Oldham is a large town in Greater Manchester situated at the foothills of the Pennines, northeast of Manchester. The town grew rapidly during the Industrial Revolution and became one of the world's most important centres for cotton spinning and textile manufacturing. Its many mills and industrial buildings reflected the enormous scale of the Victorian textile industry, while canals and railways connected Oldham with Manchester and surrounding markets. Today the town is a major metropolitan centre with a diverse population and an economy based on services, retail, education and manufacturing.
Oldham: Historical sights and information
Facts about Oldham
- Latitude:
- 53.542835
- Longitude:
- -2.115959
- GPS Coordinates:
- 53°33' N, 02°07' W
The historical and tourist significance of the town
Oldham's industrial heritage is visible in its former mills and historic urban landscape, while the Oldham Coliseum and local museums have traditionally played an important role in the town's cultural life. Saddleworth, immediately to the east, offers attractive villages, reservoirs and Pennine scenery. The Huddersfield Narrow Canal provides opportunities for walking and cycling through the historic industrial landscape. The Peak District is also within easy reach, while Manchester's extensive museums, galleries, shopping and nightlife are a short journey away.
Food, shopping and leisure
Oldham has a highly diverse food scene reflecting its multicultural population, with South Asian, Middle Eastern, British and other international cuisines widely available. The town centre provides extensive everyday shopping, cafés and restaurants, while nearby Saddleworth has traditional pubs and independent businesses. Spring through early autumn is particularly good for exploring the Pennine countryside and nearby villages. Oldham is a practical base for combining Manchester attractions with outdoor trips into the Pennines and Peak District.
Locations & Tours
Discover famous landmarks, historical sites and tourist attractions in Oldham.