Rawtenstall is one of the main towns in the Rossendale Valley, shaped by its industrial past and surrounded by the hills and open landscapes of the South Pennines. Today, it offers a mix of heritage, independent businesses and local attractions, with Bank Street at its centre—known for its selection of independent shops, including long-established names like Fitzpatrick’s, makers of traditional soft drinks since 1899. The town also has a thriving market and a strong connection to the East Lancashire Railway, where heritage steam trains still run into the station.
A short walk from the centre, The Whitaker combines a museum, gallery and café within the grounds of Whitaker Park, alongside gardens and community growing spaces. For something more active, Ski Rossendale is a well-known dry slope attracting visitors looking to try skiing or snowboarding, while higher ground at Top o’ Slate offers wide views across the valley and the striking Halo Panopticon sculpture.
Find out more Rossendale Borough Council
Another great weekend of fun awaits in Lancashire this week! From celebrating the 1940s to the heritage of one of Lancashire's most famous fishing ports, through to monsters and fire feasts, there is something for everyone
Another great weekend of fun awaits in Lancashire this week! From celebrating the 1940s to the heritage of one of Lancashire's most famous fishing ports, through to monsters and fire feasts, there is something for everyone
The East Lancashire Railway provides a memorable and quirky wedding experience, with a wide range of options and locations from receptions aboard dining trains and the luxury Observation Saloon to photo opportunities on the footplate.
Read MoreYou will find fresh produce, butchers, fishmongers, traditional deli, Italian deli, fresh coffee and cakes, as well as Africa Al's handmade African sauces. Pet food and goods are also available.
Read MoreThe industrial heritage of the north west is brought to life before your very eyes.
Read MoreNestled deep in the heart of the Irwell Valley, the East Lancashire Railway spans 12 miles of beautiful Lancastrian scenery and over a century of rich history.
Read MoreSet in the picturesque valley, it is the premier outdoor ski and snowboarding centre in the UK.
Read MoreEnjoy first class service and fine dining behind one of our historic steam engines whilst journeying through the charming Lancashire countryside soaking up the picturesque panoramas as you go.
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Date: 5th Nov 2026
In this session, you'll be creating wonderful prints on fabric and making star sculptures inspired by fireworks. You'll explore a range of colours, patterns, and textures, experiment with different printing techniques, and use your creativity to d...
Read MoreDate: 26th Nov 2026
In conjuncture with her exhibition, Artist Stefanie Trow is delivering a hands-on workshop exploring the ancient craft of making oak gall ink from natural materials gathered from the landscape. The workshop accompanies her drawing installation in...
Read MoreDate: 12th Nov 2026
Join us for a fascinating look into the world of Victorian crime, where thieves, swindlers, poachers and murderers lived alongside respectable society. Discover how crime was investigated, how justice was delivered, and the often-harsh punishments...
Read MoreDate: 29th Oct 2026
Three hundred years after they were sentenced to die in Salem, a trio of witches return to gain their revenge. Terrorising the town's trick-or-treaters on Halloween, riding on vacuum cleaners instead of broomsticks, the only thing that can stop th...
Read MoreDate: 22nd Aug 2026
Let your creativity shine at this family workshop, where youll design and create your very own star masks inspired by the whimsy and wonder of the circus.Using a mix of colourful materials, sparkling details, and imaginative designs, y...
Read MoreDate: 15th Oct 2026
Join Alex Bevan and Hannah Singleton for two talks which explore the ways the trial and executions of the Pendle Witches are remembered through tourism, souvenirs, and artworks in the Lancashire landscape. Since the 1612 execution of the ten accus...
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