Things To Do
in Oldham

Oldham is a town in Greater Manchester, England, known for its rich industrial heritage and diverse cultural landscape. Nestled on the edge of the Pennines, it offers a mix of historical architecture and modern amenities. The town is famous for its cotton mills, which played a significant role in the industrial revolution.

Today, Oldham is a vibrant community with a variety of parks, museums, and artistic venues.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Oldham
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Oldham Coliseum Theatre, followed by breakfast at a local café offering traditional English breakfasts.

afternoon
:

Visit the Gallery Oldham to explore local art and history, then stroll through the beautiful Alexandra Park.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local curry house, and finish the night with a drink at a cozy pub.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin with a hike in the nearby Saddleworth Moor, taking in the stunning views.

afternoon
:

After returning, visit the Oldham Museum and explore its exhibits on local history.

evening
:

Dine at a modern bistro and catch a live music event at one of the local venues.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a restaurant$15
Coffee$3
🍺Pint of beer$5
🚍Bus fare$2
🏨Hotel night stay$80

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Easy access to beautiful natural landscapes.
  • Diverse culinary scene with international options.
  • Weather can be unpredictable and rainy.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Some areas may feel less vibrant than others.

Places to Visit in Oldham

Visit one of these nice places.

Alexandra Park

A beautifully landscaped park featuring a boating lake, gardens, and stunning Victorian architecture.

Saddleworth Moor

Known for its breathtaking views and rugged landscapes, perfect for capturing the essence of the Pennines.

Oldham Coliseum Theatre

A historic theatre that provides a unique backdrop for photography, especially during performances.

Culinary Guide

Food in Oldham

Oldham's culinary scene is a delightful mix of traditional British fare and international cuisines, reflecting its diverse community.

Oldham Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Lancashire Hotpot

A traditional meat and potato stew, slow-cooked to perfection, often served with pickled red cabbage.

Must-Try!

Oldham Black Pudding

A local delicacy made from pig's blood, fat, and oatmeal, it's a must-try for adventurous eaters.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Oldham Market

A vibrant indoor market offering fresh produce, local delicacies, and street food options from various cuisines.

Climate Guide

Weather

Oldham experiences a temperate maritime climate characterized by mild temperatures and moderate rainfall throughout the year. Winters are cool, often with temperatures around 1-5°C (34-41°F), while summers can reach up to 20-25°C (68-77°F). Rain is common in all seasons, with autumn and winter being particularly wet. It's advisable to carry an umbrella or waterproof jacket when visiting.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Queuing

Always form an orderly queue when waiting for services; cutting in line is frowned upon.

Politeness

Using 'please' and 'thank you' is important in everyday interactions and reflects good manners.

Respecting Personal Space

Maintain a respectful distance in conversations, as personal space is valued in British culture.

Safety Guide

Safety

Oldham is generally a safe town, with crime rates lower than the national average. However, it's wise to remain vigilant, especially in crowded areas or at night. Keep personal belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings, particularly when using public transport.

Tipping in Oldham

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is generally not mandatory, but rounding up the bill or leaving around 10-15% for good service is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, and contactless payments are common; however, it’s advisable to carry some cash.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild weather with blooming flowers in parks, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Warm temperatures and longer days are perfect for exploring local attractions and enjoying outdoor festivals.

Autumn

The foliage turns vibrant, and there are various harvest festivals; it's a picturesque time to visit.

Winter

Cold and potentially snowy, winter brings festive decorations and local holiday markets to the town.

Nightlife Guide

Oldham at Night

Oldham's nightlife is vibrant and diverse, with a range of pubs, bars, and clubs catering to various tastes. The town boasts traditional pubs that offer a cozy atmosphere for enjoying local ales, while modern bars host live music and DJ nights. The Oldham Coliseum Theatre also frequently features performances, making it a cultural hub for evening entertainment.

Hiking in Oldham

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Dovestone Reservoir

A scenic area perfect for hiking, featuring beautiful trails around the reservoir and stunning views of the surrounding hills.

Ladybower Reservoir

Located a bit further out, this area offers extensive walking paths with breathtaking views and opportunities for wildlife spotting.

Airports

How to reach Oldham by plane.

Manchester Airport

Located about 20 miles from Oldham, Manchester Airport is the nearest major international airport, offering flights to numerous destinations worldwide.

Getting Around

Walkability

Oldham is relatively walkable, especially in the town center where you can find shops, restaurants, and cultural sites within a short distance. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and pedestrian crossings are available. However, some suburban areas may require a car for more extensive exploration.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Asian Community

Oldham has a significant Asian population, particularly of Pakistani and Indian descent, contributing to the town's cultural diversity.

White British

The White British demographic forms a large part of the population, reflecting the town's historical roots in the industrial revolution.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is a popular sport in Oldham, with the local club, Oldham Athletic, having a rich history in the English football league.

Rugby

Rugby is also well-loved, with several local teams competing in various leagues, showcasing strong community support.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Oldham is generally manageable, although peak hours can see congestion, particularly on major routes. Public transportation options include buses and trams, providing convenient access to Manchester and surrounding areas. The bus network is particularly extensive, making it easy for visitors to navigate the town and nearby locations.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Oldham.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegan Options

Many restaurants in Oldham cater to vegan diets, often clearly marking their menus.

Gluten-Free

Several eateries offer gluten-free meals, but it's advisable to check with the staff.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access is provided through the National Health Service (NHS), with several clinics and hospitals available in Oldham. Visitors should ensure they have travel insurance, as NHS services are primarily for UK residents. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 999.

Discover United Kingdom

Read more in our United Kingdom 2025 Travel Guide.

United Kingdom Travel Guide