Must See Sights and Landmarks in Ashton-under-Lyne Area

"One of the oldest buildings in Manchester, the Cathedral has a vast and extensive history that can be traced back to humble beginnings in the 7th century, becoming a Cathedral in 1847. Having survived significant damage during both World War II and the IRA bomb, the Cathedral has undergone extensive refurbishment several times over the past century, creating a lovingly preserved building that appears much more modern than it actually is. The Cathedral is open to the public, who can admire the architecture and numerous little quirks inside, including the misericord wood carvings and bees on the roof."

"As I mentioned just before, Manchester Cathedral is located in the city centre, so you don’t have to walk far. Actually, most of the photo locations in Manchester are located very close to each other, so at no point, you have to walk for more than 20-25 minutes. However, there are free buses in Manchester, so if it rains, you can definitely hop on one and head to Manchester Cathedral."

"Manchester’s magnificent Cathedral dates back to 1421 when a royal charter was granted by Henry V. Since then it has survived wars, bombings, the Reformation and more. Manchester Cathedral"

"Sheffield Cathedral is a listed building believed to have originally been constructed in the 12th century. It is built on the site of the Sheffield Cross which dates from the 9th century and is currently housed in the British Museum. The church has been rebuilt many times since its original construction and the current cathedral was finished in 1880."

"If you want to travel back in time, but don’t have access to a time machine, Abbeydale Industrial Hamlet is the perfect place to be at. Immerse yourself in the industrial history of Abbeydale at a site which feels like travelling back to the early ages of the industry. The museum forms part of a former steel-working site on the River Sheaf, with a history going back to at least the 13th c...Read more"

"The Abbeydale Industrial Hamlet is a museum that explores the industrial history of Sheffield in a unique setting. The museum is located in an old steel-working site, complete with original buildings and equipment. This site has existed since the 13th century and is now listed as an ancient monument."

"As home to the aforementioned world-famous Manchester United Football Club, this is the UK’s largest club stadium with a maximum capacity of around 76,000 spectators. It’s called ‘The Theatre of Dreams’ for a reason. The facilities are also world class, with cafes, restaurants, VIP boxes, event spaces and even a museum with accompanying tour."

"Founded in 1794, St Mary’s - or the Hidden Gem, as it’s better known - is the oldest Catholic church in Manchester and was the first to be built after the Reformation. Its stations of the cross, by painter Norman Adams, are considered one of the greatest ecclesiastical art commissions of the 20th century in this country and entry is free for visitors to admire them. St Mary’s Catholic Church, Mulberry Street, M2 6LN"

"St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Church can be found on Mulberry Street, a quiet cul-de-sac between Deansgate and Albert Square, in the middle of Manchester’s city centre. The church has earned the more familiar local nickname of The Hidden Gem. As you approach and enter the building, the reasons for the name become apparent."

"You can walk along the canal, through the Castlefield Urban Heritage Park on your way to the Museum of Science and Industry. Castlefield Urban Heritage Park. Admire the old industrial buildings, soak up the atmosphere of the canal, and see how Manchester used to be in years gone by."

"The vantage point at Bamford Edge provides the most beautiful view over Ladybower Reservoir. This spot can be particularly enchanting around sunset as the last of the day’s light bounces off the water and hillsides which surround it."

"CFCCA is the UK leader in Chinese visual culture, with a reputation for debut solo exhibitions and a roster of internationally-renowned artists; impressive considering that, three decades ago, it was just a series of events in Manchester’s Chinatown. As Manchester’s Chinese population is second only to London’s, the centre’s heritage is particularly important; now represented in a new archive and library. Best feature: A vibrant events schedule, spanning film screenings to workshops and even Mandarin lessons"

"Centre For Chinese Contemporary Art is a unique art gallery with a year-round programme of socially engaged exhibitions, events, and artist residencies. They have over 30 years experience of working with emerging and established artists to provide a space for conversation, debate, and cross-cultural exchange. They are the go-to place to discover new artists and explore relevant global issues from different international perspectives."

"Manchester's Centre for Chinese Contemporary Art will reopen both of its galleries on Wednesday May 19. Exhibitions Multiplicities in Flux and Autopsy of a Home, which originally opened in October, will be back until June 13. Booking is advised at cfcca.org.uk but walk-ups are welcome."

"Contemporary Six – The Gallery is a leading independent art gallery located in the heart of the city centre of Manchester opposite the beautiful Town Hall. Established in 2010 by Alex Reuben, the gallery is known for offering a warm and friendly welcome to art enthusiasts, collectors, and new visitors and explorers to the city. Specialising in original paintings, landscapes, portraits, abstracts handmade prints, sculptures, and ceramics."

"From Darrell Evanes’ scrap metal sculpture to Matthew Bourne’s natural abstracts, Contemporary Six’s repertoire is all encompassing. Having outgrown its former location of Royal Exchange Arcade, the gallery - founded by Alex Reuben in 2010 - now occupies an airy space on Princess Street, where it represents around 40 artists. Best feature: Contemporary Six offers the Own Art Scheme, which allows buyers to pay in monthly instalments"