Oldham

Oldham, city (1991 pop. 107,095) and metropolitan district, NW England, located in the Manchester metropolitan area. The city’s industries include papermaking, tanning, food processing, and mail-order distribution. Oldham’s town hall, art gallery, museum, and Alexandra Park are noteworthy. There is also a 17th-century grammar school and the College of Further Education. Winston Churchill was the member of Parliament for Oldham, and the composer William Walton was born there.

Oldham’s countryside is a land of contrasts, from Pennine moorland and wooded river valleys to canals and areas which reflect Oldham’s industrial past .

The varied character of the landscape means that there are many different places to explore and visit. Walkers, horse riders, canal enthusiasts, cyclists, families with young children or those who just want to take it easy, will all find something to interest them.

Oldham Countryside Service has four main centres where friendly staff are on hand to offer advice and information on the countryside and what it has to offer. There is also a yearly programme of guided walks and events most of which are free.

Oldham a truly dramatic experience with a visit to the Coliseum Theatre, voted Theatre of the Year by Manchester Evening News and the place to catch to a wide variety of national touring productions. Or you could take in some classical music, dance, pop or comedy at The Queen Elizabeth or Royton Assembly Halls.

Step outside and discover the natural beauty and heritage of Oldham, from Alexandra Park’s Victorian wonder to Tandle Hill’s woodlands or one of the borough’s 24 parks. Five countryside centres in Oldham offer a starting point for an idyllic walk in spectacular scenery.

Expect the unexpected when you visit Oldham. A packed cultural calendar includes the award winning Oldham Walton Festival in March, celebrating the life of Oldham born composer Sir William Walton. Oldham also runs Eid Mela, Diwali and Bangladesh Victory Day celebrations, the Werneth Folk Festival in June and the Oldham Kite Festival held in Oldham town centre in August.

Oldham also offers you a unique shopping experience, from the variety of high street names in the pedestrianised town centre to the arts, crafts and specialist wares to be found in the villages of Saddleworth Moor.