25 locations across Stockport town centre will host more than 50 events over the weekend of 23 and 24 March as the town celebrates the end of its tenure as Greater Manchester Town of Culture.

Stockport took on the mantle of Greater Manchester Town of Culture in April 2023, and over the past 12 months has hosted a range of activities across four themes: Stockport Moves, Stockport Makes, Stockport Tastes and Stockport Sounds. The Greater Manchester town that will take over the role for 2024 has yet to be announced.

The Town of Culture Weekender will showcase the incredible variety of culture and creativity happening in Stockport, as well as the work and projects that have been delivered during the Town of Culture year.

The soon-to-open town centre Park atop Stockport’s new transport interchange will play host to many of the activities across the weekend. These will include a Carnival of the Animals parade, curated by carnival arts organisation Global Grooves featuring giant animal puppets, a grandpa comedy duo, live music with Pandemonium Steel Band, Tai Chi and Yoga taster classes and a Stockport Sculpture Trail.

A series of walks, tours and activities will also take place across the weekend, including a Hatting Walk and Stockport Music Walk, taking visitors on a fascinating journey through the town’s heritage, while The War Memorial Gallery will also be hosting the Stockport Rising Exhibition, showcasing the works of five local celebrated artists. Music and dance will be also be showcased at a range of venues in the town centre.

Cllr Mark Hunter, Leader of Stockport Council, said:

“It will be wonderful to celebrate the end of our town of culture year with such a big extravaganza in the town centre, with so much to keep the whole family entertained. We hope this event will showcase just what we have achieved this year. It’s been wonderful to see residents and visitors enjoying all we have to offer culturally as a borough, whether going to an event or exhibition, shopping in the town centre or one of our district centres or enjoying a bite to eat.

“With help from everyone who has helped organise Town of Culture, we have facilitated and created a positive impression of the borough and a lasting legacy of creativity in the arts with Stockport Makes and Stockport Sounds, the ways in which we’ve helped residents get active with Stockport Moves and the wonderful cuisine we have on offer with Stockport Tastes. We’ve shown that Stockport is on the up and the place to be, now and in the future.”

Cllr Frankie Singleton, Cabinet Member for Communities, Culture and Sport at Stockport Council, said:

“There will be so much to see and do over the Stockport Town of Culture Weekender. So, save the date and make your way to the Town Centre to enjoy all the fun with your friends and family as we bring the curtain down on a fantastic year in Stockport with the Town of Culture Weekender.”

For more details on activities taking place across the town, please visit the Stockport Town of Culture Weekender website.

It’s easy to forget sometimes that there’s more to life than the city, and the North West is jam-packed with quaint and picturesque spots that are well worth a visit. Feeling the need to break away for the day? Check out our guide to some of the pretty towns and villages located around Manchester if you’re bored of the sight of concrete and fancy an adventure.

1. Haworth

Commonly known as Brontë country due to the fact that the famous Brontë sisters lived in the village, Haworth has a whole lot of history to explore – including Wuthering Heights itself (known as Top Withens). The village retains its historic cobbled streets and buildings, and close by, visitors can check out the Brontë moors and picturesque Brontë waterfall. It’s pretty much a literary mecca, however, on a normal day, you’ll find a ton of quirky little shops to check out in the village. It takes around 1 hour 20 mins by car, and is a great place to get lost in for the day.

2. Rivington

Just outside of Bolton, the village of Rivington lies alongside the Lower Rivington Reservoir and the Anglezarke Reservoir – providing a beautiful backdrop to the traditional village. Naturally, the place boasts its own history which can still be seen today, including Lord Leverhulme’s Chinese Gardens, Rivington Pike and the beautiful Lever Bridge. There’s lots of walking to be done, and so many photographic moments en route to Rivington Pike making it one of many pretty villages near Manchester. It takes a mere 40 minutes by car and will keep you coming back with its friendly atmosphere.

3. Worsley

Possibly one of the most picturesque villages in Greater Manchester, the pretty spot of Worsley can be found in Salford and is incredibly picturesque for those looking for a lovely stroll in the sunshine. Walk alongside the Bridgewater Canal or through Worsley Woods where you’ll find old Tudor-style buildings and ample greenery. There are some great places to eat, too, including Albert’s Worsley where you can enjoy al fresco dining. The village is just a 20 minute drive from the city centre, perfect for a spontaneous day out.

4. Marple Bridge

Situated in the Greater Manchester borough of Stockport, Marple Bridge is one of the cutest little villages (as well as pretty to look at) for a wander – featuring traditional buildings and picturesque streets, as well as a number of mini beauty spots to stop by. The Roman Lakes is a beautiful little spot on a sunny day, with canoeing activities to take part in and locals usually cycling around the area. Running along the side of the small village you’ll also find the lovely River Goyt, which you can walk along before turning back and checking out some of the local cafes for a cuppa. Drive down within 35 minutes and have yourself a lovely cosy day.

5. Marsden

Nestled by the iconic Peak District that is a short drive away from Manchester, Marsden can be found just outside of Huddersfield and is as picturesque as quaint, pretty villages come. From the traditional cobbled village that’s home to a good few cosy pubs and restaurants to the nearby moors and reservoirs – Marsden has a lot to offer for such a small place. Water flows through the village from the reservoirs, three of which are within easy walking distance from the centre. Marsden is just 50 minutes away from Manchester by car, so be sure to pop it into your weekend plans!

6. Knutsford

Knutsford is located in the heart of Cheshire and is a lovely traditional town, populated with gorgeous houses and old Tudor buildings. Check out the town for a spot of shopping, walk around and drool over the characterful homes, or head further out to the beautiful Tatton Park which is situated nearby. The town boasts lovely little bars and restaurants, and you’ll also find farmer’s markets stocked full of local produce that you can take home with you. The 40 minute drive is worth the effort, trust us!

7. Clitheroe

Clitheroe, set in the Ribble Valley, is one of Lancashire‘s many quaint little towns that lead to the Lake District, and is frequently visited by those looking to explore the Forest of Bowland. The historic market town is home to its very own castle with beautiful gardens, as well as offering easy access to nearby Pendle Hill – another great spot for a wholesome nature walk. Whilst in the town, check out the plethora of specialist shops that Clitheroe is known for – including foodie shops selling locally sourced sausages, local fashion retailers and even local drinks producers who have been in the town for decades. Just an hour’s drive from Manchester, Clitheroe should be on your day trip list.

8. Whalley

Another beautiful spot in the Ribble Valley, Whalley is just a little closer to Manchester than Clitheroe, 50 minutes in the car, and lies at the foot of Pendle Hill – a pretty backdrop to an already picturesque village. There are some lovely little shops and cafes within the village, and close by you’ll get to see the wonderful Whalley Viaduct – the perfect photo opportunity. The Viaduct stands over the River Calder, and is surrounded by some gorgeous countryside, perfect for walks that provide a great escape from city life.

9. Lytham St Annes

Funnily enough, Lytham St Annes is a seaside town split into two: Lytham and St Annes. The neighbouring towns are most often referred to together, although they do comprise of contrasting styles, making it all the more interesting to visit. Just down the coast from Blackpool, Lytham St Annes is lined with well tended lawns, a boating lake and pretty parks, and of course boasts a gorgeous sandy beach. The St Annes beach huts are a lovely addition if you’re staying for longer, but are still well worth a visit to see the gorgeous décor and beautiful pastel colours adorning the seafront, and Lytham of course hosts its annual festival, with the upcoming line-up including Blondie, Jamiroquai, and George Ezra. The town has an array of sights and activities, including the Victorian pier, historic windmill, golf course, Lytham Hall, and independent shops and cafes at its heart. Lytham St Annes is just over an hour’s drive from Manchester, and with so much to do you might consider stopping over!

10. Ramsbottom

Set against the backdrop of Holcombe Hill, Ramsbottom is a lovely market town with a friendly community and famous annual chocolate festival (yum). Just a 45 minute drive from Manchester, with bus routes servicing the town too, the Bury town is a pretty classic English spot, offering lots of independent retailers and fantastic restaurants and cafes. Ramsbottom has been voted the best place to live in the UK and High Street of the Year several times, and it’s not hard to see why. The town is also a stop on the East Lancashire Railway heritage line, meaning you can take a trip on the historical steam train, hopping on or off in Ramsbottom to enjoy the sights.

Congratulations are in order.

Bolton has officially been named Greater Manchester Town of Culture for 2024.

Taking over the reins from Stockport – which held the title in 2023, and recently hosted a massive ‘Town of Culture Weekender’ festival with 50+ free events to celebrate and bring its title year to a close – it’s now the turn of the north-western Greater Manchester borough of Bolton.

Bolton has long been celebrated as hub of culture and creative activity within our region.

The area has notably produced some big-name stars in the arts, entertainment, comedy, and sporting spheres over the years, as well as having seen significant new residential and commercial developments popping up in recent times, and a blossoming food, drink, hospitality, and nightlife scene that continues to prove popular.

The Bolton Food and Drink Festival, IRONMAN, Bolton Film Festival, and Put Big Light On are all big annual events in the borough.

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And now, the town has got itself a fancy title to prove it – and along with that, a whopping £50,000 grant to support a year-long programme of events.

In case you’re unfamiliar with what the ‘Greater Manchester Town of Culture’ title is all about, it’s an accolade that’s handed out every year to different boroughs across the region – with Bury the inaugural title-holder 2020 and holding onto it into 2021 due to the COVID pandemic, and then followed by Stalybridge in 2022, and Stockport in 2023 – and it celebrates Greater Manchester’s culture and heritage.

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As well as getting a new title to shout about, it also sees the towns given a grant from the Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) culture fund to help develop a programme of cultural events and activities throughout the year.

Bolton’s programme will have three parts, according to Bolton Council.

The first is a taster programme packed full of cultural activities delivered in Bolton and its various districts, and then following on from that, there’ll be a grants programme designed to help support Bolton’s smaller cultural organisations, freelancers, and artists.

The grand finale will be the Bolton Gala – which is set to take place next March, and is gearing up to be a celebratory event jointly-organised by all cultural partners, and co-designed by residents too.

Bolton Council says it will be working with cultural organisations, creative practitioners, and residents to “strengthen partnerships” that’ll deliver a collective approach to creative programming, and Councillors hope to build on assets such as the town’s legendary Octagon Theatre, the newly-refurbished Bolton Central Library and Museum, and the Bolton Albert Halls too.

“It’s fantastic that Bolton has been announced as the latest Greater Manchester Town of Culture,” Greater Manchester Mayor, Andy Burnham, commented as the town took the title this week.

“Bolton already has some outstanding cultural venues and eventsm from the Octagon Theatre and the Bolton Albert Hall, to the famous Bolton Food and Drink Festival and the Bolton Film Festival, and Town of Culture will celebrate these existing venues and events, but will also shine a light on the smaller venues and events that are happening across the town.

“I look forward to visiting Bolton to join their cultural celebrations.”

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Leader of Bolton Council, Cllr Nick Peel, says he’s “thrilled” about the town’s new title, and added: “Bolton certainly has a promising future, and will be a great place to live, work, study, visit and invest in the future.”

Featured Image – Bolton Food & Drink Festival (via Facebook)

Stockport is in the 'throes of a mighty metamorphosis' and is 'turning it into one of the most exciting towns around', according to The Sunday Times, which have just named the it the best place to live in the north-west of England.

The up-and-coming Greater Manchester town has been named alongside Prestwich in the publication's 2024 list of 'best areas to live' in the UK, which is now in its 12th year and is compiled by an expert panel. Elsewhere in the region, Christleton and Knutsford in Cheshire, Kendal in Cumbria and Ribble Valley in Lancashire, all made the cut.

After visiting each area, the expert panel looks at factors including schools, transport and broadband speeds, to culture, access to green space, and health of the high street. Stockport has been praised for its developing transport links, availability of 'good-value' houses and crop of 'funky independent businesses.'

READ MORE: The two Greater Manchester towns named in The Sunday Times' Best Places to Live in 2024

The Sunday Times judges said: “The town in Greater Manchester is in the throes of a mighty metamorphosis that’s turning it into one of the most exciting towns around. The conversion of the vast Weir Mill into a new neighbourhood is well underway.

"The new Interchange project will link buses and trains around a new park while the historic streets around the Market Hall and the Underbanks are filling up with a joyous collection of funky independent businesses. It’s functional and family-friendly, too, with unbeatable rail connections, parks, sports clubs and good-value houses up and down the property ladder.”

The town's resurgence has been well documented in recent years, as commentators point to its burgeoning food and drink scene and new crop of independent businesses. The town's Underbanks area has become one of the town's 'coolest' districts with an eclectic mix of boutiques, bakeries and bars and has even been dubbed the "Soho of the North" in the past.

It comes as the town also prepares to welcome its brand new bus interchange in the coming days. The multi-million pound transport facility boasts 18 bus stands with the capacity for 164 departures an hour.

The new facility, which forms a central piece of the £1bn transformation of the town centre, will be accessible from entrances on Mersey Square, Swaine Street and Daw Bank, which will be clearly signposted. The £135, project will be open to the public on Sunday (March 17).

Construction is also well underway at Weir Mill on the banks of the River Mersey. The mill buildings are being restored and transformed into new homes. Two new-build blocks, including a 14-storey tower, have also been erected on the site.

It will see the creation of 253 apartments, 87 in the historic mill buildings and 166 in the new builds. It will also boast new bars, eateries, coffee shops and stores as well as two new public squares and green space in what bosses and council chiefs say will become a 'vibrant' new area.

The Sunday Times' guide has had more new entries than ever before for 2024, with the judges looking for improving locations with a 'strong sense of community' rather than famous names with high house prices.

Helen Davies, the guide’s editor, says: "What makes our guide unique is that we actually visit all the places we choose and talk to locals to find out what life is really like there. That means we can see what people really love about the places they live. That might be fast commutes and high-achieving schools but also clean water to swim in, lively town centres with useful shops, the possibility of earning a living and being part of a friendly community.

“We do consider affordability, though high house prices are no barrier to inclusion - as long as they provide value for money. Different people may be looking for different things, but what all our best places have in common is that people love living in them and are proud to call them home.”

A huge new mural made entirely out of recycled bottletops has been unveiled in Stockport. The artwork, covering an 18 by four-metre wall facing the famous Air Raid Shelters in the town centre, has become the largest of its kind ever showcased in the UK.

Masterminded by local artist Caitlin Atherton, co-owner of local recycling community benefit society Plastic Shed, it has been handcrafted using recycled boards and around 80,000 plastic lids.

They were all collected and donated by local groups including local schools, colleges, nursing homes, cafes, offices, gyms, churches, restaurants, charities, and youth groups.

READ MORE: The town without a 'proper' bus service to the airport

Years in the planning, it was helped to get off the ground through support from bosses at the Merseyway Shopping Centre and has been fully funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF).

The nature-themed mural, which depicts a number of animals and birds, was unveiled during last weekend's celebrations to mark the end of Stockport's stint as Greater Manchester Town of Culture which was the busiest weekend of the year for the town centre.

Artist Caitlin said: "I’ve had the idea of a bottle cap mural for many years now and it’s so exciting to finally see my vision come to life. I really have been overwhelmed by the level of support I have received in creating this piece.

"I’d like to give a special thank you to the members of the public who collected well over 80,000 bottle lids and to all the incredible businesses involved - the work people have put into this has really been amazing.”

“I also have to give a special mention to Optimaxx via Stockport Wickes who donated over 150,000 screws. With their donation, we were able to use a large chunk of our budget on 100% recycled plastic boards, meaning we were able to reuse an additional 891KG of plastic waste.

“From the collection process and design submissions to each member of the public who came along to one of our workshops to help clean and fit the caps onto the mural, this truly has been a public work of art, where everyone has helped me not only achieve my dream piece, but we’ve created something even bigger than I imagined, becoming the biggest plastic bottle mural ever to be seen in the UK!”

Victoria Nichol, Merseyway Centre Manager said “Merseyway is dedicated to supporting the ideas and creativity of our tenants and it truly is an honour for us to have this fabulous mural showcased at our centre.

"The work Caitlin has put into this piece has been phenomenal and we’d like to encourage everyone to come down to Merseyway and see for yourself just how impactful this mural really is.”

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