Things To Do
in Oldham
Oldham is a historic market town in Greater Manchester with a rich textile heritage and distinctive red-brick architecture. It sits on the edge of the Pennines, offering moorland scenery and easy access to countryside. The town is culturally diverse, reflected in its markets, eateries and community events.
Today Oldham blends compact town-centre charm with quick links to Manchester and the South Pennines for day trips.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Oldham Civic Centre, a stunning example of 20th-century architecture. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the nearby Oldham Parish Church, where you can admire its beautiful stained glass windows. Grab a coffee at a local café while soaking in the historic atmosphere of the town center.
In the afternoon, visit the Gallery Oldham to explore its collections of fine art and local history exhibits. Afterward, take a walk through the nearby Alexandra Park, where you can enjoy the peaceful landscapes and perhaps have a picnic by the lake. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the local shops and boutiques for unique souvenirs.
As the sun sets, head to the Lyceum Theatre for an evening of entertainment with a local performance. After the show, enjoy dinner at one of Oldham's charming restaurants, where you can savor traditional British cuisine. End your night with a leisurely walk through the town, taking in the twinkling lights and vibrant atmosphere.
Start your day at the Oldham Museum and Art Gallery, where you can learn about the town's rich industrial heritage and view fascinating exhibitions. Spend some time at the nearby Oldham Market, where you can browse through stalls selling fresh produce and local crafts. Stop for a hearty breakfast at one of the market's cafés to fuel your day.
In the afternoon, visit the Saddleworth Museum to delve deeper into the history of the surrounding area and its people. Take a scenic walk along the Huddersfield Narrow Canal, which offers beautiful views and a chance to see local wildlife. Stop by a traditional pub for a pint and some local fare, soaking up the friendly atmosphere.
As evening approaches, enjoy a meal at a restaurant featuring locally sourced ingredients, allowing you to taste the flavors of the region. After dinner, attend a local music event or open mic night at a nearby venue to experience Oldham's vibrant arts scene. Conclude your day with a stroll through the picturesque streets, appreciating the blend of old and new.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🚆1-way public transport ticket | $3-6 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $3-5 |
| 🍺Pint of local beer | $4-7 |
| 🧈Milk (1 liter) | $1-2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close to Manchester for day trips
- Rich industrial heritage and culture
- Affordable accommodation and meals
- Green spaces nearby
- Strong local community and markets
- Weather can be changeable and damp
- Nightlife is smaller than nearby Manchester
- Transport links can be busy at peak times
- Some areas can be crowded during market days
Places to Visit in Oldham
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic red-brick architecture framed by the town’s markets and streets.
Victorian-era park with views over the town and a scenic lake setting.
Culturally rich architecture and urban scenes for portraits and street photography.
Food in Oldham
Oldham Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty lamb or mutton and potato stew, a staple of the region; try it at pubs across Oldham.
Must-Try!
A widely loved curry; many Indian restaurants in the area offer authentic versions.
Sausages baked in Yorkshire pudding batter; a classic comfort dish found in local pubs.
A small flaky cake filled with currants; a popular pastry in cafes and markets.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Traditional market stalls offering fresh produce, baked goods and ready-to-eat bites; great for street-food snacks on market days.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
British queues are generally observed; join at the end, do not skip ahead.
A brief smile and a handshake is common in formal settings; in casual settings, a nod or hello suffices.
Pubs are social spaces; avoid loud disputes and respect local seating rules.
Safety
Tipping in Oldham
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is discretionary; usually 10-15% if service charge is not included; small tips for taxi drivers and cafe staff as appropriate.
Cash is accepted widely but contactless card and mobile payments are common; most places now run on chip-and-PIN or contactless only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days and flowers in bloom; carry a light jacket and enjoy outdoor parks and markets.
Long daylight hours and relatively warm weather; expect the possibility of showers; good for city walks and outdoor events.
Crisp air and autumn colours; ideal for moorland walks and photography of misty mornings.
Cooler temps; wet and windy; layered clothing and waterproof footwear recommended; holiday lights in town center.
Oldham at Night
Hiking in Oldham
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular circular or linear hikes with lake views and heathery moorlands.
Rugged moorland trails near the Huddersfield route; good for longer walks.
Airports
How to reach Oldham by plane.
Major international airport about 20-25 miles southeast; accessible by car, train or coach from Oldham.
Smaller regional airport about 40-45 miles southwest; accessible via road and train options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Significant Pakistani and Bangladeshi communities contributing to the town’s cultural life and cuisine.
A diverse town with residents from various backgrounds, languages, and faiths.
Growing presence of other cultures, reflecting Manchester’s regional diversity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Historic club with local support; football remains a favorite pastime in the area.
Local rugby league team with a dedicated following and community events.
Traditional summer sports commonly played in parks and local clubs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Oldham.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Veg dishes are widely available in curry houses and pubs; look for paneer, chickpeas and lentils on menus; most places indicate veggie options.