Things To Do
in Accrington
Accrington is a historic market town in Lancashire, tucked into the Hyndburn valley. It grew from textile weaving into a modern community with green spaces and a strong sense of local pride. The town center blends traditional pubs, markets, and Victorian architecture with approachable cafes and shops.
Nearby countryside and the Leeds-Liverpool Canal add a peaceful counterpoint to daily life in this compact, walkable town.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Accrington and settle into your accommodation overlooking the town centre. Step out to Accrington Market to browse vibrant stalls filled with fresh produce and local crafts. Chat with friendly vendors while sampling artisanal treats.
Head to a nearby café for a hearty Lancashire luncheon and sip on locally roasted coffee. Wander through the pedestrianised streets to admire period architecture and pick up unique souvenirs. Pause for photos at the landmark Haworth Art Gallery from the outside and plan your visit for another day.
Join locals at a cozy pub for a traditional Lancashire hotpot paired with regional ales. Enjoy live acoustic music or quiz night in the convivial atmosphere. Finish the evening with a moonlit stroll along the canal towpath nearby.
Visit Haworth Art Gallery to admire its renowned Italian Renaissance paintings and local art collections. Learn about Amelia Haworth’s philanthropy and the gallery’s industrial heritage. Wander the surrounding grounds to enjoy Victorian ornamentation and gardens.
Cross over to Accrington Town Hall to see its impressive clock tower and ornate interior. Take a guided heritage trail around the Market Hall and war memorial. Pop into a nearby charity shop or independent boutique along Blackburn Road.
Dine at a riverside bistro serving modern British fare with a Lancashire twist. Sample a rich Lancashire cheese board before indulging in a sticky toffee pudding. Cap the night in a stylish coffee bar with decadent desserts and late-night jazz.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| ☕Cup of coffee | $3-5 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two | $25-45 |
| 🚗Taxi ride (short trip) | $6-12 |
| 🛒Grocery items (bread, milk, eggs) | $2-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact town with rich industrial and cultural heritage
- Good value for money and easy access to surrounding countryside
- Smaller nightlife scene compared with bigger cities
- Weather can be variable and rain is common
Places to Visit in Accrington
Visit one of these nice places.
The Market Hall’s historic architecture and lively market atmosphere provide classic Lancashire charm for street and architectural photography.
Water, trees, and reflections create tranquil compositions along the canal, especially during early mornings or golden hour.
Explore narrow lanes and preserved Victorian buildings to capture local character and colour.
Green spaces offer portraits, family moments, and seasonal flora with a natural backdrop.
Food in Accrington
Accrington Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A slow-cooked stew of lamb or beef with sliced potatoes on top; a staple in pubs and family homes across Lancashire.
Must-Try!
A sticky, spiced gingerbread cake traditionally enjoyed with custard or cream, popular in Lancashire during cooler months.
Classic fried fish with chips, often served with mushy peas and tartar sauce in local chippies and pubs.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Market Hall and Market Place offer seasonal produce, bread, pies, and ready-to-eat bites from local traders.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Queue politely in markets and shops; respect personal space and lines, especially during busy periods.
In pubs, wait to be served, keep noise reasonable, and greet others with a friendly tone—Lancashire communities value friendliness.
Tipping is discretionary; small talk about football or local life is common and welcomed.
Safety
Tipping in Accrington
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated in restaurants if service charge isn’t included (around 10-15%). In pubs and cafés, rounding up or small tips are common for good service.
Card payments (contactless) are widely accepted; cash remains an option at many retailers, markets, and pubs. ATMs are common in town centers.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with increasing daylight; flowers emerge in parks and gardens, making it ideal for strolls and outdoor café seating.
Longer days and generally mild to warm weather; occasional rain showers, but great for canal walks and market al fresco dining.
Cooling temperatures and autumn colours; good for country hikes around Pendle Hill and scenic town photography with golden light.
Cool to cold with possible frost and rain; enjoy cozy pubs, indoor cultural spots, and festive markets if visiting around holidays.
Accrington at Night
Hiking in Accrington
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Iconic Lancashire hill near Nelson and Barrowford; steep ascent through moorland with rewarding views across the Ribble Valley.
Rolling terrain with accessible trails and panoramic countryside views suitable for a range of hikers.
Popular ridge walk with reservoirs and woodlands, offering multiple loop routes within reach of Accrington.
Airports
How to reach Accrington by plane.
Major international hub about 45-60 miles southeast; frequent domestic and international flights; accessible via rail and road connections from regional towns.
Approximately 40-50 miles east; convenient for short-haul international and European flights; reachable by train and road with transfers.
Around 60 miles southwest; provides European and domestic flights with rail or road transfer options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in the area, including families and older residents.
A visible presence contributing to local culture, cuisine, and community events.
Residents connected to local employers, educational facilities, and nearby cities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Accrington Stanley FC anchors the town’s football scene, with regular league matches at the Crown Ground and a dedicated local following.
Seasonal local cricket clubs offer summer fixtures and community sport across Hyndburn and nearby towns.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Accrington.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most pubs and cafés offer vegetarian options; look for veggie pies, veggie hotpots, salads, and egg/dairy-based dishes. When in doubt, ask for vegetable-forward mains or sides that avoid meat stocks.