Things To Do: Wigan

About Wigan

Wigan, a town in Greater Manchester, offers a diverse range of activities for visitors. History enthusiasts can explore the award-winning Museum of Wigan Life, which showcases the town's heritage, and the Haigh Woodland Park, featuring stunning parkland, woodland, and plantations. Additionally, the Trencherfield Mill, a historic steam engine, is a popular attraction for those interested in industrial heritage. For outdoor and family-friendly activities, visitors can enjoy the beautiful green spaces at Mesnes Park and Worthington Lakes, as well as the various entertainment options such as Wigan Roller Rink, Velocity Trampoline Park, and the Three Sisters Racing Circuit. With its blend of history, heritage, and modern entertainment, Wigan offers something for everyone.

 

If you're looking for some fun and interesting things to do in Wigan, you'll be spoilt for choice. Wigan is a town with a rich industrial heritage, but also a lot of natural beauty and cultural attractions. Here are some of the best things to do in Wigan:

* Visit Haigh Woodland Park, a 500-acre estate with a historic country house, a golf club, a brewery, a tearoom, and a variety of outdoor activities for all ages. You can explore the ancient woodlands, ride the miniature railway, play crazy golf, or adventure golf, try the high ropes course or the adventure play park, or join one of the many events and workshops that take place throughout the year.

* Learn about the history and culture of Wigan at the Museum of Wigan Life, housed in a stunning Elizabethan Revival building designed by Alfred Waterhouse. The museum has more than 30,000 objects on display, covering topics such as archaeology, natural history, fine art, industrial history and social history. You can see a German helmet from the First World War, a pocket watch made in Wigan in the 1800s, a shotgun by the local gunsmith Barker of Wigan and much more.

* Experience the legacy of Wigan's industrial past at Wigan Pier, a semi-derelict wharf that was once a busy coal-loading station. The pier was made famous by George Orwell's book, Road to Wigan Pier, which depicted the harsh realities of life in the 1930s. Today, you can see the restored Trencherfield Mill and its impressive steam engine, as well as the Astley Green Colliery and its machinery.

* Enjoy some nature and wildlife at Fairy Glen, a scenic valley with a stream, waterfalls, rock formations and woodland. Fairy Glen is a great place for walking, picnicking, and spotting birds and animals. You can also visit Worthington Lakes, a series of reservoirs that offer fishing, boating, and cycling opportunities.

* Have some fun at Wigan Roller Rink, one of the largest indoor roller-skating venues in Europe. The rink has a state-of-the-art sound and lighting system, as well as a cafe and bar. You can skate to your favourite tunes, join a roller disco, or take part in one of the themed nights.

* Catch a show at Wigan Little Theatre, a charming venue that hosts a variety of plays, musicals, and comedies throughout the year. The theatre is run by volunteers and has a cosy atmosphere and reasonable prices. You can also visit Grange Farm, a working farm that has animals, crops, and a farm shop.

 

 

Local Attractions

Museum of Wigan Life – Exhibits including 30,000 objects relating to life in Wigan – More Info

Haigh Woodland Park – There's lots to see and do, from High ropes to Foot Golf, and everything in between – More Info

Trencherfield Mill – Trencherfield Mill Steam Engine is one of the largest and finest working examples of its type – More Info

Menses Park – Formal gardens, the Coalbrookdale Fountain, and the Pulham waterfall are just some of the historic features – More Info

Worthington Lakes – A series of three reservoirs near Standish, Wigan – More Info

Wigan Roller Rink – The North West's premier indoor roller skating destination – More Info

Velocity Trampoline Park – 20 colourful and unique Clip’n’ Climb climbing walls and activities – More Info

Three Sister Race Circuit – 1.5km of outdoor racing exhilaration for both kids and adults – More Info

Wigan Pier – Wigan Pier and locks combine a beautiful natural setting with canal history – More Info

Astley Green Colliery – The museum occupies some fifteen acres of the Astley Green Colliery site – More Info

Fairy Glen – Stroll through this enchanted forest and discover plenty of cliff edges and spectacular waterfalls – More Info

Wigan Little Theatre – A charitable, voluntary amateur theatre with many brilliant performances throughout the year – More Info

Leeds Liverpool Canal – One of the ‘Seven Wonders of the British Canal system’ – More Info

Lancaster Canal – Built to carry trade between Kendal and Preston, Lancaster Canal is now a haven for wildlife – More Info

JAK Hanson Shopping Outlet – A unique destination for a family day out or a group visitMore Info

The Mill House Gallery – Located in the magnificent 18th Century windmill – More Info

Two Left Feet Brewery – Award-winning bar and brewery, offering a selection of beers, wines and premium gins – More Info

 

 

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