Accrington is a historic town in Lancashire situated between Blackburn and Burnley. The town grew rapidly during the Industrial Revolution through cotton spinning, weaving, engineering and brick manufacturing. Accrington brick became particularly renowned for its exceptional strength and distinctive red colour and was used in important buildings across Britain. Today the town remains an important centre in East Lancashire, with a busy commercial area and numerous reminders of its industrial past. The surrounding Pennine foothills provide opportunities for walking and outdoor recreation, making spring through autumn particularly suitable for exploring the wider area.
Accrington: Historical sights and information
Facts about Accrington
- Latitude:
- 53.753423
- Longitude:
- -2.364238
- GPS Coordinates:
- 53°45' N, 02°22' W
The historical and tourist importance of the town
Accrington's industrial heritage is central to its identity. The Haworth Art Gallery, housed in a historic mansion, contains an important collection of Tiffany glass and provides a significant cultural attraction. The town is also associated with the Accrington Pals and the military history of the First World War. Nearby Oswaldtwistle Mills provides a major shopping and visitor attraction, while the surrounding East Lancashire countryside offers walking routes and scenic viewpoints. The Leeds and Liverpool Canal is accessible nearby and illustrates the region's historic transport network.
Food and leisure
Accrington has a diverse selection of cafes, restaurants, traditional Lancashire pubs, bakeries, takeaways and independent shops. Lancashire specialities and traditional British dishes are complemented by Indian, Pakistani, Chinese and other international cuisines. Visitors can combine shopping and dining with a visit to the Haworth Art Gallery, local heritage sites or walks through the surrounding countryside.
Locations & Tours
Discover famous landmarks, historical sites and tourist attractions in Accrington.