Manchester - Surroundings

Alderley Edge is located just south of Manchester on the A34. The village is situated on the Edge, a steep red sandstone escarpment, that is enjoyed by day trippers who explore the rolling fields and surrounding woodland.

Nether Alderley Mil, a restored 15th century corn-mill, is a National Trust property located in Alderley Edge. It is powered by water from a lake it is set against and has been restored to full working order.

Ashton-Under-Lyne is located on the Tame River 6mi/10km east of Manchester. There are coal deposits in the area. The night life in Ashton-Under-Lyne is quite active, with many clubs in the town centre.

Ashton-Under-Lyne is also home to St. Michael and All Angels, completed in 1262.

The museum illustrates the history of the Manchester Regiment and its local community from 19th century to National Service. Besides, there is an exhibtion about the history of medals.

Bury (pop. 172,200) is located 10mi/16km northwest of Manchester. The town has a large arts scene including a museum, art gallery and library all under one roof that was refurbished in 2005. The Bury Market has been on the same site for the past 600 years and operates on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays. The market attracts visitors for miles around the town.

Lyme Park was originally a Tudor House but has been encased in a classical skin by the Palladian architect Giacomo Leoni. This is one of th biggest houses in Cheshire and it contains detailed decorative work and fine quality furnishings. The house is set in a large country park with splendid views.

Rochdale (pop. 92,704) is located on the Roch River 10mi/16km northeast of Manchester. There are several landmark buildings including the Rochdale Town Hall, completed in 1871, and the Parish Church of St Chad from Norman times. Rochdale was also the founding place of the modern cooperative movement and the birthplace of John Bright, the politician and orator.

Salford, a university town, lies on the River Irwell with many tourist attractions, such as Ordsall Hall, the Bridgewater Canal and the Lowry Centre.

The Lowry opened on 28th April 2000, an architectural flagship, along the redeveloped Salford Quays. Two theatres for performing arts present a full range of drama, opera, ballet, dance, musicals, children's shows, popular music, jazz, folk and comedy; gallery spaces showing the works of LS Lowry alongside contemporary exhibitions; and ArtWorks an interactive attraction are all found under one roof.

Bramall Hall is located in Greater Machester, in the town of Stockport. It is one of Cheshire's most important black and white timber framed houses, it was built in 1590.

The Stockport Viaduct, completed in 1840, features 27 brick arches and has been featured in many paintings.

Quarry Bank Mill is Europe's largest working textile museum. There is a special display on children's roles in the cotton industry and as you make your way through the factory, interpreters explain the history of cotton production from bale to bolt.

The museum was a recipient of the Tourism for All award.

Uppermill is the largest villge in Saddleworth with a museum, craft shops, and tea rooms. The Rushcart Festival is an annual event that takes place in late August featuring Morris Dancing.