Manchester's countryside
Say the word ‘Manchester’ and images of a proud industrial past and modern city living come flooding to mind. Yet, just north of the grand squares and chic apartments, you’ll discover countryside bursting with beautiful vistas and delectable food and drink.
Surprises at every turn
Manchester was a prime mover in the Industrial Revolution, and the region’s many attractions and vibrant architecture bear witness to this famous era. Grand mills and stone-built museums dot a landscape criss-crossed by quiet canals and railways – relics of the cotton and coal industries.
Today, the banks of these waterways are rich in wildlife and form tranquil cycling routes, charming heritage trails and idyllic picnic spots. Wander along the Leeds to Liverpool Canal, for instance, and you’ll stumble upon countless opportunities to enjoy life’s simple pleasures. Check out the Huddersfield Narrow Canal and you’ll also delight at the imaginative canal-side sculpture trail.
Endless inspiration
Manchester folk have always appreciated fresh air. That’s still true today, and you can explore no fewer than 18 brand new walking and cycling trails as you let off steam in 500 square miles of secluded countryside, shaded woods, riverside paths and green open spaces.
Feeling parched? Stop at one of the cosy real ale pubs for a glass of fine beer that’s likely to issue from one of the area’s micro breweries, such as Leyden Brewery in Nangreaves and Bank Top Brewery in Bolton. (there are annual real ale festivals in Bolton, Bury, Wigan, Oldham and Uppermill.) Many of these pubs serve up views as spectacular as the bar meals. And talking of food...
Indulge yourself
Food and drink is taken seriously in these parts. So join the crowds at the Annual Food and Drink Festival in October – it’s the largest urban festival of its kind in the UK – and relish a feast of events including gourmet dinners, bakery tours, international markets, cookery demos, wine tasting …the list of goodies goes on.
And while you’re here, treat yourself to a meal to remember at one of the region’s award-winning restaurants such as Nutters - celebrity chef Andrew Nutter’s Rochdale restaurant – or Simply Heathcote’s in Wrightington where Paul Heathcote serves up fine contemporary dining (you can also sample his talents at one of his relatively new venues, the Olive Press in Bolton).
What’s stopping you?
Itching to explore Manchester’s lovely countryside? You’ll find Mainline trains and the motorway network both whisk you into the heart of the region in no time at all. So to discover more about the delights of rural Manchester, visit www.manchesterscountryside.com/index.asp