Activities in Bolton

One of the most popular activities in Bolton is Smithills Open Farm on the grounds of Smithills Hall near Barrow Bridge. This family-friendly attraction is home to over 25 species, including pigs, goats, llamas, eagles and donkeys. There is also an on-site café where you can enjoy a drink and a light bite while the wildlife freely roams around you.

If you enjoy the outdoors, then you will also like Entwistle Reservoir in Edgworth. There is a scenic 2.5-mile walking path around the reservoir, where you can admire the stunning views and spot the local wildlife. After the walk, you can head to The Strawberry Duck, a lovely traditional pub overlooking the reservoir which has a wide selection of real ales and a food menu consisting of some delicious pub classics. Alternatively, Jumbles Country Park is another popular walking trail and reservoir, where you can stroll through the beautiful woodland. It is slightly closer to the town centre, and has an on-site café for when you need to refuel.

Housed in one of the most impressive buildings in the town, Bolton Museum is a museum, art gallery, library and aquarium all rolled into one. The museum section has a collection of local artefacts that help you learn about the history of the town, as well as exhibitions from further afield, such as Egyptian mummies. For those who are interested in history and heritage, this is a must-see during your visit.

You can also learn all about Lancashire’s manufacturing past, and the steam engine machinery that powered it, at Bolton Steam Museum. The 30-strong collection of steam engines housed here have been carefully preserved since the decline of local mills which were once responsible for producing over half the world’s supply of cotton textiles. The museum is located on Mornington Road, around a 10-minute drive from our Bolton Stadium/Arena hotel.

If you are visiting Bolton with children, then Jump Xtreme at Trinity Retail Park is the perfect place to let them run wild. The wall-to-wall trampolines, along with dodgeball court, slam dunk hoops and stunt bags provide endless amounts of fun for the youngsters. The centre also has a coffee shop positioned on a mezzanine where parents can relax and watch the action from above.

If you fancy a flutter when in Bolton, then head to Grosvenor Casino. It is positioned on Ormrod Street, just a short walk from Bolton Station, and is open 24-hours a day, seven days a week. The casino has all the usual games, such as roulette, blackjack, poker and slots, as well as a sports lounge, bar and restaurant.