Wigan, ENG - Postcode - WN2 2PF

Wigan, England

Located on the banks of the River Douglas, the large town of Wigan is part of Greater Manchester in England. Manchester is 16 miles (25.7 km) to the south-east, and Liverpool is 17 miles (27 km) to the south-west, making the town conveniently located between the two cities. Both Bolton and Warrington can be reached in under two hours by car from here. It is the most populous community in the Wigan Metropolitan Borough and the seat of local government. There are 107,732 people living in the town proper, with an additional 330,713 in the borough proper. As a town, Wigan was originally a part of Lancashire.

The Brigantes, an ancient Celtic tribe, controlled much of what is now northern England, including Wigan. Coccium, a Roman settlement, was established in the area now known as Wigan after the Brigantes were conquered during the Roman conquest of Britain.

It was in 1246 that King Henry III of England issued a charter establishing Wigan as a borough. It was one of four boroughs in Lancashire founded by royal charter at the end of the Middle Ages.

The population and economy both grew significantly as a result of the Industrial Revolution. At its height, Wigan was home to 1,000 pit shafts within five miles (eight kilometres) of the city centre, establishing itself as a major mill town and coal mining district. In the later part of the twentieth century, coal mining ended.

Wigan Pier, on the Leeds and Liverpool Canal, gained notoriety thanks to George Orwell. The Road to Wigan Pier, written by Orwell in the 1930s, describes the dismal working and living conditions in the town. Warehouses and wharves at Wigan Pier became a local heritage centre and cultural quarter after the decline of heavy industry. Both Wigan Athletic and Wigan Warriors play their home games at the DW Stadium.

Geographical Description of Wigan

Wigan is located at 53°32′41′′N 2°37′54′′W (53.5448, 2.6318), roughly 12 miles (19 km) north of Warrington and 16 miles (26 km) west of Manchester's central business district.

The historic town of Wigan, along with the Metropolitan Borough of Wigan districts of Orrell and Ince-in-Makerfield, forms a tightly integrated conurbation, with ribbon development linking it to the nearby towns of Standish and Abram. The Office for National Statistics counts a total of 166,840 people in these locations and the nearby town of Skelmersdale in West Lancashire as part of the Wigan Urban Area. The city is included in the Greater Urban Area of Manchester.

Wigan Tourism

Wigan is a historic town located in Greater Manchester, England. It is known for its rich industrial heritage, cultural attractions, and sporting events.

Here's a guide to tourism in Wigan:

1. Cultural and Historical Attractions:

Trencherfield Mill Steam Engine: Visit Trencherfield Mill, home to one of the world's largest working steam engines. It offers a fascinating glimpse into Wigan's industrial history.

Wigan Pier: Although not an actual pier, Wigan Pier is a well-known landmark that has historical and cultural significance. It was made famous by writer George Orwell in his book "The Road to Wigan Pier."

Wigan War Memorial: Pay your respects at the Wigan War Memorial, a monument dedicated to the fallen soldiers of World War I and subsequent conflicts.

2. Wigan Town Center:

Shopping: Explore the town center for shopping, with a mix of high street stores, boutiques, and local shops.

Wigan Market: Wigan Market is one of the largest and busiest markets in the region, offering a wide range of goods, including fresh produce, clothing, and more.

Dining: Enjoy local and international cuisine at the town's restaurants, cafes, and pubs.

3. Nature and Outdoors:

Haigh Woodland Park: Haigh Woodland Park is a vast green space with woodlands, a mini golf course, a high ropes adventure course, and a miniature railway.

Mesnes Park: Relax in Mesnes Park, a Victorian park with a lake, ornamental gardens, and a playground.

Canal Walks: Wigan is known for its extensive canal network, providing opportunities for scenic walks and boat trips along the Leeds and Liverpool Canal.

4. Sporting and Entertainment Events:

DW Stadium: The DW Stadium is home to Wigan Athletic Football Club and Wigan Warriors Rugby League Club. Catch a match or event if you're a sports enthusiast.

Wigan Little Theatre: Enjoy a play or performance at the Wigan Little Theatre, a community venue hosting a variety of shows.

5. Wigan History Shop:

Visit the Wigan History Shop, where you can explore local history and access archives to learn more about the town's past.

6. Local Events:

Keep an eye on the local events calendar for cultural festivals, music concerts, and seasonal celebrations taking place in Wigan.

Wigan offers a blend of history, culture, shopping, and outdoor activities. Whether you're interested in exploring the town's industrial heritage, enjoying outdoor adventures, or experiencing its vibrant shopping and dining scene, Wigan provides a range of experiences for visitors in Greater Manchester, England.