History
The history of Leigh dates back to the 12th century but the area really developed around the time of the industrial revolution. The remnants of this age can be found in the multi-storey cotton mills along the Bridgewater Canal, many of which have listed status. Other historical landmarks in the town include a Grade II listed War Memorial by local architect J.C. Prestwich and a Grade II listed Obelisk in the central marketplace.
Outdoors
To explore some of the most beautiful countryside surrounding Wigan, make your way to the Pennington Flash Country Park. The park spans 200 hectares including a 70-hectare lake created in the 20th century by coal mining subsidence. Today the park is a nature reserve and is a popular site for birdwatching. Whether or not you know your Black-faced Bunting from your Marsh Harrier, the area is a pleasant place to spend an afternoon strolling through.
Culture
For art lovers, Leigh's Turnpike Gallery is great place to spend a few hours poking around. As well as regular and varied exhibitions of contemporary art, the gallery also runs kids workshops – an engaging way to get your own kids involved with making and thinking about art. Dedicated to serving the local community, the gallery also has an on-site library and free wi-fi access.
Further afield
A short drive from Leigh is Manchester, and here you'll find an enormous range of historical and cultural attractions. Football fans can make a pilgrimage to Old Trafford, history buffs can wander around the Imperial War Museum North, Manchester Museum and the Museum of Science and Industry, and culture vultures can pay a visit to the Royal Exchange Theatre, Manchester Art Gallery and Manchester Arena. Also within driving distance is the town of Bolton and, a little further away, the bustling city of Liverpool.
