Rossendale Hidden Gems
The beautiful Rossendale Valley has an industrial past which gives historic charm to its towns of Bacup, Haslingden, Rawtenstall and Whitworth. Set in the picturesque valley of the River Irwell, Rossendale now combines modern industry and commerce with many opportunities for leisure and relaxation.
The Mary Towneley Loop, the first section of the Pennine Bridleway National Trail, passes through Rossendale, as does the planned route of the National Cycleway. The Rossendale Way and Irwell Sculpture Trail middle-distance footpaths offer varied walking conditions, and the North West's main dry ski and snowboard slope, plus the Whitworth Water-Ski Centre, add to the many activities which can be followed here. The East Lancashire Steam Railway runs through the Irwell Valley from Heywood, through Bury, to Rawtenstall, and the Museum of the Lancashire Textile Industry, in Helmshore, is one of many heritage sites open to visitors.
