Church is a small settlement in the Hyndburn borough of Lancashire, immediately west of Accrington. The area developed significantly during the Industrial Revolution as cotton manufacturing, engineering and other industries expanded across east Lancashire. Its location beside the River Hyndburn and close to the Leeds and Liverpool Canal connected the settlement with the wider industrial transport network. Today Church is primarily residential and forms part of the continuous urban area around Accrington and Oswaldtwistle.
Church: Historical sights and information
Facts about Church
- Latitude:
- 53.757733
- Longitude:
- -2.385540
- GPS Coordinates:
- 53°45' N, 02°23' W
The historical and tourist importance of the area
The area's main historical interest comes from its industrial heritage, particularly the surviving mills, canals and transport infrastructure associated with Lancashire's textile industry. The Leeds and Liverpool Canal provides attractive walking and cycling routes through the surrounding urban and rural landscape. Nearby attractions include Haworth and the Brontë landscapes, the Ribble Valley and the historic market town of Clitheroe. Accrington itself provides local museums, parks and shopping facilities.
Food and when to visit
Church and nearby Accrington offer traditional pubs, cafés, restaurants, takeaways and local shops, with Lancashire specialities and international cuisines widely available. Lancashire cheese, pies and hearty northern dishes are characteristic of the wider region. Spring through early autumn is particularly pleasant for exploring the canal and surrounding countryside. Church is best considered as part of the wider Accrington and east Lancashire area rather than as a standalone tourist destination.