Things to do in Bury

Shopping centres in Bury

There are plenty of things to do in Bury, including shopping! Home to not one, but two major shopping centres, there’s more than enough to keep the shopaholics satisfied in Bury.
The Rock and Millgate offer brilliant selections of contemporary high street and boutique stores, alongside food outlets and leisure facilities, including a Vue cinema, Hollywood Bowl, and the well-known Martini’s On The Rock, which offers cocktails, a poker club, pool hall and more!

Having had major regeneration over the last decade, the high street is jam-packed with well-known stores, as well as food outlets and leisure facilities – and has more than enough to keep families entertained.

Those looking for a more traditional shopping experience will be thrilled to explore the World famous Bury Market, which oozes charisma and atmosphere and sees tens of thousands of visitors each week. The biggest market in the North West never disappoints!

History of Bury

Despite the newly renovated town centre and the array of modern shops and leisure facilities, history lovers will find that there certainly isn’t a shortage of things to do in Bury!

Peel Tower – Steeped in history, Peel Tower is home to one of the most impressive views in North West England. The tower stands on Holcombe Hill and stands an impressive 128 feet high, with breathtaking views over the neighbouring towns of Ramsbottom and Holcombe Moor and Manchester City Centre, Cheshire and North Wales!

After the 148 steps walk to the top, you can reward yourself with a drink and some pub grub at the historical The Shoulder of Mutton Pub, which has been in business since 1751 and sits just below Peel Tower.

Bury Market – If walks aren’t your thing, but you’d still like to appreciate the history of Bury, get yourself to the famous Bury Market – which is open every day except Sunday from 9 am – 5 pm. Described by radio presenter Stuart Maconie as “a shoppers’ mecca, a retail nirvana rich with exotic bargains, a fabled bazaar, a veritable souk of the north!” – the award-winning Bury Market is not to be missed!

Bury museums – For more family-friendly days out, make sure to visit Bury’s Cultural Quarter in the Bury town centre, where you’ll find the newly opened Bury Sculpture Centre, Bury Art Museum, Fusilier Museum and the fantastic Bury Transport Museum!

Transport in Bury

The location of Bury couldn’t be any better suited to families. Just a thirty-minute drive from the hustle and bustle of Manchester City Centre, but an equal distance from stunning countryside scenery and rolling hills, you’ve got the best of both worlds here!

Likewise, the brilliant Bury Metrolink Tramlines mean that you’ve got easy access to 93 stations across 7 different lines across Greater Manchester. Meaning it’s easy to get out and about and explore the abundance of things to do in Bury and the surrounding areas!

Additionally, the East Lancashire railway station is a 12.5-mile heritage railway line that runs between Heywood, Bury, Burr’s Country Park, Summerseat, Ramsbottom, Irwell Vale and Rawtenstall. The seven stations offer a variety of things to do and stunning scenery and views, making it a great day out and a unique way to access neighbouring towns and villages.