Bolton

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Bolton's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Explore Bolton's Parks
morning
:

Start your day at Moss Bank Park, perfect for a peaceful walk and some fresh air. Enjoy the beautiful gardens and maybe grab a coffee at the café.

afternoon
:

Head to Queen's Park for a picnic lunch and a leisurely stroll around the lake. Don't forget to check out the children's play area if you're with family.

evening
:

Wind down with a visit to The Bolton Steam Museum. Experience the fascinating history of steam engines and relax in the tranquil environment.

day 2
Art and Culture Day
morning
:

Begin with a visit to The Library and Museum, home to impressive exhibits on local history and art. Take your time exploring the various displays.

afternoon
:

After lunch, head to the Octagon Theatre to see if there’s a matinee performance. The local theatrical productions are a highlight of the Bolton arts scene.

evening
:

Wrap up your day with dinner at one of Bolton's cozy restaurants. Try out some traditional British dishes and enjoy a good night’s sleep.

day 3
Historical Exploration
morning
:

Start your journey at Smithills Hall, a stunning historical mansion dating back to the 14th century. Take a guided tour to learn about its fascinating history.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby Bolton Museum to delve deeper into local history and heritage. The museum offers exhibits from ancient times to the modern day.

evening
:

Conclude your day with a relaxing walk around the town center. Discover local shops and perhaps savor a dessert from one of the bakeries.

day 4
Outdoor Adventures
morning
:

Kick off with a hike at the beautiful Leverhulme Park. The trails here are perfect for both casual walkers and enthusiastic hikers.

afternoon
:

Pack a lunch and enjoy it in the park’s lush surroundings, followed by some time enjoying the playground or taking part in sports activities.

evening
:

As the sun sets, find a local pub to enjoy a hearty meal. Bolton's pubs often host live music, making for a lively evening.

day 5
Foodie Tour
morning
:

Start with breakfast at a popular café downtown, sampling local delicacies. Bolton is known for its rich food culture, so try something new.

afternoon
:

Join a guided food tour that showcases the best of Bolton's eateries. Sample local dishes and enjoy learning about Bolton's culinary heritage.

evening
:

Finish your day with a visit to a restaurant known for its innovative takes on traditional dishes. Enjoy a relaxed dinner while reminiscing about the day's flavors.

day 6
Shopping Spree
morning
:

Begin with a visit to the Market Place Shopping Centre for a blend of stores. Grab a coffee and pastry as you browse through various shops.

afternoon
:

After lunch, meander through the local independent shops in the town center. You'll find unique gifts and souvenirs that embody Bolton's charm.

evening
:

End your shopping day with a meal at a delightful bistro. Look for dishes made with locally-sourced ingredients for an authentic taste of Bolton.

day 7
Theatre and Performance
morning
:

Visit the Bolton Museum and Art Gallery to explore its extensive collections. Spend the morning soaking in the local culture and history.

afternoon
:

Catch a matinee show at the Octagon Theatre to enjoy a well-reviewed production. The energetic performances will add a spark to your day.

evening
:

Dine at a nearby restaurant with a bustling atmosphere. End your evening by reflecting on the day’s cultural exploration.

day 8
Active Day Out
morning
:

Rent a bike and explore the scenic routes around Bolton. The fresh air and exercise will invigorate you for the day ahead.

afternoon
:

Stop for a packed lunch in one of the local parks. Take your time to enjoy the nature around you before continuing your ride.

evening
:

Return your bike and treat yourself to a delicious meal at a local eatery. Consider trying the famous Bolton meat pie to wrap up your active day.

day 9
Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Start with a peaceful visit to the Bolton Abbey, where nature thrives. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast in the serene environment.

afternoon
:

Take a gentle walk or relax by the riverbank and immerse yourself in nature. The tranquility of the Abbey grounds is perfect for reflection.

evening
:

Return to Bolton town for a quaint dinner at a cozy café. Share experiences from your refreshing day surrounded by nature.

day 10
Family Fun Day
morning
:

Kick off with a visit to Smithills Farm, where you can enjoy a variety of farm activities with the kids. It's a great way to get close to animals and learn about farm life.

afternoon
:

Head to a nearby playground or indoor adventure center for some energetic fun. Let the kids run free and enjoy some quality family time.

evening
:

End the day with a family meal at a restaurant that caters to kids. Reflect on the day's adventures and plan the next outing together.

Discover Bolton

Read more in our Bolton 2024 Travel Guide.

Bolton Travel Guide