Park Bridge

Date published: 12 February 2010


If you fancy escaping the hustle and bustle for a couple of hours then why not head to Park Bridge?

This is a lovely, quiet haven which is a great place to take a walk, relax and see an array of wildlife - not to mention explore the fascinating history of the area!

Park Bridge is situated between Oldham and Ashton and was once a thriving centre of industry a hundred years ago.

The Lees family began developing ironworks here in 1747 and also built houses for the local workers.

You can still see the remains of the ironworks and gain a feeling of the past due to the wonderful local history information provided as you explore the area.

The Stables is a heritage centre where you can find further information about the bygone industrial era in addition to descriptions about the local flora and fauna.

This can provide an informative and enjoyable stop for all the family and there are refreshments in the tearooms when you need a rest.

Near Park Bridge is an area called Fairbottom Bobs, named after a steam engine that was used to pump up water.

The engine was purchased by Henry Ford who visited the area in the 1920s. Mr. Ford compensated the locals for the loss of the pump by building a bridge across the river.

This is still in use today and provides an insight into some of the fascinating history of the area. At the start of the new millennium the area was excavated by the University of Manchester and the thickly wooded area provides a haven for wildlife.

Even rare birds have started to come to the banks of the River Medlock as a result of some of the work that has been carried out.

Finally, Park Bridge provides spectacular views of Hartshead Pike and the surrounding countryside.

It is a great place to have a picnic, take a walk or just recharge the batteries. The area is beautiful and peaceful at any time of year.

Even Henry Ford made a trip to Park Bridge, so put on your boots, take a stroll down and you won't be disappointed.