Discover Chorley

Chorley is home to some iconic sights and landmarks. One of the first you may see as you travel north into Chorley along the M61 motorway is Rivington Pike, the 1,191-foot summit surrounded by fascinating terraced gardens and well loved by walkers from near and far.

Also visible from the motorway is the Preston England Temple, the largest Mormon temple outside North America and its golden topped spire is s sure sign that you've nearly arrived in town.

Astley Hall, a Grade I listed building dating back to the 1570's, is perhaps Chorley's most iconic landmark, surrounded by the beautiful Astley Park, open today as a museum and art gallery, and host to the G7 speakers summit in 2021.

Chorley is a town steeped in history. the famous markets, dating back to a charter granted by Henry VII in 1498, are still in operation every Tuesday to this day alongside the covered market stalls.

Whilst there was no known recorded occupation of Chorley until the Middle Ages, some of the earliest settlements in Chorley date all the way back to the Bronze Age. Examples of artifacts from those times can be found at Astley Hall, just one of the intriguing historic houses that can be found in the borough.

During more recent years the Royal Ordnance Factory, located where Buckshaw Village now stands, was a major munitions supplier, aiding troops in World War II

Many famous names you may recognise hail from Chorley, including Sir Henry Tate, founder of the Tate Gallery, Comedian Phil Cool and England Rugby Legend Bill Beaumont. Myles Standish, military officer aboard the Mayflower voyage of 1620 is also thought to have been born in Chorley.

Throughout the year, Chorley is home to a wonderful variety of vibrant and exciting events for all. The schedule begins in March with our yearly literary festival 'What's Your Story Chorley' and moves onwards to spring with the Chorley 10K run, Family' Picnic in the Park' event and the ever popular food and drink festival. Summer sees the award-winning Chorley Flower Show in Astley Park, a three-day floral extravaganza in Astley Park. Towards Autumn and the end of the year, the town centre comes to life with music festival 'Chorley Live' followed by the glowing delights of Astley Illuminated and the Christmas lights switch on!

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There are so many different and exciting ways to spend a day in Chorley. Why not spend an afternoon sailing along the canal ways with Boatel Cruises, grab a delicious treat at the famous Fredericks Ice Cream Parlour, discover history at Astley Hall or Hoghton Tower, take in a round of adventure golf or bowling, watch a hilarious comedy or thought provoking drama at Chorley Theatre... and so much more! You'll find yourself coming back to Chorley again and again to experience all there is on offer.

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