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
Looking to treat yourself or someone you love to afternoon tea? Lancashire has so many great options, including a number of experiences that really up the ante when it comes to making your afternoon tea extra special.
You 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 MoreSet in the picturesque valley, it is the premier outdoor ski and snowboarding centre in the UK.
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 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.
Read MoreThe 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.
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Date: 22nd Oct 2026
An honest, practical artist support talk about what happens after art school: finding opportunities, getting paid, building confidence, meeting people and keeping your practice alive when the structure disappears. No gatekeeping or hustle mytholog...
Read MoreDate: 10th Sept 2026
Join Lindsey James as she talks about diversification of creative practice.Lindsay set up and runs Violet Flamingo as an independent clothing brand rooted in a more conscious approach to fashion. Through Violet Flamingo, Lindsey create...
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 MoreDate: 8th Oct 2026
A Church through Time. A social history of Valley village life told through the characters and stories of the people of Helmshore's parish church. Join us for 175 years of whip rounds, Rose Queens, parades, pulling together and falling apart. St T...
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...
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...
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