Blackburn ~ BB1

The towns of Industrial Lancashire, were known as cotton country after the industry that was the mainstay of so many local communities' economy. This aspect of local industrial heritage dominates the museums, galleries and mills of Blackburn and the surrounding towns.

Situated on the edge of the Ribble valley and rooted in the Industrial Revolution, textiles have been produced in Blackburn since Flemish weavers settled here in the 1400's, developing a wool and cotton tradition. Its history is reflected in its buildings and market, yet it is still close to open moors and countryside. Its cathedral was originally a parish church, rebuilt in the 19th century and enlarged in the 20th. The town is the home of Blackburn Rovers football club, who play at Ewood Park.

Places of Interest

There is wide range of leisure, cultural, art and sporting activities taking place across the Borough. For example, you can take part in health walks or community gardening projects. Waves Water Fun Centre has a spacebowl water chute and wave machine. Darwen Library Theatre provides a wide mix of drama, music and entertainment. King George's Hall offers a selection of entertainment, from opera to pantomime. Conference facilities are also available. There are several fine churches, including Blackburn Cathedral and some notable public buildings. A Corporation Park is on the outskirts of the town. The area also has several stately homes to visit, and a variety of museums, displaying everything from fine works of art to local history.

Living in Blackburn

As well as an extensive range of shopping facilities available in the town, there is a large indoor market in the Market Hall. Market-days are Wednesday and Saturday.

There are many leisure activities available in Blackburn, with a Golf Club, cinema, indoor karting, and an ice rink. There are also several good golf clubs in the area. The nearby town of Blackpool provides extensive leisure facilities, and Lancashire has some spectacular countryside, with many beautiful walks and cycle routes. Blackburn railway station is well connected with public transport, with the bus station situated directly in front of the station building.

Blackpool Airport is the closest available, and runs flights to London Stansted, Belfast and Dublin, amongst other destinations.

Education

Blackburn Arts Club, the Bernese School of Theatre Dance, Blackburn College Of Technology and St Mary's College are a sample of the education opportunities available. Blackburn College is a large general further education (FE) college serving the Borough of Blackburn with Darwen, which is 35 miles north-west of Manchester. The college is situated in the centre of Blackburn, with over 50 community venues spread across the borough. The college has over 34,000 students and a total budget of £32.4 million.

Estate and Letting Agents for Blackburn BB1