5-Day Adventure: Discover Bolton, UK
Discover the hidden gems of Bolton, UK!
22 April 2023
Lucie Collins
UK Travel Writer
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.
Travel plan
Getting latest place information

- Check into the charming Britannia Hotel, nestled in the heart of the town center.
- Stroll through the bustling Bolton Market, sampling local delicacies like black pudding and Eccles cakes.
- Enjoy a cup of tea and panoramic views of Bolton from the top of the iconic Octagon Theatre.
- Explore the Bolton Museum and Art Gallery, with its impressive collection of local history and art.
- End the day with a pint of ale at Ye Olde Man & Scythe, one of the oldest pubs in England.
- Take a guided tour of the magnificent Bolton Parish Church, which dates back to the 14th century.
- Wander through the scenic Leverhulme Park, once the grounds of a grand Victorian mansion.
- Stop by the Bolton Steam Museum and marvel at historic steam engines and locomotives.
- Head to Smithills Open Farm, where you can pet and feed farm animals and take a tractor ride.
- Dine on authentic Indian cuisine at the award-winning Voujon restaurant.
- Hike to the top of Rivington Pike for stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
- Hire a boat and paddle around Wayoh Reservoir, taking in tranquil nature views.
- Visit Moses Gate Country Park, where you can explore woodland paths and encounter local wildlife.
- Tee off at the prestigious Regent Park Golf Club, which offers challenging courses and gorgeous views.
- Enjoy a hearty meal at The Hare and Hounds, a traditional country pub with a cozy atmosphere.
- Spend the morning perusing the latest fashions at Market Place Shopping Centre.
- Take in a matinee at the charming Albert Halls theater, known for its program of live music and comedy.
- Learn about Bolton's industrial past at Hall i' th' Wood Museum, a grade II listed 16th-century farmhouse.
- Visit the Bolton Little Theatre for an evening of live theater and entertainment.
- Treat yourself to a decadent dinner at Angelo's Italian Restaurant.
- Bid farewell to Bolton with a leisurely stroll around Queen's Park, admired for its beautiful gardens and vibrant birdlife.
- Take a trip down memory lane at Bolton's retro-style bowling alley, Hollywood Bowl.
- Savor afternoon tea at the elegant Last Drop Village Hotel & Spa, housed in a restored 17th-century farmhouse.
- Enjoy one last pint at The Crofters Arms, a popular local pub with a cozy atmosphere.
- Depart Bolton with wonderful memories and a desire to return.
Length of stay
Type of trip
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.