Ashton-Under-Lyne brings together a range of cultural and canal-related attractions: a museum in a historic warehouse, stained glass from the late 15th and early 16th centuries, a monthly craft market and trips on two canals. For planning, the museum’s opening days, the market date and the approximate duration of the shortest return boat trips are particularly useful.
Include the museum and market in your travel plans
The Portland Basin Museum is housed in the restored Ashton Canal Warehouse, which dates from the 19th century. The building itself is therefore part of the experience: a historic warehouse provides the setting for the museum. It is open Tuesday to Sunday, from 10:00 to 16:00. Check the opening times before travelling so your visit fits into your stay.
A craft market is held at Ashton Market on the third Saturday of every month. Local handmade goods and produce are on offer. If you would like to visit the market, plan your travel dates around this event and check the date before travelling. Along with the museum’s opening days, the market calendar provides a concrete guide for choosing when to stay.
Building history and surviving details
The Church of St Michael and All Angels was built in the 15th century and almost entirely rebuilt in the 19th century. Its 18 early stained-glass scenes date from the late 15th and early 16th centuries. They depict the life of Saint Helena, members of the Assheton family and the Three Holy Kings. The building and the windows reflect different periods: the church dates back to the 15th century, while the scenes span the latter part of that century and the beginning of the 16th century.
Ashton Public Library also offers specific architectural and interior details. The Grade II listed building is Gothic Revival and dates from 1891 to 1893. Inside, mosaic floors, glazed tiles and plasterwork have been preserved, along with glazed doors and partitions. This makes it possible to appreciate not only the architectural style but also several distinct features of the interior.
Other historic points of interest include Ashton Old Baths, which officially opened as a swimming pool in 1870. The Hugh Mason Memorial Statue, dating from 1887, is made of bronze and stands on a polished granite plinth. The Ashton-under-Lyne and District War Memorial commemorates the tragic impact of 20th-century conflicts on the local community and those who lost their lives. Each of these places focuses on something different: former swimming facilities, a memorial to Hugh Mason, and remembrance of the effects of conflict.
Compare canal experiences and routes
The East Manchester Community Boat Project is based at Portland Basin in Ashton-under-Lyne. The shortest return trips run from there to Droylsden on the Ashton Canal or to Hyde on the Peak Forest Canal, and each takes about two hours. The approximate duration is similar for both of the shortest trips; they differ in their destination and canal. Check the latest booking information before travelling.
National Cycle Network Route 626 connects Oldham and Ashton-under-Lyne via Park Bridge and follows a former railway line. It offers another way to explore transport and industrial history, this time along a cycling route. Check the current route of Route 626 before planning your trip.
Plan travel dates and hotels
Match your travel dates to the relevant details and check the boat booking information. Search for hotels for your stay in Ashton-Under-Lyne.
Discover more destinations: Heald Green, Marple, Oldham, Lowton, Ashton-In-Makerfield, Pemberton, Hazel Grove, Hale.
For the broader travel overview: Greater Manchester.
