Top 10 Free Things To Do and Attractions in Accrington

"Dating back to the 15th century, the Manchester Cathedral has experienced quite a bit of history! After Henry VIII broke away from the Roman Catholic Church, the Cathedral's riches were confiscated. During the English Civil war in the mid 17th century, pitched battles were fought inside and around the Cathedral between the Royalists (those supporting Charles I, the Stewarts, and the Anglican Church) and the Roundheads (Oliver Cromwell loyalists). Also Ann Lee, the founder of the religious movement called the Shakers interrupted services here when she lived in Manchester. The church was targeted by the Nazi Luftwaffe and received a direct head during the bombings of 1940. Yet through all this the Church maintains it's quiet dignity and beauty. It is a must see while in Manchester!"

"Manchester Cathedral has been around since 1215, but has gone through multiple refurbishments. It’s not a massive cathedral but is a nice way to spend an hour or so. Entrance is free (although donations are encouraged)."

"Manchester’s magnificent Cathedral dates back to 1421 when a royal charter was granted by Henry V. Since then it has survived wars, bombings, the Reformation and more. Manchester Cathedral"

"Whether you’re a fan of Manchester United or you just want to visit one of the most famous football stadiums in the world, it’s always worth hopping on a tram to visit Old Trafford. Take a tour of the stadium, pop into the gift shop to buy a memento of your visit or simply admire the Theatre of Dreams from the outside."

"Cartwright Hall Art Gallery is a leading regional art gallery, situated in the beautiful surroundings of Lister Park. The gallery has been home to a variety of prints for more than a hundred years. Where they are proud to housework by William Blake, Francisco Goya, and Walter Sickert – all master printmakers."

"Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Green Giant used under CC BY 4.0. Cartwright Hall is Bradford’s municipal art gallery, that offers an energising array of contemporary exhibits. The collections showcase 19th and 20th-century British craftsmanship, with global contemporary prints and South Asian works."

"Facilities are children’s play area, a visitors centre with toilets, a pond, a conservation area with a dipping platform, angling. Once the ash tip for east Manchester’s power station, it was greened up in the 1980s and since recent investment, is a key green space within the Medlock River Valley. Clayton Vale is a Local Nature Reserve and is a great place for families to enjoy woodland and riverside walks, cycling, picnicking, or pond dipping."

"Take a trip to Ashton, not far from the city centre, and stroll around Preston Dock. Once Europe's largest inland dock, the historical dockland was opened in 1892 by Queen Victoria's second son Prince Albert. The dock makes an ideal day out for both adults and families, with peaceful strolls around the water and plenty scenery and history surrounding it."

"You can walk along the canal, through the Castlefield Urban Heritage Park on your way to the Museum of Science and Industry. Castlefield Urban Heritage Park. Admire the old industrial buildings, soak up the atmosphere of the canal, and see how Manchester used to be in years gone by."

"High atop Ilkley Moor, overlooking the pub of the same name, sit the Cow and Calf rocks. The story goes that these incredible rock formations were separated when the giant Rombald stepped on them as he fled an enemy but, in fact, the rocks have formed over the last 320 million years. Now, they draw in hikers and climbers all year round – you can walk in between them before making your way to the top where you can enjoy show-stopping views across the countryside."

"Situated on Oldham Street in the heart of the Northern Quarter, Fig + Sparrow’s café has proven so popular that their dining space has recently expanded, taking over the area that used to be populated with gifts. There are still a few small gift ideas and a selection of stylish cards and gift wrap to peruse as you indulge in a delicious cup of coffee out of one of their instantly recognisable red and yellow cups. To secure the perfect photo, take the window seat to shoot your steaming brew against the fogged up glass."

"Half coffee shop, half homewares, all stunning - Fig and Sparrow is a dainty café with design as beautiful as the latte art. From their tiny bar they serve an impressive range of coffees and teas. Flat whites are always meticulous, and it’s worth dipping your beak into their pour-over range."

"Fig and Sparrow, 20 Oldham Street, Manchester, Greater Manchester, M1 1JN - Visit now. Serving up a stylish selection of locally-produced gifts, cards and homeware, as well as great coffee and cake."

"With a huge range of sandwiches, kebabs and vegetarian options too, you might need to take a look at the menu before you go. The mexican rice, which comes in different varieties, is a huge hit with customers of all ages. Popular amongst students for it’s fantastic range of comfort food and reasonable prices."