Escape to Bolton: A 3-Day Adventure

Discover the northern charm of Bolton, UK!

22 April 2023

As a tourist, visiting Bolton, United Kingdom could be an ideal getaway for a peaceful and historic experience. Enjoy a visit to the Bolton Museum and Art Gallery that houses the largest collection of art from northern England or explore the wonderful Smithills Hall, a historic mansion from the 14th century.The quaint market town of Bolton offers a diverse range of high street shops, restaurants and cafes that add to its touring flexibility.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring The Vibrant City of Bolton

  • Check-in at the Holiday Inn Bolton Centre, just a 5-minute walk from the train station.
  • Visit the Bolton Museum and Art Gallery, featuring works by notable artists and an impressive Egyptology exhibition.
  • Head to the Food and Drink Festival, held annually in August, and indulge in everything from traditional Lancashire hotpot to exotic street food.
  • Take a stroll through Queen's Park, a picturesque Victorian park with botanical gardens, a boating lake and a mini-golf course.
  • End your day at The Kitchen, a cozy restaurant that serves modern British cuisine with a twist.
Day 2

Discovering the Hidden Gem of Rivington

  • Take a short bus ride to the village of Rivington and explore the Rivington Terraced Gardens, a stunning collection of gardens, woodland and lakes.
  • Hike up to the Rivington Pike, a 363-meter hill with a tower offering breathtaking vistas of the surrounding countryside.
  • Visit the Japanese Garden, a tranquil oasis with a koi pond, waterfalls and a teahouse.
  • Stop by Pigeon Tower, a Grade 2 listed building with over 2,500 pigeon nesting holes.
  • Have lunch at The Barn, a charming tearoom housed in a converted 17th-century barn.
Day 3

Unwinding in the Countryside

  • Catch a bus to the village of Edgworth and hike or cycle through the picturesque countryside along Wayoh and Entwistle reservoirs.
  • Visit Turton Tower, an impressive 15th-century pele tower with beautiful gardens and a tea room.
  • Enjoy a pint or two at the traditional Black Bull Inn, a cozy, 18th-century pub with a roaring fire and a friendly atmosphere.
  • Take a leisurely stroll through Smithills Country Park, a vast expanse of countryside with woodland, meadows and a family-friendly adventure playground.
  • Head back to the Holiday Inn and relax at the hotel's Spirit Health Club, complete with a swimming pool, sauna, and gym facilities.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Bolton, United Kingdom by plane is to fly into Manchester Airport and then take a train or bus to Bolton. There are several airlines that fly to Manchester Airport from all over the world, including British Airways, Delta, and Emirates.

Car

The best way to get to Bolton, United Kingdom by car is to take the M60 and M61 motorways from Manchester. The journey takes around 30 minutes depending on traffic. You can also drive from Liverpool or other nearby cities.

Train

The best way to get to Bolton, United Kingdom by train is to take a train from London Euston station to Bolton station. The journey takes around two hours and there are several trains per day. You can also take a train from other cities such as Manchester or Liverpool.

Boat

There is no direct way to get to Bolton, United Kingdom by boat as the town is inland. However, you can take a ferry from Dublin or Belfast to Liverpool and then drive or take public transport to Bolton.

Bus

The best way to get to Bolton, United Kingdom by bus is to take a Megabus or National Express coach from London or Manchester. Both companies run services to Bolton several times a day and the journey takes around 4 hours from London and 90 minutes from Manchester.

More travel plans

Weekend Adventure: Exploring Vibrant Bolton, UK

Bolton is a town in Greater Manchester, United Kingdom, known for its rich industrial heritage and vibrant cultural scene. A visit to Bolton offers a range of attractions such as the stunning surroundings of the West Pennine Moors, the Bolton Museum and Art Gallery showcasing a vast collection of artifacts and paintings, and the stunning view of the town from the top of the iconic Rivington Pike. Tourists can also enjoy shopping at the Crompton Place Shopping Centre and indulge in various dining options available in the town.

Budget-Friendly Adventure: 3 Days in Bolton, UK

Bolton in the United Kingdom offers a plethora of budget-friendly options for travelers. One can explore the beautiful landscapes while hiking or enjoy wandering through the local marketplaces. A visit to the Bolton Museum and Art Gallery is a must for history enthusiasts.

Bolton Bliss: A Family-Friendly 3-Day Adventure

Bolton, located in the beautiful county of Greater Manchester, offers a delightful family-friendly trip with its array of attractions. Take your kids for a fun-filled day at the Bolton Aquarium, where they can explore the diverse underwater world. Experience the enchanting beauty of the surrounding countryside with a leisurely family stroll through Lever Park, home to stunning gardens and charming picnic spots.

5-Day Adventure: Discover Bolton, UK

As a tourist visiting Bolton, you can explore the town's industrial past by visiting the Bolton Steam Museum or the Bolton Museum and Art Gallery. Wander around the picturesque town centre and take in the local markets, shops, and restaurants. A visit to the ancient Smithills Hall is also recommended, with its stunning architecture and rich history dating back to the 14th century.