Things To Do
in Wigan
Wigan is a town located in Greater Manchester, United Kingdom. It is known for its industrial history, particularly coal mining and cotton mills. The town has a strong sense of community and is home to various cultural attractions such as museums, theaters, and parks.
Wigan is also famous for its traditional dish, the Wigan kebab, which consists of pie filling in a buttered roll.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $4
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Wigan Museum to discover local history. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through Wigan's lovely parks.
Enjoy lunch at a local café, sampling some traditional British fare. Post-lunch, explore the Ancient Monument at the 17th century Wigan Parish Church.
Finish your day with a relaxing walk along the Leeds and Liverpool Canal. Consider dining at a riverside pub for a cozy evening meal.
Begin your day with a refreshing hike at Haigh Woodland Park. Enjoy the beautiful scenery and maybe spot some wildlife.
Have a picnic lunch in the park, enjoying the fresh air. Afterward, try your hand at water sports at Haigh Hall's lake.
End your day with a pint at the Haigh Hall's Fodder Bar, enjoying the sunset views. It’s a perfect way to unwind after a day in nature.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich industrial heritage and history.
- Affordable housing compared to larger cities.
- Good transportation links, including rail and road networks.
- Variety of parks and green spaces for outdoor activities.
- Community-oriented atmosphere with local events and festivals.
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors.
- Weather can be damp and grey, affecting outdoor activities.
- Public transport options can be less frequent outside peak hours.
- Some areas may experience higher levels of poverty and unemployment.
- Perceived as less vibrant than larger nearby cities like Manchester or Liverpool.
Best Activities in Wigan
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful parkland, woodlands, and meadows with walking and cycling trails, adventure playgrounds, and high ropes course.
Experience outdoor go-karting, racing events, and motorsport activities in a scenic setting.
Enjoy birdwatching, nature walks, and water-based activities at this network of wetland nature reserves.
Places to Visit in Wigan
Visit one of these nice places.
Haigh Woodland Park offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside and has great photo opportunities, including the hall itself and the woodlands.
The Douglas Valley provides picturesque landscapes and photo opportunities along the river and in the valley.
Wigan Pier, once a major landmark, offers photo opportunities with its historic structures and canalside views.
Food in Wigan
Wigan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A savory dish featuring skewered meat, often lamb or chicken, with a blend of spices, popularly found at local kebab shops like Wigan Kebab House.
Must-Try!
A beloved local specialty featuring French fries smothered in rich, savory gravy, best enjoyed at places like Harry's Bar or The Anvil.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
One of the largest and most vibrant markets in the region, featuring a variety of street food stalls offering cuisines from around the world, including mouthwatering Indian, Chinese, and Mediterranean options.
A must-visit spot for street food events with an array of food trucks dishing up everything from gourmet burgers to delectable vegan fare.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Wigan, it is important to respect personal space and avoid standing too close to others, especially when engaging in conversation. Be mindful of maintaining a comfortable distance.
Politeness and courtesy are highly valued in Wigan. It is customary to say 'please' and 'thank you' in all interactions, whether in shops, restaurants, or everyday conversations.
Wigan has its own distinct local dialect and expressions. It's respectful to make an effort to understand and appreciate the local dialect, and avoid any unintentional mockery or ridicule.
Safety
Tipping in Wigan
Ensure a smooth experience
In Wigan, United Kingdom, tipping is not always expected but is appreciated in restaurants, hotels, and taxis. A service charge may be included in the bill, so it's advisable to check before adding an additional tip. A typical tip is around 10-15% of the total bill.
Payment practices in Wigan, United Kingdom, are similar to those in the rest of the country. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, and contactless payment is popular. Cash is also commonly used, particularly for small transactions and in traditional establishments. It's important to have a variety of payment options available when visiting Wigan.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a lovely time to visit Wigan, with beautiful blooms and milder temperatures. It's a great time for outdoor activities and exploring the countryside.
Summer is the peak tourist season in Wigan, with longer days, warm temperatures, and plenty of events and festivals. It's a great time for outdoor dining and enjoying the parks and gardens.
Autumn in Wigan brings stunning fall foliage, harvest festivals, and cooler temperatures. It's a great time for scenic drives and enjoying the vibrant colors of the countryside.
Winter in Wigan can be cold and damp, but it's a cozy time to visit with festive markets, Christmas events, and the chance of snow. It's a great time for indoor attractions and enjoying traditional holiday celebrations.
Wigan at Night
Hiking in Wigan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A picturesque park offering a variety of walking trails through woodlands, with stunning views and a cafe.
A popular hill with a tower at the summit, offering panoramic views and numerous trails for all levels of hikers.
A scenic canal with pathways along its banks, perfect for leisurely walks and cycling.
A serene nature reserve with well-marked trails through woodlands and wetlands, ideal for hiking and bird watching.
A park featuring a variety of walking paths, lush gardens, and historical sites, suitable for casual hikes.
Aiports
How to reach Wigan by plane.
The largest airport in the UK outside of London, located about 17 miles southeast of Wigan. It serves as a major international hub.
Located approximately 28 miles southwest of Wigan, this airport offers both domestic and international flights.
Situated around 82 miles southeast of Wigan, it serves as a key airport in the Midlands with many international connections.
Located about 57 miles northeast of Wigan, this airport offers various international destinations.
Approximately 83 miles southeast of Wigan, this airport primarily serves cargo but also has passenger flights to various international locations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Wigan, comprising the majority of the population.
Includes various sub-groups such as Indian, Pakistani, and Bangladeshi populations.
A smaller demographic group, representing residents of African and Caribbean descent.
Comprising individuals from mixed backgrounds, including combinations of white and other ethnicities.
Includes smaller communities such as Chinese and other non-white groups.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Wigan is known for its strong rugby league tradition, with the Wigan Warriors being one of the most successful teams in the sport's history.
Football is highly popular in Wigan, with Wigan Athletic being the prominent football club in the area, having experienced success in both the Football League and domestic cup competitions.
Cricket has a solid following in Wigan, with local clubs and leagues providing opportunities for players of all ages to participate in the sport.
Running and athletics are popular in Wigan, with numerous running clubs and events that encourage community participation and fitness.
Cycling is a favored sport in Wigan, with various cycling routes and clubs that promote both leisure cycling and competitive events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Wigan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many eateries in Wigan offer diverse vegetarian and vegan menus, from the trendy offerings at Relish Bar & Grill to the plant-based delights at The Edge.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can indulge in delectable gluten-free fish and chips at eateries like The Original Allens Fried Chicken or enjoy a gluten-free afternoon tea at Miry Lane Tearooms.