Top 10 Free Things To Do and Attractions in Oldham

"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!"

"One of Manchester’s oldest buildings, the cathedral is a must-see for anyone with an interest in architecture. Wander around at your own pace, book onto a tour to find out more about the building’s history or keep your eyes peeled for news of one of the occasional gigs hosted inside the cathedral."

"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)."

"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."

"Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Clem Rutter, Roch... used under CC BY 3.0. Walton Hall and Gardens is another of Warrington’s wonderful outdoor activities."

"84 Plymouth Grove is known now as Elizabeth Gaskell's House, a small museum dedicated to Victorian literature and life. The Grade II listed neoclassical villa was once the residence of William and Elizabeth Gaskell, Manchester's most famous Victorian writer, and the rooms have been preserved to showcase her life. There is also a scenic garden, which has been planted to detail the sort of garden the Gaskells would have had back in the day."

"Elizabeth Gaskell’s House, 84 Plymouth Grove, Manchester, Greater Manchester, M13 9LW - Visit now. Elizabeth Gaskell’s House has been lovingly restored; you can now sit at her desk, see where Charlotte Brontë hid behind the curtains, and have tea in the downstairs café."

"Hidden just off Cop Lane in Penwortham, Hurst Grange Park is the largest park in Penwortham and was once owned by William Adam Hulton's family in the now demolished Hurst Grange mansion. The park is now full of mature trees and rolling hills, ponds and wildflower meadows. Hurst Grange Coach House, is the only part of the original building that remains standing and is opened occasionally for events, including the annual Penwortham Live."

"Travel back in time to the industrial revolution at the Quarry Bank Mill. Oozing with heritage, you can experience the ‘sounds and smells’ of steam and water-powered engines, explore the cotton mill to learn about spinning, weaving, the production of material, and the history of the textile industry, tour the Apprentice House for a glimpse into the lives of pauper children, stroll the beautiful gardens, or walk the Styal Estate, filled with woodlands and streams. Interactive, engaging, and educational, the museum exhibits and friendly and knowledgeable staff make Quarry Bank Mill a great day out for all ages."

"Edward Smith, CC BY-SA 3.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0>, via Wikimedia Commons. Clowes Park, also known as Broughton Hall or Broughton Park, has a large maintained lake with numerous viewing points, as well as a small area of woodland. The park is also home to the Life for a Life memorial forest, which was opened in 2016."

"There’s a lot to explore in the 109 acres that make up this South Manchester park. Utterly steeped in history, the park has not one, not two, but three listed buildings on its grounds, including the spectacular Wythenshawe Hall. This timber-framed Tudor structure was the home of the Tatton family for many centuries."

"GRB Skin Clinic, located on Cross Street in Sale, offers an array of beauty treatments such as manicures, pedicures, waxing services and eyebrows. There's a handy bus stop just in front of the salon which takes you to either Altrincham or Manchester City Centre and Sale metro is a short 10-minute walk away. Over 30 years of experience combined with the use of quality products such as Environ, you are definitely in good hands with these specialists."

"Set in the perfect spot for those busy bees needing to commute, the Daresbury Park Hotel is just a couple of minutes from the M56 - meaning quick and easy access to Chester, Liverpool and Manchester. The rooms get a big tick for a good night’s sleep – to ensure you’re rested and raring to go, and the free Wi-fi means you can browse ‘til your heart’s content in the comfort of your room. There’s some enjoyable leisure facilities including a swimming pool, squash court, gym, spa pool and steam room for some “you time”."