Rossendale offers a different kind of Lancashire day out, shaped by a network of towns and villages rather than a single centre. Places like Rawtenstall, Bacup, Whitworth and Haslingden each bring their own character, creating what locals simply call “The Valley”. Its industrial past is still visible in mills, heritage sites and local traditions, with museums and events helping to tell the story—including well-known fixtures like the World Gravy Wrestling Championships.
The landscape plays just as big a part, with a patchwork of hills, trails and open spaces linking the Valley together. Walking, cycling and riding routes are easy to pick up, while those looking for something more active can try everything from mountain biking to skiing at The Hill at Ski Rossendale. Independent shops, local makers and places to eat are dotted throughout the towns, giving you plenty of reasons to stop off as you explore each corner of this varied and distinctive part of East Lancashire.
Find out more Rossendale Borough Council
October is here and soon the weekends will be full of Halloween fun, but before the pumpkin picking and spooky stories take over, this weekend is easing you into the month gently.
Pumpkin picking is becoming more popular every year, with all shapes, colours, and sizes ready to be picked and carved. Even better, most places now provide you with the option to carve your pumpkin there, so you can leave your mess behind!
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
Rossendale's Panopticon, 'Halo', is an 18m-diameter steel lattice structure supported on a tripod five metres above the ground.
Read MoreSited at Rawtenstall Station, Buffer Stops offers five ales and one real cider on handpump, a range of lagers, continental beers, traditional pub snacks and locally sourced pies. This cosy bar welcomes both visitors and locals with a friendly atmosphere.
Read MoreThe industrial heritage of the north west is brought to life before your very eyes.
Read MoreThe Ashcroft, situated in Whitworth and surrounded by natural landscape, can cater to just 12 people or up to 250 guests for any celebration.
Read MoreA welcoming approach of flowers gardens, rockeries, seated terraces, cascading streams and pools set the hotel in a delightful tranquillity.
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.
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Date: 10th Dec 2026
Join us for a festive journey through the history of Christmas and discover how many of the traditions we cherish today evolved over the centuries. From Victorian Christmas cards and decorated trees to carol singing, festive food and gift-giving,...
Read MoreDate: 18th Oct 2026
This short documentary explores the emotional and psychological impact of loss on a daughter caring for her mum, who lives with Alzheimer's disease. As the condition progresses, she faces a series of "living losses": changes in her mum's memory, p...
Read MoreDate: 17th Dec 2026
Get into the festive spirit with our Christmas Cracker Workshop! Create your own personalised Christmas crackers, complete with plenty of festive cheer. Enjoy a relaxed, creative atmosphere while crafting crackers that are guaranteed to impress ar...
Read MoreDate: 18th Sept 2026
Join artist Dave Griffiths for a hands-on, creative workshop exploring the magic of 'phytography' a camera-less photographic process that uses the natural chemistry of plants to create images directly on film. During this 3-hour session, you will:...
Read MoreDate: 28th Nov 2026
Surge Records presents as part of their launch event line up...Kayleigh Hall+ Octane / DJW+ Phil Baker+ Captain of the Lost Waves+ Gordon ZolaCelebrate the official launch of the new direction of this uniq...
Read MoreDate: 3rd Dec 2026
In this session, you'll be creating beautiful Christmas cards and hand-stitched felt decorations. You'll have the chance to get creative with a variety of festive materials, learn simple stitching techniques, and make unique handmade decorations a...
Read MoreDistance8 miles
Lee Quarry is the first of Rossendale’s purpose built mountain bike venues.
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