Blackburn is an industrial town with a passion for art, culture and music. Visit the Gothic Revival cathedral, stroll around a Victorian-style park and attend a theatrical performance. Venture into the Lancashire countryside to explore ancient forests and historic manor houses.
Things to do in Blackburn
Blackburn Cathedral soars over the town centre and welcomes you with a magnificent Gothic Revival façade. Attend a lunchtime concert and listen to the enchanting choir perform at weekday services. Wander through the cavernous nave and admire the signature lantern tower decorated with beautiful stained-glass windows. Pick up a bottle of locally distilled Cathedral Gin at the gift shop.
From classical music concerts to family-friendly pantomimes and stand-up comedy, King George’s Hall hosts a varied program. The action unfolds in a beautiful heritage-listed building that moonlights as a venue for weddings and private events. Arrive early to enjoy a glass of sparkling at the lobby bar. Darwen Library Theatre, the sister venue of King George’s Hall, has a more intimate feel.
Step back in time in Corporation Park, a beautiful green space laid out in the 1800s. Famed English landscape architect William Henderson peppered the Victorian-style park with ornamental fountains and cast-iron conservatories. Stroll along elegant tree-lined avenues and enjoy a picnic by the swan-filled lake.
Walk in the footsteps of kings, queens and icons like William Shakespeare at Hoghton Tower. The heavily fortified hilltop manor house was built in the 16th century and commands sweeping views over the Lancashire countryside. Descend into secret underground passageways, stroll around the picturesque walled gardens and enjoy lunch at the tearoom.
Getting around Blackburn
Blackburn is compact and easy to get around on foot. The town is in Lancashire, a 45-minute drive from Manchester and one-hour from Liverpool. Trains run between Blackburn and Manchester in under one hour. There are also direct services to Bolton, Blackpool and Preston. Manchester Airport is a one-hour drive away.