Discover Ashton-Under-Lyne

Ashton-Under-Lyne can be explored through several clearly distinct themes: industrial history, historic architecture, market life, and cycling and boating routes. Different time frames matter when planning a trip: a museum with specific opening hours, a monthly market day, and return boat trips of approximate duration. These differences can help you plan your visit to Ashton-Under-Lyne around the interests and dates that matter for your stay.

Industrial history at Portland Basin

The Portland Basin Museum is located in the restored 19th-century Ashton Canal Warehouse in Ashton-Under-Lyne. The museum and historic canal warehouse are brought together in one place; the building itself is a landmark of industrial architectural history. The museum is open Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 to 16:00. Check the opening hours before your visit so your plans reflect the current times.

Church, library and historic memorials

The Church of St Michael and All Angels also reflects several historical layers: it was built in the 15th century and almost entirely rebuilt in the 19th century. Its interior includes 18 early stained-glass scenes from the late 15th and early 16th centuries. They depict the life of Saint Helena, members of the Assheton family and three holy kings. Building history and imagery from different periods sit side by side here.

Ashton Public Library is a Grade II listed building in the Gothic Revival style, dating from 1891 to 1893. Mosaic floors, glazed tiles, plasterwork, and glazed doors and partitions have been preserved inside. These details give the building a distinctive architectural character alongside the church. Ashton Old Baths officially opened as a swimming pool in 1870; its date and original function add another aspect of local history to these architectural landmarks.

The Hugh Mason Memorial Statue, dating from 1887, is a bronze statue on a polished granite plinth. The Ashton-under-Lyne and District War Memorial is a striking testament to the tragic impact of 20th-century conflicts on the local community and to the sacrifices made. Both memorials draw attention to different forms of public remembrance.

Market, cycling route and canal trips

An arts and crafts market featuring local handmade goods and produce takes place at Ashton Market on the third Saturday of every month. If you want to plan your visit around market day, check the specific date in advance. Its monthly schedule differs from the museum’s opening days, so it can be a separate point to consider when planning.

For cyclists, National Cycle Network Route 626 connects Oldham and Ashton-Under-Lyne via Park Bridge. It follows a former railway line. As walking and cycling routes can change, check the current route before making your plans.

The East Manchester Community Boat Project is based at Portland Basin in Ashton-Under-Lyne. The project’s shortest return trips go from there to Droylsden along the Ashton Canal or to Hyde along the Peak Forest Canal and take about two hours. Both options therefore take roughly the same amount of time, but differ in canal and destination. Check the latest booking information before planning a trip.

Stamford Park is near Ashton-Under-Lyne, between Ashton-Under-Lyne and Stalybridge. The museum, market and return boat trips follow different schedules, so check opening hours, dates and booking information when planning your trip.

Discover more destinations: Wigan, Dukinfield, Little Hulton, Romiley, Hyde, Golborne, Horwich, Hale Barns

For the wider travel guide: Greater Manchester.