before travelling.
Discover more destinations: Stalybridge, Marple, Blackrod, Ramsbottom, Manchester, Egerton, Littleborough, Ashton-Under-Lyne.
For the main travel overview: Greater Manchester.
