Day 1 Morning departure and travelling north to arrive at the hotel for a five night stay.
Day 2 Travel first to Rochdale, the town where Gracie Fields grew up and where the Co-op movement started. In the hands of a local guide, you will visit the nostalgic Co-op Pioneers Museum and pass by the town’s architectural masterpiece, the Town Hall. This afternoon visit Oswaldtwistle Mills, a restored mill now housing delightful shops, restaurants and a Textile and Heritage Museum.
Day 3 Today you will travel to Lancaster for the morning to explore the town’s attractions. There is the castle and museum to uncover the city’s ancient stories hidden in its walls and buildings. Time for lunch before you board a boat for a return canal trip, crossing the historic Lune Aqueduct before returning to the hotel.
Day 4 This morning you will travel to Bury and to the market, which is one of biggest and most vibrant in England. After some free time you will board the East Lancashire Railway to Rawtenstall. The railway once formed the backbone of industry in the Irwell Valley, connecting local mill towns to trading centres helping the local communities to thrive and grow. Winding through the scenic Irwell Vale it is a truly unique journey past quaint villages and rural vistas. Time for lunch and then you will travel to Burnley to visit Pendle Heritage Centre, located in the area where many ladies were accused of witchery tried and hung in the Lancashire Hills. The museum has a shop, walled garden and an attractive tearoom.
Day 5 A visit to Browsholme Hall, including a guided tour of the Hall. Learn the history of the hall, the magnificent architecture, fabulous interiors and antique furnishings set in the Forest of Bowland with the stunning landscape of the Hodder Valley.
Day 6 After breakfast depart the hotel and commence the homeward journey.