Greater Manchester's Town of Culture for 2022 has been announced.
Stalybridge will hold the title for the next 12 months, following in the footsteps of Bury, which was Greater Manchester's first Town of Culture in both 2020 and 2021 due to the pandemic.
The Tameside town has been chosen by the Greater Manchester Combined Authority, which is providing a £50,000 grant to develop a programme of cultural events and activities celebrating Stalybridge's unique heritage.
It's hoped the move will bring new opportunities for residents and visitors to the post-industrial town - which boasts a beautiful canal-side setting close to the Peak District.
Artist-led walks and trails, community growing projects, and outdoor activities such as theatre and storytelling all featured in Tameside Council's bid for the title, and a full cultural programme for 2022 is due to be revealed.
Coun Leanne Feeley, Tameside Council's executive member responsible for culture, said: "I’m so proud for Stalybridge and our local community to receive this recognition.
"We already know what a fantastic, vibrant and creative place Stalybridge is, but this is an opportunity to showcase our town’s amazing cultural identity even more widely."
While details for special Town of Culture events are yet to be revealed, there's already plenty to explore in Stalybridge.
Here are some of the best bits to see and do in the town this year.
1. Stalybridge Street Feast
Launched last year on a trial basis, this much-loved event return will return on the second Friday evening of each month from March to December.
Thousands poured into Armentieres Square last year to enjoy food from a range of different cuisines along with live entertainment - with the event proving the perfect place to enjoy delicious food and drink while getting to know the town.
2. Stalybridge Country Park
The town is surrounded by stunning countryside, and Stalybridge Country Park provides a breathtaking backdrop for a walk in Millbrook and Carrbrook.
The former industrial landscape is a hub for wildlife, while the park is also and a popular spot for picnics.
3. Stalybridge Buffet Bar...
This gem is adored by beer fans across the north as a vital stop on the Transpennine Real Ale Trail, and even features a crisp butty menu which will return next week for a limited time only.
The bar has been serving punters at Stalybridge station since 1885 and is one of the last remaining Victorian station buffet bars, with many of its original features.
4. ...and the other brilliant pubs of 'Staly Vegas'
While the nickname might have faded in recent years, there are still plenty of great places to pick up a pint in Stalybridge.
It even boasts both the pubs with the longest and shortest names in the country - The Old Thirteenth Cheshire Astley Volunteer Rifleman Corps Inn, and The Q Inn.
5. Stamford Park and Cheetham Park
As well as the picturesque areas surrounding the town, Stamford Park and Cheetham Park are both stunning places to enjoy a walk within Stalybridge.
Scenic Stamford Park is the town's top-rated attraction on Trip Advisor, while Cheetham Park boasts a sculpture trail, nature reserve and community orchard.
6. Astley Cheetham Art Gallery
This historic site was built as a gift to the town by John Frederick Cheetham and his wife Beatrice Astley in 1901, and after being used as a lecture theatre in the early 20th century, it became a gallery.
Its collection has grown over the years and the gallery welcomes children, with a craft activity and plenty of paintings on display.
7. People's Gallery and The Bridge Arts Centre
Elsewhere in the town centre, the People's Gallery is a volunteer-run display at The Bridge Arts Centre, which has been running for more than 20 years.
The gallery showcases brilliant work from talented local artists.
8. Huddersfield Narrow Canal and Tame Valley
Walkers can explore Stalybridge while trekking along the Huddersfield Narrow Canal and the Tame Valley.
Dedicated volunteers from the town regularly keep the area tidy, leaving a welcoming and picturesque walkway for people to enjoy.
Have we missed something off the list? Share your highlights of Stalybridge in the comments section below.
